UVa-Wise Viewbook

Uva-wise factscharacterFounded in 1954, UVa-Wise is a small, public liberal-arts college of the University of Virginia.

RankingUVa-Wise is ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the nation’s top public liberal-arts colleges.

Uva Benefits�� Graduates of UVa-Wise receive the prestigious University of Virginia diploma.

�� Students have access to UVa’s library resources.

�� UVa-Wise recruits outstanding faculty.

�� UVa-Wise hosts visiting scholars from Charlottesville.

the campus400 acres near the town of Wise, located in the Appalachian Mountains of southwestern Virginia.

enrollment2,000 students; male-female ratio 48:52.

admissionsWhen we evaluate applications, we look for students who show a seriousness of purpose and a strong potential for academic success in college. Students who rank in the top half of their high school classes, who have combined math and critical reading scores of 900 on the SAT—or a composite score of 18 or better on the ACT—are given preference in admission decisions. UVa-Wise offers rolling admission. Students may be admitted for the Spring or Fall semester or for one of the Summer terms. Applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance of the term in which they wish to enroll. A range of benefits is available to students who apply under one of two nonbinding Early Admission options.

MajorsWith a choice of 31 majors and the opportunity to take indepen-dent study courses, students can select an educational path that helps them reach their personal goals.

�� Accounting�� Administration of Justice

�� Art�� Biochemistry�� Biology�� Business Administration

�� Chemistry�� Communica-tion Studies

�� Computer Science

�� Economics�� English Literature

�� Environmental Science

�� Foreign Studies

�� French�� Government�� Health and PE Teaching Licensure

�� Health and PE Sports Management Concentration

�� Hispanic/Hispanic American Studies

�� History�� Inter- disciplinary Studies

�� Liberal Arts and Sciences

�� Management Information Systems

�� Mathematics�� Medical Technology/ Clinical Laboratory Science

�� Music�� Nursing�� Psychology�� Sociology�� Software Engineering

�� Spanish�� Theatre

curriculum31 majors, 32 minors, 7 pre-professional programs, more than 20 teaching licensures.

faculty91 full-time; 74 percent hold a terminal degree. Student- faculty ratio 22:1. 74 percent of classes are taught by full-time faculty members.

Honor codeAll students are expected to uphold the UVa-Wise honor code of respect and responsibility.

athleticsMember of the Mid-South Conference in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). About 200 students participate in 6 men’s and 5 women’s programs.

OrganizationsMore than 60 clubs and student organizations on campus.

intramural sportsBest small-college program in the Southeast. 90 programs, including 34 basketball teams, 27 flag football teams, 24 volleyball teams, and 24 softball teams. Flag football teams compete nationally. Half of all students participate in some intramural activity.

cultural activitiesThe Pro-Art Association brings a variety of performances to campus each year. Past groups have included the Joffrey Ballet and the Vienna Boys Choir. The College also hosts lectures and special events throughout the year.

international studyStudents enjoy study abroad opportunities at 7 sister institutions and more than 137 international institutions through the International Student Exchange Program. Weeklong trips are also available during fall, spring, or summer break.

Pre-Med ProgramOur rigorous program, paired with close faculty advising, leads to high rates of acceptance to medical school.

campus technologyMost residence hall rooms are wired with Ethernet connections. There are five easy-access computer labs on campus. Free e-mail accounts are available to all students.

the center for student DevelopmentMade up of Career Services, Counseling Services, and Health Services, as well as offering resources for student leadership and multicultural affairs, the Center for Student Development promotes positive choices regarding physical, mental, and social well-being. Health Services is staffed by a registered nurse five days a week and a family nurse practitioner one day a week, both from Norton Community Hospital. Counseling Services provides licensed professional counselors in a confidential setting. All services are free of charge.

financial aid80 percent of our students qualify for some form of financial assistance, including federal and state grants, scholarships, student loans, and college employment.

school codesSAT Code: 5124ACT Code: 4343Federal School Code: 003747

visiting campusIndividual appointments available M–F from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. A typical visit includes an interview with admissions staff, a student-led campus tour, and lunch or dinner. Please call our Admissions Office toll free at (888) 282-9324 or locally at (276) 328-0102 to arrange your visit.

Uva-wise 360˚ eventsSpecial Saturdays are set aside for prospective students and families. The program includes an academic and activities fair staffed by faculty, administrators, and students; a campus tour; a financial aid information session; tours of the residence halls; and complimentary student tickets to a campus event (as available).

For More Information about UVa-Wise 360˚E-mail: [email protected] Call: (276) 328-0102 or (888) 282-9324

To Reserve Your PlaceRegister online by scanning this QR code or visiting www.uvawise.edu/admissions/ campus_preview.

State law requires all state colleges with campus police forces to report crimes to the Virginia State Police. The figures are included in an annual report called “Crime in Virginia” and are also forwarded to the FBI as part of that agency’s Uniform Crime Reporting system.

UVa-Wise does not discriminate in any of its programs, procedures, or practices against a person on the basis of age, citizenship, color, handicap, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a disabled veteran of the Vietnam era. The College operates equal opportunity and affirmative action programs for faculty, staff, and students. UVa-Wise is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Printed with soy ink. NCSDO U29117 8.11

The University of Virginia’s College at WiseOffice of Admissions • One College Avenue • Wise, VA 24293

e-mail [email protected] phone (888) 282-9324 (toll free) • (276) 328-0102 (local) web www.uvawise.edu

Pinch Yourself

DisTinGuisheD leArninG in A frienDlY PlAce

UVa-Wise students enjoy the advantages of a small, welcoming campus and the

benefits of many resources, as well as a degree from the University of Virginia.

A GroWinG cAMPus

The University of Virginia’s College at Wise has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report

among the nation’s top public liberal-arts colleges.

Who We Are

the University of virginia, our parent institution founded in 1819, was a lifelong dream of thomas Jefferson. One of the nation’s most highly ranked public universities, U.va. serves some 18,000 students in charlottesville. the University of virginia’s college at wise is a later manifestation of Jefferson’s vision. founded in 1954 by citizens of wise, it brought to fruition the dream of a fine college in far southwestern virginia.

in the magnificent setting of the central appalachian Mountains, 2,000 students pursue their own dreams. at Uva-wise, the college supports them by provid- ing a liberal-arts education rich in experiences and high in value. Here, true to Jefferson’s ideal, students from widely varying backgrounds benefit from the close attention of an excellent faculty in a warm community. their experiences here—the skills they gain and the friends they make—are valuable for a lifetime.

The UVa-Wise VisionA system of general education which shall reach every description of our citizens from the richest to the poorest, as it was the earliest, so it will be the latest of all the public concerns in which I shall permit myself to take an interest. —Thomas Jefferson

who we are 1

what You’ll Learn 6academic Programs 8 Honors 18 support 20 special Opportunities 22

How You’ll Live 24Organizations 26 athletics 28 Outdoor Recreation 30 Residential Life 32

Jefferson’s DreAM. Your reAliTY.

eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly

Transform YourselfUVa-Wise students undergo a transforma-tive experience in their four years here. That metamorphosis is what our academic enterprise is all about.

Each of the species illustrated in this prospectus—all inhabitants of Wise County, Virginia—may be found on the UVa-Wise campus.

Students who excel at UVa-Wise know that they’ll be well prepared for graduate or professional school. Our strong undergraduate programs give them a solid basis for further achievement, and the high level of course work readies them for demanding postgraduate study. Take a look at what some of our graduates say about how they achieved their goals, and you’ll see how instrumental UVa-Wise can be.

broAD PrePArATion.

