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West Virginia University Institute of Technology

Beckley, WV

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Quick Facts

1895
Founded
Public college
Type
1,009
Total Students
$8K
Tuition (In-State)
$20K
Tuition (Out-State)
$10K
Avg Net Price
61%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Graduation Rate
6-year
61%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: T. Ramon Stuart

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

About West Virginia University Institute of Technology

WVU Tech: Engineering innovation and academic revitalization in West Virginia.

West Virginia University Institute of Technology, affectionately known as WVU Tech, stands as a vibrant hub of learning, deeply rooted in technology and engineering education. As an integral part of the esteemed West Virginia University system, it offers students a focused, high-quality educational experience. With a rich history of adaptation and growth, including a significant revitalization and a move to Beckley, WVU Tech is committed to fostering innovation and preparing students for successful careers in a dynamic, modern setting.

WVU Tech's journey began in 1895 as the Montgomery Preparatory School for West Virginia University, embarking on a remarkable evolution. It transitioned from the West Virginia Trade School in 1917, reached junior college status as the New River State School in 1921, and became a four-year institution by 1931. A pivotal moment arrived in 1941 when it was renamed the West Virginia Institute of Technology, a name that clearly signaled its future direction. This dedication to technical education was further cemented in 1952 when it proudly began granting engineering degrees, solidifying its academic focus and establishing a legacy of excellence in the field.

Today, WVU Tech’s academic strengths are firmly anchored in its engineering programs, a cornerstone of its offerings for over 70 years. While it once offered master's degrees in engineering, its current focus provides a robust and engaging undergraduate experience, enhanced by its full integration with West Virginia University since 2007. This affiliation grants students the invaluable resources and prestige of a larger university, while maintaining a supportive, close-knit campus environment in Beckley. Under the leadership of President T. Ramon Stuart, WVU Tech continues to build on its rich heritage, offering a forward-thinking education designed to empower the next generation of innovators.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1895, bringing over a century of educational heritage to students.
  • An integrated division of the comprehensive West Virginia University system.
  • Began granting engineering degrees in 1952, marking a long-standing commitment to technical education.
  • Benefited from the 2011 WVU Tech Revitalization Project, enhancing facilities and academic focus.
  • Offers a public college experience with the resources and reputation of a major university.
  • Led by President T. Ramon Stuart, guiding the institution's strategic growth and student success.
  • Campus relocated to Beckley, West Virginia, providing students with a vibrant, larger city environment.

Timeline

1895
Founded in Montgomery, West Virginia as the sub-collegiate Montgomery Preparatory School for West Virginia University.
1917
Separated from WVU and renamed the West Virginia Trade School.
1921
Reached the junior college level as the New River State School.
1931
Became a four-year college as New River State College.
1941
Renamed the West Virginia Institute of Technology.
1952
Began to grant engineering degrees.
1966
Added a community college component.
1978
Began granting the master's degree in engineering (no longer offers graduate degrees).
1996
Became a regional campus of West Virginia University, leading to its present name.
2004
WVU Tech's community college component was separated.
2007
Became an integrated division of West Virginia University.
2011
The WVU Tech Revitalization Project law was passed, leading to an assessment and eventual campus relocation to Beckley.
🏛️
131 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

T. Ramon Stuart
Campus President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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