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.
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
Two PNW students named 2025 Purdue Military Family Research Institute Focus Forward Fellows
Two Purdue University Northwest (PNW) students who are veterans have earned the distinguished honor of serving as 2025 Focus Forward Fellows with Purdue West Lafayette’s Military Family Research Institute.
Purdue University Northwest’s (PNW) 2025 graduates have poured countless hours into their persistent journeys to earn their degrees. On May 10, the culmination of over 850 candidates’ hard work was celebrated during PNW’s 2025 Commencement.
Minding the Future: Meet 2025 PNW Graduate Chloe Belford
For Student President Chloe Belford, ‘25, a passion for criminal justice and a pivotal class in elementary psychology prompted a degree in Psychology.
Important Dates
May 19
Summer 2025 Session 1 Classes BeginFirst day of Summer 2025 Session I Classes, including 12-week session, first six-week session and first four-week session.
Jun 13
First 4-week Module Classes EndClasses end that run the first four weeks of the Summer Session (May 19 to June 13).
Jun 16
Summer 8-week and Second 4-week Classes BeginSummer 8-week (June 16 to August 8) and Second 4-week (June 16 to July 11) Classes Begin