Bluefield State University Viewbook

YOUR SUCCESS is our story

WELCOME TO B-STATE

BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY to a successful future at Bluefield State University, where personalized attention and a supportive community empower you to achieve your career goals. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, you’ll receive individual guidance from dedicated professors invested in your success. Explore in-demand programs in STEM, including allied health and engineering technology (where 50% of our students thrive), as well as dynamic fields like business, education, nursing, and the humanities. Discover how a Bluefield State education can open doors to a fulfilling and financially rewarding career.

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

Accept the CHALLENGE

MISSION THE MISSION of Bluefield State University, a historically black institution, is to prepare students for diverse professions, informed citizenship, community involvement, and public service in an ever-changing global society by providing an affordable, accessible opportunity for public higher education through certificate, associate, bachelor, and master degree programs.

Welcome to Bluefield State University!

As the 15th president, and a proud third-generation graduate, I am honored that you are considering becoming part of our vibrant community. I grew up in Bluefield, and I have personally experienced the transformative power of a Bluefield State education. I know the doors it can open and the lives it can change. That is why I am so excited to share with you the opportunities waiting here. Within these pages, you will find a university defined by academic excellence, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to student success. Whether your passion lies in STEM, the arts, or professional programs, Bluefield State offers a place where your potential can flourish. Here, you will be supported by dedicated faculty, caring staff, and a proud tradition of achievement that stretches back more than a century. We cannot wait to welcome you into the Big Blue family and to see the success story you will write for yourself.

With gratitude and excitement,

DR. DARRIN MARTIN, ED.D. President, Bluefield State University

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

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OUR PROMISE BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY is committed to being the region’s leading institution of higher education. The University strives to assist students from all walks of life to achieve their personal and professional goals.

CAREER FOCUSED PROGRAMS

MOST DIVERSE STUDENT BODY IN 50+ YEARS

Launch your career in STEM, nursing, business, education, or humanities

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

85% OF STUDENTS RECEIVE FINANCIAL AID

13 : 1 STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO

Our Graduates place into leading Medical, Law,

1 of 2 HBCUs IN WEST VIRGINIA

and Graduate programs throughout the region and beyond

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ARTS, EDUCATION & SOCIAL SCIENCES College of

THE COLLEGE OF ARTS, EDUCATION, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES stands as the cornerstone of Bluefield State University, providing a foundational education. We are dedicated to providing a dynamic and inclusive educational experience tailored to the diverse interests of our students. We believe in fostering a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment where students are encouraged to think critically, engage with diverse perspectives, and become active contributors to society. Join us in shaping the future and unlocking your potential through our comprehensive and enriching academic programs.

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ARTS, EDUCATION AND SOCIAL SCIENCES MAJOR Criminal Justice Administration, Cyber Security Concentration, B.S.

Criminal Justice Administration, Forensic Behavior Analysis Concentration, B.S. Criminal Justice Administration, Forensic Procedure & Evidence Concentration, B.S. Criminal Justice Administration, Homeland Security & Terrorism Concentration, B.S. Criminal Justice Administration, Law Enforcement Concentration, B.S.

Criminal Justice, Corrections & Treatment Specialist, B.S. Elementary Education (K-6) with Optional Endorsements Elementary Education, B.S.

Elementary Teacher Education – Online Humanities English Concentration, B.A. Humanities Strategic Public Relations and Communication Concentration, B.A. International Studies B.A. Political Science Pathway to Juris Doctor (Law School) 3+3 Social Sciences, History Concentration, B.A.

Social Sciences, Political Science Concentration, B.A. Social Sciences, Psychology Concentration, B.A. Social Sciences, Sociology Concentration, B.A. Special Education Degree – Online MINOR African American History Minor Criminal Justice Minor History Minor Humanities Minor International Studies Minor Mathematics Minor Music Minor Political Science Minor Pre-Law Minor

Psychology Minor Sociology Minor Strategic Public Relations Minor Substance Abuse Minor CERTIFICATION

Elementary Education Alternative Certification Elementary Education Autism Certification Elementary Education Recertification CONCENTRATION Elementary Education Multi-Categorical BD, MI, SLD (excluding autism) K-6

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College of HEALTH SCIENCES

THE COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES emphasizes quality instruction and personalized advising, ensuring timely completion of degree requirements, and achieving high placement rates for graduates. Our mission is to provide high-quality, affordable and accessible education in nursing, imaging modalities, and health sciences. Students receive extensive clinical experience across all stages of the lifespan. Professional codes of conduct and ethics are emphasized strongly.

