Our Academic Approach
Guaranteed Momentum
Real-Life Learning
Sure, you’ll dig into textbooks and engage in lecture-based learning. But the real magic happens in the labs. After testing and measuring, seeing and believing, it’s amazing how quickly complex concepts come into focus.
Facts & Figures
The numbers are on your side
3:1
Lab-to-Lecture Ratio
150+
Hands-On Labs
97.7%
2022–23 Graduate Placement Rate
Real-World Ready
A Standout Skillset
Just because you’re getting fully immersed in your field, that doesn’t mean we’re skimping on big-picture essentials. Wildcats are known problem solvers. Highly talented, imaginative, hardworking critical thinkers are not easy to find. Ask employers. Bring the technical know-how and an eye for innovation and you’ll be first in line for your choice of job opportunities.
Problem-Solving
Learn how to approach a problem from every angle and offer thoughtful solutions.
Imaginative Thinking
Enjoy asking questions to arrive at the best possible outcome.
Communication
Lay the foundation to become a successful communicator.
Corporate Partnerships
Industry Insight
Everything from the courses you take to the labs where you’ll explore your next big idea were designed around industry input. Thanks to valuable partnerships with experts in the field, you’ll learn the precise skills, techniques, and details that employers need most. That’s great for them and even better for you.
Student Experience
Learning beyond the classroom
Wildcats love spreading their wings and flexing their talents outside of the traditional classroom and lab settings. At Penn College, you'll have lots of opportunities to get even more real-world experience through clinicals, internships, community projects, clubs, and competitions.
Experienced Faculty
To be the best, you need to learn from the best.
Here, you’ll train with experts in your field. Dream of becoming a master brewer? You’ll perfect your craft with the help of one. A licensed paramedic? You’ll learn from a professional with 15+ years of experience. There’s no substitute for the insight that comes from real-world know-how.
Nick Stephenson
Graphic Design & Art
The graphic design program at Penn College is challenging. But that's the way Nick likes it.
Tina Marie Kline
Nursing
She's always looking for inventive and interactive ways to engage students in hands-on learning.
Elizabeth Gizenski
Surgical Technology
Working alongside experienced professionals like Elizabeth, surgical technologists in training learn from experts so that they can become the best in their future careers. Meet our clinical director who brings 20+ years of expertise and learn what she loves about the program.
Kevin Yokitis
Electrical
Kevin shares his real-world experience and time-tested know-how. And he loves every minute.
Naim Jabbour
Architecture & Sustainable Design
He's a true tomorrow maker who is determined to change the future for the better.
Sandra Gorka
Information Technology
She empowers students to think critically and innovate solutions for a promising tomorrow.
Melissa Sedor
Physician Assistant
Melissa and her colleagues know that the hard work and hands-on preparation are precisely what students need to prepare for the real world. Meet Melissa and learn what she finds most rewarding about training future physician assistants and how the program at Penn College sets them up for success.
Ryan Good
Welding & Metal Fabrication
Ryan will bring out the best in you. He’ll challenge you to solve complex problems. Inspire you to strive for perfection. And groom you to become the leader that others are proud to follow.
Carl Bower, Jr.
Landscape/Plant Production
Carl truly loves what he does and enjoys empowering students to chase their dreams.
Bob Nolan
Accounting & Business Administration
He brings a wide range of industry experience to the classroom. From financial reporting and tax preparation to compliance issues, Bob shares his experiences with the next generation of accounting professionals.
Tom Ask
Engineering & Industrial Design Technology
He's a licensed engineer and published author, but also a creative catalyst for his students.
Matthew Krepps
Aviation
From the moment he looked under the hood of his first car at age 16, Matt was hooked.
Becky Bartlett
Radiography
As the clinical supervisor of the radiography program, Becky is always ready to lend a hand.
Charles Niedermyer
Baking & Culinary
He's highly respected in the industry and adored by his students.
Loren Bruckhart
Collision Repair & Restoration
As a graduate of Penn College, Loren knows the value of a hands-on education. He brings 25+ years of combined industry and teaching experience to the lab along with an impressively long list of certifications.
Tim Yarrington
Brewing & Fermentation Science
Tim is an award-winning brewer with a passion for sharing his knowledge with others.
Alicia McNett
Information Technology
As someone who has been fascinated with computers for as long as she can recall, Alicia can’t imagine a more thrilling career field.
David Bjorkman
Emergency Management & Homeland Security
His proven approach blends research and theory with real-world experience.
Sarah Moore
Human Services & Restorative Justice
Compassionate and caring, Sarah leads by example, inspiring tomorrow's agents of change.
