- In-person, online, and hybrid formats
- Career-connected coursework
- Hands-on learning through internships, research, and experiential opportunities
Academics
Education That Meets You Where You Are — and Takes You Where You Want to Go
At PennWest, academics are built for real life. Whether you’re starting your college journey, finishing what you began, or taking the next step in your career, our programs are designed to move you forward — with flexibility, support, and purpose.
With more than 100 academic programs, hands-on learning opportunities, and pathways that fit your goals, PennWest makes a high-quality education achievable — not someday, not somewhere, but right here. And its all within reach.
Explore Academic Programs
Your goals aren’t one-size-fits-all — your education shouldn’t be either. PennWest offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare you for what comes next.
Can't Find the Right Program?
Choosing a major is an important step—but it doesn’t have to happen overnight. At PennWest, our Exploratory Studies program gives you space and guidance to find the right path. You’ll take courses that count toward your degree while exploring multiple fields, building clarity and confidence along the way. Each year, more than 100 students start here because they want to make an informed choice—not a rushed one. Whether you have many interests, want to confirm the right fit, or simply need time to decide, Exploratory Studies is a smart, strategic way to begin your college journey.
Learn more about Exploratory Studies
Flexible Learning, Real-World Focus
Life doesn’t stop when you go to college — and at PennWest, it doesn’t have to.
We offer:
Our programs are built with employers in mind and students at the center — so what you learn here connects directly to where you’re headed.
Academic Support That Goes Beyond the Classroom
Success isn’t just about what you study — it’s about the support you receive along the way.
At PennWest, you’ll have access to:
- Academic advising and success coaching
- Tutoring and learning support
- Career development and experiential learning
- Honors programs and academic enrichment
- Study abroad and global learning opportunities
From your first class to your final step toward graduation, you’re supported by people who are invested in your success.
Colleges & Academic Areas
At PennWest, academics are built around you. Our colleges bring together related academic programs to encourage exploration and flexibility, while schools focus on specialized, career-ready education in fields like nursing, business, and education. You’ll find innovative learning experiences, dedicated faculty mentors, and hands‑on opportunities that turn your talents into momentum. Whether you know exactly what you want to study or you’re still exploring, PennWest gives you the freedom to discover your interests, build real-world skills, and graduate prepared for what’s next.
Learning That Leads Somewhere
A PennWest education is designed with outcomes in mind.
Our graduates leave prepared for:
- Meaningful careers
- Graduate and professional school
- Leadership and lifelong learning
Here, learning isn’t theoretical — it’s practical, applied, and connected to real opportunities beyond the classroom.