Why Choose Southern?
Affordable, Quality Education
At Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College, students have the opportunity to receive a high-quality education without taking on the overwhelming debt often associated with larger universities. Community and technical colleges are designed to make higher education accessible and practical, offering affordable tuition, scholarships, financial aid, and programs such as the West Virginia Invests Grant, potentially covering 100% of tuition for qualifying programs. That means students can focus more on building their future and less on worrying about financial burdens.
Beyond affordability, one of the greatest strengths of Southern is the personal attention students receive. Smaller class sizes allow instructors to truly get to know their students, providing one-on-one support, mentorship, and guidance that can be difficult to find at larger institutions. Students are not just another number in a crowded lecture hall—they are part of a close-knit learning environment where instructors are invested in their success. Whether students are preparing for immediate employment, learning a skilled trade, or planning to transfer to a four-year university, Southern provides the hands-on training, academic support, and real-world preparation needed to help them achieve their goals.
Wide Variety of Programs
Degrees
Earn an AA, AS or AAS in 2 years and go to work or transfer these credits to a 4 year college or university to complete a Bachelor’s degree. View all of our degree programs.
Certificates
Certificate programs typically take 1 year to complete. These are designed for career-oriented individuals who desire to enter the workforce in an entry level position. View all of our certificate programs.
Transfer Friendly
In order to provide a smooth transition from an Associate Degree to the Baccalaureate level, Southern has entered into numerous transfer agreements with outside institutions.
Learn more about our Transfer Agreements.
Small Classes
Southern has a 13:1 student to teacher ratio. You are not just a number at Southern. Your instructors will know your name and care about your progress.
Student Support
Academic advising at Southern is a joint effort between the student, the faculty advisor, and the Student Success Advisors. All students must meet with an advisor prior to creating a class schedule. First-year students are students who have earned less than 30 credit hours. First year students and transfer students must meet with a Student Success Advisor. All other students must meet with a Faculty Advisor. The Student Success Advisor, located on each campus, assist in placement testing, developing educational goals and career paths, and the registration process.
Military Friendly
Southern would like to thank you for your service to our nation. As you consider your future, we are here to help you successfully pursue your educational endeavors. Whether you are actively serving in the military, or you are in the reserves, a veteran, or a dependent, we are very proud that you are considering Southern and we look forward to assisting you while you further your education.
Student Clubs
The Student Government Association (SGA) provides students with the opportunity to represent their peers at Southern, guide college policies, as well as offer activities that drive student engagement and interest. The SGA is composed of elected representatives, as well as volunteers, who work with a Student Services Success Advisors/SGA Advisors on each campus to determine events that encourage student participation at the college. These events may include dances, guest speakers, Red Cross blood drives, game shows, etc.