At CMU, applications are college and major specific. This means you apply directly to the college and the major you want, so you need to be clear about your academic interests when you apply.

• Engineering students apply to specific majors within the College of Engineering. If you’re interested in engineering design, it’s possible to add that as a major after you’re admitted.
• The College of Fine Arts includes performing and visual arts, architecture, and drama. Keep in mind, about 80% of applicants to the drama program need to audition since it’s a conservatory-style school — very intense, and double majors are not allowed.
• Humanities and Social Sciences offers majors like data science and information systems, which combine tech skills with a liberal arts education. You declare your major by the end of sophomore year.
• The Mellon College of Science asks students to decide on their major at the end of their first year. There’s no pre-med track, but a health professionals program prepares students for medical school.
• The School of Computer Science (CS) is extremely popular. Unlike engineering, CS applications are more general and aren’t evaluated by a specific department. You have flexibility until the end of your first year to explore options. The curriculum is theoretical but also application-based.
• The Tepper School of Business lets you choose up to two concentrations, and economics can be studied there or through social sciences.
• The Bachelor of Humanities and Arts (BXA) program combines different disciplines, like psychology and design, for a unique interdisciplinary approach.

All students, no matter the major, take two introductory English courses to help strengthen their writing skills.

CMU has an urban campus and is located very close to University of Pittsburgh. Buildings are in good shape, the school seems well-resourced. CMU emphasizes teamwork and collaboration across different fields, giving students a well-rounded experience. It’s common for students to do minors, with around 50% taking that extra step.

First-year students are required to live on campus, helping to build a close-knit community right from the start. When it’s time to eat or hang out, you won’t run out of options, there are around 30 local eateries on campus to explore.

For sports enthusiasts, CMU has NCAA Division III teams you can join or support.