Educational Diversity
Preschool & Day Care
A spectrum of programs is available for children three months to six years old, including a Montessori facility.
Public Education
Public schools are governed by a five-member board and managed by a superintendent. Good schools are well located throughout the county.
Private Education
Three private primary schools offer specialized education -- St. Francis DeSales Catholic School, Greater Beckley Christian Academy, and Victory Baptist Academy.
Academy of Careers & Technology
Programs for high school and adult students include drafting, marketing, broadcasting, dental assisting, practical nursing, computer-aided drafting, and entrepreneurialism.
Higher Education
Appalachian Bible College
Established in 1950, this independent accredited college north of Beckley specializes in training men and women for the ministry.
Bluefield State College
Through its local campus at Harper Industrial Park, Bluefield State provides affordable education with a focus on regional careers through 12 nationally accredited programs and customized work orce training.
Mountain State University
Founded in 1933, this private, four-year college enrolls more than 2,000 annually and offers baccalaureate and associate degrees and certification. Its Byrd Learning Center and 192-bed residence hall opened in 1997.
Concord University
The satellite arm of a four-year public college founded in 1872 in nearby Athens serves more than 600 students per term in Beckley. General studies and advanced courses.
U.S. Mine Health & Safety Academy
The U.S. Department of the Interior's academy trains mine inspectors and personnel and provides housing for 350 near the Raleigh County Airport.
Valley College
A private, ACCET-accredited and WordPerfect- authorized school, Valley offers training in office and business technology through its offices in Harper Industrial Park.
Other area colleges
Within an hour's drive, students will also find West Virginia University-Tech, the W.Va. School of Osteopathic Medicine, Southern W.Va. Community College, and W.Va. Graduate College.