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES MAJOR Allied Health Education, B.S. Diagnostic Medical Sonography A.S. Imaging Science, B.S. Imaging Science, Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Mammography, B.S. Imaging Science, Nuclear Medicine Concentration, B.S. Imaging Science, Sonography Concentration, B.S. Nursing, A.S.N. Nursing, Accelerated LPN to RN, A.S.N. Nursing, R.N. to B.S.N. Radiologic Technology, A.S.

CERTIFICATE School Nurse Certificate

* Employment rate of the Class of 2024 graduates who are working as Registered Professional Nurses within one year after graduation. 97.4% EMPLOYMENT RATE *

ACCREDITATION

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College of SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATHEMATICS (STEM)

THE COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY integrates two traditional disciplines into a unique curriculum focused on 21st-century problem-solving. Our programs distinguish themselves with small class sizes, extensive lab experience, team-building opportunities, and individualized instruction. We offer baccalaureate degrees in five fields of engineering technology: civil, electrical, mechanical, management, and mining as well as associate degrees in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering technology. Our career job placement rate is nearly 100% in engineering technology.

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS (STEM) MAJOR

Applied Science, Interdisciplinary Concentration, B.S. Applied Science, Pre-Medicine Concentration, B.S.

Civil Engineering Technology, A.S. Civil Engineering Technology, B.S.

Computer Science, Cybersecurity Concentration, B.S. Computer Science, Data Science Concentration, B.S. Computer Science, Software Engineering Concentration, B.S.

Electrical Engineering Technology, A.S. Electrical Engineering Technology, B.S. Engineering Management, B.S. Mechanical Engineering Technology, A.S. Mechanical Engineering Technology, B.S. Mining Engineering, Technology, B.S. MINOR Applied Mathematics & Statistics Minor Biology Minor Chemistry Minor

Cyber Security Minor Data Science Minor Environmental Science Minor Forensic Science Minor Information Technology Minor Software Development Web Design Minor

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W. PAUL COLE, JR. College of BUSINESS

THE W. PAUL COLE, JR. COLLEGE OF BUSINESS offers career-focused business programs that are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace. With experienced faculty and access to modern technology, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with majors in accounting, entrepreneurship, management, marketing, and sports management. We also offer a Bachelor of Science in Health Services Management and a flexible Master of Business Administration (MBA) program for those seeking advanced leadership capabilities and strategic thinking. Additionally, the college is home to the Regents Bachelor of Arts (RBA) program, which provides adult learners with a customizable path to degree completion. A broad range of minors is available, allowing students to tailor their education to match their personal and professional goals.

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

W. PAUL COLE, JR. COLLEGE OF BUSINESS MASTERS Master of Business Administration (MBA) MBA Specialization: Healthcare Management Human Resources Leadership Lean Manufacturing Supply Chain Marketing Project Management MAJOR

Business Administration * – Accounting, B.S. Business Administration * – Management, B.S. Business Administration * – Marketing, B.S. Business Administration * – Entrepreneurship, B.S. Business Administration * – Sports Management B.S. Health Services Management, B.S. Regents Bachelor of Arts Degree Program, B.A. MINOR Accounting Minor Business Minor Entrepreneurship Minor Health Services Management Minor Information Systems Minor Management Minor Marketing Minor Organizational Leadership Minor Sports Management Minor

* The Business Administration degree requires both a major and a minor in order to meet graduation credit requirements.

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ATHLETICS BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY'S INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETIC PROGRAM is an integral part of the institution’s total educational mission. Twenty-one sports (nine men/twelve women) offer diverse opportunities accommodating the needs and varying interests of participating students.