�� Reggie Dorsainvil ’08, Computer Analyst

�� LaKesha Anderson ’01, University Communication Instructor

�� Eric Richardson ’04, Assistant Professor of Marketing

�� Stephen Dula ’02, Youth Minister

�� Stephanie Mullins-Gibson ’03, Pediatric Physical Therapist

�� Sherry Lynn Matney ’00, Special Education Instructor

�� Hana Zibdeh Lough ’02, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

Notable Graduates

�� Erica Dell ’10, Software Engineer

�� Daniel Vanover ’10, Software Engineer

�� Stephanie Surrett ’96, Company President

�� Lauren Mullins ’04, Market Strategy Analyst

�� Michael Conrad ’08, Software Developer

�� Brandy McCarroll ’06, Instructor of Nursing

�� Matt Dean ’07, Senior Accountant

�� Laura Faye Robinson ’01, Attorney

�� Brad Schassberger ’08, Mental Health Counselor

“Going to a smaller school such as Uva-wise helped give me the leadership experi-ence that prepared me for the political world. it was a great educa-tion—both for the academics and for the knowledge i gained as editor of the campus newspaper and Honor court chairman.”

Jerry Kilgore ’83 Former Attorney General of Virginia, Richmond, VA

“the education that i received at Uva-wise, both in the History Department and on the campus as a whole, has been invaluable to my postgraduate studies. the ability to think critically and analyti-cally was instilled in me from my first class. as such, i will always be grateful for the rigorous training i received during the four years i was immersed in this unique community.”

Scott McDaniel ’06 PhD Candidate in Theology, University of Dayton

“Uva-wise was the perfect college for me. thanks to truly master-ful professors, i learned much more than the required subject matter: i learned how to think, how to be an engaged citizen, and how to select a career aligned with my interests and values. as importantly, Uva-wise provided an extraordinarily vibrant learning environment outside the classroom, allowing for the kind of meaningful college experience that yields lifelong friends and memories.”

Debbie L. Sydow ’85, PhD President, Onondaga Community College

Success in life isn’t just about personal enrichment. To have influence and change the world, you need to acquire a position of leadership. The broad liberal-arts education at UVa-Wise, combined with opportunities for holding offices in student organizations, gives students the tools to shape their careers toward positions that will help them make a difference. It’s amazing what our graduates have done.

inDiviDuAl success.

“the one-on-one dedication of the faculty and campus life is what sets Uva-wise apart from other colleges. My professors always made time for me and my classmates whenever we had questions or needed further explanations. i do consider the Natural sciences Department to be top notch, which made transitioning to medical school easy and pleasurable.”

Brian Arnette ’98 Physician, Mountainview Regional Medical Center, Norton, VA

“Uva-wise prepared me well for my career. the nursing depart-ment provided me with the skills necessary to be a successful, prac-ticing nurse. i also feel confident that i will be able to achieve my next goal of becoming a nurse practitioner.”

Brooke Rafaly ’10 Registered Nurse, Mountainview Regional Medical Center, Norton, VA

“My educational experience at Uva-wise was top notch. My science and math classes prepared me for graduate school, and the leadership skills and experience i gained as sGa presi-dent will be useful for my whole life. Here, you not only learn from your professors, but build relationships with them as well. the people here want you to succeed; they con-sider each student an investment in the future and will help in any way they can.”

Stephanie Lawson ’11 Doctorate of Physical Therapy student, University of North Carolina

Who we are

2 3

There’s ample evidence for the quality of a UVa-Wise education. Our graduates are admitted to some of the country’s most prestigious medical and law schools. Our nursing graduates enter well-respected nurse practitioner programs, and our accounting students consistently post one of the highest first-time pass rates for the CPA exam in Virginia. Alumni satisfaction is high in all areas.

alumni surveyA recent survey reveals the following about UVa-Wise graduates:

�� 100 percent were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the education they received in the undergraduate degree program.

�� 98 percent of those enrolled in graduate school say their undergraduate degree helped prepare them for graduate study (a higher percentage than any other college or university in Virginia).

�� 84 percent (more than any other state college or university) said their undergraduate major helps them perform in the workplace.

�� 92 percent said their undergraduate experience prepared them for responsible citizenship (the same rate as VMI graduates and higher than any other college or university in the state).

The accomplishments of our graduates demonstrate the value of their experience here. For more than 50 years, UVa-Wise graduates have been impressing employers and graduate schools with the quality of their educations. Students find a number of ways to meet the cost of attending UVa-Wise—from merit scholarships and need-based aid to loans and work- study. Whatever your means of affording it, the investment will repay you for the rest of your life.

types of financial aid�� Scholarships, given to honor outstanding achievement.�� Need-based aid, based upon each family’s ability to provide

financial support. Requires completion of Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

�� Federal programs, including grants and loans.�� Work-study employment, available in almost all departments on campus for students meeting enrollment and need requirements.

�� Tuition Assistance Grant (TAG) for qualified Kentucky residents within 50 miles of Wise and qualified residents from specified counties in far northeast Tennessee.

�� Opportunity Tuition Assistance Grant (OTAG) for qualified out-of-state students.

ToDAY’s invesTMenT ToMorroW’s reWArD

High HonorsThe prestigious University of Virginia diploma is awarded to graduates of The University of Virginia’s College at Wise.

A Strong NetworkUVa-Wise alumni return to campus every year to take part in the Student-Alumni Picnic, to participate in alumni basketball and baseball games, and to support the Highland Cavaliers on Home-coming Weekend.

Alumni also team up with the Athletics Department to host a fund-raising golf tournament each spring.

Stay in SchoolGraduates of UVa-Wise have the tools to continue a lifetime of learning. Many who gain teacher certifica-tion here go on to teach at the elementary, middle, or secondary school level.

A Good StartUVa-Wise ranks first among public national liberal-arts colleges for students graduating with the least amount of debt.

Earn and LearnTo help pay for their educations, many students carry part-time jobs while attending UVa-Wise. Community employers recognize the reliability and drive of our students, and students appreciate the value of work experience.

Freshman Financial Aid PackagesIn 2009-2010, the average financial aid package consisted of the following:

1.8% Work- Study

43.3% Grants

36.7% Loans

15.3% Scholarships

2.9% Miscellaneous

Who we are

4 5

enGAGinG Professors Classes at UVa-Wise are small—which means students receive more

personalized attention from faculty members who know them well.

WhAT You’ll leArn

An eXTenDeD clAssrooM

Wise’s national forests and reservoirs, local industries, proximity to the Virginia Technology corridor,

and historic attractions—including the site of a Civil War battle—make the town a resource for

conducting research and finding nearby internships.

The chAnce To creATe

Students explore music, fine art, and theatre at UVa-Wise, taking part in ensembles, working in state-of-the-art

design labs and studios, and stepping on stage at one of the best-equipped performance venues in the region.

a liberal-arts education at Uva-wise has proven practical value. it gives students a broad, solid foundation—ideal for career growth and flexibility—while enabling them to pursue a major field of study in great depth. combined with close advising, our academic programs help students chart a course just about anywhere: toward graduate or professional schools and to careers in the arts, the natural sciences, the social sciences, and the humanities.

in classes ranging in size from as many as 50 students to as few as one, Uva-wise faculty members pay special attention to each student’s academic development. Nearly every department has a culminat-ing “capstone” course to ensure that our students are prepared and competitive. Our teacher education program is nation-ally accredited through teac (teacher education accrediting council), and one-fifth of our students earn their licensure to teach. Our programs include some—such as in library media and software engineer-ing—that are unique in the area. Others—in mathematics and science, for example—are exceptionally strong. each will take you on a distinctive adventure in learning.

TheoreTicAl leArninG. PrAcTicAl use.

Useful SkillsBecause UVa-Wise believes that every student should possess basic proficiency in both oral communica-tion and computer use, we have developed courses in each major that incorporate instruction in these areas. In nearly every career, the ability to speak in public, to interview, and to use computers for communication and research will serve you well.

International BusinessA special minor in international business offered through a collaboration with the Department of Language and Literature can add depth to a student’s field of study. Along with business and economics courses, students take at least one course in Hispanic civilization or language, or they study abroad in a Hispanic country. Opportunities for the study of business and economics in other countries are available through the College’s bilateral agreement with the University of Huelva in Huelva, Spain, and with Monterrey Tech in Saltillo, Mexico, as well as through Academic Programs International in Budapest, Hungary; Grenoble, France; Rome, Italy; Galway and Limerick, Ireland; London and Leeds, United Kingdom; and Barcelona and Seville, Spain.

