Is University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus a Catholic college?

No. University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus is not a Catholic college. Catholic School Compass rates the Catholic life on its campus instead. Catholic students are served by the Pittsburgh Oratory and Catholic Newman Center.

Where is Mass celebrated at University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus?

Mass is listed at Oratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street, Heinz Memorial Chapel, University of Pittsburgh campus, Wright-Rogal Chapel, and Carnegie Mellon University campus. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.

Is University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus Compass Recommended?

Yes. University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus meets the Compass Recommended standard for Catholic life on campus.

College · Catholic life on campus

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus

LocationPittsburgh, PA
Type and sizePublic · 4-year · 34,525 students

Official website Campus Ministry Honor Roll badge

Catholic Life Score

Catholic life 75%Academics 25%

ACatholic life
100 of 100

AAcademics
92 of 100

Verified Oct. 8, 2026 · How the score works

Campus Ministry Honor RollCompass Recommended

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus is not a Catholic college. This rating measures Catholic life on campus: campus ministry, priests, Mass and confession, student groups, and nearby parishes.

The Pittsburgh Oratory, a community of Oratorian priests at 4450 Bayard Street in Oakland, one block from the Cathedral of Learning, is the Catholic Newman Center for the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon, and Chatham, with its own chapel and a student center. Fr. Peter Gruber, C.O., is campus chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry, and the Oratory lists Mass every day (including a Sunday 11 AM Mass at Pitt's Heinz Chapel during the academic year), confession twice each weekday, and perpetual adoration. FOCUS missionaries lead Bible studies at Pitt and CMU, and students gather for Sunday Newman Night, First Friday dinners, and retreats at the Oratory's Rednal retreat house.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 10

Sunday9:00 AMOratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street
Sunday11:00 AMHeinz Memorial Chapel, University of Pittsburgh campus · At Heinz Chapel during the academic year (Catholic Newman Club Mass, followed by food and fellowship).
Sunday4:00 PMOratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street
Sunday9:00 PMOratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street
Monday–Friday7:00 AMOratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street
Monday–Friday5:15 PMOratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street

Show 4 more mass times

Monday–Thursday9:00 PMOratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street · Only during the fall and spring academic terms.
Saturday10:00 AMOratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street
Saturday4:00 PMOratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street
Monday5:15 PMWright-Rogal Chapel, Carnegie Mellon University campus · Newman Center Mass on the CMU campus (not at Pitt).

Confession 5

Monday–Friday12:00 PM–1:00 PMThe Pittsburgh Oratory · No scheduled confession on major holidays.
Monday–Friday4:00 PM–5:00 PMThe Pittsburgh Oratory · No scheduled confession on major holidays.
Saturday12:00 PM–1:00 PMThe Pittsburgh Oratory
Saturday3:00 PM–4:00 PMThe Pittsburgh Oratory
Sunday3:00 PM–4:00 PMThe Pittsburgh Oratory

Adoration 1

Sunday–Saturday12:00 AM–11:59 PMOratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street · Perpetual adoration, paused only during Mass and a weekly chapel cleaning; adorers sign up for weekly hours.

Times come only from official parish, chaplaincy, or school pages, and can change with the season. Last verified Oct. 8, 2026.

Sources for these times (2)

