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Registration is now LIVE!
Registration is now LIVE!
See details and register below!
See details and register below!
forensics (noun):
the art of public speaking and argumentation
forensics (noun):
the art of public speaking and argumentation
What is PFI?
What is PFI?
Founded in 2015 and held at the University of Pittsburgh's Cathedral of Learning for the past decade, the Pittsburgh Forensics Institute is Pittsburgh's #1 speech and debate summer camp for middle school students.
With hundreds of cumulative participants over the years, the camp has long been taught and led by nationally ranked high schoolers in the forensics world.
2025 Camp Details
2025 Camp Details
The Pittsburgh Forensics Institute is an affordable, high-quality summer camp for the Greater Pittsburgh Area Speech & Debate community. In a span of two weeks, participants will be able to explore a deep and thorough curriculum for their events modeled after some of the premier camps in the country, with guidance from the most successful speakers and debaters from Pittsburgh. The events offered this year are Lincoln Douglas Debate, Public Forum Debate, Congressional Debate, Original Oratory, Extemporaneous Speaking, and Interpretation.
This year, the Pittsburgh Forensics Institute will be held from July 28th - August 8th, Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM at the Pitt Cathedral of Learning.
Registration Pricing: $300 for 2 weeks and $150 for 1 week.
Family discount for 2 week registration: $300 (for 1st child), $250 (for 2nd child), $200 (for 3rd child).
Family discount for 1 week registration: $150 (for 1st child), $125 (for 2nd child), $100 (for 3rd child).
*Even though we require a hard copy for our records, by registering for camp, you automatically and legally agree to all the terms on our waiver/release form.
*PFI's purpose is to be accessible to all! If the cost of this camp is a financial barrier, see the registration link for need-based scholarships as well as for additional payment information.
Applying to Teach
Applying to Teach
PFI is run by current, experienced high schoolers in the world of speech debate. Our team includes nationally ranked speech and debaters and has for 10 years. If you are an experienced high schooler who is interested in teaching, check back next year for PFI 2026.
As an instructor, you'll gain valuable mentoring experience and volunteer hours while playing a role in shaping the future of forensics. You do not need to be available for all dates to apply, however those with higher availability will be preferred in the application process should we have more candidates apply than we have room for.
Our camp relies on talented high schoolers applying and teaching at the camp, so we urge you to apply next year! It's also a great resume-builder and activity to put on applications as you're directly taking on a teaching responsibility.
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