Facilities and EquipmentSmiddy Hall—home of the business department—is currently undergoing a $13.5 million expansion and renovation, due to be completed within the next two years.

Scholarships Dozens of scholarships and awards are available to majors in the Department of Business and Economics, including the Alfred and Shirley Wampler Caudill Scholarship Fund, Bank of America Scholarship Fund, David W. Roane Award in Business Ethics Fund, E. L. B. Scholarship Fund, Lucien P. and Glessye Humphreys Scholarship Fund for athletes, and Napoleon Hill Foundation Scholarship, to name just a few awards

InternshipsThe department sponsors internship opportunities that give accounting, business, and economics students valuable, real-world experience. Recent internship sites have included the Virginia Port Authority and Sykes Enterprise, Inc.

Employment OutlookGraduates of the department’s programs begin careers in a broad range of industries and commerce related to their major fields. Accounting majors frequently begin careers working for certified public accountants or working in accounting departments of medium- to large-scale companies. Business administration majors often find their first jobs in corporate sales departments. Economics majors frequently begin careers with banks, finance companies, investment companies, or government

agencies. Employment opportunities in cost analysis, intelligence, foreign trade analysis, public administration, urban planning, securities research analysis, underwriting, health care analysis, and teaching offer economics majors a broad range of options.

Positions Held by (and Employers of) Recent UVa-Wise Graduates

�� Account analyst, Wachovia

�� Accountant, Eastman Chemical

�� Assistant commonwealth attorney

�� Attorney�� Attorney general, Commonwealth of Virginia

�� Auditor�� Bank manager�� CPA�� Director of off-campus programs

�� General manager�� High school teacher�� Human resources officer�� Insurance adjuster�� Manager, DuPont Credit Union

�� President, CSE Financial�� Senior auditor, Ernst and Young

�� Small business owner�� Social Security Administration executive

�� Terminal train master, Norfolk Southern

�� Town manager�� Training consultant, Allscripts Software

Research OpportunitiesStudents learn to undertake historical research in upper-division courses. Approximately 20 students conduct indepen-dent research each year. In the past three years, more than 20 students have presented papers at Phi Alpha Theta regional and national conferences.

Study AbroadStudents can study history abroad through the College’s bilateral agreement with the University of Huelva in Huelva, Spain, or Monterrey Tech in Saltillo, Mexico; they can study both history and philosophy

through Academic Programs International in Krakow, Poland; Budapest, Hungary; and Rome, Italy. On the 60th anniversary of the Allied invasion, students partici- pated in a trip to the D-Day battle- fields of Normandy; another trip is planned to Belgium.

Facilities and TechnologyThe history archives in the John Cooke Wiley library are a useful resource. Blackboard technology is used for assignments and grades, Web-based instructional materials, library databases, and the digitizing of interviews conducted by students.

Scholarships and AwardsUVa-Wise offers funding for history students through the William F. Fraley history award, the Heather Markusich award, and the CVC History Fund.

Faculty PublicationsRecent publications by History and Philosophy Department faculty include the books no ordinary College and gone with the glory: the Civil war in Cinema by Brian Steel Wills, Contested borderland: the Civil war in appalachian Virginia and Kentucky by Brian McKnight, and beyond Catastrophe: german intellec-tuals and Cultural renewal after world war ii by Mark Clark, as well as articles published in the Journal of Contemporary History and the Centre for reformation and renaissance studies.

InternshipsHistory students can intern at the historic Flowerdew Hotel or the Southwest Virginia Museum, which chronicles the history of Big Stone Gap, among other internship sites.

Employment OutlookHistory graduates find careers in law, historical preservation, park service, and business administration. Students with minors in history or philosophy have a useful background for work in social and community service, religious organizations and ministry, education, government, medicine, law, journalism, and business.

Employers of Students with History Degrees

�� Art galleries�� Cultural heritage organizations�� Federal agencies, including The Smithsonian Institute, National Archives and Records, Library of Congress, and National Park Service

�� Historical societies�� Museums and historic sites�� Law firms�� Libraries�� Newspapers�� Public advocacy groups�� Public and private schools�� State and local agencies, including archives and libraries, and arts and humanities councils

�� Zoological parks, aquariums, wildlife refuges, and bird sanctuaries


�� Art history instructor�� Director of college relations, UVa-Wise

�� Lawyer�� Philosopher�� College professor�� High school history instructor

What you’ll learn

sTronG ProGrAMs. PoWerful DeGrees.

Business and economics History and Philosophy

Offering both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees with majors in accounting, business, and econom-ics, the Department of Business and Economics prepares students to take their place in the next generation of entrepreneurs and community leaders. The BA program provides excellent preparation for law school or a career in public administration; both the BA and BS programs prepare students for careers or graduate study in econom-ics, accounting, finance, marketing, management, business administration, or business education—and faculty members advise students pursuing licensure in teacher education, public accounting, law, or public administration. The Department sponsors a chapter of Phi Beta Lambda, a national association of students preparing for careers in business and business-related fields.

The Department of History and Philosophy offers the Bachelor of Arts in history, as well as minors in both history and philosophy. Instruction emphasizes historical analysis, critical thinking, writing, and research skills, with courses taught by faculty who have been recognized with grants and awards for both their teaching and research. The department is an active member of the national honorary historical fraternity Phi Alpha Theta, which encourages student research and writing; the society’s 2005 regional conference was held on campus. The history curriculum forms part of teacher education at both the primary and secondary levels; students interested in teaching middle and high school complete the history major along with other social science credits to earn state licensure, while those interested in elementary education complete a concentration as part of the liberal arts and sciences major.

Graduate Schools Attended (and Degrees Pursued) by Recent UVa-Wise Alumni

�� The College of William and Mary, JD

�� Northern Kentucky University, Accountancy, MS

�� Radford University, MBA

�� Virginia Tech, MBA

Graduate Schools Attended by UVa-Wise Alumni

�� Appalachian School of Law

�� Asbury Theological Seminary

�� James Madison University

�� Longwood University

�� University of Dayton

�� University of Virginia

�� Wayne State University

Majors�� Accounting

�� Business Administration

�� Economics

Minors�� International Business

�� Leadership Studies (Interdisciplinary)

�� Finance

�� Accounting

�� Business Administration

�� Economics

Major�� History

Minors�� History

�� Philosophy

8 9

Research OpportunitiesStudents can pursue research with faculty members as well as with local IT employers. In a recent department-funded project, a computer science student built a robot pro-grammed to track objects.

InternshipsUVa-Wise students can intern with a number of employers in the region, including CGI, Northrup Grumman, Food City, and the Department of Mines, Minerals, and Energy. Internships range from information technology assignments to experience shadowing software developers.

Facilities and EquipmentThe Science Center—which underwent a $13.4 million renovation in 2010—houses software engineering labs and other facilities. Two computer labs contain more

than 50 workstations, five servers, and a 64-node cluster, all operating on a Gigabit Ethernet backbone. Students have access to both Windows and Linux operating systems. Among the instructional tools used by UVa-Wise professors in the classroom: Mathematica, MATLAB, Visual Studio, and Eclipse.

Study AbroadMathematics majors study abroad through Academic Programs International in Budapest, Hungary; and Rome, Florence, and Syracuse, Italy. Study abroad opportunities in computer science are available in Budapest, Hungary, and Rome, Italy. Students may study software engineering through the College’s bilateral agree-ment with Monterrey Tech in Saltillo, Mexico.

Employment OutlookTechnology jobs will be abundant well into the future. Even with the outsourcing of some computer-related positions to other countries, jobs with state and national government will remain in the United States. Software engineering has been called the top job in the nation. Because software engineers solve problems for every industry that uses computers, combining a theoretical knowledge of computers with professional skills, the demand for software engineers is likely to remain high. In the region surrounding UVa-Wise, CGI and

Northrup Grumman will hire from 600 to 800 technology employees, with starting salaries between $40,000 and $60,000. Students with a background in mathematics will continue to find positions in business, banking, government, and education. Among their areas of employment: research and development, data collection and information analysis, statistical processing control, environmental analysis, and management. Management Information Systems is a perfect degree for a student who loves the challenge of programming and technology but does not wish to take higher mathematics courses. The blend of computer programming and business courses leads to a greater understanding of technology and the business principles necessary to market such technology. Graduates of this program are well suited to discuss computing issues on a technical level or in layman’s terms, enabling them to work with software or data systems developers as communicators between clients and programmers.


