University of Charleston West Virginia at a Glance
The University of Charleston is an independent, co-educational residential university, founded in 1888.
Our main campus is on the banks of the Kanawha River in Charleston, West Virginia, directly across the river from the state capitol building and downtown Charleston. Campus includes residence halls, classrooms and administrative offices in Riggleman Hall and Clay Tower, the Geary Student Union, our Innovation Center and H. Bernard Wehrle Sr. Sports Arena, Welch Athletic Complex, the scenic riverbank lawn, and outdoor recreation facilities at the Boathouse and volleyball/basketball/pickleball courts.
A second location in scenic Beckley, West Virginia (about 58 miles southeast of Charleston) offers healthcare-related associate degrees. It is conveniently located just off the interstate and provides classrooms and facilities for our professional programs.
A Leading College in Charleston, West Virginia
Located in the heart of the state’s capital, the University of Charleston offers students a distinct academic experience among colleges in Charleston, WV. As the second-oldest private college in the state, it provides direct access to government agencies, healthcare systems, and regional businesses, creating meaningful opportunities for internships, networking, and hands-on learning throughout a student’s academic journey.
Students benefit from a campus environment that blends personalized support with career-focused academics. Smaller class sizes allow for more direct interaction with faculty, while programs are designed to align with in demand fields across West Virginia and the surrounding region. This combination helps students build practical skills and professional connections that can support their transition into the workforce or graduate-level study.
For those comparing colleges in West Virginia, the University of Charleston offers a unique balance of location, academic variety, and student experience. Its setting within a growing capital city allows students to stay connected to real-world industries while still enjoying a close-knit campus community that prioritizes individual growth and long-term success. UC also offers the best ROI of any college or university in the state when comparing average student loan debt to median post-graduation earnings.
UC has four distinct schools: the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Health Sciences, the School of Business, and the School of Leadership.
We offer associate, bachelor, and graduate-level degrees in a variety of disciplines, with particular emphasis on career readiness, innovation, and leadership. We also have a wide range of online programs to provide opportunities for students with family and professional responsibilities to pursue and complete their degrees.
General
Founded in 1888 as Barboursville Seminary, became Morris Harvey College in 1901, moved to Charleston in 1935, and was renamed the University of Charleston in 1978. (See UC History)
UC is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (Some individual programs are additionally accredited by their specific field.)
Total enrollment: 3,032 (Fall 2025)
UC students represent 44 states and all 55 WV counties. International students represent 50 countries.
85% of graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Nearly all UC students who take professional licensing and board exams pass on their first attempt.
Traditions
Nickname/Mascot: Golden Eagles
School Colors: Maroon and Gold
Alma Mater:
In the shadow of the mountain by Kanawha’s river
Our beloved Alma Mater proudly stands forever
University of Charleston, true we’ll ever be
University of Charleston, hail, all hail to theeTraditional Responsive Cheer: Oh say can… UC!
Annual Events
- Week of Welcome
- EagleFest
- International Education Week
- Labor of Love
- Homecoming
- Holiday Dinner
- Enlightened Living Day
- I3 (Ideas, Innovation, Invention) Day
- Midnight Breakfast
UC Athletics
UC is an NCAA Division II school and a member of the Mountain East Conference (MEC). UC men’s volleyball is a member of the Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (EIVA). (See UC Athletics)
We offer 19 NCAA Division II athletic teams (9 men’s athletic programs and 10 women’s athletic programs).
UC has been awarded the Mountain East Conference Commissioner’s Cup, awarded for athletic excellence among all MEC schools, nine out of the last ten years.
UC men’s soccer has won the national championship twice, ending the 2019 season ranked #1 in the nation by the United Soccer Coaches Association.
The Welch Athletic Complex opened in 2019, providing an elite DII facility for soccer, baseball, softball, and lacrosse close to campus.
UC Alumni
There are UC/Morris Harvey College alumni all over the world.