The Source and Summit | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/liturgy · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“We celebrate Mass every day in the Oratory Chapel and on campus. All are welcome at any Mass. Sunday 9:00 am · 11:00 am* · 4:00 pm · 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm · 9:00 pm* Friday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm Saturday 10:00 am · 4:00 pm Holidays 10:00 am”
Mass is celebrated every day: four times on Sunday, two or three times each weekday, and twice on Saturday.
“* The 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday Mass is offered only during the fall and spring academic terms. The 11:00 am Sunday Mass is celebrated at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.”
The 9 PM Monday-Thursday Mass is held only during academic terms, and the 11 AM Sunday Mass is at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.
“We celebrate Mass every day in the Oratory Chapel and on campus. All are welcome at any Mass. Sunday 9:00 am · 11:00 am* · 4:00 pm · 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm · 9:00 pm* Friday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm Saturday 10:00 am · 4:00 pm Holidays 10:00 am”
Mass is celebrated every day: four times on Sunday, two or three times each weekday, and twice on Saturday.
“We celebrate Mass every day in the Oratory Chapel and on campus. All are welcome at any Mass. Sunday 9:00 am · 11:00 am* · 4:00 pm · 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm · 9:00 pm* Friday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm Saturday 10:00 am · 4:00 pm Holidays 10:00 am”
Mass is celebrated every day: four times on Sunday, two or three times each weekday, and twice on Saturday.
“We celebrate Mass every day in the Oratory Chapel and on campus. All are welcome at any Mass. Sunday 9:00 am · 11:00 am* · 4:00 pm · 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm · 9:00 pm* Friday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm Saturday 10:00 am · 4:00 pm Holidays 10:00 am”
Mass is celebrated every day: four times on Sunday, two or three times each weekday, and twice on Saturday.
“We celebrate Mass every day in the Oratory Chapel and on campus. All are welcome at any Mass. Sunday 9:00 am · 11:00 am* · 4:00 pm · 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm · 9:00 pm* Friday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm Saturday 10:00 am · 4:00 pm Holidays 10:00 am”
Mass is celebrated every day: four times on Sunday, two or three times each weekday, and twice on Saturday.
“* The 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday Mass is offered only during the fall and spring academic terms. The 11:00 am Sunday Mass is celebrated at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.”
The 9 PM Monday-Thursday Mass is held only during academic terms, and the 11 AM Sunday Mass is at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.
“We celebrate Mass every day in the Oratory Chapel and on campus. All are welcome at any Mass. Sunday 9:00 am · 11:00 am* · 4:00 pm · 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm · 9:00 pm* Friday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm Saturday 10:00 am · 4:00 pm Holidays 10:00 am”
Mass is celebrated every day: four times on Sunday, two or three times each weekday, and twice on Saturday.
“We celebrate Mass every day in the Oratory Chapel and on campus. All are welcome at any Mass. Sunday 9:00 am · 11:00 am* · 4:00 pm · 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm · 9:00 pm* Friday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm Saturday 10:00 am · 4:00 pm Holidays 10:00 am”
Mass is celebrated every day: four times on Sunday, two or three times each weekday, and twice on Saturday.
“Priests are available for confession every weekday and weekend. No appointment needed. Monday–Friday 12:00–1:00 pm · 4:00–5:00 pm Saturday 12:00–1:00 pm · 3:00–4:00 pm Sunday 3:00–4:00 pm”
Confession is offered twice each weekday, twice on Saturday, and on Sunday afternoon.
“Priests are available for confession every weekday and weekend. No appointment needed. Monday–Friday 12:00–1:00 pm · 4:00–5:00 pm Saturday 12:00–1:00 pm · 3:00–4:00 pm Sunday 3:00–4:00 pm”
Confession is offered twice each weekday, twice on Saturday, and on Sunday afternoon.
“Priests are available for confession every weekday and weekend. No appointment needed. Monday–Friday 12:00–1:00 pm · 4:00–5:00 pm Saturday 12:00–1:00 pm · 3:00–4:00 pm Sunday 3:00–4:00 pm”
Confession is offered twice each weekday, twice on Saturday, and on Sunday afternoon.
“Priests are available for confession every weekday and weekend. No appointment needed. Monday–Friday 12:00–1:00 pm · 4:00–5:00 pm Saturday 12:00–1:00 pm · 3:00–4:00 pm Sunday 3:00–4:00 pm”
Confession is offered twice each weekday, twice on Saturday, and on Sunday afternoon.
“Priests are available for confession every weekday and weekend. No appointment needed. Monday–Friday 12:00–1:00 pm · 4:00–5:00 pm Saturday 12:00–1:00 pm · 3:00–4:00 pm Sunday 3:00–4:00 pm”
Confession is offered twice each weekday, twice on Saturday, and on Sunday afternoon.
“The Blessed Sacrament is exposed in the Oratory Chapel nearly every hour of every day – paused only during Mass and a weekly chapel cleaning.”
Perpetual Eucharistic adoration takes place in the Oratory Chapel, paused only during Mass and a weekly cleaning.
Pray, Belong, Grow | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“Can’t make it to the Oratory? We bring the Mass to you. Sunday Mass at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus. Monday evening Mass at Wright-Rogal Chapel on CMU’s campus.”
The Newman Center holds Sunday Mass at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus and a Monday evening Mass at CMU.

Catholic churches nearby

CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›

Saint Paul Cathedral Parish — 0.3 mi · 108 North Dithridge Street, Pittsburgh
The Pittsburgh Oratory and Catholic Newman Center — 0.3 mi · 4450 Bayard Street
Oakland Catholic Chapel — 0.3 mi
Holy Spirit Byzantine Church — 0.5 mi
Latino Catholic Community of Pittsburgh — 0.8 mi
Immaculate Heart of Mary — 1.1 mi

Within 3 miles, as mapped by OpenStreetMap contributors. The map may be incomplete. Confirm with the parish or diocese.

Catholic life scorecard

Each line is one thing we looked for. A check means yes, a half means partly, a dash means no. “Not enough information” means official sources did not say.

