<p>Why is Pitt's winter break shorter than that of other colleges? We go from Dec 20-Jan 5 which is about two weeks but I talked to my hs classmates who go to other colleges and they have more than a month off. They got off earlier than me and don't go back until mid January. And we're all on the semester system.</p>
<p>well i guess you’re getting your money’s worth… :/</p>
<p>Do they end later in the year (May instead of April)? It was my understanding that it gives students extra time during the summer to do stuff like work.</p>
<p>Pitt is more like a true tri-mester. I read somewhere that you can complete a bachelor’s degree in 2 and 2/3 years if you go year around. My guess is that this was developed to help career changers years back when the steel industry changed. </p>
<p>It does allow for great co-ops for computer science students and is probably a nice benefit for anyone who wants to get a summer job and take a little vacation too. For language students, they can take 10 credits of language in June and July and still have May and August to do other things.</p>
<p>Pitt will end for the year about two weeks before other schools. Some other universities also offer a mini-mester in January to take condensed courses. Enjoy your last few days of break!</p>
<p>Actually you’re right… Pitt spring semester ends May 1 while other schools end around mid-May.</p>
<p>It is a short winter break, but my daughter likes it that the spring semester ends so early. Last year she had two months to hang out before her summer job started. But I wish she were home at least a couple of days more. This is the shortest break I can remember.</p>
<p>yeah we get out really early in May before most colleges. home’s been nice but i can’t wait to get back to Pitt so i don’t mind the short break. can’t wait to watch bball next semester. just beat 'cuse on the road today… big win!</p>