�� Assistant professor of computer science, UVa-Wise

�� Associate professor of math and computer science, Pikeville College

�� Business manager�� Consulting actuary�� Developer of aviation software

�� High school math instructor�� Information technologist�� Manager of forecasting, GlaxoSmithKline

�� Manager of software development

�� Software developer�� Senior engineer, General Dynamics

�� Technical support analyst


�� College of William and Mary, PhD

�� George Mason University, MIS and MS

�� North Carolina State University, PhD

�� Strayer University, MIS

�� University of Virginia, MS

�� University of Kentucky, MA and MS

�� Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, MS and PhD


�� Clemson University, English, MA

�� Indiana University of Pennsylvania, English, PhD

�� Ohio University, Spanish, MA

�� The Ohio State University, Hispanic Linguistics, MA

�� Radford University, MA

�� University of Richmond, English, MA

�� Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, English, MA

Language and Literature Mathematics and computer science

Research OpportunitiesAll students complete an original research project in Senior Seminar under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Students have presented papers at regional, national, and international conferences. Each year, students participate in the Medieval-Renaissance Conference founded at UVa-Wise more than 20 years ago. Promoting exchange and discussion in all disciplines of medieval and Renaissance studies, the conference attracts a wide range of papers and panelists, as well as provides a venue for student scholars to present their own research.

Study AbroadOpportunities for language study abroad are available through the College’s bilateral agreements with the CEU San Pablo in Seville, Spain, the Pädagogische Hochschule Niederösterreich in Baden, Austria, the Tech de Monterrey–Campus Saltillo in Saltillo, Mexico, the University of Huelva in Huelva, Spain, and the University of Istanbul in Turkey.

International study is also available through Academic Programs International in Galway, Ireland; San José, Costa Rica; Krakow, Poland; Budapest, Hungary; Paris, France; Rome and Florence, Italy; London, England; and Barcelona, Granada, and Cadiz, Spain.

Facilities and EquipmentSpecialized facilities include the Writing Center and foreign language laboratory. Faculty members use Blackboard to present course material.

HonorsStudents may be nominated to graduate with honors in English if they meet GPA requirements and submit a distinguished research paper in an upper-level English seminar. Spanish minors and majors meeting GPA and credit requirements will be invited to join Sigma Delta Pi, the national Spanish honor society.

Travel OpportunitiesSome classes enhance content with travel. Shakespeare classes regularly travel to the Blackfriars Theater in Staunton to see the plays they have been studying. A recent class on Holocaust literature planned a trip to the Holocaust Museum in Washing-ton, D.C. Students enrolled in London in Literature had the option to participate in a spring break trip to London led by the course instructor.

Student Literary Journalthe Jimson weed, the student literary journal published twice a year, provides students with a venue in which to express themselves artistically and to demonstrate their creative abilities. It also offers English

majors and minors the opportunity to gain experience in the production of a magazine with the guidance and instruction of an English faculty member.

Employment OutlookAbout 50 percent of UVa-Wise English majors enter graduate or professional school immediately after college. The need for college graduates with excellent communication skills is increasing, and graduates are in demand for careers in editing, marketing, public relations, and governmental organizations. Others choose careers in law, education, and journalism. Foreign language students find a growing need in career areas such as immigration and naturalization, interpreting and translation services, foreign news bureaus, and sales and customer service departments.


�� Actor (in such films as big fish, Dreamer, Junebug, 28 Days, somersby, and true Colors)

�� English instructor, South Piedmont Community College

�� High school English instructor�� High school Spanish instructor�� Instructor of English, UVa-Wise�� Instructor of Spanish, Pikeville College

�� Instructor of Spanish, UVa-Wise

The Department of Language and Literature offers English and foreign language majors the opportunity to learn French, German, and Spanish. The English literature major includes courses in American and English literature, ethnic literature, linguistics, and literary criticism. Foreign language majors take four semesters of the major lan-guage, four of another language, and courses focusing on culture and civilization, literature, and grammar. Summer immersion programs are available in Spain, Mexico, and Austria, with other available study abroad opportunities. Spanish majors may join the College’s chapter of the national Spanish honor society, Sigma Delta Pi.

Through the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, UVa-Wise offers the only undergraduate software engineering program in Virginia. The department also offers programs leading to degrees in computer science, manage-ment information systems, and mathematics. Class sizes range from as many as 40 students in lower-level courses to between 4 and 20 students in upper-division courses. Majors in the department benefit from partnerships between the College and two high-tech employers with operations in the region—Northrup Grumman and CGI—who recruit students for internships and research opportunities at their facilities. The employment outlook is outstanding, particularly for software engineering students, who will play a key role in business and industry for years to come.

Majors�� English Literature

�� Foreign Studies (concentrations in French, German, Spanish)

�� French


�� Spanish

Minors�� English

�� French

�� German


�� Spanish

Majors�� Mathematics


�� Management Information Systems

�� Software Engineering

Minors�� Mathematics


What you’ll learn

11

Teacher Education ProgramStudents seeking a license to teach in Virginia public schools must be admitted to the Teacher Education Program (TEP). Curricular requirements for teacher education include general education requirements, requirements for one of the majors offered by the College, specific teaching endorsement requirements, professional studies requirements, and a teaching internship. Students who plan to teach at the pre-K–6 level must complete a major in the liberal arts and sciences.

Special OpportunitiesMembers of the Student Virginia Education Association (SVEA) work with a UVa-Wise faculty member to develop learning activities and strategies, which they may present at the national SVEA Early Childhood Conference. The College’s SVEA program has earned top honors at the state level.

SVEA sponsors community service events throughout the year. Recent events have included a celebration of Dr. Seuss’s birthday to promote reading, with education students producing plays and hosting activities for local children, and a character parade with games, titled “Funtasia,” at which funds were raised to buy clothes and toys for needy children.

Study AbroadOpportunities for international study in teacher training and education are available through UVa-Wise programs at Pädago-gische Hochschule Niederöster-reich in Baden, Austria; the Tech de Monterrey–Campus Saltillo in Saltillo, Mexico; and at CEU College in Seville, Spain.

Financial Assistance Education majors may be eligible to receive Virginia School Loan program funds, math/science scholarships, or Poor Farm scholarships.

Facilities and EquipmentThree labs are available to education students: a curricula lab, a math-science lab, and a testing lab. All teaching faculty use Blackboard software in their courses. Smart Boards are available to all education majors to help them prepare for internships and lessons.

InternshipsStudents complete their class observation and student-teaching requirements through placement in local public schools. Internship sites have included local schools in Wise County, Dickenson County, Lee County, Scott County, Russell County, and Buchanan County.

Employment OutlookWhile math-science and special education teachers are in greatest demand, graduates of the College have found a wide variety of teaching positions in all local school districts, as well as in Northern Virginia, Virginia Beach, Radford, and Rocking-ham, North Carolina.

Entry-level salaries for teachers are typically about $30,000 per year. Teachers may find employ-ment not only in the K–12 environment, but also in higher education, adult and continuing education, business and industry, government, and the nonprofit sector. Career options include teaching, administration, and such special services as guidance counseling, school social work, audiology and speech pathology, library/information services, special education, and curriculum supervision.

