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Among the rolling hills of western Pennsylvania is PennWest Clarion, home to over 3,000 students. These Courageous, Confident students are building a bright future through challenging academics and diverse interests, as well as engaging with a town of 3,880 people who embrace them.

PennWest Clarion provides transformative, lifelong learning opportunities through innovative, nationally recognized programs delivered in inclusive, student-centered environments.

Students embrace learning at our scenic Clarion campus, which has evolved since its beginnings in 1867 and at our growing and celebrated Venango campus in Oil City. Students also have the option to earn degrees through Clarion Online, an established national leader in online education. Clarion faculty are experienced online educators, who facilitated students' transition to distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Clarion prepares its students in business, education, health, science and the arts with a small student-to-faculty ratio and nationally and internationally accredited programs. PennWest Clarion has been continuously accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education since 1948.

Internship and study abroad opportunities broaden students' horizons.

Financial aid and scholarships enable students to take advantage of exciting educational opportunities. More than 80 percent of our undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid. In addition to more than 175 academic programs, PennWest Clarion students also enjoy enriching personal lives. With more than 140 student organizations, including academic, athletic, intramural, Greek, political, multicultural, service and special interest groups, students become individuals and leaders at Clarion. 

Students live in on-campus suites and in nearby university-affiliated apartments, all routinely patrolled by university police. The assortment of dining options includes Eagle Commons (student dining hall), Starbucks, food courts and cafes. Main Street, lined with specialty shops and locally owned cafes, is just steps away from our Clarion campus, allowing students to be an integral part of the community. Bus transportation around Clarion is provided and services many of the local retail stores and restaurants.

Upon graduation, students will join 65,760 alumni worldwide who have soared to success in their chosen fields.

To schedule a visit or for more information, please contact the admissions office at 1 800 672 7171 (ext. 1).

Last Updated 4/14/23