GPA at the University of Pittsburgh: Explained
Whether you call it Pitt or the University of Pittsburgh, understanding how your GPA is calculated here can help you plan your semesters strategically. Pitt uses the standard 4.0 GPA scale, but the grading policies can vary slightly across schools and programs. Let’s break it all down.
How Pitt Calculates GPA
Your GPA at Pitt is determined by dividing the total number of quality points you’ve earned by the number of credit hours you’ve attempted (excluding pass/fail, withdrawals, or audit courses).
Formula:
GPA = Total Quality Points ÷ Total GPA Credit Hours
Quality points are awarded by multiplying the value of the grade (see the scale below) by the number of credits the course is worth.
Example:
- A 3-credit A (4.0) = 12 quality points
- A 3-credit B+ (3.25) = 9.75 quality points
- Add ’em up and divide by total credits to get your GPA.
Pitt’s Official Grade Scale
| Letter Grade | GPA Value |
|---|---|
| A | 4.00 |
| A− | 3.75 |
| B+ | 3.25 |
| B | 3.00 |
| B− | 2.75 |
| C+ | 2.25 |
| C | 2.00 |
| C− | 1.75 |
| D+ | 1.25 |
| D | 1.00 |
| D− | 0.75 |
| F | 0.00 |
Some schools may not use D− or may round differently, so always check with your advisor.
Grade Policies by School or Department
Different schools at Pitt may have specific grading rules or GPA requirements. Here’s a quick glance:
| School/College | Notes on GPA Policy |
|---|---|
| Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences | Uses standard GPA scale. Academic probation at GPA < 2.00. |
| Swanson School of Engineering | Requires 2.00 GPA to stay in good standing. D or lower in core classes usually must be retaken. |
| School of Nursing | Minimum 2.75 GPA for progression. Some courses require C or higher to pass. |
| College of Business Administration | GPA of 2.25+ often needed for upper-level business courses. |
| School of Computing and Information | Enforces GPA thresholds for continuation and graduation—generally 2.75+. |
These standards are subject to change and may depend on your entry year, so always refer to your school’s advising office.
Pass/Fail, Repeats, and Incompletes
- Pass/Fail (S/N grade option): Does not affect GPA.
- Course repeats: The most recent grade counts toward your GPA, even if it’s lower.
- Incompletes (G grade): Temporarily excluded from GPA until a final grade is submitted.
Tips for Managing Your GPA
- Aim for consistency: one B− won’t hurt, but several can drag your GPA.
- Repeat wisely: retaking a course can help recover lost GPA points, but only the most recent grade will count.
- Use Pitt’s GPA calculator through PeopleSoft or meet with your academic advisor to simulate different scenarios.