College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences
Explore the big questions with our wide-ranging programs.
Academic Programs
Our rigorous programs bring real-world experience to the classroom, building the knowledge you need to succeed.
Undergraduate
Graduate
Resources
Admissions
Take the next step to success: apply to a program in the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences today!
Student Resources
Experience the range of CHESS student organizations and internships that will help you succeed.
Faculty and Research
Our scholars and professionals will help you develop skills to excel in life, the community, and worldwide.
PNW’s College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences (CHESS) offers a range of hands-on courses that will prepare you to thrive in life after college.
Small class sizes promote opportunities to connect with your fellow CHESS students and professors, helping you succeed throughout your college journey.
Our programs provide students with real-world expertise and collaborative opportunities that will better prepare you for a successful career.
With more than 65 majors, minors and certificates, ranging from broadcast communications to psychology, CHESS has the right program to match your interest!
As a CHESS student, you will work with outstanding teachers who are also engaged in research and scholarships in their fields.
We are building a friendly, supportive community where you and your peers can connect, share ideas, learn together and explore academic inquiries.
My professors have always been willing to work with me and give me the support I need. Not only does that make me feel welcomed and heard, but it also models the kind of teacher I want to be.
Get active in the campus community. There’s a campus life here – give it a try! It will make your experience here a lot better.
The knowledgeability and accessibility of professors in both majors allows for a hands-on and unique academic experience. My professors have been vital in networking in my fields.
The constant support around me with professors and my fellow campus ambassadors, push me to help me find out who I want to become and who I am as a person.
I chose Purdue Northwest because the community felt like home while also providing a very engaging and purposeful academic experience.
My major is something that opens door for me to work with children as well as parents to educate them about growth and development as well as open up doors for both parent and child.
News and Announcements
Purdue University Northwest Students Earn Fall 2025 Dean’s List Honors
The Purdue University Northwest fall 2025 Dean’s List recognizes 1,877 undergraduate students for their academic achievements.
Center for Faculty Excellence New Faculty Member Spotlight: Meet Shawn Patrick
Purdue University Northwest’s Center for Faculty Excellence proudly welcomes Shawn Patrick, associate professor of Counseling Education, to the university’s 2025–26 faculty cohort.
Local Start to Global Reach: PNW Alumnus Mitchell “Mason” Macenski
Mitchell “Mason” Macenski (B.A.,‘86) is at the forefront of bioengineering human organs for transplantation. As a proud PNW alumnus, he also is helping current students shape their own futures.
Important Dates
Feb 23
Summer 2026 Registration BeginsSummer 2026 registration opens on Monday, February 23, for all PNW students. There is no priority registration for summer sessions.
Feb 25
Artist Reception: Ink, Lens and Illustration – Fluidity in MovementPurdue University Northwest presents the first Art + Innovation exhibit of 2026, highlighting storytelling across media.
Mar 04
2026 Interdisciplinary Sustainable Development SymposiumJoin scholars, practitioners and community leaders on March 4 and 5, 2026 to explore the intersections of environmental communication, social policy and justice at the Sustainable Development Symposium.
Mar 05
Spring 2026 Career ExpoThe Spring 2026 career fair is being held for students and alumni of Purdue University Northwest that are seeking full time employment and internships across all industries and academic majors.