Catholic life on campus

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

Yes:
Catholic campus ministry serving this campus (Catholic center, campus ministry, or chaplaincy)Yes
Sources (4)
1. The Pittsburgh Oratory and Catholic Newman Centerpittsburghoratory.org · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “This is the Pittsburgh Oratory – an Oratory of St. Philip Neri and the Catholic Newman Center for Pitt, CMU, and Chatham.”
  The Pittsburgh Oratory is the Catholic Newman Center for Pitt, CMU, and Chatham.
2. Pray, Belong, Grow | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Pittsburgh Oratory is the Catholic Newman Center for three universities – the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, and Chatham University. Priests are available to talk with students.”
  The Oratory is the Catholic Newman Center for the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon, and Chatham.
3. Religious Services | Heinz Memorial Chapel in Pittsburgh, PAheinzchapel.pitt.edu/religious-services · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Catholic Newman Club welcomes all students to worship God and connect with their peers by joining for Mass every Sunday at 11 AM in Heinz Chapel. Mass will be celebrated by one of the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.”
  Pitt's Heinz Chapel page lists a weekly Sunday 11 AM Catholic Newman Club Mass celebrated by the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.
4. Gaudete semper | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/community · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Pittsburgh Oratory was established in 1961, when the Bishop of Pittsburgh founded a university parish – first located up the hill on Bigelow Boulevard – to serve students at Pitt, Carnegie Mellon, and Chatham.”
  The Bishop of Pittsburgh founded the Oratory in 1961 to serve students at Pitt, Carnegie Mellon, and Chatham.
Yes:
Dedicated Catholic center or chapel on or next to campusYes (The Oratory at 4450 Bayard Street, one block from the Cathedral of Learning, houses the Newman Center chapel and a student center on its lower level.)
Sources (2)
1. Pray, Belong, Grow | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Oratory chapel is the Newman Center chapel, and the building’s lower level – the conference room, game room, library, and piano area – is the Student Center, where students gather, eat, and meet between classes.”
  The Oratory has the Newman Center chapel and a student center with a conference room, game room, library, and piano area.
2. The Source and Summit | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/liturgy · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “4450 Bayard Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 – in Oakland, one block from the Cathedral of Learning. Parking Street parking on Bayard Street and Bellefield Avenue. The Oratory is also walkable from the Pitt and CMU campuses.”
  The Oratory is at 4450 Bayard Street in Oakland, one block from the Cathedral of Learning and walkable from the Pitt campus.
Yes:
Priest chaplain assigned to campus ministryFull-time priest chaplain (Fr. Peter Gruber, C.O., is Campus Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry with a particular focus at Pitt; seven Oratorian priests live at the Oratory and serve the Newman Center, and Pitt's Heinz Chapel page calls the Oratorian priests the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.)
Sources (2)
1. Pray, Belong, Grow | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Fr. Peter Gruber, C.O. Campus Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry Fr. Peter studied engineering and philosophy at Pitt and was ordained a priest in 2017. He oversees campus ministry for all three universities, with a particular focus at Pitt, and he serves as the Minister of the Rednal retreat house.”
  Fr. Peter Gruber is Campus Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry, with a particular focus at Pitt.
  “Seven Oratorian priests live at the Oratory and serve the Newman Center. Three have assigned campus ministry roles.”
  Seven resident Oratorian priests serve the Newman Center; three have campus ministry roles.
2. Religious Services | Heinz Memorial Chapel in Pittsburgh, PAheinzchapel.pitt.edu/religious-services · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Catholic Newman Club welcomes all students to worship God and connect with their peers by joining for Mass every Sunday at 11 AM in Heinz Chapel. Mass will be celebrated by one of the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.”
  Pitt's Heinz Chapel page lists a weekly Sunday 11 AM Catholic Newman Club Mass celebrated by the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.
Yes:
Weekday Mass at the campus ministryEvery weekday (5 or more weekdays) (Monday-Friday 7:00 AM and 5:15 PM, plus 9:00 PM Monday-Thursday during the fall and spring terms, in the Oratory Chapel.)
Sources (1)
1. The Source and Summit | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/liturgy · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “We celebrate Mass every day in the Oratory Chapel and on campus. All are welcome at any Mass. Sunday 9:00 am · 11:00 am* · 4:00 pm · 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm · 9:00 pm* Friday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm Saturday 10:00 am · 4:00 pm Holidays 10:00 am”
  Mass is celebrated every day: four times on Sunday, two or three times each weekday, and twice on Saturday.
  “* The 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday Mass is offered only during the fall and spring academic terms. The 11:00 am Sunday Mass is celebrated at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.”
  The 9 PM Monday-Thursday Mass is held only during academic terms, and the 11 AM Sunday Mass is at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.
Yes:
Sunday Mass at the campus ministry or a campus chapelTwo or more weekend Masses (Sunday 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM (at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year), 4:00 PM, and 9:00 PM, plus Saturday 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.)
Sources (2)
