Point Park University

Accounting (B.S.)

The program in Accounting leading to the Bachelor of Science degree is designed to prepare students for careers in accounting and includes courses in management and applied computer science that contribute to this goal. Aspiring CPAs in Pennsylvania are required to have a baccalaureate or higher degree with completion of 150 credit hours, including at least 36 semester credits of accounting and auditing, business law, finance, and tax subjects.

Accounting (Post Baccalaureate B.S.)

A post-baccalaureate program requiring a total of 48 credits and leading to the Bachelor of Science degree is available to students who already hold baccalaureate degrees in other areas. This program, which requires a minimum expenditure of time, is attractive to mature students who want to prepare for a career in accounting.

Acting

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting immerses students in both a program and a city endowed with a rich, vibrant theatre culture. Distinguished, artistically active faculty provide an eight-semester rigorous training program designed to prepare students for a career in the professional theatre, with technique courses in Acting, Voice, Speech, and Movement.

Animation

The Film and Animation Department offers a four-year, 126-credit Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Animation. Students develop professional, technical, and creative proficiency in animation and visual effects, and learn to communicate story effectively through picture and sound. A portfolio application is required to enter the degree program.

Applied Computer Science

Point Park is the first university in the Pittsburgh region to offer an Applied Computer Science degree, previously known as Information Technology, with an emphasis on developing the fundamental hands-on skills required to be competitive in the world of computer technology.

Applied Science in Career and Technical Education

The Associate of Science Program in Applied Science for Career and Technical Education is designed for people seeking both a post-secondary credential and statewide certification to teach occupational skills in approved CTE programs in Pennsylvania. Courses are online with optional live stream sessions, and the program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and meets the requirements for CTE teacher certification.

Athletic Coaching and Administration

The Master of Education in Athletic Coaching and Administration emphasizes what effective coaches and athletic administrators should know, value, and be able to do, with emphasis on the ethical, practical, and scientific aspects of the role. The program ensures a model of coaching that emphasizes teaching, mentoring, and skill building and connects directly to the National Standards for Sport Coaches.

Aviation Management

The Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management builds on an associate degree of 62-65 transfer credits from an FAA-approved program, combining management coursework with aviation-specific study and an aviation internship. Students develop critical thinking, professional communication, and knowledge of aviation software systems, data analytics, and the digitization of avionics.

Behavioral Sciences

The program leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree in Behavioral Sciences provides broad insights into the behavior of human beings as individuals, as members of a specific social group, and as citizens of a world society. This flexible, interdisciplinary major allows students to take courses in psychology, social work, and related programs.

Biological Sciences

The program leading to the Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Biological Sciences offers four concentrations: Bioinformatics, Cellular-Molecular Biology, Environmental, and Organismal Biology. The program provides an introduction to the breadth of the field while allowing students to focus study in one concentration in preparation for graduate or professional school or a career path.

Biological Sciences / Secondary Education

This program integrates the academic discipline of biology with a comprehensive knowledge of appropriate teaching and learning strategies for secondary school teaching. Students work with two advisors, one from the School of Education and one from the academic content department, and are eligible to apply for the Pennsylvania Instructional I certificate upon meeting all requirements.

Broadcasting

Broadcasting students in the production concentration learn the tools and principles of visual communication particular to video production, audio production, television, radio, and live production, while students in the reporting concentration master the skills needed for on-air reporting and behind-the-scenes producing. Graduates pursue careers as television and radio producers and directors, reporters and anchors, and media production experts.

Broadcasting, Sports Media, Documentary

This Master of Arts program serves students seeking specialized, practical training in mass communication as well as professionals seeking advanced techniques for promotion, management goals, or multimedia flexibility. Courses are taught by faculty from the region's professional community in the areas of broadcast, sports media, and documentary, and students perform professional level work in video and audio acquisition and editing.

Broadcast Production

This 12-credit School of Communication certificate develops skills in the principles of aesthetics and composition and the use of industry-standard hardware and software to produce video and audio projects. Students also learn to evaluate and interpret the historical, business, and news environments in which broadcasters operate.

Broadcast Reporting

This 12-credit School of Communication certificate develops adherence to the professional standards of broadcast writing and the use of industry-standard hardware and software to produce video and audio projects. Students also learn to evaluate and interpret the environments in which broadcasters operate.

Business Administration

The MBA Program at Point Park University is designed as a traditional fifteen-week program responsive to the needs of working professionals, with an innovative online format that allows students to complete the 36-credit program in four semesters. The program consists of a core curriculum of eight courses followed by four courses in a selected concentration and has a sizable strategic management and organizational component.

Business Administration

This Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Business Administration is a degree completion program for returning students. A student enrolled in this program may not have been a student at Point Park University within two years prior to enrolling.

