Are you ready to take your education to the next level? Look no further than Salem University. Located in the beautiful hills of West Virginia, Salem University offers diverse programs designed to help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
Whether you’re interested in business, education, healthcare, or technology, Salem University has a program to suit your needs. With small class sizes and experienced faculty, you’ll receive personalized attention and support every step of the way.
Whether you’re looking to launch your career or continue your education, Salem University is the perfect place to achieve your goals. So why wait? Join me today and discover all that Salem University has to offer!
History
Salem University, located in Salem, West Virginia, is a private institution of higher education with a rich academic history dating back to its establishment in 1888 as Salem College. The university’s stunning 100-acre campus is in the Appalachian Mountains, providing students with a tranquil and inspiring learning environment.
Salem University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, education, nursing, criminal justice, and more, emphasizing practical learning and professional development. The university is dedicated to assisting students in achieving their academic and career goals.
Along with its academic programs, Salem University offers a vibrant campus community with numerous clubs, organizations, and activities in which students participate. There is something for everyone at Salem, whether it’s sports teams, academic clubs, or cultural organizations.
As a prominent institution of higher education in West Virginia and beyond, Salem University is committed to promoting academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. Through its dedication to these values, Salem University equips its graduates with the tools they need to thrive in their chosen fields and positively impact the world.
1. 19th Century
Salem University was founded in 1888 as Salem College, a small liberal arts college affiliated with the Seventh Day Baptist Church. The college was located in Salem, West Virginia, and it initially offered courses in liberal arts and theology. In 1900, Salem College became co-educational, admitting women for the first time. Throughout the late 19th Century, Salem College continued to expand its curriculum, offering courses in music, art, and literature.
2. 20th Century
In the early 1900s, Salem College faced financial difficulties and was forced to close its doors temporarily. However, the college was reopened in 1917 and began to increase in the following decades. In the 1920s, Salem College expanded its curriculum to include degrees in education and business. In the 1950s, the college added nursing programs, reflecting the growing need for trained nurses in the United States.
In 1965, Salem College moved to its current location on the outskirts of Salem, West Virginia. The move allowed the college to expand its facilities and programs and marked a significant milestone in its history.
Salem College continued to evolve in the following decades, changing its name to Salem International University in 2002 to reflect its growing international student population.
3. 21st Century
In the early 2000s, Salem International University faced financial difficulties, and it was forced to make significant changes to its operations. In 2013, the university changed its name to Salem University to focus on providing students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for success in a rapidly changing world.
Today, Salem University offers over 30 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, education, criminal justice, and health sciences. The university is committed to providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers. This includes hands-on experience, internships, and other opportunities to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations.
Salem University has also expanded its online offerings in recent years, providing students the flexibility to balance work, family, and other commitments. The university is committed to making higher education affordable for all students, and it offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans.
Throughout its history, Salem University has had 23 individuals serve as Inspectors, Principals, and Presidents. These individuals have played a vital role in shaping the institution and helping it grow into the comprehensive university it is today. Here are some brief highlights of some of the most notable individuals who have served in these positions:
| Name | Title | Years of Service | Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enoch J. Hyatt | Inspector | 1888-1891 | First inspector of Salem College |
| William J. Reeve | Principal | 1891-1894 | First principal of Salem College |
| Charles L. Bovard | President | 1894-1899 | First president of Salem College |
| Charles B. Waller | President | 1900-1912 | Salem College became co-educational under his tenure |
| James W. Harless | President | 1959-1988 | Salem College underwent significant expansion, including adding new academic programs and constructing several new buildings under his tenure |
| William G. Natter | President | 2000-2005 | Oversaw the expansion of Salem College into Salem International University and the addition of several new degree programs |
| John Luotto | President | 2019-present | Has overseen the continued growth and expansion of the university, including adding new degree programs and expanding online learning offerings |
These are just a few of the individuals who have played a significant role in the history of Salem University. Their leadership and vision have helped to shape the institution and ensure its continued success as a leader in higher education.
Campuses
1. Salem Campus
The Salem Campus is the main campus of Salem University, located on a 100-acre site on the outskirts of Salem, West Virginia. The campus is home to a variety of academic and residential buildings, including classrooms, labs, residence halls, and dining facilities. The Salem Campus offers a close-knit community of learners, with a small student-to-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention from professors.
