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
Welcome Dr. Richard Sévère as the New CHESS Dean
Richard Sévère has been announced as the Dean of Purdue University Northwest’s College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences (CHESS), effective July 1, 2025.
PNW Honors Five Impactful Leaders at Fourth Annual Alumni Hall of Fame Induction
Purdue University Northwest celebrated five impactful alumni on April 3, 2025, including the induction of Nicole Kupchik and Mitchell “Mason” Macenski into the PNW Alumni Hall of Fame.
Purdue University Northwest announces faculty member promotions
Nine PNW faculty members received approval today (April 4) by the Purdue University Board of Trustees for academic promotions starting in the 2025-26 academic year.
Important Dates
Apr 15
State Aid DeadlinePNW students, your FAFSA must be received by the Federal Processor by April 15, 2025 to be considered for most Indiana state aid.
Apr 17
Days of Discovery 2025Celebrate research, scholarship and creative activities during the 2025 PNW Days of Discovery.
Apr 17
Winning an Internal Grant: Tips, Challenges and Success Stories – PNW Faculty PanelJoin us on Days of Discovery for a panel discussion with PNW faculty members!
Apr 17
Days of Discovery: Keynote SpeakerBrian T. Murphy, professor in pharmaceutical sciences at the University of Illinois at Chicago, will share how his lab is using aquatic bacteria to generate natural product antibiotic drug-leads for infectious diseases