West Virginia State University

• Overview & Academics

  West Virginia State University (WVSU) is a public, historically black land-grant university located in Institute, West Virginia. Founded in 1891 as a historically black college, it now serves a diverse student body and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. WVSU provides certificates, bachelor’s, master’s, and research/scholarship doctoral degrees across various academic disciplines.

  • College of Arts and Humanities
  • College of Business and Social Sciences
  • College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
  • College of Professional Studies
  • Graduate Studies (including master’s and doctoral-level programs)

  Popular majors include Business Administration, Communications, Biology, Criminal Justice, Computer Science, Psychology, and Education.

• Admissions

  WVSU employs an accessible admissions process, welcoming first-year, transfer, adult, non-traditional, and international students.

  • Application: Online application required
  • Transcripts: High school and/or college transcripts
  • Standardized Tests: ACT/SAT scores (test-optional for some applicants)
  • Additional: Personal statement and recommendation letters encouraged but not required
  • Application deadlines for Fall, Spring, and Summer terms vary; rolling admissions are common
• Cost

  WVSU is known for its affordability, particularly for in-state residents.

  • In-state Tuition & Fees (2023-2024): Approximately $8,500 per year
  • Out-of-state Tuition & Fees (2023-2024): Approximately $16,200 per year
  • Room & Board: Around $10,000 per academic year
  • Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, work-study, and special assistance for eligible students
• Student Population

  Total enrollment is approximately 3,500 students, including undergraduate and graduate students.

  • Diverse ethnic backgrounds represented
  • Strong support for first-generation college students and adult learners
  • Ratio of undergraduate to graduate students is approximately 5:1
• Rankings & Distinctions
  • Recognized as a Historically Black College and University (HBCU)
  • Ranked among the top public universities in West Virginia for value and affordability
  • Land-grant university with significant research and community outreach initiatives
  • Consistently ranked for social mobility and diversity among regional universities
• Campus & Culture

  The main campus, just outside Charleston, features historic buildings, modern classrooms, science and research centers, performing arts venues, and residence halls.

  • Community-oriented and inclusive campus culture
  • Active mentorship and support services for students from all backgrounds
  • Dedicated spaces for cultural, academic, and social events
• Athletics & Traditions
  • WVSU Yellow Jackets compete in NCAA Division II, Mountain East Conference
  • Men’s & Women’s teams: Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Football, Soccer, Track & Field, and Volleyball
  • Historic Homecoming parade, Founder’s Day, and involvement in community service projects
• Mission, Leadership & Current Developments

  WVSU’s mission is to meet the higher education and economic development needs of the state and region with a strong commitment to teaching, research, and public service. The university fosters academic excellence, devotion to student success, and community engagement.

  • Current President: Dr. Ericke S. Cage (as of 2024)
  • Current initiatives include STEM program growth, agricultural research, diversity/inclusion enhancement, and expanded online learning opportunities
  • Recent campus improvements: STEM laboratory upgrades, updated residence halls, and community outreach partnerships
• Programs

  WVSU offers a variety of academic programs:

  • Bachelor’s degrees in over 20 majors: Business, Education, Humanities, Performing Arts, Communication, Criminal Justice, Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, among others
  • Master’s degrees: Biotechnology, Media Studies, Leadership Studies, Criminal Justice Administration, Public Administration, and more
  • Post-graduate certificate and research programs in select areas
• Campus Life
  • Active on-campus living with residence halls, dining options, and student support resources
  • Regular cultural, athletic, and leadership events
  • Student health, counseling, and academic support centers
  • Safe, walkable campus environment with access to Charleston metropolitan area
• Student Organizations
  • Over 50 clubs and organizations: Academic, cultural, professional, social, and service-oriented groups
  • Active Greek Life: Fraternities and sororities with university and national affiliations
  • Student Government Association and multicultural student groups
  • Campus media: Newspaper, radio, and digital content creation
  • Recreational clubs including intramurals and performing arts groups
• Admission Stats
  • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 90%
  • Average High School GPA: 2.8 – 3.3
  • Average ACT Composite: 18-22 (mid-50%)
  • Total Applicants (most recent year): About 2,000
  • Yield Rate (students enrolling): Around 30%

Website: www.wvstateu.edu
Address: Rte 25, Institute, West Virginia 25112-1000