About the WPDU
The William Pitt Debating Union (WPDU) is a co-curricular program that serves as a hub for a wide range of debating activities, including intercollegiate policy debate, public debate, and debate outreach. One of the oldest organizations of its kind in the nation, the union grew originally out of the University of Pittsburgh's Division of Public Speaking in 1912.
Read more about the WPDU.
Brains of Steel
Pittsburgh debaters have achieved a remarkable track record of academic success, winning prestigious awards such as Rhodes, Marshall, and Javitz scholarships, as well as Fulbright and Brackenridge fellowships. The team’s commitment to academic achievement is reflected in a strict travel policy that requires debaters to juggle team research commitments while excelling in coursework.
Join the Team
Contact the WPDU's
Program Administrator to arrange a time when you can speak to one of our coaches and drop by for a visit. We'd be delighted to see you!
News & Events
"Should Pennsylvania Extend its Film Production Tax Credit?" - The William Pitt Debating Union will host a public debate addressing the future of Pittsburgh's film industry on Monday, April 13 from 6:30-8:00 p.m.
William Pitt Debating Union teams posted strong results in multiple divisions at the University of Richmond's Jay Weinberg Autumn Debate Tournament, October 11-13, 2008.
Pitt's Department of Communication will host an international public debate between the William Pitt Debating Union (WPDU) and the British National Debating Team, Thursday October 9 from 4:00pm to 5:00 pm in Pitt's English Nationality Room, 144 Cathedral of Learning.
The William Pitt Debating Union will host a public debate addressing the future of transportation in Pittsburgh on Monday, April 14 from 6-7:30 p.m.
in the Frick Fine Arts auditorium.
Browse the news archive.