Employers of Recent UVa-Wise Graduates

�� Elementary, middle, and secondary schools

�� Day care centers�� Boards of education�� Four-year colleges and universities

�� Technical schools�� Hospitals�� Museums�� Professional associations�� Marketing companies�� Bookstores�� Publishers�� Federal government agencies�� State and local government�� Mental health clinics�� Community recreation centers


�� Campbell University, Pharmacy, PharmD

�� George Washington University, Forensic Science, MS

�� Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Medicine, DO

�� University of Tennessee, Veterinary Medicine, DVM

�� University of Virginia, Medicine, MD

�� Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Biological Sciences, MS

Natural sciences

InternshipsUVa-Wise students have internships with local compa-nies and organizations in the sciences. Examples include the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Environmental Monitoring, Inc., Appalachian Technical Services, and Park Avenue Physical Therapy. Students gain valuable experi-ence in field sampling, laboratory analysis, and data analysis, and receive hands-on technical instruction in their prospective professional fields. The department houses the offices of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Surface Mining. Positions are also available with VISTA and AmeriCorps. These positions provide students with opportunities in ecology, conservation biology, and environmental science.

Study AbroadOpportunities for international study in the natural sciences are available through Academic Programs International in Krakow, Poland; Rome and Syracuse, Italy; Cork, Galway, and Limerick, Ireland; and Leeds, United Kingdom.

Research OpportunitiesStudents can work with science faculty on individual research projects, many of which lead to publication or conference presentations. Each year, the Fellowship in the Natural Sciences (FINS) program provides students with competitive summer research fellowships. These include a stipend and direct, intensive mentoring by a faculty member in the sciences.

Facilities and EquipmentThe department has several state-of-the-art laboratories equipped to carry out a wide range of modern molecular, chemical, and biochemical techniques, as well as traditional field equipment for both terrestrial and aquatic studies. Specialized equipment available for student use includes high-speed centri- fuges, a scanning electron microscope, a fluorescent microscope, thermocyclers, UV/fluorescence spectropho-tometers, IR spectrometers, a GC, an HPLC, an electro- chemical workstation, an AA spectrometer, a functional NMR capable of proton and carbon analyses, and equipment for horizontal/vertical electro- phoresis and gel analyses. The department also maintains an observatory with computer-controlled telescope, an herbarium, and a natural history museum and teaching collection.

TechnologyTechnology is integrated into natural sciences curricula beginning in the first and second years of study. Resources available to students include search engines for primary scientific literature and DNA/proteins; software for

analyzing statistics, gel imaging, visualizing molecule structures, producing publication-quality graphs, and oral presentations; and open-ended simulation software packages in molecular biology, genetics, and ecology.

Employment OutlookBiology graduates find career paths in research, education, health care, biotechnology, and environmental management and conservation. They can expect increasing opportunities in biotechnology and molecular biology in particular, as well as growing employment openings with federal govern-ment agencies. The American Chemical Society anticipates growth in the petrochemical fields and decline in the pharmaceutical industries. Nearly half of new graduates will enter a manufacturing industry. Environmental science graduates establish careers in many of the same fields as those with biology and chemistry degrees. Employers include government agencies and businesses, and there is a strong outlook for positions with private-sector consulting firms.

Positions Held by Recent UVa-Wise Graduates

�� Aquatic biologist�� Ecologist�� Environmental inspector �� Forensic scientist�� High school teacher�� MRI technician�� Organ transplant coordinator�� U.S. Army�� U.S. Navy �� Virginia State Police

The Department of Natural Sciences at UVa-Wise immerses students in the primary scientific literature from their first semester of study. Students generally have the same professor in lectures and labs, ensuring coherent presenta-tion of material and promoting strong student-faculty relationships with faculty members. Such personal atten-tion encourages effective mentoring and often leads to research collaboration or internships. Between 50 and 70 percent of UVa-Wise biology and chemistry students enter graduate or professional schools after graduation. In addition to careers in the health and teaching professions, our graduates succeed in environmental law, genetic counseling, forensic science, and a variety of military fields.

Majors�� Biology

�� Chemistry

�� Environmental Science

�� Medical Technology/ Clinical Laboratory Science

�� Biochemistry

Minors�� Biology

�� Chemistry

�� Earth Science

�� Physics

education

The College’s Department of Education has a long history of preparing students for rewarding careers in teaching. Many of the teachers, principals, and superintendents in Wise County are graduates of the program, and most have taken courses at UVa-Wise. In addition to the department’s requirements, students must complete state requirements to receive a teaching licensure. Majors are eligible for membership in the Student Virginia Education Association (SVEA), which sponsors an annual conference. The majority of students in the education program complete the major in four years. A high percentage of our graduates seek teaching positions after graduation; others find administra-tive jobs as principals and guidance and career counselors.

Areas of Study�� 6–12 Education

�� Health and Physical Education

�� Library Media

�� Music Education

�� Pre-K–6 Education

�� Special Education

What you’ll learn

12 13


�� Argosy University, Clinical Psychology, PhD

�� The College of William and Mary, JD

�� East Tennessee State University, Counseling, MS

�� George Mason University, Social Work, MA

�� George Washington University, Forensic Science, MS

�� Radford University, Experimental Psychology, MS

�� University of Virginia, Clinical Psychology, PhD

Nursing

InternshipsBetween their junior and senior years, all UVa-Wise nursing students have opportunities for paid internships in local hospitals, including Wellmont Holston Valley Hospital, Bristol Regional Medical Center, Johnston Memorial Hospital, and Norton Community Hospital.

Facilities and EquipmentThe department is supported by the Clinical Nursing Resource Center, the Health Assessment Lab in the Science Center, a computer lab opened in conjunction with the Depart-ment of Language and Literature, multiple computer-assisted instructional modules, several mannequins, and software including SIM MAN and SIM BABY. Laptop computers are available specifically for nursing students, and professors often use Blackboard in their teaching.

Field OpportunitiesNursing students have recently assisted with hearing and vision screenings in local schools. They have also worked with Remote Area Medical (RAM), a program that provides medical and dental care for uninsured families that could not otherwise afford medical care.

Scholarships and AwardsNursing scholarships include the College’s Strunk Scholar-ships, awarded in various amounts to as many nursing students as possible. Johnson & Johnson also offers several nursing scholarships. Honor awards are presented annually by UVa-Wise faculty to nursing students. The Outstanding

Graduate in Nursing Award, the Velta Holyfield Memorial Scholar- ship, and the Karen Denice Lane Nursing Challenge Award recognize student excellence.

Exceptional students may be invited to join the Beta Kappa Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, the International Honor Society of Nursing. The Society strives to advance the learning and professional development of its members.

Study AbroadAn opportunity for international study in nursing is available through the College’s program at the University of Huelva in Spain.

Employment OutlookWith a nationwide shortage of nurses, the job outlook for nursing graduates is promising. In addition to working in hospital environments, RNs can find employment in other arenas, including pharmaceutical sales, school systems, corporations, and social service agencies. Recent nursing graduates of UVa-Wise have found positions as family nurse practitioners, nursing instructors, community health nurses, intensive care nurses, emergency room nurses, pediatric nurses, OB/GYN nurses, and critical care nurses.

Employers of Recent UVa-Wise Graduates

�� Mountain Empire Community College

�� Johnson City Medical Center�� Holston Valley Medical Center�� Inova Alexandria Hospital�� Wellmont Health System�� Mount States Health Alliance

The Department of Nursing—whose mission is to provide students with a strong liberal arts background along with preparation for advanced practice nursing and graduate study—offers a program of study leading to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Approved by the Virginia State Board of Nursing, the program has also been granted national accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Two tracks are available: the RN to BSN Program, which allows working registered nurses to complete the BSN; and the four-year Pre- Licensure Program, which prepares students to take the National Council Licensure Examination.

social and Behavioral sciences

Research OpportunitiesResearch made possible by the NeuroCognitive Sciences laboratory has led increasingly to faculty presentations at national and international conferences. Students have collaborated on this research, attended a number of confer-ences, and been involved in the presentations.

InternshipsInternships are prevalent, especially in conjunction with senior capstone courses. Students have gained hands-on experience working in a counseling center with a licensed counselor. Sociology students considering social work as a major might shadow staff members or find intern-ships at the Department of Social Services, abused women’s shelters, or other agencies. Recently, students have held internships in Virginia’s attorney general’s office and with Henrico County Police.

