Experiential Programs, Initiatives and Facilities
Less Theory, More Real World
The Rowland School of Business prepares you for a successful career. You will learn by doing from professionals in the field while building skills that are in demand by employers in the public, private and nonprofit sectors.
At the Rowland School of Business, students can explore the world of business through hands-on, experiential learning opportunities in Pittsburgh or around the globe. Through these experiences, students can set themselves apart in the job market while also getting unforgettable experiences during their time at Point Park University.
From social organizations to trips abroad, students who choose to enroll will have access to a variety of ways to make their learning experience go beyond the textbook and lectures.
Innovative Learning Centers
The Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation is a dynamic hub that engages students at every phase of the entrepreneurial journey, from ideation to launch. Situated in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh's business district, the center connects students with entrepreneurial communities throughout the Greater Pittsburgh region and beyond.
Anchored by the Michael P. Pitterich Sales & Innovation Center, the program features a speaker series, professional development seminars, networking opportunities and career engagement events that bring real-world business experience directly to students. Point Park students have these opportunities to gain exposure to the vibrant startup ecosystem surrounding Pittsburgh, connecting with investors, mentors and fellow entrepreneurs while competing for recognition and funding to bring their ideas to life.
Sales professionals impact organizations as revenue drivers, influencers, awareness creators, researchers and connectors. With its foundation in influence and persuasion, problem-solving, and need satisfaction, professional selling offers broad benefits, and Point Park University’s Michael P. Pitterich Sales & Innovation Center provides access to sales education and expertise.
The Michael P. Pitterich Sales & Innovation Center is a state-of-the-art facility located on the ground floor of West Penn Hall, home to the Rowland School of Business. The physical space encompasses 1,300 square feet and features three office-sized simulation spaces, a conference room space and a technology-enhanced training room. Video can be captured throughout the center to enhance feedback and evaluation, and the technology enables virtual experiences.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Point Park University's Disney Leadership Seminar
The Disney Leadership Seminar (BMGT 300) will take you on an immersive journey into one of the most globally recognized brands, Walt Disney World. The course will pull back the curtain and illuminate the people, culture and operational elements that have shaped the Walt Disney Company and continue to evolve it as a brand.
All majors are welcome as our team of faculty customizes course content to align with students' professional visions. The course is a 15-week learning experience that culminates in one week in Orlando, Florida, spent participating in Disney Institute classes, meeting executives and undertaking research at each of the four theme parks. Students will design and customize their own research projects, tailoring their work to align with personal interests, academic goals and professional aspirations.
Pioneer Records is a student-led record label in the Rowland School of Business at Point Park University. Founded in 2014 by students in the Sports, Arts, and Entertainment Management degree program, Pioneer Records is a learning laboratory that provides undergraduate and graduate students with real-world music industry experiences and opportunities to work directly with recording artists, studio engineers, venue managers and other industry professionals. The Sound Vault is Pioneer Records' new headquarters on Point Park's campus with a conference room and rehearsal/jam space.
Student, Alumni and Community Initiatives
The field of accounting has been identified as one of the fastest-growing professions, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor. Yet studies have shown a decline in enrollment in accounting and finance among underrepresented students. The goal of the Accelerated Career Awareness Program, part of the National Association of Black Accountants, Inc., (NABA) is to increase the understanding of accounting career opportunities among high school students in underrepresented minority groups.
ACAP began in 1980, when NABA recognized the need for a program to direct African Americans and other underrepresented groups toward the accounting and finance profession. Through ACAP, students across the United States have received educational enrichment and practical support for college preparation and a career in accounting.
Started in 2024, the Business of Broadcast Initiative is part of a collaboration with the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters, featuring broadcast-specific sales challenges with monetary awards for students, a speaker series, professional development seminars, networking opportunities and career engagement events. The program also allows students an opportunity to earn professional broadcast-focused media sales certifications.
Point SPARK: Summer Program for Aspiring Rising entrepreneurs and Knowledge-seeking high school students is an immersive three-day camp designed to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit and foster innovation among high school students.
Through hands-on workshops, interactive activities, and mentorship sessions, participants will embark on a journey of exploration, creativity, and collaboration. Hosted by industry experts and successful entrepreneurs, SPARK provides a supportive environment where students can discover their passion for entrepreneurship, develop essential skills, and gain valuable insights into launching their own ventures.
From ideation to pitch preparation, SPARK offers students a unique opportunity to unleash their potential, build confidence, and become future leaders in business.
Rising Brothers and Sisters, a mentorship and Pathways to Success program of Point Park University’s Rowland School of Business that puts students on the Pathways to Success, seeks to increase representation of successful professionals on the Point Park campus and in high schools by providing students with small group support systems and programming focused on academic preparedness, career readiness and character development.
Ever consider a career working in professional sports? The Point Park Sports Business Camp provides you with three days of learning about exciting careers working for the Pirates, Penguins, Steelers, Riverhounds and more. Each day, you’ll learn about the business of sports from professionals from local sports teams, then get a behind-the-scenes tour of a local sports facility!
Educating and empowering women is an essential element of the Rowland School of Business at Point Park University. The Women In Industry (WIN) initiative exists to accelerate the success of women-identified students and professionals.
By leveraging university and community resources, they strive to engage leaders, effect conversations and encourage allyship through a variety of elevating experiences.