A gymnasium, tennis courts, soccer fields, and baseball fields are also available on the Salem Campus. The university’s athletic teams, known as the Tigers, compete in various sports, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and cross country. The Salem Campus also offers a variety of student clubs and organizations, including Greek life, academic clubs, and cultural organizations.
2. Online Campus
The Online Campus offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as business, education, and nursing. The programs are designed to provide students with the same quality education as on-campus programs but with the added flexibility of online learning. Taking classes through the Online Campus can be as flexible and convenient as you wish.
The Online Campus allows students to access course materials and assignments from anywhere with an internet connection, making it ideal for students who need to balance work, family, and other commitments. The Online Campus also offers various support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services.
Salem University Campus Life
Salem University offers a vibrant campus life with various activities, organizations, and events. The university has a small student-to-faculty ratio, meaning students receive personalized attention from their professors. This gives students the help and supports they need to succeed in their coursework.
The Salem Campus has various athletic facilities, including a gymnasium, tennis courts, and soccer and baseball fields. The university’s athletic teams, known as the Tigers, compete in various sports, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and cross country. The Salem Campus also offers a variety of student clubs and organizations, including Greek life, academic clubs, and cultural organizations.
In addition to athletic and extracurricular activities, the Salem Campus offers a variety of dining options, including a dining hall and several cafes and coffee shops. The campus also has several residence halls where students can live and study in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Salem University Campus Map
The map includes detailed information about the location of academic and administrative buildings, athletic facilities, and residence halls. The map also provides information about parking, dining options, and other campus services.
The Salem University Campus Map is available online and in print, and it is updated regularly to reflect changes to the campus. A map is essential for navigating the campus and finding the resources and services students need to succeed.
Salem University Campus Police
The Salem University Campus Police is responsible for providing a safe and secure environment for students, faculty, and visitors.
The Campus Police are fully accredited by the West Virginia Chiefs of Police Association and are committed to providing high-quality law enforcement services to the campus community.
Responding to emergencies, investigating crimes, and enforcing campus policies and regulations are all responsibilities of the Campus Police. They also work closely with local law enforcement agencies to ensure the community’s safety.
The Campus Police offer services, including escort services, crime prevention programs, and emergency response training.
Organization and Administration
Salem University is a private liberal arts institution located in Salem, West Virginia, that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including business, education, healthcare, and technology.
The university is organized into several academic schools, including the School of Business, the School of Education and Human Services, the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, and the School of Arts and Sciences. Each school is led by a dean who oversees the academic programs and faculty members within their respective departments.
Salem University also has several administrative offices that support the institution’s day-to-day operations. These include the Office of the President, the Office of the Provost, the Office of
Admissions, the Office of Student Affairs, and the Office of Financial Aid.
In addition to its academic and administrative structures, Salem University has a strong commitment to student success and support. The university offers a range of resources and services to help students thrive, including tutoring, career services, counseling, and academic advising.
Salem University offers a wide range of academic programs, with 92 courses of instruction spanning various disciplines. The following is a breakdown of some of the majors, minors, and courses offered at Salem University:
1. Biochemistry
Salem University offers a Biochemistry Major (BS), which provides students with an in-depth understanding of the chemical and physical principles underlying biological systems. Biochemistry courses (BCHM) cover metabolism, enzymology, and molecular biology topics. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries.
2. Biology
Salem University offers a Biology Major (BA) and a Biology Major (BS), providing students with a strong foundation in the biological sciences. The BA program is designed for students who wish to pursue careers in fields such as education, law, or public policy. In contrast, the BS program is geared toward students who plan to pursue graduate studies or careers in research. Biology courses (BIOL) cover topics such as ecology, genetics, and physiology.
3. Business Administration
Salem University offers a Business Administration Major (BS or BSBA), providing students with a comprehensive understanding of business concepts and practices. Business Administration courses (BUAD) cover accounting, economics, and entrepreneurship topics. The program is designed to prepare students for finance, marketing, and management careers.
4. Chemistry
Salem University offers a Chemistry Major (BA), providing students with a solid foundation in the chemical sciences. Chemistry courses (CHEM) cover topics such as analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in research, education, or industry.
5. Classical Studies
Salem University offers courses in Greek (GREK) and Latin (LATN), providing students with an understanding of classical literature and culture.
6. Communication and media studies
Salem University offers a Communication and Media Studies Major (BA) which provides students with an understanding of the role of communication in society. Communication courses (COMM) cover media ethics, intercultural communication, and public speaking. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in journalism, public relations, or media production.
