WVUP ranked fifth in nation for Military Times “Best For Vets: Career & Technical Colleges”  

 Parkersburg, W.Va. (November 21, 2023) — WVU Parkersburg was recently acknowledged for its support of veteran and military students by Military Times, ranking no. 5 on its annual “Best for Vets: Career & Technical Colleges list.”

Military Times “Best for Vets” survey is an editorially independent news project that evaluates many factors that help make colleges and universities a good fit for service members, military veterans and their families. The ranking is based upon an institution’s culture, student support, academic policies, academic outcomes/quality and financial aid. Military Times ranked 890 schools, but only 325 made their “Best for Vets” list in 2023.

WVU Parkersburg consistently ranks among the top career and technical schools for veterans by Military Times, both nationally and in West Virginia overall.

“West Virginia University at Parkersburg is an excellent choice for veterans due to its comprehensive support. The university prioritizes veterans by simplifying GI Bill usage, offering a dedicated veteran resource center, and staffing a specialized student lounge for veterans,” said WVU Parkersburg Veterans Advocate Darren Shearlock. “Moreover, the recognition of veteran students through the presentation of honor cords during graduation further underscores WVUP’s commitment to honoring and supporting those who have served. Such tailored support, both in significant and smaller ways, fosters a community where veterans can thrive academically and personally.”

The college’s Veterans Resource Center provides a learning environment that conveys the college’s appreciation of the service and sacrifices of our veteran students and offers the tools and services necessary for them to achieve academic success. The center gives veteran and military students a quiet place to study, a space to socialize and a place to discuss veteran-specific issues on campus.

Students also have access to a veterans advocate to help them manage college credit transfers, secure financing through the GI Bill and apply for VA benefits. Other services provided by the center include free tutoring and veteran-based scholarships to help students pay for tuition and fees.

The “Best for Vets” college rankings are published in the Air Force Times, Army Times, Marine Corps Times and Navy Times, as well as on the Military Times website. To view the full rankings, go to https://bestforvets.militarytimes.com/rankings/colleges/.

To learn more about WVU Parkersburg’s veteran resources, contact Darren Shearlock at 304-424-8337 or darren.shearlock@wvup.edu.