West Virginia University has been named a Top University Sales Program for the eighth consecutive year by the Sales Education Foundation. The SEF “Top Universities for Professional Sales Education” has designated West Virginia University’s Professional Sales Institute, located in the John Chambers College of Business and Economics, as one of the top sales schools in the world.
The listing highlights the top sales programs at higher education institutions that include 134 schools in North America and 16 international schools. The SEF does not provide a numerical ranking for each school.
“We are thrilled to receive this recognition from the Sales Education Foundation,” said Dr. Michael Walsh, chair and associate professor of marketing, which oversees WVU’s Professional Sales Institute. “Our sales program continues to grow in terms of student involvement and placements, and this recognition is a wonderful validation of our program. Thanks to our faculty and outside partners who have helped make our program one of the best in the country.”
The Chambers College professional sales program provides a sales internship program, is offered in part in an online format and provides a sales lab. Student engagement has grown through high-level classroom education, valuable experiential learning, exposure to companies who have relationships with WVU, internship opportunities, sales case competitions, the professional sales club and featured speakers.
SEF supports university-level sales education programs by providing educational opportunities, research grant funding, worldwide exposure and scholarships. Through the publication of its annual “Top Universities for Professional Sales Education” listing, SEF helps raise public awareness about the benefits of sales careers and provides data on sales programs worldwide. SEF also elevates the sales profession through its financial support of several sales-focused events and conferences.
Emily Broughton, a graduating marketing student with an emphasis in sales, said the quality of WVU’s sales program helped her land the great job that is waiting for her after she receives her degree.
“Thanks to the WVU sales program, I know I can confidently walk into any room and go toe-to-toe with anyone,” said Broughton, a native of Clarksburg, West Virginia. “The program has given me confidence in my abilities and I have seen first-hand how what I’ve learned applies to real life. I really believe the experiential learning component of this program is the difference.”
The Chambers College added a minor in sales last year due to growing enrollment. Professional Sales is one of three areas of emphasis for marketing majors at the Chambers College. The professional sales track offers course work in personal selling, sales management and selling with digital media.
