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Interesting in applying to Pitt and entering a health care career?

Our school offers health career paths for anyone interested in exploring their options or for those who know their destination. SHRS has an array of popular programs and a wide variety of health professions often unknown to high school students but are in high demand. We encourage students in high school or early in their college career to explore our disciplines. Connect with us to learn about these exciting professions.

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?

Upper-Division School

The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh is an upper-division school.

High school students must apply to Pitt first. Once accepted, students follow a plan of study that will prepare them to apply to an SHRS undergraduate or accelerated program during their sophomore or second year of college, after completing roughly 45 credits. Students must complete and have a minimum of 60 college credits before entering our undergraduate or accelerated programs.

Students typically spend their first two years at Pitt in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences taking prerequisite or introductory courses for SHRS disciplines and preparing to apply to our undergraduate or accelerated programs.

SHRS is always looking for students with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Don’t wait until college to get involved! We look for students who are passionate and involved in their intended fields of study. Shadowing, volunteering or working in any of these fields or related areas is encouraged and may be required for a student’s future application.

Prepare for the Guaranteed Admissions Programs (GAP)

High school students seeking admission to the University of Pittsburgh for first-year entry should visit and apply through the University’s Office of Admissions. Incoming first-year students have the opportunity to qualify for one of the Pitt Guaranteed Admissions Programs which guarantee students admission into a graduate or professional program providing they meet all criteria. The first step in qualifying for these guarantees is to identify them in your first-year application to the University. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is GAP a direct entry or pathway to SHRS?
    1. No, GAP criteria varies by program. Students who have Guaranteed Admissions will be expected to meet these criteria and maintain specific standards throughout their undergraduate program to hold a seat in their GAP program. You will still need to apply to your specific GAP program.
  2. How do you apply or get into Pitt Physical Therapy or Pitt Occupational Therapy programs?
    1. Physical Therapy (PT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) are graduate programs within SHRS. This means you must have already earned a bachelor’s degree and program-specific requirements. First-year students applying to the University of Pittsburgh can note their intention and interest in the PT or OT program. Whether you are offered Guaranteed Admission or not, you will still need to apply to these graduate programs to be considered for admission and to show that you meet the program requirements.

Don't wait to get involved!