Oldest Institution of Higher Education in the Mountain State

West Liberty University is a forward-looking, four-year public university steeped in a rich heritage as West Virginia’s oldest institution of higher education.  Established as West Liberty Academy in 1837 (26 years before the state was admitted to the Union), it was created to respond to the need for higher educational opportunities west of the Appalachian ridge.  The institution is named for the town in which it is located.  West Liberty was so named in the late 18th Century as the westernmost point of the new liberty provided through the Declaration of Independence.

Mission Statement

West Liberty University, established in 1837, was the first institution of higher education in West Virginia. Today, we are a dynamic, inclusive, student-centered community that cultivates scholarly exploration, experiential learning, creative expression, and global citizenship.

WLU is a public university committed to providing students with a comprehensive education from undergraduate to advanced degrees while serving as the region’s leading advocate for the arts, education, research, and economic opportunity.

Vision Statement

WLU aspires to be a model of innovative, inclusive, and transformational education accessible to all and that positively impacts society.

WLU Priorities

  • Enhancement of the Student Experience 
  • Strong Community Engagement
  • Operational Efficiency and Excellence
  • Robust University Branding 

Core Values

Affordability, Caring, Diversity, Excellence, Innovation, Respect

Institutional Accreditation

West Liberty University’s basic accreditation is by The Higher Learning Commission.

Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, IL 60604
inquiry@hlcommission.org
800.621.7440