MEN’S ATHLETICS BASEBALL BASKETBALL CROSS COUNTRY FOOTBALL GOLF TENNIS INDOOR TRACK & FIELD OUTDOOR TRACK & FIELD WRESTLING

WOMEN’S ATHLETICS ACROBATICS & TUMBLING BASKETBALL

You can begin your student athlete journey and discuss potential athletic

scholarships by completing the "recruit me" at gobstate.com

CHEERLEADING CROSS COUNTRY GOLF SOCCER SOFTBALL TENNIS

INDOOR TRACK & FIELD OUTDOOR TRACK & FIELD VOLLEYBALL WRESTLING

Big Blue Athletics has membership in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), as well as Division II of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

CAMPUS LIFE & events Getting involved outside of the classroom is a priority for the Bluefield State experience. Our campus clubs and student organizations represent a wide variety of interests and you can always fill a void by starting your own. Bluefield State has national fraternities and sororities, outdoor adventure programs throughout the year, intramurals both indoor and out-on-the-field athletic activities, and terrific annual campus traditions, including Matriculation, Welcome Weeks, Homecoming, Founder’s Day, the Annual Hamilton Hatter Banquet, University Awards, and much more.

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CAMPUS HOUSING & dining BLUEFIELD STATE RESIDENCE HALLS are more than just “dorms” or places to sleep. Our community provides resources, support, convenient services, and terrific programs for students. We are intentional about creating an environment built for student success. Living on campus will provide residents with the opportunity to interact with students from across the United States and around the globe to make life-long friends.

THE MEDICAL EDUCATION CENTER (MEC) RESIDENCE HALL The MEC features newly renovated resident hall rooms, meeting rooms, and our Big Blue Dining Hall. Most of Bluefield State’s Allied Health classrooms are located here, and it is only a short ride or walk to Mitchell Stadium, making it ideal for medical arts students and many student athletes.

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SCHOLARSHIPS

MCGEE FOUNDATION EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS • Scholarships are for incoming or currently enrolled students at West Virginia, or residents of one of these four Virginia counties: Bland, Giles, Tazewell, or Wythe. • Students are awarded up to $5,000 per year for not more than eight consecutive fall/spring semesters. Space in the program is limited and competitive. • Graduates of this program must agree to work full time in the State of West Virginia or in one of the four neighboring counties (Bland, Giles, Tazewell, or Wythe) for a specified period following graduation. • All McGee Foundation Education Scholars will be required to participate in the University’s student success program by signing a student success plan to assist them in maintaining good academic standing. • Expenses the scholarship can assist with include: Tuition and Fees, Books, Praxis exam cost, Cost of Professional attire for an interview, and other expenses related directly to completing an early/middle education degree. ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS • Scholarship begins with either a high school or qualifying transfer GPA of 3.0 and/or an ACT score of 20 or SAT score of 1030. • Only students who have applied and been conditionally accepted will be considered for academic scholarships. FOUNDATION AND LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP • Created by the generosity of our alumni, friends, and community partners. • You can apply for all of our scholarship funds by the priority deadline of April 1 by visiting this web page: bluefieldstate.edu/scholarships • To apply and learn more visit: bluefieldstate.edu/scholarships

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

HONORS College

BSU’s Honors College supports 18 Honors Scholars annually

BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM • Scholarships provide reduced-rate on-campus housing for Honors Scholars and cover up to in-state tuition costs. • Honors scholars receive textbooks at no cost. • Research, cultural, and networking experiences. • Earning the distinction of “Honor Scholars Graduate” on your diploma and transcript. • Service-Learning and/or study abroad that enhances your scholarly pursuit.

ELIGIBILITY • Minimum 3.50 high school GPA (4.0 scale). • S.A.T. Composite score of 1250 and above OR • A.C.T. Composite score of 26 and above OR • Accuplacer Writing score of 276+, Reading score of 276+, and Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics 276+ • Applied to Bluefield State and have been conditionally accepted.