Business Management

This 12-credit undergraduate certificate in the Department of Management introduces the major concepts within traditional areas of business management. Students learn to analyze complex information to facilitate management decision-making and to articulate ideas both verbally and in writing.

Business Management (B.S.)

The program in Business Management, leading to the Bachelor of Science degree, prepares students for management careers or advanced study. The major includes a 15-credit concentration in General Management, Entrepreneurship, or International Business, plus a required experiential learning component.

Business Management (Post Baccalaureate B.S.)

Students with a baccalaureate degree in another area may expand their career base by completing a 45-credit post-baccalaureate program leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management. Prerequisites for the program include four courses totaling 12 credits.

Career and Technical Education

The master's degree in Career and Technical Education is designed for individuals holding a bachelor's degree and seeking Pennsylvania state certification to teach occupational skills in approved career and technical education programs and/or to earn a master's degree in education. The degree prepares educators with industry experience to transition to teaching roles in secondary CTE settings, and courses are delivered online with optional live stream sessions.

Career and Technical Education Instructional I

This certificate program prepares those holding a bachelor's degree for Pennsylvania CTE Instructional I certification through three required career and technical education courses. The CTTP Certification Program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and meets the requirements for CTE teacher certification.

Career and Technical Education Instructional II

This certificate program prepares those holding a bachelor's degree for Pennsylvania CTE Instructional II certification through six required courses, including a professional teaching practicum. The CTTP Certification Program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and meets the requirements for CTE teacher certification.

Career and Technical Teaching in Practice (CTTP)

The School of Education's Career and Technical Teaching in Practice certification program is for students whose primary responsibility will be teaching occupational skills in state-approved Career and Technical Education centers. Students complete 18 credits of coursework aligned to the Pennsylvania Department of Education's career and technical competencies and are eligible for the Career and Technical Instructional I Certification.

Cinema Arts

The Film and Animation Department offers a four-year, 120-credit Bachelor of Arts degree in Cinema Arts, with concentrations in Animation, Cinema, or Screenwriting. The curriculum provides practical, professional training while developing a sound foundation in the arts and humanities, with theory, cinema history, and aesthetics taught as an integral part of developing communication and production skills.

Cinema Arts 4+1 (Screenwriting Concentration)

The B.A. in Cinema Arts with a concentration in Screenwriting offers an accelerated graduate degree option, a 4+1 program with the Master of Fine Arts in Writing for the Screen & Stage program. Students apply in their junior year and begin taking graduate-level courses in the senior year of their undergraduate degree program.

Civil Engineering

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science degree program in Civil Engineering are well-prepared to undertake positions of technical and managerial responsibility in industry and government and to continue their education in graduate school. The program intends to meet the accreditation requirements of the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Clinical-Community Counseling Psychology

The Master's Program in Clinical-Community Psychology will lead to state licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). The program integrates two subfields of psychology, Clinical Psychology and Community Psychology, emphasizing the role of socio-cultural factors in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental illness.

Clinical Psychology

Point Park University's Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) is a program in Clinical Psychology with special focus on the principles and practices of Community Psychology. The program teaches a clinical approach to psychology that emphasizes the role of socio-cultural factors in mental health and well-being, including the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental distress.

Community Engagement

This Ph.D. program in Community Engagement is a university-wide interdisciplinary degree that develops leaders in community engagement including non-profit leaders, social change activists, and those involved in the national service-learning movement. Students gain a broad understanding of public policy, program development, and best practices in leadership and engagement, and the program includes a practicum experience completing a community engagement project.

Community Psychology

Point Park University's Master of Arts program in Community Psychology is focused on social and cultural influences on personal well-being, which include research and interventions at the community level to alleviate human suffering. Students are provided with rich theoretical frameworks, research methodologies, and applications to support strength-based and preventative clinical and community interventions.

Contemporary Theatre Making

This program cultivates the multiple talents and interests of creative students seeking to self-design a program that immerses them in theatre making, with opportunities for collaboration with other Conservatory arts programs. After two years of study in performance techniques, students may choose from areas of emphasis including Directing, Playwriting, and Self-Directed Studies.

Creative Writing

Creative Writing offers an opportunity for students with a passion for literature and the arts to develop their interest in writing through hands-on workshop classes and literary seminars. Students complete a series of workshop courses intended to help them focus on practicing and refining their craft, along with a slate of broad-ranging literature courses.

Criminal Justice

The program in Criminal Justice offers students a focused interdisciplinary exposure to all aspects of crime and criminal justice, dealing with crime, violence, and other forms of deviance and the responses to these problems by police, courts, and corrections officials. The program prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, private security, and related fields, and students are encouraged to enroll in a one-semester practicum in a law enforcement agency.

