About WLU

About West Liberty University

Rooted in tradition, driven by innovation, and focused on preparing students for meaningful lives, careers, and leadership in their communities.

A proud tradition.

A bold vision.

For more than 185 years, West Liberty University has been creating opportunities for students to learn, grow, and succeed. Founded in 1837, WLU has evolved alongside the needs of its students and community, combining academic excellence with personalized support. Today, West Liberty offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare students for meaningful careers, lifelong learning, and leadership.

Our
Mission

West Liberty University is a public university with a rich history of providing students with a comprehensive education from undergraduate to graduate degrees. Through experiential learning and personalized support, we empower students toward scholarly exploration, creative expression, and economic opportunity.

Our
Vision

West Liberty University aspires to offer innovative, inclusive, and inspirational opportunities that prepare graduates to be leaders in their communities and professions.

Our

Values

These core values guide everything we do—how we teach, how we support students, and how we work together as a community.

IMG 2828 1 1024x683 1

Community

A culture of belonging and support.
We foster a caring and inclusive community of students, faculty, and staff who work together to create a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

BrandonMawhinneyPoster.jpg (1)

Excellence

High standards, real outcomes.
We hold ourselves to high standards in academics, service, and outcomes. Through nationally recognized programs and a commitment to student success, we continuously strive to help learners reach their full potential.

flight simulator student portrait

Innovation

Forward-thinking by design.
We embrace a forward-thinking mindset that values creativity, adaptability, and continuous improvement. Innovation at WLU means preparing students to meet real-world challenges and shape the future.

IMG 3992

Integrity

Doing what’s right, always.
We act with honesty, accountability, and respect in all that we do. Integrity is the foundation of our academic culture and professional relationships.

“West Liberty University has aspired to greatness for nearly 200 years … We will respond as Hilltoppers always have — by setting goals, charting a pathway for success, and mustering the passion, determination, and persistence to achieve our goals.”

— Dr Borchers
President, West Liberty University

Our

Strengths

These strengths define who we are, how we serve students, and what sets the West Liberty experience

Grads 2023 Cropped

Personalized, Student-Centered Education

At WLU, students are known, supported, and guided every step of the way. Small class sizes, accessible faculty, and personalized advising create an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.

Experiential & Career-Ready Learning

From internships and clinical experiences to research, service learning, and employer partnerships, WLU emphasizes hands-on learning that prepares students for careers and graduate study.

Academic Excellence with Real-World Relevance

Our programs align strong academic foundations with workforce needs. Through modern curricula, certifications, and micro-credentials, students graduate with both knowledge and practical skills.

A Supportive and Inclusive Community

WLU fosters a welcoming campus culture where students, faculty, and staff feel a true sense of belonging—built on respect, collaboration, and shared purpose.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

We embrace innovation in teaching, technology, and operations, continually evolving to better serve students and meet the demands of a changing world.

Strong Regional & Community Partnerships

WLU maintains deep connections with employers, schools, alumni, and community organizations—creating pathways for experiential learning, career development, and regional impact.

Employee Engagement & Institutional Effectiveness

Our faculty and staff are empowered to grow, lead, and innovate. A culture of professional development and collaboration strengthens the entire university.

Become A
Hilltopper

West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.

Scroll to Top