APPLICATION AND INFORMATION Learn more and apply for admission to the program at bluefieldstate.edu/honors

PINNACLE ROCK STATE PARK Pinnacle Rock State Park is known for the 3,100 foot sandstone formation that gives the park its name. Located on U.S. Route 52 near Bramwell in Mercer County, the park includes a wooded area with picnic facilities, hiking trails and a fishing lake. An overlook from atop Pinnacle Rock is a popular destination and favorite photo spot for park visitors.

NEW RIVER GORGE RAFTING New River whitewater rafting in West Virginia offers experiences for various skill levels, from beginner-friendly Upper New River trips to the challenging Class IV-V rapids of the Lower New River, known for its high volume, giant waves, and scenic gorge. Trips typically include guided excursions, essential safety gear like life jackets and helmets, thorough safety briefings, and opportunities to paddle through rapids, surf waves, and enjoy the stunning canyon scenery.

BRUSH CREEK HOLL’R MOUNTAIN COASTER West Virginia’s first mountain coaster that delivers a fast, scenic ride you control through the hills of Mercer County. This coaster spans 3,400 feet, about two-thirds of a mile and has speeds up to 30 mph.

WINTERPLACE SKI RESORT Winterplace, located in Ghent, West Virginia, offers nine lifts, 27 trails, night skiing and a snowtubing park. There are over 90 acres of skiable terrain for varying ability levels.

FOR MORE THINGS TO EXPLORE: visitmercercounty.com

HATFIELD-MCCOY TRAILS

Hatfield-McCoy Trails are about 10 miles from the B-State main campus. More than 700-miles of off-road adventure wind through the mountains of southern West Virginia.

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

EXPERIENCE Bluefield and West Virginia

ALMOST HEAVEN SWING The Almost Heaven Swing sits on top of East River Mountain, where the views of the valley will take your breath away. It may seem like a simple "selfie" seat, but when you lean back and let your feet dangle over the world, it feels like something close to magic.

RESTAURANTS Whether it’s fine dining in a historic bank lobby, a home-cooked meal at a beloved mom-and-pop restaurant, or catching the big game at a local pub, our local restaurants serve up nostalgic flavors with a side of hospitality.

THE DREAM BEAN This community coffeehouse in Princeton's Grassroots District is more than a spot for your morning fix- it's where art, music, and coffee meet beneath one roof. Step inside and you're wrapped in the scent of fresh espresso and the hum of conversation. The walls are lined with local artwork, bold and thoughtful. It's a place to gather, to linger, and to feel like you belong, one cup and canvas at a time.

CAMP CREEK This state park has nearly 6,000 acres of forest with 35 miles of trails, seven miles of trout streams stocked seasonally, four campgrounds with picnic tables, grills, and fire rings, and campsites open year-round (weather permitting).

PIPESTEM STATE PARK Tucked deep in the Appalachian moutains, there's a 18-hole championship golf course plus 9-hole par 3 and miniature golf. Plus, horseback rides, an aerial tram that glides through the treetops, lakes to fish and play in, and trails that seem to go on forever.

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HIGHEST ENROLLMENT in a decade

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BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY

BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY'S FALL 2025 ENROLLMENT reached its highest level in ten years, continuing a trend of steady growth since the COVID-19 pandemic. BSU’s growth aligns with President Martin’s vision of expanding access, strengthening academic programs, and deepening the University’s connection to the region it serves. With these new enrollment milestones, Bluefield State is poised to continue its trajectory of growth while remaining focused on its mission to provide affordable, high-quality education to the students of southern West Virginia, southwestern Virginia, and beyond. The university’s investments in new facilities and programs, such as the Medical Education Center, the revived Mining Engineering Technology program, and the MBA program, are expanding opportunities for students while addressing workforce needs across health care, engineering, and business.

Students are choosing Bluefield State because they see the value of our STEM curriculum, built hand-in-hand with local industry partners. Our graduates are entering the workforce with REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE and consistently achieving high placement rates. For many, Bluefield State is not just a path to a degree, it’s a direct path to a REWARDING CAREER ."

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— BSU PRESIDENT DR. DARRIN MARTIN

219 Rock St. Bluefield, WV 24701

304-327-4065 admissions@bluefieldstate.edu bluefieldstate.edu/apply