Public Health Science Academy: How To Apply

Eligibility

To apply to the Public Health Science Academy, students must:

• Be a current 10th or 11th grader at:
  • Allderdice High School
  • Brashear High School
  • CAPA 6-12
  • Carrick High School
  • Environmental Charter High School
  • Milliones 6-12
  • Obama 6-12
  • Perry High School
  • Science and Technology Academy (SciTech)
  • Westinghouse Academy 6-12
• Show a strong interest and ability in science
• Have an overall grade point average of 3.0 (B) or above
• Have successfully completed a biology class by the end of the 2024-25 school year
• Commit to fully participate in all required activities of the 4-week summer program

Application Requirements

The following application materials must be submitted:

1. Completed online application - this link will go live on January 15, 2025
2. Recommendation form from a high school teacher

Essay Questions

The application form includes two essay questions. These questions are listed below so you will be prepared when completing the online form. Each essay should be a maximum of 200 words.   

• Describe your interests and experiences with science or public health. How will participation in this program help you fulfill your interests? 
• Describe a time when you overcame a challenge at school or at a school-related activity (such as clubs, sports, etc.). Explain the challenge and what you did to overcome it or find a solution. Please be as specific as possible. 

Preview a PDF of the entire application to prepare your responses for the required online application.  

Application Period

January 15 to March 3, 2025

Application Deadline

March 3 by 5 p.m. ET

Submission of Recommendation Form

The completed and signed recommendation form can be uploaded at the end of the online application form OR it can be emailed by the deadline to phsa@pitt.edu.

Admissions Process

You can submit your application at any time during the application period. Applications will not be reviewed until after the deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants will be notified by email of admissions decisions in mid- to late-March and must confirm their intent to participate in the program by April 1. 

Communication

The primary mode of communication during the admissions process will be email. Please make certain your email address is correctly written on the online application. Be sure to check your spam/junk inbox for emails from the academy.