PennWest is continuing its comprehensive review of academic programs to enhance the student experience, strengthen workforce alignment, and ensure long-term sustainability.

This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to providing a student-centered, future-focused, and financially sustainable education. The collaborative process engages faculty, staff, and students in shaping recommendations and outcomes.

In alignment with system-wide expectations for periodic program review, PennWest is evaluating every major, minor, concentration, and certificate through a structured, data-informed process that examines student outcomes, program design, market demand, and sustainability to support continuous improvement and academic excellence.

“Our academic programs are at the heart of who we are,” said James Fisher, Ph.D., interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. “As we evolve to meet student needs and workforce demands, this review ensures PennWest remains a place where students can thrive, faculty can innovate, and communities can grow. We’re shaping a clear, compelling academic experience that prepares graduates for success today—and opportunity tomorrow.”

Students currently enrolled in affected programs will complete their degrees without disruption. The review aims to strengthen PennWest’s value and sustainability by streamlining programs, expanding experiential learning and industry-aligned certificates, and enhancing advising, recruitment, and student support.

This fall, campuses hosted open forums, collaborative sessions, and academic retreats to review programs and propose improvements. Feedback from faculty, staff, and students is informing the final recommendations that will be presented in December.

Implementation will begin in spring 2026, including curricular updates and refreshed advising, website, and recruitment materials. 

PennWest remains committed to prioritizing high-demand degrees, strengthening resources that support student success, and meeting regional workforce needs. Through this review, the university is refining its academic identity to ensure students are prepared to excel in today’s—and tomorrow’s—economy.