Dance

The Conservatory requires 123-125 credits with concentrations in Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, or Modern. This program is restricted to those who are, in the opinion of the faculty, qualified to pursue professional careers as dancers. Acceptance into the Bachelor of Fine Arts program is dependent upon the prerequisite Grade Point Average and the approval of the Dance faculty.

Dance Education

This program offers a unique blend of dance pedagogy and theoretical knowledge to provide dance education of the highest quality. Graduates are equipped to provide their students with a 21st century dance education that prepares them for college and a career in dance, and coursework addresses the vital role that dance plays in the social and emotional development of children.

Dance Education (PreK - Grade 12)

This teacher-certification program in the School of Dance, offered in partnership with the School of Education, prepares dance educators for Pennsylvania PreK-Grade 12 certification. Students complete education coursework, a student teaching practicum, and dance requirements with a concentration in Ballet, Jazz, or Modern.

Digital Journalism

This 12-credit School of Communication certificate develops basic and advanced interview techniques appropriate for professional journalistic work. Students also learn to research and develop sources for reporting.

Digital Journalism

Students interested in newsgathering and reporting in print and online media join a long and successful tradition of preparing professional journalists. The program develops professional-level reporting, writing, photojournalism, and editing skills and news judgment, and graduates often work at print and web news and entertainment publications.

Digital Marketing

This 12-credit undergraduate certificate focuses on digital marketing practice within the Department of Management. Students learn to evaluate and use information from traditional and technological formats and to analyze situations to uncover problems and opportunities.

Economics and Finance

Economics deals with the ordinary business of life, and its subject matter is directly relevant to students preparing to enter the economy. The study of finance provides students with an understanding of how financial markets operate and how to make effective investment and financial decisions for firms and individuals.

Education

The Associate in Arts degree in Education prepares students to enter the profession as teacher's aides or to work in child care settings, and does not lead to certification by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Most courses completed through the Associate in Arts degree are applicable to the Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Education leading to PA certification in Pre-K through Grade 4.

Educational Administration

The Master of Arts in Educational Administration prepares PreK-12 professional educators for leadership positions as school administrators or principals. The program integrates leadership and supervisory theories with problem solving and decision making models and includes the coursework for the PA Certificate for School Principal K-12.

Education Leading to PA Certification Grades 4 through 8, Academic Concentration: English

This middle level certification program prepares candidates to teach in an elementary classroom from Grade 4 up or in a middle level classroom focused on English. Candidates complete a 30-credit academic concentration in English plus a minimum of 12 credits in each of the other academic areas.

Education Leading to PA Certification Grades 4 through 8, Academic Concentration: Mathematics

This middle level certification program prepares candidates to teach in an elementary classroom from Grade 4 up or in a middle level classroom focused on mathematics. Candidates complete a 30-credit academic concentration in mathematics plus a minimum of 12 credits in each of the other academic areas.

Education Leading to PA Certification Grades 4 through 8, Academic Concentration: Science

This middle level certification program prepares candidates to teach in an elementary classroom from Grade 4 up or in a middle level classroom focused on science. Candidates complete a 30-credit academic concentration in science plus a minimum of 12 credits in each of the other academic areas.

Education Leading to PA Certification Grades 4 through 8, Academic Concentration: Social Studies

This middle level certification program prepares candidates to teach in an elementary classroom from Grade 4 up or in a middle level classroom focused on social studies. Candidates complete a 30-credit academic concentration in social studies plus a minimum of 12 credits in each of the other academic areas.

Education Leading to PA Certification Pre-K through Grade 4

This program prepares Pre-K through Grade 4 teachers to serve and value a diverse group of young children and families, focusing on child development, cognition and learning, subject matter content and pedagogy, assessment, family and community collaboration, professionalism, and accommodations for diverse learners. Graduates who meet all requirements are eligible for the Pennsylvania Instructional I Certificate.

Education Leading to PA Certification Pre-K through Grade 4 and Special Education Pre-K through 12

This dual certification program combines the Pre-K through Grade 4 curriculum with Special Education Pre-K through Grade 12 requirements. Candidates are prepared to teach in a special education setting or to accept a teaching assignment in a regular classroom matching their certification grade and content band.

Education with Certification PreK-Grade 4

The Master of Education with Certification PreK-Grade 4 program prepares students with undergraduate degrees to utilize their strong content knowledge in order to provide effective instruction for PreK-4 students. Candidates earn their degree as well as complete the requirements for PreK-4 teaching certification established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The program includes a full-time student teaching experience during the final semester of study.

Education with PA Dance Certification in PreK through 12th Teaching

This program provides a direct path to Pennsylvania Department of Education dance certification for PreK-12 teaching, following PDE's dance education certification competencies. The blend of dance pedagogy and educator core competencies ensures that students receive dance education from teachers trained to support students' social-emotional needs, college and career readiness, and quest for artistic excellence.