1. The Source and Summit | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/liturgy · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “We celebrate Mass every day in the Oratory Chapel and on campus. All are welcome at any Mass. Sunday 9:00 am · 11:00 am* · 4:00 pm · 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm · 9:00 pm* Friday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm Saturday 10:00 am · 4:00 pm Holidays 10:00 am”
  Mass is celebrated every day: four times on Sunday, two or three times each weekday, and twice on Saturday.
  “* The 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday Mass is offered only during the fall and spring academic terms. The 11:00 am Sunday Mass is celebrated at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.”
  The 9 PM Monday-Thursday Mass is held only during academic terms, and the 11 AM Sunday Mass is at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.
2. Religious Services | Heinz Memorial Chapel in Pittsburgh, PAheinzchapel.pitt.edu/religious-services · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Catholic Newman Club welcomes all students to worship God and connect with their peers by joining for Mass every Sunday at 11 AM in Heinz Chapel. Mass will be celebrated by one of the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.”
  Pitt's Heinz Chapel page lists a weekly Sunday 11 AM Catholic Newman Club Mass celebrated by the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.
Yes:
Scheduled confession at the campus ministryWeekly or more often (Monday-Friday 12:00-1:00 PM and 4:00-5:00 PM. Saturday 12:00-1:00 PM and 3:00-4:00 PM. Sunday 3:00-4:00 PM.)
Sources (1)
1. The Source and Summit | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/liturgy · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Priests are available for confession every weekday and weekend. No appointment needed. Monday–Friday 12:00–1:00 pm · 4:00–5:00 pm Saturday 12:00–1:00 pm · 3:00–4:00 pm Sunday 3:00–4:00 pm”
  Confession is offered twice each weekday, twice on Saturday, and on Sunday afternoon.
Yes:
Catholic student groups and missionary outreach (e.g., FOCUS, Saint Paul's Outreach, Knights of Columbus, Bible studies)Two or more (FOCUS missionaries (ten serving Pitt and CMU; focus.org lists six on its Pitt page), FOCUS and student-led Bible studies, and the Pitt Catholic Newman Club.)
Sources (3)
1. Religious Services | Heinz Memorial Chapel in Pittsburgh, PAheinzchapel.pitt.edu/religious-services · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Catholic Newman Club welcomes all students to worship God and connect with their peers by joining for Mass every Sunday at 11 AM in Heinz Chapel. Mass will be celebrated by one of the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.”
  Pitt's Heinz Chapel page lists a weekly Sunday 11 AM Catholic Newman Club Mass celebrated by the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.
2. Pray, Belong, Grow | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “FOCUS Bible Studies Weekly · Various times Pitt & CMU campuses Small-group Bible studies led by FOCUS missionaries and students, meeting where students already are – in dorms, dining halls, and common rooms.”
  FOCUS missionaries and students lead weekly small-group Bible studies on the Pitt and CMU campuses.
  “Each Newman Club connects students at their university to the Catholic Newman Center and to Christ. Check out their Instagram pages to see what they have going on! Pitt Newman Club@catholicnewmanclub412”
  Pitt has a Newman Club connected to the Catholic Newman Center.
  “Ten FOCUS missionaries serve the Pitt and CMU campuses in partnership with the Oratory. They lead small-group Bible studies, go on mission trips, and invest personally in students’ discipleship – one conversation at a time.”
  Ten FOCUS missionaries serve Pitt and CMU with the Oratory, leading Bible studies and mission trips.
3. University of Pittsburgh - FOCUSfocus.org/campus/university-of-pittsburgh · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh HOME | CAMPUSES | University of Pittsburgh”
  FOCUS lists the University of Pittsburgh among its campuses.
Yes:
Formation programs (retreats, OCIA/RCIA, service, small groups)Two or more kinds (Student retreats at Rednal each semester, weekly small-group Bible studies, Sunday Newman Night talks, sacred music fellowships for local university students, and a monthly Oratory lecture series.)
Sources (3)
1. Pray, Belong, Grow | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Newman Night Every Sunday · 7:00 pm St. Paul Cathedral basement Pizza, a talk, and community. Every Sunday night during the academic year, students gather for fellowship, a short talk, and good food.”
  Newman Night meets every Sunday at 7 PM in the St. Paul Cathedral basement with pizza, a talk, and fellowship.
  “FOCUS Bible Studies Weekly · Various times Pitt & CMU campuses Small-group Bible studies led by FOCUS missionaries and students, meeting where students already are – in dorms, dining halls, and common rooms.”
  FOCUS missionaries and students lead weekly small-group Bible studies on the Pitt and CMU campuses.
  “Step away from campus at Rednal – the Oratory’s 87-acre retreat property in Ligonier. Student retreats run each semester: a long weekend of silence, prayer, hiking, and brotherhood or sisterhood.”
  Student retreats are held each semester at Rednal, the Oratory's retreat property in Ligonier.
2. The Saint Gregory Institute of Sacred Music | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/music · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Saint Gregory Institute is proud to offer 11 Sacred Music Fellowships each year to students in our local universities and young people involved in Oratory life”
  The Oratory's Saint Gregory Institute offers sacred music fellowships to local university students each year.
3. Gaudete semper | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/community · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Bible Study with Fr. Mike Fridays · 4:00 pm · The Oratory + Zoom Sunday Donuts & Coffee First Sunday of each month after 11:00 am Mass”
  Fr. Mike's Bible study meets Fridays at 4 PM and Sunday donuts and coffee follow the 11 AM Mass on the first Sunday of each month.
Yes:
Catholic church within walking distance (computed from OpenStreetMap)Within 1 mile of campusComputed from OpenStreetMap church locations.
Yes:
Published weekly schedule of Mass, confession, and adoration30 or more times a week (41 weekly times documented: 21 Mass, 13 confession, 7 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).

