We believe that first-year students should have the opportunity to decide how well-prepared they are to succeed in college-level writing. Therefore, we use a process called Directed-Self Placement (DSP) that allows students to choose their path through first-year writing. The Directed Self-Placement process requires new students to take two surveys in D2L. To receive a class schedule, students must complete both steps of the DSP process. To learn more about Directed Self-Placement, please click through the frequently asked questions below.
Directed Self-Placement is required of all students except those in the six Associate degree programs listed above.
Students choose their first-year writing path (option 1 or option 2) by taking two surveys in D2L. Both surveys must be completed before Student Success can create a student’s first semester schedule.
Students who would like additional guidance on making their decision can reach out to Dr. Leah Chambers, Faculty Director of First-Year Academic Success: lchambers@pennwest.edu
Students who need assistance accessing their placements should reach out to Claire Pizer: pizer@pennwest.edu or (724) 938-5779.