Electrical Engineering

The program leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering prepares graduates for immediate employment throughout the engineering enterprise and for further study in a wide variety of analytical and creative fields. The senior year is devoted to four technical electives and a full-year capstone design experience, and the program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Emergency Medical Services

This 18-credit undergraduate certificate covers the Emergency Medical Services Administration concentration of the Public Administration program and can be taken as a stand-alone credential or as a minor for other degrees. It prepares students for administrative roles in emergency medical services organizations.

English

The program leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in English is directed toward the understanding of literary works of the past and present and the development of the skills necessary to communicate effectively, persuasively, clearly, and concisely through both the written and spoken word. The major in English requires a total of 120 credits.

English / Secondary Education

This program integrates the academic discipline of English with a comprehensive knowledge of appropriate teaching and learning strategies for secondary school teaching. Students work with advisors from both the School of Education and the academic content department and are eligible to apply for the Pennsylvania Instructional I certificate upon meeting all requirements.

English / Secondary Education and Special Education (PreK - Grade 12)

This program leads to dual certification in English/Secondary Education and Special Education PreK through Grade 12. Candidates complete secondary English content coursework along with education and special education requirements, culminating in a student teaching practicum.

Entertainment Production Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Entertainment Production Engineering provides extensive training for students in the technical design and production of live entertainment events, supported by academic and industry professionals in engineering, production, and management, in the classroom and in the field. Optional concentrations include Business Fundamentals, Safety and Management, Scenic and Structural Systems, Design and Visual Communications, and Electrical Systems.

Entrepreneurship & Innovation

The Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship & Innovation teaches students to apply a design and innovation toolset to analyze and create new products and services and to demonstrate strategic and financial planning capabilities through the development of a business plan. Students choose a concentration in Innovative Entrepreneurship or Social Entrepreneurship and enhance professional acumen through mentoring, structured internships, and new venture launch.

Film Production

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film Production offers concentrations in Cinematography, Directing, Editing, Producing, or Sound. Students apply the foundational skills and craft of a working professional in cinema production within a collaborative artistic environment. A portfolio application is required to enter the degree program.

Fire Service Administration

This 18-credit undergraduate certificate covers the Fire Service Administration concentration of the Public Administration program and can be taken as a stand-alone credential or as a minor for other degrees. The Fire Service Administration courses are recognized by the National Fire Academy Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) project.

Forensic Science

The forensic science program is geared toward preparing the student for work in most sections of the forensic laboratory, including trace, drugs, arson, toxicology, death investigations, and work with DNA. Students learn crime scene processing techniques and the analysis of evidence within an ethical professional framework.

Funeral Service

The traditional funeral service program begins at Point Park University; after earning 72 credits, students attend the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science to complete a 12-month, three-trimester diploma program. Upon completion of requirements at both schools, students graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree, with concentrations available in Health and Science or Business Administration.

Funeral Service - Capstone

The capstone funeral service program follows study at the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. After completing the 20-month, five-trimester Associate in Specialized Business degree at PIMS, students attend Point Park to earn 36 credits, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree with concentrations available in Health and Science or Business Administration.

Graphic Design

This 12-credit School of Communication certificate teaches students to research, create, design, and produce materials for a variety of graphic and interactive design projects. Students demonstrate an understanding of design principles, aesthetics, and composition and the ability to customize design projects for a variety of audiences and messages.

Graphic & Interactive Design

B.F.A. in Graphic and Interactive Design students learn to research, evaluate, create, design, and produce professional-level materials for a variety of print, digital, and interactive projects. The degree focuses beyond tools and software, emphasizing aesthetic and design principles to master a project from beginning to end.

Healthcare Administration and Management

The Master of Science in Healthcare Administration and Management addresses the growing demand for healthcare professionals at the national and international level through a completely online graduate program. The program requires twelve graduate courses totaling 36 credit hours designed to provide the knowledge, skills, and best practices required to be an effective manager in the U.S. or international healthcare sector.

History

History offers students an opportunity to dive deep into the content and methodology of historical scholarship, thinking critically and analyzing events in the past to better understand continuing debates in the modern world. The program requires 39 credits in history and related disciplines with concentrations offered in United States History and World History.

Human Resource Management (B.S.)

The Human Resource Management programs prepare students for a wide range of human resource related professions, examining present and future employee needs including workforce planning, reward systems, employment laws, EEOC compliance, employee relations, training and development, and strategic HR management. The Bachelor of Science degree program is in the traditional four-year format and is aligned with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Competency Model.

Human Resource Management (Post Baccalaureate B.S.)

