Overview
Bluefield State University was founded in 1895 as Bluefield Colored Institute, established to provide higher education for African American students in the wake of segregation. Originally a teacher training school, it evolved over the decades into a comprehensive institution offering associate and bachelor's degrees, and it gained university status in 2023, reflecting its expanded academic mission. The institution holds the distinction of being one of West Virginia's historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), though its student demographics shifted significantly over the twentieth century.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Bluefield, West Virginia |
| Founded | 1895 |
| Total students | 1,800 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 14:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 85% |
| Graduation rate | 30% |
| Average starting salary | $40,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $7,700 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $17,500 |
| Room & board | $9,000 |
| Average financial aid | $8,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 90% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 870-1050 |
| ACT range | 16-20 |
| Average GPA | 2.9 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Engineering Technology
- Business Administration
- Education
- Criminal Justice
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.