- Reviewing video lectures and course materials
- Completing reading assignments or activities
- Participating in discussion boards with classmates
- Submitting projects, papers, or quizzes by weekly deadlines
Balancing Life and Learning
At PennWest Global Online, we understand that pursuing your degree is one part of a full, busy life. You’re managing work, family, and countless responsibilities — and your education should empower you, not overwhelm you. That’s why our programs are built for balance.
Whether you’re advancing your career, starting something new, or returning to college after years away, you’ll find that learning at PennWest fits into your schedule, not the other way around.
Our approach combines flexibility with structure. You’ll move through each course at your own pace, but you’ll also have weekly milestones, discussions, and faculty feedback to keep you connected and on track. With guidance from your success coach and support from a community that believes in you, you’ll find the confidence to keep moving forward — one week, one goal, one achievement at a time.
Because at PennWest, your future is within reach.
How Online Courses are Structured
Every PennWest Global Online course is intentionally designed to keep you engaged and progressing toward your goals. You’ll find a rhythm that’s flexible enough to fit your schedule yet structured enough to help you stay accountable.
Most courses are asynchronous, meaning you can log in and complete work when it’s most convenient for you. Each week, new lessons, readings, and assignments are released in Brightspace, our online learning platform. You’ll typically follow a weekly cycle that includes:
This format gives you the freedom to learn at your own pace while still being part of a connected learning community. Professors actively engage in discussions, provide timely feedback, and encourage you to apply what you’re learning to your professional and personal life.
Every course is built with the same commitment to quality and academic rigor as our on-campus programs — the only difference is that you can do it from wherever life takes you.
Typical Weekly Time Commitment
Every student learns differently, but knowing what to expect can help you plan with confidence. Most PennWest Global Online students spend 10 to 15 hours per week, per course on readings, assignments, and discussions. Some weeks may require more focus, while others allow extra breathing room.
Here’s what that usually looks like:
- Undergraduate students often take two or three courses each term. This pace allows time to balance school with work and family commitments while making steady progress toward a degree.
- Graduate students typically take one or two courses per term, giving space for deeper research, applied projects, and professional practice.
- Accelerated or seven-week courses compress the same material into a shorter time frame. Expect a more concentrated workload — roughly 15 to 20 hours per week per course — but also a faster path to your goal.
Our programs are designed to fit into your life, not overtake it. Whether you study early in the morning, on your lunch break, or after the kids are asleep, you’ll have the flexibility to learn when you’re at your best — and the structure to keep you moving forward.
Strategies for Success
Success in online learning starts with a plan — and PennWest gives you the tools and people to help you stick to it. Our students often say that developing simple, consistent routines makes the biggest difference.
Here are a few strategies that can help you thrive:
Plan your week in advance.
Treat your coursework like an important appointment. Block out time for readings, assignments, and discussions early in the week, and set reminders to stay on track.
Set realistic goals.
Online learning rewards consistency over intensity. A few focused hours each day add up quickly and help you avoid the stress of last-minute work.
Create a dedicated study space.
Whether it’s a home office or a quiet corner at your kitchen table, having a set spot to log in helps your brain shift into “learning mode.”
Lean on your support network.
You’re never expected to do this alone. Your professors, classmates, and success coach are all part of your team. They can answer questions, offer encouragement, and help you regain momentum if life gets busy.
Celebrate small wins.
Every discussion post submitted, quiz completed, and week finished is progress. Acknowledging these moments builds confidence and keeps motivation high.
PennWest students succeed not just because they’re determined — but because they’re supported. With the right structure, attitude, and community behind you, your education will feel less like a challenge and more like a journey you’re proud to be on.
Support That Keeps You on Track
From your very first class to your final project, you’ll have a dedicated network of people ready to help you succeed. At PennWest, support isn’t a feature — it’s part of who we are.
Your success coach will be your first point of contact and your biggest advocate. They’ll help you register for classes, create a study plan that fits your lifestyle, and stay on pace to meet your goals. Think of them as your guide through every milestone — someone who knows your program, understands your challenges, and celebrates your wins.
You’ll also have direct access to:
- Faculty mentors who bring real-world experience into every course and provide personalized feedback.
- Tutoring and writing support to help you strengthen your academic skills and gain confidence in your work.
- Tech assistance available seven days a week, so you can stay connected no matter where or when you study.
- Career services that prepare you for your next step — from crafting your résumé to finding internships or job opportunities in your field.
At PennWest, you’re not just earning a degree. You’re gaining a community that’s invested in your growth. Wherever you are in life, we’ll meet you there — and help you take the next step forward.