Westfield State University Earns Award for Exemplary Undergraduate Business Program

Colleges of Distinction has honored Westfield State University for its strong undergraduate degrees in business. Thanks to a well-rounded curriculum with hands-on experiences and a liberal arts foundation, its business students are prepared to enter the workforce with strong leadership skills and the ability to succeed in an ever-evolving society.

Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer for Colleges of Distinction, explains Westfield State University’s process for becoming a Business College of Distinction: "We look for qualities such as program breadth, advising and mentoring, integration of career services, and successful student outcomes. Thriving in a precarious economy requires one to be agile in the face of change. We applaud Westfield State University’s emphasis on educating ethical, agile, and competent leaders.”

Westfield State University’s business program has a longstanding reputation for excellence, supported by more than a decade of consistent enrollment growth and the successful graduation of highly skilled professionals. Furthermore, the University emphasizes multidisciplinary learning by offering a diverse range of majors and minors, including marketing, accounting, and entrepreneurship. Students benefit from a curriculum designed to foster critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills. Through internships, cooperative education opportunities, and networking events, students gain invaluable real-world experience, positioning them for success in their chosen careers. Collaborative learning is also a cornerstone of the program, with students engaging in case-method teaching, business plan competitions, and projects that encourage teamwork across disciplines.

Ethics and social responsibility are central to Westfield State University’s approach, ensuring graduates understand the broader impact of business decisions on stakeholders, communities, and the environment. The program also provides robust academic and career advising, supporting students throughout their educational journeys. High-impact practices, such as undergraduate research, diversity and global learning initiatives, writing-intensive courses, and capstone projects, further enhance the student experience.

Schritter emphasized that the program’s success lies in its ability to evolve alongside industry needs. “Business leaders must grow and adapt as industries change,” he noted. “Westfield State University’s programs ensure that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of a global market.”

To learn more about Westfield State University’s innovative business program and its recognition as a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.

About Colleges of Distinction

Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has honored schools throughout the U.S. for excellence in higher education. Member institutions are recognized for their dedicated focus on the undergraduate experience. The organization’s website offers comprehensive college profiles, customized tools, and resources for students, parents, and counselors. For more information, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.