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Fairmont State University

Fairmont, WV

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

"Scholarship, Opportunity, Achievement, Responsibility"

Public university
Type
2,690
Total Students
2,900
Undergrad
300
Graduate
$32M
Endowment
(2022)
$8K
Tuition (In-State)
$18K
Tuition (Out-State)
$9K
Avg Net Price
99%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Graduation Rate
6-year
64%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Mike Davis

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Fairmont State University

From teacher training to a comprehensive university, Fairmont State empowers futures.

Fairmont State University, a cornerstone of West Virginia's public education system, boasts a rich history spanning over 150 years. Its journey began in 1865 as the state's first private normal school, founded by John N. Boyd, with a vital mission to train educators. This foundational commitment to learning and service has evolved, transforming the institution into the dynamic university it is today, deeply rooted in the community and committed to student success.

Today, Fairmont State is a public university offering an impressive breadth of academic opportunities. Prospective students can explore over 80 baccalaureate degrees across diverse fields such as business, computer science, education, engineering and technology, fine arts, liberal arts, national security and intelligence, political science, mathematics, and nursing and allied health administration. For those seeking advanced studies, graduate programs are available in architecture, education, teaching, business, and criminal justice, preparing graduates for leadership roles and specialized careers.

More than just a place of learning, Fairmont State University embraces its motto: "Scholarship, Opportunity, Achievement, Responsibility." It provides a vibrant environment where 3,200 students can thrive academically and personally. With a dedication to both its historic legacy, exemplified by the iconic Hardway Hall listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and its forward-looking academic programs, Fairmont State is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a comprehensive education and a strong foundation for their future.

Key Highlights

  • Upholds the motto: "Scholarship, Opportunity, Achievement, Responsibility."
  • Serves 3,200 students as a prominent public university.
  • Offers an extensive portfolio of over 80 baccalaureate degrees and robust graduate programs.
  • Rooted in history as the first private normal school in West Virginia, established in 1865 for teacher training.
  • Home to Hardway Hall, its historic administration building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Provides diverse academic strengths including engineering, national security and intelligence, nursing, and computer science.

Timeline

1865
John N. Boyd establishes the first private normal school in West Virginia to train teachers.
1867
The State of West Virginia purchases the school, making it a branch of Marshall College.
1917
The institution moves to its current location, featuring the building now known as Hardway Hall.
1923
Begins offering its first four-year bachelor's degree program in education, becoming a college.
1931
Renamed Fairmont State Teachers College.
1943
Renamed Fairmont State College.
2004
Governor Bob Wise signs legislation officially changing its name to Fairmont State University.

Leadership

Mike Davis
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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