The post-baccalaureate program is a 39-credit program designed for graduates who have earned a B.A. or B.S. degree in an area other than Human Resource Management. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 30 credits in residence in order to receive a baccalaureate degree from Point Park University.

Information Systems and Business Analytics

The Master of Science in Information Systems and Business Analytics is the Rowland School of Business's first STEM-classified graduate program, developed to address the needs of business and not-for-profit sectors to design and employ data analytics with the help of information technology.

Instructional Studies

The Bachelor of Arts with a major in Instructional Studies meets the needs of students who have a strong interest in the field of education and are seeking career opportunities that do not require formal state teaching certification. With 30 credits of general college electives, students can complete a minor, and graduates are prepared for corporate training, nonprofit work, childcare and paraprofessional roles, and academic program support. The program can be completed online or on campus.

Instructional Technology Specialist

The Instructional Technology Specialist certificate focuses on the application of knowledge and competency required for the use of instructional technology as it pertains to aiding teachers, staff, and administration in educational school settings. A person holding a valid Pennsylvania certificate for Instructional Technology Specialist is qualified to provide technology information to district staff and administrators at grades PK-12.

Intelligence and Global Security

A graduate program in intelligence and global security offered through the School of Arts and Sciences. The catalog notes that the program is on hiatus and not accepting applications for Fall 2025.

Intelligence and National Security

The Bachelor of Science in Intelligence and National Security provides a solid foundation for the planning, implementation, and management of security operations in government and non-governmental arenas. With focus on national security, intelligence operations, emergency services, covert operations, and crisis management, students are prepared for entry-level positions in government and private sectors.

Interdisciplinary Arts

The MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts is a self-designed study, low-residency program inviting artists and thinkers to expand their creative practice through engaging dialogue, spiritual exploration, critical inquiry, practical application, and entrepreneurship literacy. The program allows for the search of meaning and purpose of a creative practice while working to clarify artistic intention and meet professional goals.

Interdisciplinary Studies

The Interdisciplinary Studies major is for students who wish to combine two areas of concentration into a single degree program. Students choose two disciplines in consultation with a faculty advisor, with 24 credits required in each, and gain practical experience in or related to one or both fields of study.

International and Environmental Studies

The International and Environmental Studies program addresses 21st century social and environmental phenomena and problems. Students become equipped with international, interdisciplinary perspectives to understand and address social and environmental issues that cross borders, studying both the International Studies and Environmental Studies themes.

Leadership and Administration

The Doctorate of Education in Leadership and Administration is an effort to ensure a foundation of philosophy and independent thought that can guide an ethos of learning in schools, universities, and business into the mid-21st century. The program is based on an epistemology of six performance domains - authenticity, vision, cultural/relational, quality/capacity, service systems, and communication - with research and practice undergirding all learning.

Learning, Design, and Technology (Master of Arts)

The Master of Arts in Learning, Design, and Technology is designed for individuals who work, teach, train, and manage in public, private, non-profit, corporate, government, health care, and other technology-rich learning environments. Courses prepare students to design, administer, manage, and evaluate instruction in online, hybrid, and remote settings, and graduates are prepared for leadership, administration, and management positions in the field.

Learning, Design, and Technology (Master of Education)

The Master of Education degree in Learning, Design, and Technology is an online, accelerated program for those who work and teach in K-12 public, private, charter, and basic education learning environments. The program prepares students to design, facilitate, manage, and evaluate digital instruction in online, hybrid, and remote settings and includes coursework for the PDE Certificate in Instructional Technology Specialist and the PDE Endorsement in Online Instruction.

Legal Studies

The Legal Studies program is a four-year program for traditional students as well as transfer students, providing a solid cosmopolitan liberal arts foundation for pursuing law school. It focuses upon critical thinking, logical argumentation, and the interpretation of complex issues as well as the fundamental principles that animate the life of a democratic society.

Liberal Studies with an Elected Area of Concentration

The Liberal Studies Program offers a four-year program as well as a program designed for transfer students, both featuring an Elected Area of Concentration designed by the student together with the Director of Interdisciplinary Studies and faculty advisors. Capstone and post-baccalaureate options offer concentrations in Applied Arts, Public Administration, Information Sciences, or International Studies.

Marketing

This 12-credit undergraduate certificate covers core marketing coursework in the Department of Management. Students learn to find, evaluate, and use industry information effectively and to communicate clear and organized information to target audiences.

Marketing and Sales (B.S.)

The Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Sales teaches students to analyze and evaluate information to develop solutions that enhance marketing and sales decision making and to apply marketing and sales technology tools, research, and analytical techniques. Students complete a 15-credit concentration in Marketing, Professional Sales, or Digital Marketing along with an experiential learning requirement.

Marketing and Sales (Post Baccalaureate B.S.)

