Academics
Set amid a beautiful green landscape and a vibrant, supportive atmosphere, West Virginia State University (WVSU) is known for its dedicated faculty, many of whom hold credentials from prestigious institutions around the world. WVSU calls itself a “living laboratory of human relations,” due to its blending of a diverse population of students, faculty, and staff, all of whom work toward the university’s mission of “promoting education and the betterment and understanding of the human race and condition.” Through WVSU’s four colleges, Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences and Mathematics, and Professional Studies, students can choose among 22 undergraduate degrees, with varied options including Accounting, Criminal Justice, Nursing, and Sports Studies. The school also offers seven graduate degrees, all relevant to the needs of today’s business world and society at large, including Biotech, Media Studies, and Computer Science. Students who excel in their studies also have the option of applying for an Honors program, international studies, and a number of research and internship programs to expand their learning and widen their career options.
Career
Students have numerous ways to explore and expand their interests within the WVSU community. They can join one of the more than 50 organizations available, such as Jacket 2 Yellow Jacket (for social awareness and community outreach) and the marching band, participate in intramural sports like dodgeball and ping-pong, or meet up at the James C. Wilson University Union, the campus’s social hub and home to school-run activities like the Yellow Jacket newspaper and Student Government Association. In addition to the Union’s lounge, there’s also a fitness center, bookstore, dining hall, and three restaurant options. A focus on Black History is a priority at WVSU. During Black History Month, the school hosts art exhibits, multimedia and musical showcases, Black film festivals, and
Culture
Students have strong support for their academic and career goals thanks to the Office of Career Services. Services such as WVSU TRIO Student Support Services promote selfadvocacy and leadership through a selection of academic, cultural, career-oriented, and social activities. Through TRIO, students can also access free online or in-person tutoring, as well as personalized academic support, guidance, and advising at no cost. When the time comes to search for employment or make a career change, WVSU’s Job Web online tool is available to both students and alumni. Alumni of WVSU have a median starting salary of $53,800 according Payscale.com. Among the notable graduates are Creola Katherine Johnson, a mathematician whose calculations of orbital mechanics at NASA have been critical to the success of all U.S. crewed spaceflights; Reggie Barnett Walton, a Senior United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia; and Earl Francis Lloyd, an American professional basketball player and coach who was the first Black athlete to play a game in the National Basketball Association (NBA).