West Virginia University

West Virginia University (WVU) is one of just about a dozen institutions of higher education in the USA that are land-grant, doctoral research universities with a comprehensive medical school attached. WVU works with local and international partners to deliver solutions to pressing real-life issues. 

WVU offers 133 undergraduate majors and 150 minors for students to choose from. Additionally, dual majors, certificates, and accelerated programs are also available. Students can customize their WVU degree to match their career goals. The Center for World University Rankings for 2022 placed WVU within the top 2.4 percent of nearly 20,966 universities worldwide. The university was also ranked No. 1 in West Virginia for returning adults, according to College Factual.  

WVU also distinguishes itself as a space-grant university and part of a network formed for outer-space research. Further, WVU is the only institution of higher education in the USA offering a Bachelor of Science, a Master of Science, and a PhD in the field of Forensic Science.  

WVU research activity continues to rank at the highest level, “R1,” in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. WVU is one of only 187190 of the USA's 4,500 colleges and universities attain this ranking, placing the university in the same category as MIT, Harvard, and Stanford. 

WVU is home to over 800 international students representing 95 nations and territories. The university’s student-centered learning environment ensures students get the right mix of academic rigor and resources, and the opportunity to participate in service projects and fun activities. WVU alumni can be found in 168 countries. 

Gaining a degree from West Virginia University is a reliable route to career success. Its foundation is built on a superb quality of education, as well as a supportive network of resources and services that ensure graduates are prepared for meaningful lives beyond college.  

WVU graduates enjoy a remarkably high employment rate of 93 percent within two years of completing their program, and within 10 years of employment, are earning 29 percent more than the average college graduate.  

The university’s career services offer a range of resources to help students explore their options, develop job-seeking strategies, and connect with employers. From resume writing and interview training to networking events and job fairs, the center’s team of trained advisers can provide comprehensive assistance to students at every stage of their educational journey. 

Additionally, WVU's expansive alumni community and network of industry partnerships provide graduates with plenty of opportunities for mentorship, internships, and employment. WVU graduates are highly sought after by employers in a variety of fields and are prepared for a lifetime of learning. 

WVU provides a wide range of support services to its students, and has recently been taking extra steps to mitigate the cost-of-living crisis. The university has expanded its essential pantry services to address food insecurity among students.  

The university has enhanced its student food pantry service, The Rack, which provides free non-perishable and perishable food items as well as hygiene products to WVU students. Two additional “Snack Rack” locations. These support stations cater to all students university, whether they are needed for a short-term or more regular basis. 

Funding for The Rack has come through a mixture of donations and grants. As well as food and drink items, students have access to educational material about food insecurity, such as meal prep and proper food storage instructions.