This 39-credit post-baccalaureate program leads to the Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and Sales for students who already hold a baccalaureate degree in another field. The program includes an experiential component of three credits earned through an internship, cooperative education, study abroad, or other approved experience.

Mathematics / Secondary Education

This program integrates the academic discipline of mathematics with a comprehensive knowledge of appropriate teaching and learning strategies for secondary school teaching. Students work with advisors from both the School of Education and the academic content department and are eligible to apply for the Pennsylvania Instructional I certificate upon meeting all requirements.

Mathematics / Secondary Education and Special Education (PreK - Grade 12)

This program leads to dual certification in Mathematics/Secondary Education and Special Education PreK through Grade 12. Candidates complete mathematics content coursework along with education and special education requirements, culminating in a student teaching practicum.

Mechanical Engineering

The program leading to the Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering prepares graduates to make an immediate and substantial contribution as they enter the work force as professional engineers. The emphasis is on acquiring the wide variety of analytic and creative skills required by an engineer, and the program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Media Communications and Business Administration

The concurrent M.A. in Media Communications and M.B.A. degree program allows students to obtain both degrees in as little as two years of full-time course work. The curriculum is designed for students who plan to or already work in management and executive positions in public relations, advertising, integrated marketing communication, broadcast/digital formats, sports media, or documentary.

Multimedia

This 12-credit School of Communication certificate teaches students to research, write, and edit materials for a variety of media platforms. Students demonstrate an understanding of principles of media design, aesthetics, and composition.

Multimedia

The School of Communication offers a Master of Arts degree in Multimedia designed to help students meet the growing demand prompted by internet and social media communication technology. The program combines a theoretical focus on communication theory, ethics, and legal scholarship with a practical approach to the study of multimedia technology.

Multimedia

The multimedia major includes classes in a rich variety of new technologies and traditional storytelling to teach students web design, digital photography, and the use of audio, video, and graphics for web distribution. Graduates often move on to careers as web developers, web content specialists, and multimedia experts for media organizations and other companies.

Musical Theatre

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre develops the requisite technical skills of the musical theatre actor, including acting, voice production, and dance. Students build music proficiency, repertory and audition technique, and study theatre history alongside intensive performance training.

Organizational Leadership

The Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership is designed to attract students wishing to gain advanced knowledge in business, not-for-profit, and social leadership concepts. It is a 30-credit online-only program that can be completed in one year and is research and writing intensive, preparing students for management positions in for-profit or not-for-profit domestic or international organizations.

Organizational Leadership

The Organizational Leadership program is designed to enable students to develop their knowledge, skills, and proficiencies in a changing job market and contribute to the success of the businesses, non-profits, and governmental agencies that employ them. Interdisciplinary-based courses include interpersonal and organizational communication skills, strategic decision-making, cross-cultural perspectives, and community leadership.

Photography

This 12-credit School of Communication certificate develops an applied understanding of the visual language of photography and the ability to incorporate technical, formal, and conceptual competencies in creative work. Students also learn to professionally assess and critique their own photographs and those produced by others.

Photography

The B.F.A. in Photography program is dedicated to photographers and artists, students, and scholars creating and interpreting the world of the visual image. Students have the opportunity to pursue fine art, fashion, landscape, still life, portraiture, photojournalism, and other specialized topics while gaining an understanding of the professional world through classes, internships, and networking opportunities.

Photojournalism

This 12-credit School of Communication certificate develops an understanding of principles of aesthetics and composition alongside basic and advanced interview techniques appropriate for professional journalistic work. Coursework includes visual storytelling.

Playwriting Fundamentals

This program is designed to provide additional opportunities for learning the skills, craft, and business of playwriting. Interested learners can receive courses in playwriting without committing to a two-year program, and the certificate offers incremental progress toward the Master in Writing for Screen & Stage.

Political Science

To meet the needs of students pursuing careers in government, law, journalism, business, education, and non-profit organizations, the major in Political Science requires both lower- and upper-level political science courses along with a concentration in Government and Law or World Politics.

PreK-4th Residency Program

This unique, online, portfolio-based residency program provides a pathway for paraprofessionals working in schools to earn a bachelor's degree and Pennsylvania PreK through Grade 4 teaching certification. The program offers preparation and certification while the candidate continues working as a paraprofessional.

PreK-Grade 4

Point Park University is the only Pennsylvania Department of Education recognized institution in Pennsylvania that offers the American Board for the Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) program, a state-approved alternative teacher certification pathway. Candidates must hold an undergraduate degree, complete six required credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA, pass the required ABCTE exams, and complete a 60-day mentorship.

Professional Sales

This 12-credit undergraduate certificate develops professional selling skills within the Department of Management. Students refine collaboration, empathy, and influence skills to responsibly motivate and align others around opportunities within and outside of organizations.

