West Liberty University
About
Founded in 1837 as West Virginia’s oldest institution of higher education, West Liberty University is a public university set on a scenic hilltop near Wheeling. The university is best recognized for its exceptional health sciences programs—particularly its renowned dental hygiene, nursing, and physician assistant studies—alongside strong offerings in education and business. A major differentiator for WLU is its distinctive Zoo Science and Applied Conservation program, which provides students with rare, hands-on experience caring for an extensive living animal collection right on campus. Student life on "The Hilltop" is defined by a close-knit, supportive community featuring small class sizes, accessible faculty, and active NCAA Division II athletics.
Wikipedia:West Liberty University (WLU) is a public university in West Liberty, West Virginia, United States. Located in the state's Northern Panhandle, it was established as an academy in 1837 and is the oldest university in West Virginia. It offers more than 70 undergraduate majors and graduate programs and had an enrollment of approximately 2,500 students in 2022.
Location
Cost
Admissions
Wondering if West Liberty University is the right fit for you?
Scout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.
Essay Requirements
This school does not appear to use the Common Application. Check the school's admissions website directly for essay requirements and application instructions.
See the current Common App essay prompts for the personal statement options.
Outcomes
Student Body
Programs & Earnings
Institutional
Wondering if West Liberty University is the right fit for you?
Scout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.