Facilities and EquipmentThe NeuroCognitive Sciences Laboratory is equipped to allow psychology students to write stimulus presentation programs for both auditory and visual stimuli. Using the Neuroscan bioamplifier with EEG SCAN, ANALYZE, SOURCE, and STIM software, students record and analyze 32 channels of EEG activity from test subjects engaged in physical or mental tasks.

A BioPac bioamplifier allows for analysis of physiological data, such as electromyography, electroocular, electroencepha-lography, respiration, heart rate, electrocardiograph, and polygraph recordings. The department also has software programs that analyze MRI and fMRI images and morphology data, and conver-sion software to prepare raw magnet data for analysis.

FacultyFaculty in the department hold research degrees from major U.S. and European universities (George Mason University, Indiana University of Pennsylva-nia, Rutgers University, Texas A&M, University of Pittsburgh, University of San Francisco, Virginia Tech, University of Bucharest, University of Tennessee, Boston College) and have lectured around the world.

Study AbroadOpportunities for international study in the social and behavioral sciences are available through the College’s bilateral agreements with the University of Huelva in Spain and through Academic Programs Interna-tional in Krakow, Poland; Budapest, Hungary; Rome and Florence, Italy; Galway and Limerick, Ireland; London, England; and Seville, Spain.

Employment OutlookA broad spectrum of career opportunities is available to the department’s majors, and the liberal arts background they receive at the College prepares them to adapt to a wide range of jobs. The presence of social conditions such as substance abuse, mental illness, prison overcrowding, and terrorism ensures that job opportunities for graduates will remain abundant. Government majors find careers with law firms, government agencies, political action committees, universities, corporations, and news media. Psychology majors are hired by such employers as government, hospitals, corporations, advertising firms, universities, retail establishments, and market research firms. Sociology majors are employed in many of these same areas, as well as by correctional institutions, halfway houses, and insurance companies. Administration of justice majors enjoy many of the above career options, as well as the potential for careers in local, state, and federal courts; law firms; corporate legal departments; and public interest law organizations.


�� Case manager�� Clinical psychologist�� Family counselor�� General district court judge�� Lawyer�� Special agent, Office of Homeland Security

�� Substance abuse counselor

The Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers the BA in administration of justice and government and the BS in psychology and sociology. Students may minor in administration of justice, political science, psychology, and sociology. Special topics courses—with such titles as Terrorism, Serial Killers and Their Victims, Christian Political Theory, and Early American Political Thought—focus on themes of potential interest to all of the department’s majors. Beyond its degree-granting programs, the department offers a program leading to secondary school teaching certification.

Major or Minor�� Administration of Justice

�� Government (major)

�� Political Science (minor)

�� Psychology

�� Sociology

What you’ll learn

14 15

The CurriculumStudents majoring in communi-cation take courses on such topics as public speaking, oral interpretation, journalism and media writing, writing for radio-television-film, film analysis, persuasion, video production techniques, interpersonal and family communication, cooperative education, business and professional communication, and nonverbal communication.

Research OpportunitiesEvery student completes an original research project with the assistance of a faculty mentor, who acts as advisor and coinvestigator. Research project titles have included “Appalachian Speech: Attitudes toward a Backwoods Dialect,” “Representations of Mothers in Television and Film,” “Hurricane Katrina: Front-Page Newspaper Portrayals of African-Americans,” “The Art in Remixed Music,” and “Analysis of Male Bonding through Verbal Abuse.”

Study AbroadOpportunities for international study in communication are available through Academic Programs International in Grenoble, France; Rome, Italy; London, England; and Seville, Spain.

Facilities and EquipmentThe department is supported by the Oral Communications Lab (a tutoring center for speech students), a television station, and a radio station.

InternshipsUVa-Wise students participate in communication internships throughout the state. Internship sites have included Norton Community Hospital, Coalfield Progress, Virginia Port Authority, Johnson City Cardinals, and the College’s own offices of Student Affairs, College Relations, and Admis-sions and Financial Aid.

Student NewspaperThe Highland Cavalier, the College’s student-published weekly newspaper, presents information relevant to the student body—from campus events and news to sports, entertainment, and editorials. Produced with the oversight of a communication studies faculty member, the newspaper offers all UVa-Wise students an opportunity to cultivate journalistic style and professionalism.

Employment OutlookThe demand for communication majors is rising with the increasing prevalence of communication-oriented fields. The advanced writing and speaking skills of the depart-ment’s graduates are essential in the workplace.


�� College admissions counselor�� Human resources trainer�� Web designer�� Public relations associate�� Sales representative�� Career counselor�� College instructor,�� Insurance agent�� Community relations coordinator


�� Bowling Green State Univer-sity, PhD, Communication Sciences and Disorders

�� Indiana University of Pennsyl-vania, PhD, Communication Media and Instructional Technology

�� Radford University, MS, Communication Sciences and Disorders

�� King College, MBA

�� West Virginia University, MA, Integrated Marketing Communication

�� University of Alabama, MS, Communication Studies

�� Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, MA, Communication Studies


�� Mary Baldwin College and The American Shakespeare Center, Elizabethan Literature and Performance, MFA

�� Oregon State University, Design, MFA

�� Appalachian State, Appalachian Studies, MA

visual and Performing arts

The CurriculumAcademic programs in each of the artistic disciplines culminate in individualized seminars specifically tailored to a student’s area of interest. The programs include such diverse courses as Magic, Puppetry, Performance Studies, and Theatrical Aesthetics. Music and theatre programs offer students the opportunity for certification or licensure in teaching.

Facilities and EquipmentA recent $14 million expansion and renovation of the College Arts Complex included the creation of Gilliam Center for the Arts, where new high- tech automated production equipment has expanded course offerings and strengthened the music and theatre programs. Studios and darkrooms are available for student use, and

one studio is dedicated to a visiting artist, whom students can observe at work, consult, and with whom they can schedule critiques. Student and faculty art is exhibited throughout campus.

InternshipsUVa-Wise theatre majors have held internships with the Barter Theater, Disney, and the Trail of the Lonesome Pine.

TechnologyMany of the department’s art courses use imaging software as a teaching tool. Dedicated high-tech equipment is available for lighting and sound work in theatre produc-tions. All students have access to an electronic keyboard lab and a dedicated sound recording computer station.

OpportunitiesThe Highland Players, a student organization, sponsors theatre-related events and programs. The Department sponsors from two to four performances per year. Anywhere from 8 to 40 students participate in these productions, some of which tour regionally. Students have opportunities to attend theatre conferences and regional performances each year. The department’s strongest students are eligible for academic merit scholarships.

EnsemblesThe Division of Music boasts more than a dozen ensembles, from the Marching Highland Cavaliers and Highland Winds to the Concert Choir and Highland Chorale that performs a broad range of music, from Renais-sance to jazz. Additionally, our Wise Guys Low Brass Ensemble, String Ensemble, Trumpet Ensemble, Clarinet Ensemble, Saxophone Ensemble, Percus-sion Ensemble, Highland Singers, and Madrigal Choir provide students important experience in chamber music.

Study AbroadOpportunities for international study in the arts are available through Academic Programs International in Rome, Florence, Syracuse, and Tuscania, Italy; London, England; and Bilbao, Spain.

Employment OutlookCareer opportunities for art majors include freelance designer/illustrator, graphic designer, studio artist or photographer, art teacher, art director, and museum or gallery curator. Recent graduates have found positions as art instructors, professional photographers, Web designers, and art therapists. Theatre majors acquire skills that are applicable to many vocations, especially those involving planning, organization, teamwork, budgeting, and management skills. Job titles among recent theatre graduates have included production assistant, Barter Theater; sound engineer, Barter Theater; character actor, Walt Disney World Resorts; and production technician, Orlando Entertain-ment Complex.

Music graduates pursue a variety of careers that include church music, performance, pre-K–12 teaching, conducting, composition, and orchestration/arranging. Majors are also prepared to seek future graduate study in music.