Grades come from the documented indicators under the published rubric. “Not enough information” does not mean the school lacks it.

Strengths

The Newman Center, one block from the Cathedral of Learning, has its own chapel and a student center, and is run by a community of seven resident Oratorian priests. Fr. Peter Gruber is campus chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry with a particular focus at Pitt.
Sources (2)
1. Pray, Belong, Grow | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Oratory chapel is the Newman Center chapel, and the building’s lower level – the conference room, game room, library, and piano area – is the Student Center, where students gather, eat, and meet between classes.”
  The Oratory has the Newman Center chapel and a student center with a conference room, game room, library, and piano area.
  “Fr. Peter Gruber, C.O. Campus Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry Fr. Peter studied engineering and philosophy at Pitt and was ordained a priest in 2017. He oversees campus ministry for all three universities, with a particular focus at Pitt, and he serves as the Minister of the Rednal retreat house.”
  Fr. Peter Gruber is Campus Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry, with a particular focus at Pitt.
  “Seven Oratorian priests live at the Oratory and serve the Newman Center. Three have assigned campus ministry roles.”
  Seven resident Oratorian priests serve the Newman Center; three have campus ministry roles.
2. The Source and Summit | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/liturgy · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “4450 Bayard Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 – in Oakland, one block from the Cathedral of Learning. Parking Street parking on Bayard Street and Bellefield Avenue. The Oratory is also walkable from the Pitt and CMU campuses.”
  The Oratory is at 4450 Bayard Street in Oakland, one block from the Cathedral of Learning and walkable from the Pitt campus.
Mass is celebrated every day, two or three times each weekday, and four times on Sunday, including an 11 AM Mass at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.
Sources (2)
1. The Source and Summit | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/liturgy · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “We celebrate Mass every day in the Oratory Chapel and on campus. All are welcome at any Mass. Sunday 9:00 am · 11:00 am* · 4:00 pm · 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm · 9:00 pm* Friday 7:00 am · 5:15 pm Saturday 10:00 am · 4:00 pm Holidays 10:00 am”
  Mass is celebrated every day: four times on Sunday, two or three times each weekday, and twice on Saturday.
  “* The 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday Mass is offered only during the fall and spring academic terms. The 11:00 am Sunday Mass is celebrated at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.”
  The 9 PM Monday-Thursday Mass is held only during academic terms, and the 11 AM Sunday Mass is at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.
2. Religious Services | Heinz Memorial Chapel in Pittsburgh, PAheinzchapel.pitt.edu/religious-services · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Catholic Newman Club welcomes all students to worship God and connect with their peers by joining for Mass every Sunday at 11 AM in Heinz Chapel. Mass will be celebrated by one of the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.”
  Pitt's Heinz Chapel page lists a weekly Sunday 11 AM Catholic Newman Club Mass celebrated by the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.
Confession is scheduled twice every weekday and on both weekend days, and the Blessed Sacrament is exposed for perpetual adoration in the Oratory Chapel.
Sources (1)
1. The Source and Summit | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/liturgy · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Priests are available for confession every weekday and weekend. No appointment needed. Monday–Friday 12:00–1:00 pm · 4:00–5:00 pm Saturday 12:00–1:00 pm · 3:00–4:00 pm Sunday 3:00–4:00 pm”
  Confession is offered twice each weekday, twice on Saturday, and on Sunday afternoon.
  “The Blessed Sacrament is exposed in the Oratory Chapel nearly every hour of every day – paused only during Mass and a weekly chapel cleaning.”
  Perpetual Eucharistic adoration takes place in the Oratory Chapel, paused only during Mass and a weekly cleaning.
FOCUS missionaries lead weekly Bible studies at Pitt, and students gather for Sunday Newman Night, a monthly First Friday dinner, and retreats each semester at the Oratory's Rednal retreat house.
Sources (1)
1. Pray, Belong, Grow | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Newman Night Every Sunday · 7:00 pm St. Paul Cathedral basement Pizza, a talk, and community. Every Sunday night during the academic year, students gather for fellowship, a short talk, and good food.”
  Newman Night meets every Sunday at 7 PM in the St. Paul Cathedral basement with pizza, a talk, and fellowship.
  “Each first Friday of the month, after Mass in honor of the Sacred Heart, undergraduate and graduate students gather around a shared table for a home-cooked meal.”
  First Friday Feast is a monthly home-cooked meal for students after the First Friday Mass.
  “FOCUS Bible Studies Weekly · Various times Pitt & CMU campuses Small-group Bible studies led by FOCUS missionaries and students, meeting where students already are – in dorms, dining halls, and common rooms.”
  FOCUS missionaries and students lead weekly small-group Bible studies on the Pitt and CMU campuses.
  “Step away from campus at Rednal – the Oratory’s 87-acre retreat property in Ligonier. Student retreats run each semester: a long weekend of silence, prayer, hiking, and brotherhood or sisterhood.”
  Student retreats are held each semester at Rednal, the Oratory's retreat property in Ligonier.
  “Ten FOCUS missionaries serve the Pitt and CMU campuses in partnership with the Oratory. They lead small-group Bible studies, go on mission trips, and invest personally in students’ discipleship – one conversation at a time.”
  Ten FOCUS missionaries serve Pitt and CMU with the Oratory, leading Bible studies and mission trips.

