40 College Campuses That Starred In Popular Movies

35. Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)

Carnegie Mellon is where tech meets tradition—and it shows on screen. Its Mellon Institute of Industrial Research has appeared in films like The Dark Knight Rises (as Gotham’s City Hall) and Flashdance. The building’s neoclassical columns and imposing presence lend a sense of institutional power, perfect for thrillers, dramas, and superhero films alike. CMU’s campus is also home to forward-thinking design and robotics labs, making it ideal for futuristic storytelling. Its deep ties to the arts and technology fields make it a magnet for directors who want cinematic prestige with an edge of innovation.