�� Acting company member�� Sound engineer�� Technical director�� Shop foreman�� Costume shop assistant�� Strolling Disney character �� Stage manager�� Stage crew�� Inventory manager

Offering majors in art, theatre, and music leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree, the Department of Visual and Performing Arts also offers hands-on courses (studio/performance/production), open to all students, in musical performance, dance, art, and theatre. The department’s small size provides students a wealth of individual attention from faculty and the flexibility to fashion a course of study that fits their interests and intentions. Opportunities from freshman to senior year allow students to become involved and accrue valuable and real-world experience throughout their college tenure.

Majors and Minors:�� Art

�� Theatre

�� Music

communication studies

The communication major is ideal for students with career goals in journalism, media writing, human relations, sales, and public relations. The Department of Commun- ication Studies offers students a wide array of courses in journalism, mass media, interpersonal communication, business communication, and rhetoric. Communication majors may participate in internships locally, nationally, or internationally. Outstanding students in communication studies are invited to join the national communication honor society’s Rho Xi chapter on campus.

Major or Minor�� Communication

What you’ll learn

16 17

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to have a favorite professor moderate a late-night philosophical discussion, the Peake Honors Program may be for you. Based on the premise that academically motivated students gain energy and insight from participating in small, intensive study groups, the program offers special Honors Seminars that emphasize rigorous thinking and discussion. Honors students also partici-pate in special off-campus excursions, including recent trips to the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit and the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina.

what it takes. Admission to the program is open to freshmen with an academic GPA of 3.5 or above and combined SAT scores of 1200 or better.

special Opportunities. By their junior and senior years, program participants have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members of their choice on special research projects and independent studies. Students who successfully navigate all of the program requirements earn the distinction of gradu-ating “with College Honors.”

Sample Honors Seminars

�� The Italian Renaissance

�� Plants That Changed the World

�� The Aging U.S. Population

�� Morality and Capitalism

�� Science and Religion

�� The Year 1968

What you’ll learn

sMAll seMinArs. biG MoTivATors.

LIFE LESSONS longtime

french instructor Mike “o’D”

o’Donnell was a featured

speaker at the last lectures,

a lecture series where faculty

members speak to students

about the lessons they’ve

learned during their careers.

HEAD OUTSIDE Holding

class by Campus lake,

professor of education

wayne wheatley describes

the fundamentals of

childhood learning in a

course on human growth

and development.

great HorneD owl

� INDEPENDENT WORK—WITH SUPPORT working with one or more

faculty members, each Honors student completes an independent

study project before graduation. students present the results of their

interdisciplinary research publicly at special Honors colloquia.

“some of the coolest and most interesting people i’ve met in college have been part of the Honors program. all of the students and fac-ulty involved in the program are like-minded when it comes to academics, but they have a broad range of interests, which exposes me to so many new ideas.”Jessica Shartouny, Potomac Falls, Va., chemis-try major, biology and English minors, RA, SGA, Peake Honors program, Art Guild, Highland Cavalier newspaper, Jimson Weed literary magazine, Fellowship in the Natural Sciences, leadership and math and science honor societies, Darden Society

honorAble PursuiTs

Jessica Shartouny’s schedule is jam-packed

with extracurriculars, but she says “the

Peake Honors Program is, by far, my favorite

activity.” She has especially enjoyed the

Honors research projects: “They allow me to

research things that I find interesting but can’t

incorporate into my classes. I’ve researched

water quality in campus lakes, and I worked

with the social sciences department to survey

local residents on their views of the Middle

East, and we put together a video of inter-

views on the subject.” After graduation,

Jessica plans to enter an MD/PhD program

and pursue a career in medical research,

possibly focusing on cancer immunology.

18

HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT anyone

who needs academic assistance

may request free tutoring from

the tutor Connection. Peer tutors,

supervised by College faculty,

provide individual or group tutoring

in many subject areas and offer

computer-based assistance as well.

� LEARN TO SPEAK UP a basic proficiency

in oral communication—whether in the

form of public speaking skills, small-group

speaking skills, or interviewing skills—

is important in every major. the oral

Communication laboratory at uVa-wise

helps students prepare for presentations.

You’re here to learn—and we’re here to help you. To assist students in navigating the wide range of academic choices available to them, UVa-Wise has developed an advising system that puts students in close contact with faculty members throughout their college experience.

Be advised. Starting in freshman year, we assign every student an advisor. Advisors meet with a small group of students weekly in a seminar course designed to smooth the transition from high school to college. Once you select a major, faculty members from the appropriate department assist in course selection, locate internships and research opportunities, and even help with applications to graduate schools and job interviews.

additional resources. Qualified students are also invited to make use of Student Support Services on campus. Funded by the U.S. Depart-ment of Education, this office has extensive resources, including diagnostic testing material, instructional videotapes, and a math lab.

Student Support Services

�� Academic advising

�� Accommodation, assistance, and advice for students with disabilities

�� Counseling (career, financial, and personal)

�� Peer support groups

�� Study skills classes

�� Workshops

�� Supplemental instruction

�� Tutoring

PASS IT ON Many students who

begin with a need for tutoring

end up tutoring others.

“My advisers at student support services have helped me tremendously. since making use of sss, my grades have gone up, and my attitude about classes has changed. ”Annette Nicole “Nicky” Scott, Moyers, WV, and Harrisonburg, Va., sociology major, Concert Choir, Highland Choral, College Republicans, Marching Highland Cavaliers

blaCK bear

suPPorTinG sTuDenT success

After struggling a bit during her first year, Nicky

Scott sought out UVa-Wise’s Student Support

Services. “I try to take full advantage of the

services that SSS offers,” she says. “I have used

book loan and the tutoring services, and I have

also attended most of the different SSS meetings

about grad school, finances, jobs, résumés.”

After graduation, Nicky plans to pursue a

master’s degree in either sociology or social

work. “I would like to teach at the college level

one day, or be a social worker” she says.

What you’ll learn

sTuDenT GoAls. AcADeMic suPPorT.

21

Win-Win oPPorTuniTies

Christian Meade knows that reaching out can make

a difference not only in the lives of others, but

also in his own life. “Being involved,” he says,

“whether in a community service or other organiza-

tion, can enhance your college experience in so

many ways.” Through Pi Lambda Phi—the fraternity

of which he is now president—Christian says, “I have

been able to plan, organize, and create new

community service events. Being a nursing major,

where you learn the skills to support and care

for people, these events have ties to my course

work.” And he has no plans to stop doing service

after graduation: “I hope to pursue a doctorate

in nursing and become a family nurse practitioner

so I can continue helping others.”

Whether through volunteering, conducting summer or independent research, studying abroad, attending (or presenting at) a research conference, or taking on internships, UVa-Wise students find countless ways to supplement and enhance their learning.

cross the globe. UVa-Wise students may study abroad for a semester with one of our sister institutions in Turkey, Spain, Mexico, Austria, and Wales, or through Academic Programs Inter-national institutions in the UK, Spain, Costa Rica, Italy, Mexico, Hungary, Poland, and France. The College also sponsors a number of international trips—such as to Spain, Scotland, and India—during fall, spring, winter, and summer breaks.

Real-world experience. Opportunities for criminal justice and nursing internships are prevalent in and around Wise. Psychology- and business-related internships are also widespread in the area.

Donating their time. Through AmeriCorps, students give back to the community by mentoring area youth. This and other community service opportunities enhance the UVa-Wise experience.

Recent Community Service

�� Serving as youth mentors through AmeriCorps

�� Fund-raising for Lone Survivor Project

�� Fund-raising for St. Jude’s Hospital

�� Sending care packages to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan

�� Fund-raising for Cavs for a Cure’s cancer research

�� Participating in the Chancellor for a Day food drive

�� Picking up litter

THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC uVa-wise students take a

break on the grounds of the

Pagoda of six Harmonies

in Hangzhou, a small city

on the west lake about

an hour and a half from

shanghai. accompanied

by several instructors, the

students gained firsthand

knowledge of Chinese

language and culture.

BRIT LIT LIVE Dr. John

adrian recently designed and

taught the course london in

literature. taking part in

a hands-on supplement,

students traveled to london

and visited sites associated

with william shakespeare,

Charles Dickens, Virginia

woolf, and others.