Professional Studies

Point Park's MA in Professional Studies offers students flexibility and self-direction that empowers them to design a program focused on their personal educational and career goals. Students select two distinct disciplines of 12 credits each along with three required professional studies courses, and those with prior graduate-level learning may apply previously earned credits toward the degree.

Psychology

The program leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology requires a minimum of 48 credits in psychology, tailored to an individual student's needs such as preparation for graduate school or a vocation immediately following graduation. Students may elect recommended course sequences in Clinical, Child, Community, or Forensic Psychology, or a more broadly based general sequence.

Psychology (4+1 Program)

This accelerated 4+1 program pairs the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Master of Arts, allowing students to take graduate courses during the senior year and complete both degrees in five years. The program requires a minimum of 144 credits including 24 credits of graduate requirements.

Public Administration

This 18-credit undergraduate certificate in the Department of Community Engagement and Leadership can be taken as a stand-alone credential covering the core coursework of the Public Administration concentration. Requirements include public administration courses at the 200 level and above.

Public Administration

The Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration prepares graduates for careers in government agencies and nonprofit organizations, as well as in regulated businesses and as private government contractors. Offered online, the baccalaureate program includes a concentration in general public administration, Fire Service Administration, Law Enforcement Administration, or Emergency Medical Services Administration.

Public Relations, Advertising and Social Media

Students study traditional forms and methods of publicity, press relations, events planning, corporate communication, media planning, advertising, and marketing. Substantial practical experience is gained by working with Wood Street Communications, Bison Media, and the student chapters of the Public Relations Society of America and the Advertising Federation, and the degree is offered both on-ground and completely online.

Public Relations, Advertising, and Social Media

This program combines the theoretical concepts of communication with practical coursework that includes public relations and advertising research, writing, and practice; integrated marketing communications; and social media crisis and strategic communications. Students work closely with clients to develop in-depth campaigns and programs and are encouraged to build professional portfolios through internships and work with Wood Street Communications.

Public Relations and Advertising

This 12-credit School of Communication certificate teaches students to research, write, and edit professional quality public relations and advertising materials. Students also learn to critically analyze the quality and effectiveness of advertising, public relations, and marketing programs.

Reading and Literacy

The Master of Education in Reading and Literacy with Reading Specialist Concentration is designed for classroom teachers or other educational professionals who already possess an Instructional I certificate and have a strong desire to become a reading specialist, literacy coach, or literacy program/curriculum leader.

Reading Specialist

The Certificate in Reading Specialist is designed for classroom teachers or other educational professionals who already possess an Instructional I certificate and have a strong desire to become a reading specialist, literacy coach, or literacy program/curriculum leader for a school district. This online certificate is comprised of 24 credit hours, one of which is a practicum in which the candidate works alongside a certified reading specialist in a school, district, or intermediate unit.

School Principal K-12

Students with a master's degree in education may qualify to enroll in this certification-only principal program, with graduate transcripts reviewed to ensure the student qualifies. The 18-credit program prepares educational leaders for school administration, supervision, and day-to-day administration in K-12 schools.

Screenwriting

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Screenwriting trains students to produce professional written work for the screen and stage in a collaborative workshop environment. Students develop professional skills in areas such as television drama, situation comedies, feature films, documentary and non-fiction films, adaptations, and content for animation and video games.

Screenwriting 4+1

The B.F.A. in Screenwriting program offers an accelerated graduate degree option, a 4+1 program with the Master of Fine Arts in Writing for the Screen & Stage program. Students apply to the program in their junior year and begin taking graduate-level courses in their senior year of their undergraduate degree program.

Screenwriting Fundamentals

This program is designed to provide additional opportunities for learning the skills, craft, and business of screenwriting. Interested learners can receive courses in screenwriting without committing to a two-year program, and the certificate offers incremental progress toward the Master in Writing for Screen & Stage.

Secondary Education Grades 7-12

This ABCTE program provides a state-approved alternative pathway to Pennsylvania secondary certification in Grades 7-12 in one content area, including biology, chemistry, English, general science, mathematics, physics, or social studies. Candidates must hold an undergraduate degree, complete six required credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA, pass the required ABCTE exams, and complete a 60-day mentorship.

Secondary Education Leading to PA Certification in Grades 7-12

This program prepares students with undergraduate degrees to utilize their strong content knowledge in order to provide effective instruction for secondary students. Candidates must hold a baccalaureate degree in biology, English, mathematics, or social studies or a related field and pass the appropriate content area Praxis exam. The program includes a full-time student teaching experience in a 7-12 classroom during the final semester of study.

Social Justice Studies

The interdisciplinary major in Social Justice Studies prepares students to identify social problems, recognize a range of potential solutions to those problems, and work toward bringing about those solutions. Coursework spans themes in understanding injustice, articulating social justice, and organizing, advocacy, and direct practice.

