Who We Are
The Kenneth P. Dietrich (DEE-trik) School of Arts and Sciences constitutes the liberal arts core of the University of Pittsburgh, one of the major public research universities in the United States. We provide instruction in natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences for all students studying at the Pittsburgh campus, including more than 10,000 students registered as Dietrich School undergraduates. In addition, the Dietrich School educates 15 percent—more than 1,500—of the University’s graduate and graduate professional students, making it the largest graduate program in Pittsburgh. In the summer of 2006, the University’s College of General Studies joined the (then) School of Arts and Sciences, expanding the community of learners to include nontraditional students.
Our nationally and internationally recognized faculty members excel at translating their research and scholarly expertise into top-quality graduate programs and a superb, highly selective liberal arts undergraduate program that integrates traditional disciplines with interdisciplinary and international perspectives and takes advantage of the breadth of the University and its urban environment.
Dietrich School alumni have brought honor and recognition to the school and to the University of Pittsburgh with their outstanding achievements in business, government, science, education, and the arts. Among our distinguished alumni is the late William S. Dietrich II, whose historic gift of $125 million was recognized by naming our school after his father, Kenneth.
Leadership Priorities
Respect
We strive to provide an environment in which all Dietrich School and CGS students, faculty, and staff are treated with kindness, empathy, and respect. As leaders, we strive to ensure this is felt and experienced across the Dietrich School and CGS.
Inclusion
Everyone belongs. It is essential that we recruit and retain students, faculty, and staff from a variety of backgrounds. Diversity of experience and diversity in perspectives are foundational to our continued excellence in academics and research.
Innovation
Nothing is off the table at the Dietrich School and CGS. We welcome and encourage faculty, staff, and students to try new things and we provide the time and support for them to do so as much as possible. Our programs and research must be future-oriented, and constant innovation is critical.
Communication
We are approachable and responsive. We make ourselves visible and accessible, reflecting our willingness to communicate with students, faculty, staff, and one another about anything—even the “hard stuff.”
Integrity
We act in the best interest of students, faculty, and staff, and strive to ensure everyone at the Dietrich School and CGS does the same. Whenever possible, we are transparent about how and why decisions are made.
Collaboration
We cultivate a culture of healthy collaboration, in which people support one another and work together to accomplish shared goals. This spirit of collaboration is also felt in the partnerships we pursue within and outside of the University.