Concord University

What is the history of Concord University?

Concord University is a public university in Athens, West Virginia, with roots in teacher education. It was founded in 1872 as Concord State Normal School, when normal schools prepared teachers for public classrooms.

The institution later became Concord State College as its academic offerings expanded beyond teacher preparation. It adopted the name Concord University in 2004, reflecting its broader range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Education remains part of its academic identity, but students now study fields ranging from business and social work to the sciences and arts.

What are the faculties and departments at Concord University?

Concord University offers undergraduate and graduate study across the arts and humanities, sciences, business, education, and health-related fields. Its academic catalog is the best place to distinguish a current major from a concentration, minor, or preprofessional pathway.

Undergraduate options represented in the university's academic offerings include biology, computer science, psychology, social work, business administration, and teacher education. Graduate study includes education-related programs. Students considering a licensed profession should check both the degree requirements and the rules of the state where they intend to work; a major's availability does not, by itself, establish licensing eligibility.

What is the location of Concord University?

Concord University's main campus is in Athens, a small community in southern West Virginia. The setting differs from an urban campus: daily life is closely tied to the university and the surrounding region, and a car may be useful for errands, employment, or travel farther afield.

Students weighing a commute should plan around their own route and class schedule rather than assuming frequent public transportation. First-year students may register or park a car on campus, subject to university parking rules. West Virginia International Yeager Airport, near Charleston, is a regional air-travel option, but reaching it requires a substantial ground trip from Athens.

What is the mission and vision of Concord University?

Concord University describes its purpose as providing accessible, student-centered higher education that supports learning, service, and engagement with its region. Its history as a teacher-training institution and its present public-university role help explain that emphasis.

A stated mission describes institutional priorities, not a measured outcome for every student. Applicants can assess how those priorities translate into their intended program by comparing course availability, advising, experiential learning, and support services. Concord is a public institution, not a religiously affiliated college.