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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

Fairmont State University: Empowering futures through a legacy of public education.

Fairmont State University, a cornerstone of public education in West Virginia, has a rich history deeply intertwined with the state's educational development. Known for its commitment to "Scholarship, Opportunity, Achievement, Responsibility," this public university, with 3200 students, offers a vibrant learning environment rooted in preparing students for real-world success under the leadership of President Mike Davis.

Its story began in 1865 as the West Virginia Normal School at Fairmont, the state's first private normal school dedicated to teacher training by John N. Boyd. In 1867, it became a state institution, evolving through various names like Fairmont Normal School before settling at its current majestic campus in 1917, overlooking Locust Avenue. This historic campus features Hardway Hall, originally its administration building, which is now recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. This journey from a normal school to a full-fledged university in 2004 highlights its continuous growth and dedication to expanding educational opportunities.

Today, Fairmont State University is a comprehensive institution, offering an impressive array of over 80 baccalaureate degrees. Students can explore 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. Beyond undergraduate studies, the university also provides robust graduate programs in key professional areas, including architecture, education, teaching, business, and criminal justice, ensuring a pathway for advanced learning and career specialization.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Established in 1865 as the first private normal school in West Virginia, dedicated to teacher training.
  • ✦Offers over 80 baccalaureate degrees across diverse fields, including engineering, national security, and nursing.
  • ✦Provides graduate programs in architecture, education, business, and criminal justice.
  • ✦Hardway Hall, the university's historic administration building, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • ✦Evolved from a teacher training institution to a comprehensive university in 2004, reflecting its broad academic scope.
  • ✦Serves a student body of 3200, fostering a close-knit learning community.
  • ✦Guided by the motto: "Scholarship, Opportunity, Achievement, Responsibility."

Timeline

1865
Established as the first private normal school in West Virginia by John N. Boyd.
1867
Purchased by the State, becoming a branch of the State Normal School of Marshall College.
1893
Moved into a new building at Second Street and Fairmont Avenue.
1917
Moved to its current location, now known as Hardway Hall.
1923
First offered a four-year bachelor's degree program in education, making the school a college.
1931
Renamed Fairmont State Teachers College.
1943
Renamed Fairmont State College.
1994
Hardway Hall listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2004
Renamed Fairmont State University by Governor Bob Wise.

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within Fairmont State University

🎓

Graduate Program in Architecture

Offers advanced study in the field of architecture.

📚

Graduate Program in Education and Teaching

Provides advanced degrees in various educational disciplines, including teaching.

💼

Graduate Program in Business

Offers advanced study in business administration and related fields.

🎓

Graduate Program in Criminal Justice

Provides advanced degrees focused on criminal justice.

Leadership

Mike Davis
President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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