Social Media Management

This certificate prepares students to apply social media best practices to the creation of content across platforms, engage and grow audiences, develop crisis management strategies, and analyze social media messages and analytics. The program consists of four required social media courses in the School of Communication.

Social Media Management

Combining management techniques with innovative social media marketing concepts, this social media degree program delivers the professional knowledge needed for career success. The curriculum features real-world projects along with social media training that can lead to specific credentials upon completion, and the program is intended for students with extensive transfer credits.

Social Studies / Secondary Education

This program integrates the academic discipline of social studies with a comprehensive knowledge of appropriate teaching and learning strategies for secondary school teaching. Students work with advisors from both the School of Education and the academic content department and are eligible to apply for the Pennsylvania Instructional I certificate upon meeting all requirements.

Social Studies / Secondary Education and Special Education (PreK - Grade 12)

This program leads to dual certification in Social Studies/Secondary Education and Special Education PreK through Grade 12. Candidates complete social studies content coursework along with education and special education requirements, culminating in a student teaching practicum.

Special Education Leading to PA Certification in PreK-Grade 12

The Master of Arts in Special Education leading to Pennsylvania Certification in PreK through Grade 12 is designed for Pennsylvania certified teachers seeking an additional certification in Grades PreK-12 Special Education. This online cohort program includes a three-credit practicum in which students complete state-mandated observation hours, and can be completed in approximately 1.5 years.

Special Education Leading to PA Certification in Pre-K through Grade 12

The Master of Education in Special Education leading to Pennsylvania Grades PreK-12 Special Education certification is designed for non-certified teachers with an undergraduate degree who wish to earn their initial teaching certification in Grades PreK-12 Special Education. The online program consists of eleven three-credit courses plus six credits of student teaching and a three-credit seminar.

Special Education PreK-12 Residency Program

This unique, online, portfolio-based residency program provides a pathway for paraprofessionals working in schools to earn a bachelor's degree and Pennsylvania Special Education PreK through Grade 12 teaching certification. The program offers preparation and certification while the candidate continues working as a paraprofessional.

Special Education PreK-Grade 12

This ABCTE program provides a state-approved alternative pathway to Pennsylvania special education certification for PreK-Grade 12. Candidates must hold an undergraduate degree, complete six required credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA, pass the required ABCTE exams, and successfully complete a 60-day mentorship requirement.

Special Education Pre-K through Grade 12

This single certification program provides candidates with the skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary to meet the needs of students with disabilities in multiple settings. Candidates demonstrate competence in the areas of academic, social, and emotional growth and methods to maximize a student's capabilities.

Sports, Arts, Entertainment & Music Business

The SAEM program at Point Park University was a pioneer in the establishment of a degree program in sports, arts, and entertainment, and the University's downtown location provides access to the city's cultural and professional sports organizations.

Sports Communication

The broad-based B.A. in Sports Communication covers broadcasting, social media and fan engagement, journalism, public relations and advertising, and more, equipping students with the skills to be an essential part of the sports industry. Graduates often work with professional sports teams at all levels, including those at colleges and universities.

Sports Management

The Sports Management program is a specialization within the Sports, Arts, Entertainment, and Music Business program that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and real-world experience to succeed in the sports industry. Specialized courses in sports administration, coaching, analytics, sales, and marketing are combined with hands-on experience through one to three internships with premier sports organizations.

Superintendent's Letter of Eligibility

The Superintendent's Letter of Eligibility program prepares individuals to qualify for the positions of superintendent and assistant superintendent in Pennsylvania's public schools. The program advances professional knowledge, integrates leadership and supervisory theories with problem solving and decision making models, and is based on six performance domains of leadership.

Teaching and Leadership

The Master of Education in Teaching and Leadership is designed for individuals who are already certified teachers or who work in settings in which an enhanced understanding of the field of education is valuable. Students refine their educational skills, prepare to assume leadership roles while remaining in the classroom, and choose from a variety of elective options that may lead to additional certifications.

Theatre Production

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Production provides a breadth of understanding, encourages independent thought, and offers high quality of practice in a demanding environment to advance professional competence in Stage Management, Technical Theatre, and Design. Students gain practical experience beginning their first semester and build a first-rate portfolio through 15 or more productions in multiple venues.

Writing for the Screen and Stage

The Master of Fine Arts degree in Writing for the Screen and Stage, offered through the Conservatory of Performing Arts, is a low-residency, professionally oriented program for individuals interested in screenwriting and playwriting. With only three short on-campus residency requirements and four traditional semesters held online, the program is geared toward students already engaged in professional work or looking for a non-traditional, flexible master's degree.