Salem University: A History of Education, Programs, and Accreditation
Salem University, located in Salem, West Virginia, boasts a rich history spanning over 130 years. From its humble beginnings as Salem College in 1888 to its current status as a modern university offering diverse programs, Salem University has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of its students and the global community. The university is committed to providing accessible education and relevant life skills within an inclusive and diverse environment.
A Foundation in Liberal Arts and Community (1888-1960s)
In 1888, the Salem, West Virginia community founded Salem College to provide an affordable baccalaureate curriculum grounded in the liberal arts. The goal was to prepare students for various occupations, professional and advanced studies, and to train educators. The institution received its charter from the State of West Virginia in December 1888, and instruction began in April 1889.
While closely associated with the Seventh Day Baptist Church for many years, Salem College maintained a non-sectarian approach to teaching and administration. For its first 75 years, Salem College was a small institution drawing students mainly from a limited area. It started with a single building on Main Street. Gradually, other buildings were built on the Main Street campus.
Expansion and Transformation (1960s-2000)
Salem College experienced significant development during the presidencies of S. Orestes Bond (1919-51) and K. Duane Hurley (1951-73). Salem had long been accredited by the West Virginia State Department of Education, and under Hurley's leadership in 1963 gained full accreditation by the North Central Association of Secondary Schools and Colleges. A great increase in enrollment followed. For many years Salem had offered evening extension classes at public high schools in various locations. A Clarksburg campus was established in 1958 and expanded in 1964 when the former Waldo Hotel was transformed into a downtown residence campus.
Beginning in the 1960s, Salem College expanded its physical facilities into a newer and more modern campus called the “Valley of Learning.” This is the location of the present campus. Dormitories and other buildings were built in Salem in the 1960s, and by the early 1970s a new campus was developed in the "Valley of Learning" near the front campus. This included Carlson Hall of Science (a large classroom building), Randolph Campus Center, and the Benedum Learning Resources Center (a library). Later the T. Edward Davis Physical Education Building and the Brewster All-Faiths Chapel were added.
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In 1989, Salem College affiliated with Teikyo University of Japan, becoming Salem-Teikyo University. This partnership brought an international focus to the institution, with programs in English as a second language and Japanese Studies added to the curriculum. A new academic calendar was developed, replacing traditional semesters with four-week modules, allowing undivided attention to one class. Academic departments were consolidated and a new mission statement was developed, emphasizing the development of world citizens with an international viewpoint. Many students came from Japan and other nations, especially in Asia. Students were offered the opportunity of a semester of European Studies at Teikyo campuses in Berlin and the Netherlands.
A Focus on Global Learning and Modernization (2000-Present)
In October 2000, the institution's name changed to Salem International University to reflect an emphasis on global learning. In June 2001, a new partnership was established with Informatics, a Singapore institution emphasizing global online education. In June 2005, Salem Education LLC assumed control of Salem and began strengthening the university’s programs and operations, developing new programs of study, and improving the university’s facilities and infrastructure. The name was changed to Salem University in September 2017.
Today, Salem University offers undergraduate degrees in Biology, Business Administration, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Education, Information Technology, and Nursing. Graduate degrees and certificates are offered in Business Administration, Education, Criminal Justice, Information Technology and Nursing. Programs and courses are offered on campus, via distance education, and blended.
Salem University's mission is to prepare students to achieve their career goals through accessible education and relevant life skills within an inclusive and diverse environment. The university's vision is to be an inspiring and innovative university advancing healthcare and in-demand careers that promote lifelong learning, wellness, and serving communities to meet tomorrow’s needs.
Accreditation and Recognition
Salem University is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1963. The university is also authorized by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the Indiana Board for Proprietary Education. Salem is approved to offer distance education courses and programs by the Higher Learning Commission, as well as being a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.
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In January 2018, the School of Business was awarded full initial accreditation status by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) for its undergraduate and graduate business programs. In October 2014, Salem’s School of Education was awarded accreditation by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) through the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) legacy process.
The Salem University Associate Degree in Nursing Program, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) program, and Master of Science in Nursing Program (all delivered via distance education) are accredited by the National League for Nursing Committee for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). Salem University - Integrative Health Coaching Certificate is an Approved Health and Wellness Coach Training & Education Program by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). Salem is a member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the National League for Nursing (NLN).
Academic Programs and Structure
Salem University offers a variety of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees. Undergraduate and graduate degree programs at Salem generally require successful completion of a set of liberal arts foundation courses that includes English, mathematics, natural sciences, social and behavioral sciences, and the humanities. Most programs follow a one-class-per-month format, while select programs use a two-class, two-month structure.
Salem University offers Day 1 CPT support through two graduate-level programs: the Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) and the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). Salem University adheres to USCIS regulations to authorize CPT for international students.
Student Life and Athletics
Salem University emphasizes a strong sense of community and personalized support. Students can expect a close-knit environment with experienced faculty members providing mentorship and guidance.
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The Salem athletic teams are called the Tigers. The university is a member of the Division II level of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), primarily competing as an NCAA D-II Independent for most of its sports since the 2016-17 academic year.
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