Student Resources

The World Campus welcomes adult learners by extending undergraduate and graduate degree programs and credit certificates to students who do not have convenient access to a traditional Penn State campus due to geographic location, work, and family responsibilities. Approximately 45% of current students are from within Pennsylvania and 55% from outside of the Commonwealth, nationally and internationally. The gender distribution is approximately equal overall, but varies by program. The vast majority of students are adult learners between their early 20s and mid-40s seeking career advancement.

In addition to providing coursework online and incorporating technological advances to bring a quality education to students, the programs offered through the World Campus have been identified as particularly high in demand for adult learners and working professionals looking to advance their skills and careers.

Can full-time resident students enroll in World Campus offered courses?

The mission of the World Campus is primarily to extend a quality Penn State education and experience to adult students at a distance; full-time resident instruction students are not the World Campus target audience. However, World Campus offers open seats in courses to full-time resident students one week prior to the beginning of each semester. In addition, adult students across the University may enroll in World Campus courses prior to the one-week point if space allows. Students from other Penn State locations who are permitted to enroll in World Campus courses as explained above must contact the World Campus directly to enroll.

What resources are available for World Campus students?

Penn State World Campus programs are supported by a full range of student services to meet student needs and provide support to our distance education students:

  • library access
  • academic advising
  • career services
  • tutoring services
  • orientation videos and online tutorials
  • technical help desk assistance
  • special graduation celebrations
  • online social networking
  • access to World Campus and University events
  • staff dedicated to serve special populations including military and veteran students

Academic Advising

The World Campus has a team of professional academic advisers dedicated to serving undergraduate learners studying through World Campus. A small number of specialized undergraduate programs advise their students within the academic unit, mainly due to accreditation requirements. Students in World Campus graduate programs are advised by faculty members in their respective programs. Students at other Penn State locations should consult with their adviser at their home campus prior to enrolling in a World Campus course.

Technical Support

Learners studying through World Campus may contact the Outreach HelpDesk for technical support, they may work with Career Services on job search and interviewing skills, and they even receive a Penn State identification card. The offices of Disability Services and Student Aid also work directly with learners studying at a distance via the World Campus. World Campus staff work with departments across the University to continue to add resources to the growing list of those available to online students at World Campus.

On the World Campus How It Works (FAQs) page, students can obtain answers to common questions people ask and find links to additional relevant information.

Learners studying through World Campus have access to free online orientation video modules and tutorials designed to assist them in navigating common Penn State systems and to provide information they will need to know as new learners studying through World Campus.

Online Social Networking

Corner of College & Allen—a blog for World Campus students―provides frequent, up-to-date information about registration, financial aid, stories from students, important reminders, and Penn State news. Students can also connect to the World Campus community through a variety of social media options, virtual events, and more.