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 Earns National Carnegie Research University designation
Purdue University Northwest is the only university or college in Northwest Indiana to earn this designation, with PNW researchers earning over $70 million in research and development funds since 2021.
Center for Faculty Excellence New Faculty Member Spotlight: Meet Zhiying (Jenny) Xu
Purdue University Northwest’s Center for Faculty Excellence proudly welcomes Zhiying (Jenny) Xu, assistant professor of Digital Broadcasting and Journalism, to the university’s 2025–26 faculty cohort.
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.
Important Dates
Apr 29
PNW Day of Giving 2026Changing students’ lives starts with us! Purdue Northwest Day of Giving is the largest day-long online fundraising event for the university. For 24 hours, students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community come together to create opportunities for PNW students.
May 02
Spring 2026 Classes EndSpring Classes end Saturday, May 2. Next week are final exams! Make sure to study and enjoy your break after!
May 04
Spring 2026 Final ExamsGet ready to start your final exams! Final exams run from Monday, May 4, through Saturday, May 9.
May 09
Spring 2026 CommencementCongratulations to PNW graduates! We look forward to celebrating with you at Commencement.