About | Westfield State University

Your Future Starts Here

Who We Are

Founded in 1839 by visionary educator Horace Mann, Westfield State University was created to provide a high quality education to all, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic background. As the first public coeducational college in the United States, Westfield State has proudly upheld this inclusive mission for nearly two centuries.

Today, the University continues to foster intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and leadership across a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Small class sizes and hands-on learning prepare students for meaningful careers and engaged citizenship.

Located on a scenic 256-acre campus in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts, Westfield State offers a vibrant academic community surrounded by rivers, trails, and mountain views, just 90 miles west of Boston and close to cultural and historic landmarks.

The University

Led by President Linda Thompson, DrPH
Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Known for: business, education, criminal justice, psychology, communication, nursing
Centrally located in Massachusetts

Our Students

Westfield is home to about 4,600 students who form a vibrant, close-knit community. The student body is 58% female, 42% male, and 23% students of color, with an average incoming high school GPA of 3.27. Whether living on campus or commuting, students engage in a dynamic campus life—joining clubs, playing intramural and Division III sports, and contributing to hundreds of community service projects each year.

Learn more about our student population

69.7%

Full-time Undergraduate
14.7%

Part-time Undergraduate
15.7%

Graduate and post-baccalaureate

Location

10 minutes from Mass Pike, Exit 41
20 minutes west of Springfield
30 minutes from Northampton/Amherst and the Berkshires
2 hours from Boston, Providence, and Albany
3 hours from New York City
Directions

Learn more about our location

Map of Massachusetts and where Westfield is located on it.

Our Campus

5 different on-campus eateries, including online ordering to grab & go
On-campus Dunkin’
400+ events on campus every year
10 modern and spacious on-campus residence halls, including 4 apartment-style complexes
2 first-rate fitness centers
Stanley Park, adjacent to the campus, offers 300 acres of open space, trail systems, and a botanical garden
Virtual Tour & Drone Tour

Aerial image of the Westfield State campus

What We Value

Westfield State is committed to helping students develop the knowledge, skills, and character needed to become responsible leaders and engaged citizens. Our shared values of diversity, excellence, access, and civic responsibility guide us as we work together to support our community and make a positive impact.

Campus globe in the summer with blue skies and colorful flowers.

Our Future

Building on a long history of innovation, Westfield’s impact on the economic, social, and cultural vitality of the Commonwealth is growing every day.

The Westfield State University Seal on the main campus gate

A College of Distinction

Westfield State University has been named a College of Distinction for the 2025-2026 academic year, marking its commitment to providing a high-quality undergraduate education that focuses on hands-on learning, strong student-teacher relationships, a vibrant campus life, and successful outcomes.

Learn more about our rankings, awards, and distinctions.