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Higher education in West Virginia offers students valuable opportunities to gain a quality education, practical skills, and rewarding career paths while enjoying the state’s supportive and affordable learning environment. Home to respected institutions like West Virginia University (WVU), Marshall University (MU), and a network of private and community colleges, the state offers diverse programs in fields such as healthcare, engineering, business, and the arts. West Virginia’s colleges and universities emphasize small class sizes, hands-on learning, and community engagement, helping students build strong connections with faculty and local employers. Affordable tuition, scholarships, and beautiful campus settings nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains make higher education in West Virginia an excellent choice for students seeking personal growth, academic success, and a bright future.

A judge's bench stands ready for the next case. New research from West Virginia University found that while judges are increasingly using artificial intelligence to help organize information and improve efficiency, they remain committed to keeping judicial decisions in human hands. (Photo: Saúl Bucio)
Higher Education

West Virginia University study finds judges welcome AI, but say justice must stay human

by Clyde Craig

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — As artificial intelligence rapidly enters schools, businesses, and government offices, many Americans are asking the same question: Will AI someday help decide court cases? New research from West Virginia University suggests the answer, at least for now, is “no.” AI in courts is growing, but judges draw a line A white paper … Read more

A researcher adjusts laser-based equipment used to study plasma behavior in a laboratory setting. Scientists at West Virginia University are developing new methods that could advance technologies ranging from semiconductor manufacturing to spacecraft propulsion and fusion energy.
Higher Education

WVU researchers developing plasma tech that could improve computer chips, spacecraft and fusion energy

by Clyde Craig

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — West Virginia University researchers have secured a $633,833 National Science Foundation grant to develop technology that could improve computer chip manufacturing, spacecraft propulsion systems and future fusion-energy devices. The project places WVU scientists among a relatively small group of researchers working to solve one of plasma physics’ most challenging problems—understanding what happens … Read more

Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia
Higher Education

Green Bank Telescope powers WVU search for gravitational waves and cosmic origins

by Clyde Craig

GREEN BANK, W.Va. — The Green Bank Telescope, the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope, is at the forefront of a major scientific effort to unlock the secrets of gravitational waves, supermassive black holes, and the origins of the universe. Backed by $5.9 million in funding from the National Science Foundation, researchers at West Virginia … Read more

West Virginia University (WVU) has reached a 10 year high in applications, according to university President Michael T. Benson.
Higher Education

WVU reports 10-year high in applications as graduation, retention rates climb

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — West Virginia University is seeing its most substantial application numbers in a decade, alongside steady gains in student retention and graduation rates, signaling momentum as the flagship institution prepares for commencement and the next incoming class of Mountaineers. WVU President Michael T. Benson shared the update Friday, Dec. 19, during a meeting … Read more

With roughly 200 students per class, the school is the largest medical school in West Virginia. During the 2024–25 academic year, enrollment in its Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program totaled 810 students, according to the report.
Higher Education

W.Va. medical school leads in training doctors who serve rural communities

by David Sibray

LEWISBURG, W.Va. — A small medical school located in the mountains of southern West Virginia is quietly becoming one of the state’s most effective tools for addressing physician shortages in rural America, according to a new statewide report on health sciences education. The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, based in Lewisburg, a historic town … Read more

West Virginia University fashion and merchandising experts say staying warm isn’t just about piling on thick layers. It’s about layering smartly. (WVU Photo)
Higher Education

WVU experts say layering, not bulky clothing, keeps you warmer in winter

by Clyde Craig

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — As temperatures drop across West Virginia, many people are pulling wool long johns from storage or shopping for high-tech thermal gear designed to keep winter at bay. But West Virginia University fashion and merchandising experts in Morgantown say staying warm isn’t just about piling on thick layers. It’s about layering smartly. Angela … Read more

Woodburn Hall History: Holiday carolers sing outside the entrance to Woodburn Hall.
Higher Education

WVU revives Woodburn Hall lighting, illuminating legacy of higher ed in West Virginia

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — As dusk settles over the Monongahela River valley on December 2, a crowd of students, faculty, alumni, and families will gather at a place where West Virginia University began, where the institution’s history, architecture, and spirit converge. Just after 6:30 p.m., beneath a tower long considered the university’s most recognizable symbol, the lights … Read more