Fairmont State University: A Legacy of Education, Opportunity, and Community

Fairmont State University, a public institution nestled in Fairmont, West Virginia, boasts a rich history, diverse academic programs, and a vibrant campus life. Sharing its main campus with Pierpont Community and Technical College, Fairmont State offers students a unique environment for growth and learning. With a branch campus in Clarksburg, West Virginia, the university extends its reach to serve a wider community.

A Historical Overview

Founded in 1865 as a teacher-training school, Fairmont State University has evolved into a comprehensive institution offering associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. Its origins as a normal school reflect a commitment to education that continues to this day.

Early Days and Transformation

Fairmont State's journey began with a focus on preparing educators, a critical need in the developing state of West Virginia. Over time, the institution broadened its scope to include a wide range of disciplines, adapting to the changing needs of its students and the wider world.

Academic Programs: A Diverse Offering

Fairmont State University offers a wide array of academic programs, catering to diverse interests and career aspirations.

Undergraduate Studies

Undergraduate students can choose from disciplines including:

Liberal Arts and Sciences
Business
Education
Nursing and other Health Science Careers
Visual and Performing Arts
Architecture
Family Studies
Engineering Technology
Computer Science
Criminal Justice
Forensics
Aviation Technology

The university also operates the Robert C. Byrd National Aerospace Education Center, offering specialized aviation technology programs. Noted areas of study include National Security and Intelligence.

Graduate Studies

Fairmont State University extends its academic offerings through graduate programs in:

Business
Education
Criminal Justice

These programs provide advanced training and specialized knowledge for professionals seeking to advance their careers.

History Program in Detail

The History major at Fairmont State University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the past, preparing them for a variety of careers or further academic pursuits.

Degrees Offered

The university offers a Bachelor’s Degree in History. During the 2021-2022 academic year, Fairmont State University handed out 10 bachelor's degrees in history. Of these graduates, 40% were men and 60% were women. The majority of the students with this major are white.

Rankings and Recognition

While the history major at Fairmont State is not currently ranked on College Factual’s Best Colleges and Universities for History, this may be due to a lack of sufficient data for accurate assessment.

Campus Life: A Community of Learning and Engagement

Fairmont State University provides a vibrant campus life with various opportunities for students to engage, grow, and connect.

Student Demographics and Diversity

With a total enrollment of roughly 5,000 students, primarily undergraduates, Fairmont State fosters a close-knit community. The university is committed to diversity, welcoming students from various backgrounds and experiences. Percent of First Generation Students is 41%.

Housing and Facilities

The campus offers a range of facilities and services to support student life, including:

On-campus housing
The Frank and Jane Gabor West Virginia Folklife Center
A library
Disability Housing

On-campus living is required of freshman.

Extracurricular Activities and Athletics

Fairmont State encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities, fostering a well-rounded educational experience. The university's athletic teams, the Fighting Falcons, compete in Division II of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Safety and Security

Fairmont State University prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students, providing:

24-HR security patrol
Campus emergency phones
Mobile campus emergency alert

Affordability and Financial Aid

Fairmont State University is committed to making education accessible and affordable for students from all backgrounds.

Tuition and Fees

In 2022-2023, the average part-time undergraduate tuition at Fairmont State was $755 per credit hour for out-of-state students.

The average full-time tuition and fees for undergraduates are as follows:

In-State Tuition: $6,468
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,174
In-State Fees: $1,986
Out-of-State Fees: $2,198
Books and Supplies: $1,000
On-Campus Room and Board: $11,486
On-Campus Other Expenses: $2,000

Financial Aid and Grants

Fairmont State University offers various financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and loans, to help students finance their education. Total Needs Based Scholarships/Grants is $14,284,063. Total Non-Need-Based Scholarships/Grants is $686,998.

Admissions: Requirements and Deadlines

Fairmont State University seeks students who demonstrate academic potential, a commitment to learning, and a desire to contribute to the university community.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants are typically required to submit:

Transcripts
SAT/ACT scores (SAT Average: 1035, ACT Average: 20)
SAT Subject Tests
AP Course Credit
Dual Enrollment

Application Deadlines

The college has rolling admissions, which means applications are accepted any time throughout the year. The application deadline for Fall Regular Decision is August 16.

A Look at the Faculty

The university prides itself on its dedicated faculty, with 39% holding a terminal degree. The student-to-faculty ratio is 12:1.

Reviews and Testimonials

Students and alumni often praise Fairmont State University for its supportive environment, dedicated faculty, and opportunities for personal and academic growth.

Savannah describes it as "A small community within a small community. You have a lot of opportunities to experience different cultures and different activities in general. An overall great place."
Dlaine says, "I really like the school. I'm disabled student however, my professors works with me hand and hand along with disability services. Everyone sees that I'm trying and helps me."
Kay notes, "FSU is a great place to learn, grow, and challenge yourself."

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