Why Choose MSU?

One on One Learning
For many students, one of the most meaningful things about college life is the opportunity to really connect with their professors.  MSU’s faculty is among the best you’ll find anywhere, with a wealth of both academic knowledge and professional experience.  Just as important, your professors will know you by name, will care how you’re doing, and will take the time to help you individually.

Learning Resources
A rich variety of learning resources strengthens your educational experience at MSU. Library holdings include more than 95,000 volumes and a wealth of electronic databases and networks.  A campus-wide information technology initiative gives you access to the latest networking and computer systems as well as multimedia classrooms, teleconferencing facilities, and other resources.  You’ll also benefit from dedicated academic advising, tutoring center, and internship and practicum programs in most fields of study.

Location
MSU sits right in the middle of one of the nation’s top areas for outdoor recreation and adventure, with abundant opportunities for climbing, biking, hiking and camping, rafting, and skiing or snowboarding practically in our back yard.  Even it you’re not the outdoor type, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the southern West Virginia highlands.

For a relatively small town, Beckley is also home to a surprising number of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.  Just within walking range from the MSU campus, you can find restaurants, cool consignment stores, live music, and frequent street parties.  Beckley is also home of several retail centers with nationally known stores and restaurants.  More urban pursuits are just an hour away in the state capital of Charleston.

Cost of Attendance
Mountain State University is the least expensive private university in the state of West Virginia. 

Student Activities
Without leaving campus, you can enjoy music and comedy performances, lectures and readings, dances, and other special events.  Workshops, seminars, and other issue-oriented programs will help you stay informed on topics from personal safety to career options to volunteer opportunities.  The Cougar Den student union provides a welcoming spot to share a meal, meet with your study group, or just hang out with your friends.  Visit our Student Life website for additional information.

Safety and Security
The university works to maintain a safe environment for its students, faculty and staff.  The community embraces the international students and many local individuals and organizations sponsor activities for the international population. 

Athletics and Recreation
All students have free membership in the Beckley-Raleigh County YMCA.  The “Y” features a fitness center with Nautilus and free weight areas; a variety of stationary bikes, steppers, elliptical trainers, and treadmills; classes that include aerobics and toning, Pilates, yoga, and spinning; an indoor pool and running track, basketball and racquetball courts – all just a short walk from campus.