WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University is marking the 50th anniversary of the statewide Regents Bachelor of Arts (RBA) degree. The RBA degree program is designed to fit the needs of adult students, particularly those who already have work and family commitments, by offering credit for life and work experience, options for compressed courses, and the ability to take online and weekend courses.
“The RBA program at West Liberty University is helping students achieve their goals and dreams every day,” said Dr. Eveldora Wheeler, Director of Regents Bachelor of Arts. “Not everyone follows a traditional path to earning a degree, and the RBA program offers an ideal option for individuals, of any age, already in the workforce or those who began college but did not complete it. Many of our students use the RBA as a foundation for medical school, graduate studies, entrepreneurship, or advancement within their existing careers. We also welcome individuals with extensive professional experience who return to complete their degree for career growth or personal fulfillment. Our commitment remains the same: to help students identify the pathway that best supports their goals. We are proud that the RBA program empowers so many learners as they continue their educational journey.”
The West Virginia State Board of Regents created the RBA program in 1975, and in the last five years, more than 3,200 RBA degrees have been issued in West Virginia. According to a recent National Student Clearinghouse report, in 2024 there were 179,965 West Virginians under the age of 65 who had some college but no credential. The RBA program provides a flexible way for adult learners to cross the finish line on their degree.
“This incredibly unique and flexible degree program is an unsung hero in West Virginia’s higher education story,” said Dr. Chris Rasmussen, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs for the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. “We know that so many adults in West Virginia enter the workforce and then never think that going back to college is an option. The RBA program’s credit for work experience and flexibility make a degree possible for so many across our state, and these degree holders are making a difference at work and in their communities every day.”
The only prerequisite for the RBA degree is to have a GED or equivalent and be out of high school for at least three years. Many adult learners pursuing an RBA degree have financial aid options. For more information on financial aid at West Liberty University, call or contact 304-336-8016 or financial.aid@westliberty.edu.
For more information about the RBA program at West Liberty University, please visit westliberty.edu/rba or contact:
Dr. Eveldora Wheeler, MBA, MSW (Macro Clinical)
Director, BOG/Regents Bachelor of Arts
rba@westliberty.edu
304-336-5000
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu.
Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu