In today’s rapidly evolving global economy, business and communication skills are in high demand. 

The Pennsylvania Western University Department of Business, Economics & Communication offers students a range of career opportunities and helps build foundational knowledge through high-quality, relevant, integrative teaching via academic and real-world experience.

Our robust programs and engaging faculty, who hold a range of certifications and have extensive professional experience, help prepare students for professional exams, including the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credentials.

We’re also proud that others recognize all that we offer:

Our Communication program combines elements of digital media, journalism, public relations, advertising and corporate communication  to create an educational experience with your individual goals in mind.

Whether you’re interested in Digital Media or Strategic Communication, PennWest provides you with the knowledge, understanding and strong communication skills that employers are looking for. Our graduates have gone on to work in major broadcast markets and at newspapers, public relations and advertising agencies, and corporations, including ESPN 106.7 The Fan, MTV, WQED Multimedia, Altoona Curve, Johnson & Johnson, IBM and AT&T.

Mission Statement:

Our mission is to educate and inspire students to become lifelong learners, developing theoretical understanding and practical skills while preparing for careers in Business, Economics, and Communication.

Student Outcome Data

 

Customize Your Business Degree at PennWest

Want to make your business degree stand out? If you choose one of the following Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) majors, you’ll also need to add a minor, certificate, or second major:

You can pair your major with any minor or certificate offered at PennWest, but some options are designed to fit especially well with business programs—saving you time and effort.

Recommended Minors for Business Students:

(These are the most compatible and efficient options)

Note: You can’t minor in the same subject as your major (e.g., Marketing majors cannot minor inMarketing). But you can combine related areas—for example, major in Marketing and minor in Digital Marketing.

Available Stand-Alone Certificates

You don’t even need to be in a degree program to earn these—great for boosting your résumé:

Why choose a minor or certificate?

It’s your chance to focus on a secondary interest, build extra skills, and get a competitive edge in the job market. Many students choose more than one! Pick something that fits your passions, strengths, and career goals.

Talk to your advisor

Before you decide, chat with your academic advisor to plan the best path for your future.

Ready to add, change, or drop a minor/certificate?

Fill out this digital form and email it as a PDF to Dr. Susan Ryan, Chair of the Business, Economics & Communication Department.

*All BSBA programs are ACBSP-accredited. These minors and certificates are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

 

 

Department Faculty and Staff