College of General Studies

Overview of the College of General Studies

We specialize in addressing the unique needs of students who are already busy with work, family, and community responsibilities. Our priorities are providing our students with a high-quality education that will help them change or advance their careers, and supporting them with the personalized services and resources they need to achieve their academic and professional aspirations.

New Student? Sign up for Boot Camp!

All new CGS students are encouraged to attend a CGS New Student Welcome Boot Camp, your one-stop shop to access all the resources you'll need to start the school year stress-free. Register today for the Boot Camp that is most convenient for you: May 23, June 20, or July 25, 2013. 

Students who attend a Boot Camp and enroll in classes will be entered to win a KINDLE FIRE!

News & Events

Register Today for Summer Sessions

The summer sessions course schedule at the University of Pittsburgh provides an exciting opportunity for Dietrich School, College of General Studies, and guest/visiting students to catch up on needed credits, stay on track to graduate in four years, or get ahead for the fall term.  By reducing course overlap, expanding class availability, and maximizing day and evening hours, the new summer schedule allows students to enroll in two classes in a row without course conflict, take additional upper-division classes in their major, and complete core requirements.  With hundreds of classes offered during day and evening hours, students also have the flexibility to enroll in courses without forgoing summer jobs, internships, or family vacations. For more information, visit www.summer.pitt.edu.

Graduate Certificate in Gerontology Free Information Session
Tuesday, May 21
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
University Center for Social and Urban Research

Whether your aim is to advance your career, outdistance the competition, or update your professional expertise, the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology program offers exciting learning opportunities. Come learn about this 15–16-credit graduate program, which is also a great resource if you have an aging family member or friend. Register by calling 412-624-1019, visiting www.cgs.pitt.edu, or e-mailing bissell@pitt.edu

Want to attend but can't make it in May? The same session will be offered again on August 6, 2013.

Graduating Senior Leah P. Swanzy Named 2013 Emma Locke Award Winner

Graduating senior Leah P. Swanzy has been awarded the University of Pittsburgh’s 2013 Emma Locke Award. Swanzy graduates with a Bachelor of Science degree in natural sciences, a Bachelor of Arts degree in health services, and a certificate in managing health services programs and projects from Pitt’s College of General Studies, as well as a minor in chemistry from the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences. 

The Emma W. Locke Award, established in 1946 by Charles A. Locke in memory of his mother, is presented annually to a graduating Pitt senior in recognition of high scholarship, character, and devotion to the ideals of the University. The student must have at least a 3.85 GPA and plan to continue his or her education after graduation. Swanzy will enter Pitt’s School of Medicine to pursue a career in obstetrics and gynecology in fall 2013.

“I am humbled to receive the Emma Locke Award because it shows that during my time at Pitt, I have adopted the ideals that first drew me to the University of Pittsburgh: high academic standards, environmental responsibility, a servant’s heart, and a genuine intention for each student to succeed,” said Swanzy. “This award is the perfect springboard to launch me into med school, where the University will have four more years to develop me into a compassionate and skillful physician.” 

Starting or Completing an Undergraduate Degree or Certificate
Friday, May 17
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
The McCarl Center, 401 Cathedral of Learning

This program is designed for Pitt staff interested in starting or completing an undergraduate degree or certificate program, or taking post-baccalaureate classes. Degree and certificate programs, Saturday and summer programs, external study programs, and day and night classes are all available with your tuition reimbursement benefit through the College of General Studies (CGS). CGS pre-professional programs also can prepare you for programs at other schools and colleges at Pitt. In this workshop you will learn about the variety of ways the needs of nontraditional students can be met at the University. Topics include choosing the right undergraduate program and navigating the admission process. Participants must register for this event.

CGS New Student Welcome Boot Camp
Thursday, May 23
10:00 am - 11:30 am
McCarl Center for Nontraditional Student Success

All new CGS students are encouraged to attend a CGS New Student Welcome Boot Camp, your one-stop shop to access all the resources you'll need to start the school year stress-free. You can:

  • Meet your advisor and enroll in classes.
  • Learn about our wide array of support services, designed specifically for non-traditional students.
  • Enjoy a complimentary lunch with incoming and current students...

...and much more!

Students who attend a Boot Camp and enroll in classes will be entered to win a KINDLE FIRE! Register today for the Boot Camp that is most convenient for you. Additional Boot Camps will be offered on June 20, 2013 and July 25, 2013.