7. Design
Salem University offers a Design Major (BA), which gives students an understanding of design principles and practices. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in fields such as graphic design, web design, or advertising. Design courses (ARTD) cover typography, digital imaging, and advertising design.
8. Education
Salem University offers a Teaching, Schools, and Society Major (BA), which provides students with an understanding of the theory and practice of teaching. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in education or for further study in graduate programs. Education courses (EDUC) cover curriculum development, assessment, and classroom management.
9. English and writing studies program
Salem University offers an English and Writing Studies Major (BA), which provides students with an understanding of literary analysis and composition. English courses (ENGL) cover American literature, creative writing, and literary criticism. The program is designed to prepare students for publishing, journalism, or education careers.
10. Environmental studies
Salem University offers an Environmental Studies Major (BA) which provides students with an understanding of the relationship between humans and the natural environment. Environmental Studies courses (ENVS) cover topics such as environmental ethics, sustainability, and natural resource management. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in fields such as environmental advocacy, conservation, or policy.
11. Exercise Science
Salem University offers an Exercise Science Major (BA or BS), which provides students with an understanding of the physiological and biomechanical principles underlying human movement. The program is designed to prepare students for athletic training, exercise physiology, or physical therapy careers. Exercise Science courses (EXER) cover exercise prescription, biomechanics, and sports nutrition. Additionally, students have the option to pursue a coaching Minor, which covers topics such as sports psychology and coaching methods.
12. Health Humanities
Salem University offers a Health Humanities Major (BA), which gives students an understanding of the intersection between healthcare and the humanities. Health Humanities courses (HHMN) cover topics such as healthcare ethics, healthcare communication, and healthcare policy. The program prepares students for careers in healthcare education, medical societies, or patient advocacy.
13. Health Sciences
Salem University offers a Health Sciences Major (BA or BS), providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare field. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in fields such as healthcare administration, health promotion, or healthcare research. Health Sciences courses (HSCI) cover healthcare systems, health policy, and health research methods.
14. Physical Education
Salem University offers Physical Education Courses (PHED), which provide students with an understanding of physical fitness and wellness. Physical Education courses cover kinesiology, sports psychology, and exercise physiology. The classes are designed to prepare students for careers such as coaching, personal training, or physical education teaching.
For the remaining curriculum, please refer to the source file provided by the author at the end of the article for a comprehensive list of majors, minors, and courses offered at Salem University.
Athletics
One of the many extracurricular activities offered by the university is athletics. The athletics program at Salem University is part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II. The university’s athletic teams are known as the Salem Tigers and compete in several sports, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, cross country, golf, and track and field.
The Salem Tigers have succeeded in their athletic programs, with several conference championships and appearances in national tournaments. The men’s basketball team has won four regular-season and two conference tournament championships. The women’s basketball team has also succeeded, winning two conference championships and appearing in the NCAA Division II tournament.
The soccer teams have also succeeded, with both the men’s and women’s teams appearing in the NCAA Division II tournament. The volleyball team has won several conference championships and appeared in the NCAA Division II tournament.
In addition to team sports, Salem University also offers opportunities for students to participate in individual sports such as cross country, golf, and track and field. The track and field team has had several individual athletes succeed at the conference and national levels.
The athletics program at Salem University offers students the opportunity to participate in competitive sports while receiving a quality education. The program is committed to developing student-athletes who excel on and off the field and demonstrate sportsmanship and academic excellence.
1. From G-MAC to Independence
In July of the year 2013, Salem University became one of the four educational institutions based in West Virginia to become a part of the Great Midwest Athletic Conference, also known as G-MAC, along with other past members of the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, or WVIAC, that became non-existent in the same year.
In any case, Salem University decided to withdraw from G-MAC when the 2015-16 season ended, and they released a statement that disclosed their intentions to investigate alternate membership opportunities for the 2016-17 season. Salem University is presently an autonomous establishment under NCAA Division II that is not connected with any association in basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and soccer. Nonetheless, their men’s and women’s swimming programs partake as associate members of Conference Carolinas.
2. Women’s Water Polo Team
As of 2023, Salem University’s women’s water polo squad contended in the NCAA Women’s Water Polo Championship, where they met Marist in the opening round. Despite the team’s vigorous exertion, Salem conceded defeat with a 9-8.
For further information on Salem University and its athletic programs, please check out the reference below:
Source: Salem University Catalog