PennWest University enrolled 10,542 students for Fall 2026, remaining essentially level with the previous fall while recording gains in student retention, Global Online, graduate and dual enrollment.

Total enrollment decreased by just six students from fall 2025, the university’s smallest year-over-year decline since PennWest became an integration university in 2022.

This fall’s enrollment reflects progress in several areas that are important to PennWest’s future and to the students we serve,” said J.D. Fisher, interim president of PennWest University. “A higher percentage of our students are continuing their education at PennWest, and our online, graduate, and early college opportunities are reaching more students. These gains give us a foundation to build on as we strengthen recruitment and help students succeed across our three campuses and online.”

Student retention improved to 73.06%, up from 71.11% last fall.

Global Online enrollment grew 10%, with 4,908 students studying online this fall. Graduate enrollment increased 1.8% to 3,275 students, while the number of high school students taking PennWest courses through dual enrollment more than doubled, from 340 to 685.

“Helping students persist and ultimately earn their degrees is one of the most important measures of our success,” said Darren Wagner, vice president for Strategic Enrollment Management. “We are encouraged by the improvement in retention and by the continued demand for flexible pathways that meet students at different stages of their educational journey.”

PennWest serves 7,267 undergraduate students and continues to focus on strengthening undergraduate recruitment, retention and the on-campus student experience while expanding access through online, graduate and other flexible pathways.

Rooted in western Pennsylvania, PennWest's reach extends across the Commonwealth and beyond. Students represent all 67 Pennsylvania counties, all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and 61 countries. Nearly 85% are Pennsylvania residents.

Access also remains central to PennWest’s mission. Among degree- and certificate-seeking undergraduate students, 39.2% are the first generation in their families to attend college, and 89% receive financial aid.

“Behind every one of these numbers is a student working toward a degree and a future,” Fisher said. “Our responsibility is to make sure they have the opportunity and support to succeed at PennWest.”