PublicTownHBCUBluefield State University
Bluefield, West Virginia 24701-2198
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences — close-knit campus
Bluefield State University is a public town institution in Bluefield, West Virginia. The school is accessible to a wide range of students, with an average SAT of 998.
A small campus of 1.2K undergraduates with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
35% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $38,217 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $12,529.
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •History The Bluefield Colored Institute was founded in 1895 as a "high-graded school" for African Americans.
- •Principal Hamilton Hatter supervised the first class of 40 pupils.
- •In 1909, the institute became a normal school, adding the training of teachers to its curriculum.
Source: Wikipedia
Schools Like This
Glenville State University
Glenville, WV · Rural · Public
Concord University
Athens, WV · Rural · Public
West Virginia State University
Institute, WV · Suburban · Public
West Liberty University
West Liberty, WV · Rural · Public
Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 998
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
47.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
5.9%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$12,038
Programs (26)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
55%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
8
Peer Average
13
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from WV state average