Concerns

One Newman Center serves three universities; besides the director, the two other priest chaplains are part-time and focus on Chatham and Carnegie Mellon.
Sources (2)
1. Pray, Belong, Grow | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “The Pittsburgh Oratory is the Catholic Newman Center for three universities – the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, and Chatham University. Priests are available to talk with students.”
  The Oratory is the Catholic Newman Center for the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon, and Chatham.
  “He serves as a part-time chaplain focusing on Carnegie Mellon and full time as a teacher at Oakland Catholic High School.”
  Fr. Leo Dornan is a part-time chaplain focusing on Carnegie Mellon.
2. Gaudete semper | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/community · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “Fr. Thomas came from Rural Valley to study philosophy at Pitt and was ordained in 2022. He serves as Novice Master of the community, as part-time chaplain to Chatham”
  Fr. Thomas Skamai is part-time chaplain focusing on Chatham.
The Monday-Thursday 9 PM Mass and the Sunday Mass at Heinz Chapel are offered only during the academic year, and on major holidays there is a single 10 AM Massd confession.
Sources (1)
1. The Source and Summit | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/liturgy · verified Oct. 8, 2026
  “* The 9:00 pm Monday–Thursday Mass is offered only during the fall and spring academic terms. The 11:00 am Sunday Mass is celebrated at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.”
  The 9 PM Monday-Thursday Mass is held only during academic terms, and the 11 AM Sunday Mass is at Heinz Chapel on the Pitt campus during the academic year.
  “On major holidays – Memorial Day, Independence Day (when it falls on a weekday), Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and the day after Thanksgiving – there is a single 10:00 am Mass and no scheduled Confessions.”
  On major holidays there is one 10 AM Mass and no scheduled confession.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

The Catholic center

The Pittsburgh Oratory and Catholic Newman Center

Address: 4450 Bayard Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Location: Next to campus
Distance from campus: 0.3 mi (straight line from the campus point in federal IPEDS data)
Facilities: Oratory Chapel (Newman Center chapel) with perpetual adoration, Student Center on the lower level: conference room, game room, library, and piano area, Rednal Retreat House (87 acres, Ligonier, PA, with a chapel)

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Source: pittsburghoratory.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, pittsburghoratory.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, pittsburghoratory.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, pittsburghoratory.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026, pittsburghoratory.org, verified Oct. 8, 2026

Catholic clubs and student life

13 groups and regular activities · 4 on campus, 9 off campus

Faith formation 3

Saint Gregory Institute of Sacred Music fellowshipsOff campus
Paid sacred music fellowships in voice, organ, and choral conducting offered each year to local university students.
pittsburghoratory.org
Little Oratory Bible study and lecture seriesOff campus
Bible study Fridays 4:00 PM (in person and Zoom); lectures last Thursday of each month, 6:30-8:30 PM
Lay community events open to all, including Fr. Mike's Bible study on the Sunday readings and a monthly lecture by an Oratorian.
pittsburghoratory.org, pittsburghoratory.org, pittsburghoratory.org
FOCUS missionary teamOn campus
Ten FOCUS missionaries serve Pitt and CMU with the Oratory, leading Bible studies, mission trips, and one-on-one discipleship; focus.org lists six on its Pitt team.
pittsburghoratory.org, focus.org, focus.org

Liturgy and prayer 3

Cantores Neri choirOff campus
Fridays 4:15 PM during academic terms
Choir for novice and occasional singers that rehearses and then sings at the Friday 5:15 PM Mass.
pittsburghoratory.org
Benediction and Solemn VespersOff campus
Benediction Monday-Friday 5:00 PM and Saturday 3:45 PM; Solemn Vespers Sundays 5:15 PM
Daily Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and sung Sunday Vespers in the Oratory Chapel.
pittsburghoratory.org
Catholic Newman Club Mass at Heinz ChapelOn campus
Sundays 11:00 AM during the academic year
Sunday Mass on the Pitt campus celebrated by an Oratorian priest, sung by the Oratory Choir, followed by food and fellowship.
heinzchapel.pitt.edu, heinzchapel.pitt.edu, heinzchapel.pitt.edu, pittsburghoratory.org