David Fedor
Civil Engineering
David isn't afraid to challenge his students. That's because he's 100% invested in their success.
Jose Perez
Polymer Engineering
Sharing his passion for plastics with the next generation of industry leaders.
John Upcraft
Automated Manufacturing & Machining
John's passion for creating and drive for innovation spurred his decision to choose a career in machining.
Ken Kinley
Electronics & Computer Engineering Technology
Ken brings decades of experience and invaluable insight to every course he teaches.
J.D. Mather
Engineering & Industrial Design Technology
From creating imaginative forts as a kid to perfecting advanced CAD techniques as an adult, J.D.’s talent for design continues to grow, awe his students, and amaze the world via his YouTube channel.
Chris Weaver
Diesel Truck, Heavy Equipment & Power Generation
Not one to sit behind a desk, Chris brings his experience to the lab to inspire others.
Sherry Hyland
Nursing
After experiencing first-hand the compassionate care that nurses provide, Sherry pursued her associate’s in nursing. But that was only the beginning of her fulfilling career.
Dr. Craig Miller
Business, Arts & Sciences
At Penn College, learning goes beyond the labs. In addition to technical training, you’ll explore diverse perspectives through courses like the ones Dr. Miller leads.
Mark Sones
Diesel Truck, Heavy Equipment & Power Generation
After nearly 30 years of teaching at Penn College, he still aims to learn something new every day.
Justin Ingram
Biomedical & Prehospital
He believes that new discoveries are born from unbridled curiosity and lifelong learning is the mindset of success
Tammy Rich
Accounting & Business Administration
Instructor Tammy Rich teaches more than theories. She'll lead you through real-world activities.
Lisa Dostick
Radiography
Sheryl Snyder-Everitt
Physical Therapist Assistant
Sheryl brings hands-on experience as a working physical therapist assistant and instructor.
Jason Killinger
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
With 25+ years of industry experience, Jason's labs and lessons are real-world relevant.
Craig Zimmerman
Electrical
He's proud to prepare tomorrow makers for one of the most widespread and diverse fields.
Howard Troup
Automated Manufacturing & Machining
Meet Howard, instructor of automated manufacturing, machine tool technology, and mechatronics.
Jack Jones
Building Construction
His passion? Transforming tomorrow. Whether it’s restoring an historic home to its original beauty or helping his students realize their peak potential, Jack appreciates the growth process. As a builder, instructor, and author, he takes pride in hard work and finds joy in the finished result.
Eric Easton
Forestry
To the Black Hills and back, Eric's bringing real-world experience that can't be beat.
The Curriculum
A Well-Rounded Approach
Whether you're studying nursing or IT, each curriculum is carefully crafted with a combination of specialization, foundations, and perspectives courses.
Specialization
Gain an in-depth understanding and high-level of proficiency. These are usually courses directly related to your area of study.
Example Courses:
- Introduction to Professional Nursing
- Introduction to Programming
- Principles of Management
Foundations
Set the stage for success with practical, intellectual, and social skills. These courses are critical to overall success.
Example Courses:
- English Composition
- Technical Algebra & Trigonometry I
- Technical & Professional Communication
Perspectives
Broaden your point of view and explore creative problem-solving strategies. These are courses designed to increase your understanding of related areas.
Example Courses:
- Environmental Science
- General Psychology
- World History
Innovation & STEM
Purpose-Driven & Future-Proof
At Penn College, each program is expertly created and purposeful. STEM concepts are ingrained in the way we imagine courses, design labs, and build curriculums. STEM is the future. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates nearly 80,000 new STEM jobs by 2029 and lists the median annual wage for STEM careers as $86,980 compared to $38,160 for all other jobs.
Support for Success
The wide safety net of support you'll enjoy at Penn College is designed to help you thrive academically and personally.
Admissions Support
Prospective students are paired with admissions representatives who will guide you through the process.
Michael J. Hudock, Sr. Center for Academic Excellence
Students get one-on-one advice, motivation, and support from trained staff in our Hudock Center for Academic Excellence.
Academic Advisor
Lean on the expertise of an academic advisor to ensure you keep pace with the expectations of your major.
Center for Career Design
Wildcats have lifetime access to a full-service career hub with everything from resume and interview prep to the alumni mentorship program.
What's next?
Find Your Future
Explore our programs at-a-glance.
Estimate Costs
Plan using the first-year cost estimator.
Financial Aid Questions?
Have questions about aid and scholarships? We're here to help.
Admissions Questions?
Curious about Penn College or the admissions process? The Admissions team is ready to answer all of your questions.