Retreats 1

Student retreats at RednalOff campus
Multiple times per semester
Long-weekend retreats of silence, prayer, and hiking at the Oratory's 87-acre Rednal Retreat House in Ligonier, PA, for men and women.
pittsburghoratory.org, pittsburghoratory.org

Social life 4

Newman NightOff campus
Sundays 7:00 PM during the academic year
Weekly student gathering in the St. Paul Cathedral basement with pizza, a short talk, and fellowship; no RSVP needed.
pittsburghoratory.org
First Friday FeastOff campus
First Friday of the month, 6:00 PM (after the 5:15 PM Mass)
Home-cooked dinner for undergraduate and graduate students at the Oratory after the Sacred Heart Mass.
pittsburghoratory.org
Undergrad Barn DanceOff campus
Early fall (Saturday, October 24, 4:00-10:00 PM)
Annual fall day at Rednal with square dancing, a pig roast, a bonfire, and fireworks.
pittsburghoratory.org, pittsburghoratory.org
Sunday Donuts and CoffeeOff campus
First Sunday of each month after the 11:00 AM Mass
Monthly coffee and donuts hosted by the Little Oratory.
pittsburghoratory.org

Clubs and groups 2

Pitt Newman ClubOn campus
Pitt's Catholic student club connected to the Newman Center; it hosts the Sunday Heinz Chapel Mass.
heinzchapel.pitt.edu, pittsburghoratory.org
FOCUS Bible studiesOn campus
Weekly, various times
Small-group Bible studies led by FOCUS missionaries and students in dorms, dining halls, and common rooms on the Pitt and CMU campuses.
pittsburghoratory.org, pittsburghoratory.org

Everything listed is published by the school, its campus ministry, or the parish. Ask the campus minister what’s happening this semester.

Catholic campus ministry

Sources (8)

The Pittsburgh Oratory and Catholic Newman Centerpittsburghoratory.org · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“This is the Pittsburgh Oratory – an Oratory of St. Philip Neri and the Catholic Newman Center for Pitt, CMU, and Chatham.”
The Pittsburgh Oratory is the Catholic Newman Center for Pitt, CMU, and Chatham.
“Priests live here in common, celebrating Mass and hearing confessions every day, while the community keeps vigil beside the Blessed Sacrament around the clock.”
The resident priests celebrate Mass and hear confessions every day, with round-the-clock adoration.
“This is the Pittsburgh Oratory – an Oratory of St. Philip Neri and the Catholic Newman Center for Pitt, CMU, and Chatham.”
The Pittsburgh Oratory is the Catholic Newman Center for Pitt, CMU, and Chatham.
Pray, Belong, Grow | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“The Pittsburgh Oratory is the Catholic Newman Center for three universities – the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, and Chatham University. Priests are available to talk with students.”
The Oratory is the Catholic Newman Center for the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon, and Chatham.
“Seven Oratorian priests live at the Oratory and serve the Newman Center. Three have assigned campus ministry roles.”
Seven resident Oratorian priests serve the Newman Center; three have campus ministry roles.
“Ten FOCUS missionaries serve the Pitt and CMU campuses in partnership with the Oratory. They lead small-group Bible studies, go on mission trips, and invest personally in students’ discipleship – one conversation at a time.”
Ten FOCUS missionaries serve Pitt and CMU with the Oratory, leading Bible studies and mission trips.
“Each Newman Club connects students at their university to the Catholic Newman Center and to Christ. Check out their Instagram pages to see what they have going on! Pitt Newman Club@catholicnewmanclub412”
Pitt has a Newman Club connected to the Catholic Newman Center.
“The Oratory chapel is the Newman Center chapel, and the building’s lower level – the conference room, game room, library, and piano area – is the Student Center, where students gather, eat, and meet between classes.”
The Oratory has the Newman Center chapel and a student center with a conference room, game room, library, and piano area.
“Retreats run throughout the academic year for undergraduates, graduate students, and young adults – men and women alike – and two Barn Dances are held each early fall.”
Rednal hosts retreats throughout the academic year and two barn dances each early fall.
Gaudete semper | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/community · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“The Pittsburgh Oratory was established in 1961, when the Bishop of Pittsburgh founded a university parish – first located up the hill on Bigelow Boulevard – to serve students at Pitt, Carnegie Mellon, and Chatham.”
The Bishop of Pittsburgh founded the Oratory in 1961 to serve students at Pitt, Carnegie Mellon, and Chatham.
University of Pittsburgh - FOCUSfocus.org/campus/university-of-pittsburgh · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh HOME | CAMPUSES | University of Pittsburgh”
FOCUS lists the University of Pittsburgh among its campuses.
“Keane Kyleigh Keane Schwabe Maxwell Schwabe Neugebauer Ava Neugebauer Fischahs Madison Fischahs Bernero Lillian Bernero Tully Daniel Tully”
FOCUS lists six missionaries on its University of Pittsburgh team.
Religious Services | Heinz Memorial Chapel in Pittsburgh, PAheinzchapel.pitt.edu/religious-services · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“The Catholic Newman Club welcomes all students to worship God and connect with their peers by joining for Mass every Sunday at 11 AM in Heinz Chapel. Mass will be celebrated by one of the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.”
Pitt's Heinz Chapel page lists a weekly Sunday 11 AM Catholic Newman Club Mass celebrated by the Oratorian priests, the Catholic chaplains for the University of Pittsburgh.
The Saint Gregory Institute of Sacred Music | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/music · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“The Saint Gregory Institute is proud to offer 11 Sacred Music Fellowships each year to students in our local universities and young people involved in Oratory life”
The Oratory's Saint Gregory Institute offers sacred music fellowships to local university students each year.
“Cantores Neri meets during academic terms on Friday afternoons at 4:15 pm and sings for the 5:15 pm Mass following.”
The Cantores Neri choir meets Fridays at 4:15 PM during academic terms and sings at the 5:15 PM Mass.
The Source and Summit | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/liturgy · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“4450 Bayard Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 – in Oakland, one block from the Cathedral of Learning. Parking Street parking on Bayard Street and Bellefield Avenue. The Oratory is also walkable from the Pitt and CMU campuses.”
The Oratory is at 4450 Bayard Street in Oakland, one block from the Cathedral of Learning and walkable from the Pitt campus.
Contact | The Pittsburgh Oratorypittsburghoratory.org/contact · verified Oct. 8, 2026
“General Inquiries Address 4450 Bayard Street Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Phone (412) 681-3181 Email faithnatzke@gmail.com Office Hours Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–4:00 pm”
The Oratory office is at 4450 Bayard Street, phone 681-3181, email faithnatzke@gmail.com, open weekdays 8 AM-4 PM.

Reach out

Contact details for Fr. Peter Gruber, C.O. (Campus Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry) and 8 official social and news channels are available to signed-in users.

We keep campus ministers’ emails behind sign-in to protect them from spam.

My rating and notes

Academic Excellence

92 of 100

From federal data, on fixed published scales.

Each measure counts for the share shown.

Graduation rate 35% of score86%
First-year retention 20% of score92%
Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreSAT 1,370 · ACT 31
Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of score13 to 1
Instructional spending per student 15% of score$21,712

Bars show points on each measure’s scale. How Academic Excellence is computed.

Source: College Scorecard (College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026))

Cost and value

Federal data, shown separately. Cost, debt, and earnings are never part of any grade.

Value and outcomes
Undergraduate students Fall enrollment (IPEDS)	25,171
Total students	34,525
Average net price (per year) After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid	$30,434
Cost of attendance (per year)	$38,105
Median federal debt at graduation	$24,250
Graduation rate First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time	86%
First-year retention	92%
Median earnings 10 years after entry	$66,125
Admission rate	58%
Students receiving Pell grants	14%

Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT	1370
SAT reading & writing	640–720
SAT math	640–740
ACT composite	29–33
Test policy	Considered but not required

Value index: 59 / 100 (how it’s computed)

Sources: College Scorecard · IPEDS College Navigator · Net price calculator
College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026); IPEDS 2024-25 directory and institutional characteristics; fall 2023 enrollment.

Local Church

Diocese of Pittsburgh

The Most Reverend Mark Eckman, Bishop of Pittsburgh

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Source: usccb.org, verified Oct. 7, 2026.

Diocese determined from the county, using the diocese’s county list (Wikipedia). Confirm with the diocese.

About this school’s data

IPEDS unit ID 215293
Carnegie classification: Doctoral university (very high research)
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (U.S. Department of Education DAPIP)
Report an error or a newer source

Questions families ask

Is University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus a Catholic college?: No. University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus is not a Catholic college. Catholic School Compass rates the Catholic life on its campus instead. Catholic students are served by the Pittsburgh Oratory and Catholic Newman Center.
What is University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus’s Catholic Life Score?: 98 out of 100 (grade A). It measures Catholic life on campus: campus ministry, priests, Mass and confession, student groups, and nearby parishes, together with academics.
Where is Mass celebrated at University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus?: Mass is listed at Oratory Chapel, 4450 Bayard Street, Heinz Memorial Chapel, University of Pittsburgh campus, Wright-Rogal Chapel, and Carnegie Mellon University campus. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.
Is University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus Compass Recommended?: Yes. University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus meets the Compass Recommended standard for Catholic life on campus.

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