What you’ll learn

MulTiPle DesTinATions. sinGulAr PAThs.

hOOdEd WARBlER

“i’ve been able to help with or plan at least one community service event every month for the last year—all of which have been successful and made a direct impact on our local community. ”Christian N. Meade, Coeburn, Va., nursing major, Pi Lambda Phi president, freshman class expedition leader, Order of Omega and Gamma Sigma Alpha honor societies

GROWING THROUGH SERVICE students find

personal rewards in community service.

22

five sTories That’s the height of the C. Bascom Slemp Student Center, where students relax and recreate

between and after classes. With an art gallery, bookstore, fitness center, snack bar, and much more,

the center brings student necessities and luxuries together under one roof.

Wise sPiriT

On this campus brimming with activities, from sports to debates to

SGA meetings to festivals, students stay active—and have fun.

neW builDinGs

In 2009, a 120-bed, $8.45 million residence hall that looks out over Campus Lake opened.

The College also opened a new dining commons where, in addition to the main dining area,

students enjoy a coffee shop, private dining areas, and an entertainment space .

One of the advantages of Uva-wise’s size is how much influence each student can have. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to be known here. a student who reluctantly joins an organization may find herself its president the following semester. another student—not a theatre major—may unexpectedly land a role in a campus theatrical production. everyone has a chance to get involved.

there aren’t many colleges where five students can get together and found a fraternity, but it happened here recently. Or where students with a desire to participate start a new club that develops into an intercollegiate sport, as it did with softball. every fall, students gather for a weekend leadership retreat—and many clubs and organizations gain momentum and inspiration from the experience. Believe it or not, students can—and do—carry 18 hours of credit, work part time, and still manage to play several sports, volunteer, and hold student government positions. surprising? You bet.

Meet UpYou’ll not only stay active, but also make plenty of friends who will participate with you. Even students who show up not knowing a soul on campus quickly meet scores of friends everywhere: in class, in their residence hall, on their team—even in line at the dining hall.

hoW You’ll live

TAke The leAD. TAke iT eAsY.

At UVa-Wise, there’s no such thing as spare time—at least not for long. You may have heard the saying, “nature abhors a vacuum”; our always-active students confirm it. With more than 60 clubs and organizations on campus, as well as 200 campus recreation activities (intramurals/outdoor recreation) and student activities each academic year, keeping busy is easy.

Make time to play. More than half of UVa-Wise students participate in the student life program, which includes one of the best small-college intramural programs in the nation. For those less athletically inclined, other competitive offerings include everything from billiards to air hockey.

Sample Organizations

�� Art Guild

�� Baptist Collegiate Ministries

�� Campus Judicial Board

�� Cheerleaders

�� College Republicans

�� Greeks (4 national fraternities: Alpha Sigma Phi, Kappa Sigma, Pi Kappa Phi, and Pi Lambda Phi; and 3 national sororities: Alpha Sigma Tau, Phi Sigma Sigma, and Theta Phi Alpha)

�� Highland Cavalier Marching Band

�� Honor Court

�� Order of Omega

�� Outdoor Recreation

�� Phi Beta Lambda

�� Pre-Law Society

�� Pre-Professional Club

�� Psi Chi

�� Residence Hall Association

�� Student Activities Board

�� Student Government Association

�� Student Nursing Association

�� Student Virginia Education Association

�� The Highland Cavalier (newspaper)

�� UVa-Wise Ambassadors

�� UVa-Wise Concert Band

�� Young Democrats

FIGHTING SPIRIT the Highland Cavalier

Marching band energizes and inspires players

and fans alike.

“working as the chair of theta Phi alpha’s philanthropy committee has shown me how to plan, work, and organize events. it also shows me how blessed we are to be able to help people in our community.”Paige Tiller, Honaker, Va, nursing major, Theta Phi Alpha, intramurals, Student Nursing Organization

riVer otter

TAKE YOUR PICK students attend uVa-wise’s fall convocation

picnic to learn about the myriad clubs and organizations on

campus, such as the spiritual group tupos.

how you’ll live

Diverse inTeresTs. shAreD PursuiTs.

life in AnD ouT of The clAssrooM

Nursing major Paige Tiller knows how to balance school

work and fun. She says, “My course work is always my

first concern, but when I need a mental break, I always

find something to be involved in on campus.” Paige is

an active member of the Theta Phi Alpha (TPA) sorority,

where she’s currently helping organize a special event

for the 10th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

“TPA has made a world of difference in my overall

college experience,” she says. “I go to them

when I need to laugh, cry, or when I need someone

to talk to. It’s been so rewarding, and I’ve made

friendships that I will have for a lifetime.” After

graduation, Paige would like to work at Bristol

Regional Hospital in Bristol, Tenn., and eventually

go back to school to become a nurse anesthetist.

WHERE THE ACTION IS intramural sport activities are

extremely popular on campus.

intramural options include

basketball, billiards, fantasy

football, flag football, frisbee

golf, indoor soccer, ping-pong,

softball, tennis, and volleyball.

even faculty members are

eligible to participate.

27

Athletics are a major source of involvement at UVa-Wise, for both players and spectators. Our coaches instill the values of perseverance, teamwork, and a positive attitude—all important to career success in any field.

elite play. All Highland Cavalier sports are members of the Mid-South Conference. In 2007, the football team, which plays at home on one of the finest playing surfaces in the nation, won the Eastern Division Conference Co-Championship. Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams have competed in the NAIA national tournament, men in 2010 and women in 2006. The baseball team has made two consecutive regional appearances. In 2007, women’s tennis and women’s volleyball both qualified for the regional tournament.

Honorable on and off the field. As the College’s ambassadors at away games, our 200 student-athletes uphold high standards of conduct, and the pride in their good sportsmanship is carried by the entire student body.

Men’s Varsity�� Baseball

�� Basketball

�� Cross country

�� Football

�� Golf

�� Tennis

Women’s Varsity�� Basketball

�� Cross country

�� Softball

�� Tennis

�� Volleyball

BEST OF THE BEST three uVa-wise softball team

members were selected in 2008 for the VasiD

all-state College Division second team, voted on by

the state’s collegiate sports information directors.

GO, CAVS! the Highland Cavaliers men’s

basketball team competed in the naia

national tournament in 2010.

how you’ll live

TeAM sPiriT. PersonAl GroWTh.

wooD DuCK

“Playing sports has opened up opportunities for me —opportunities socially, and the chance to interact with the local community. i have met some great people here who really made an impression on me.”Stewart Anthony Robertson, Danville, Va., health and physical education major with a concentration in sports management, football, intramurals

PrePAreD To Win

When health and physical education major Stewart

Robertson wanted to transfer from his old college,

he chose UVa-Wise for two reasons: “First, the

type of education I knew I would receive from the

small school atmosphere. Also, I was familiar with

the coaching staff here, and I felt I could fit right in

with the players.” Stewart, who hopes to either

attend graduate school or get certified as a

strength and conditioning coach after graduation,

says of his fellow Cavs, “I have great teammates—

some of them should be comedians.” His

personal sports philosophy? “Aim for excellence,

prepare to win, and lose with dignity.”

ON THE COURT from february through april

each year, the tennis team faces such opponents as

berea, georgetown, and Milligan colleges.

28

AT hoMe ouTsiDeBusiness administration major (and Eagle Scout)

Shaun William Foster has taken full advantage of

UVa-Wise’s outdoor offerings. He says, “Participat-

ing in the Outdoor Recreation Program has really

made many of my childhood dreams come true.

As a kid, I loved being active in sports and the

outdoors, and through this program, I’ve gone

skydiving, camping, hiking, and to NFL, NHL, and

MLB games.” And Shaun had no trouble getting

involved: “Within the first two weeks of being here,

I saw banners up everywhere mentioning events or

trips coming up.” After graduation? “My goal is to

find a career in something with outdoor recreation.”

“the Outdoor Recreation Program and intramurals are the reason i decided to come to Uva-wise. when i saw all the opportunities for fun that wise had to offer, it was impossible to say no.”Shaun William Foster, Catlett, Va., business administration major, Kappa Sigma Fraternity, Catlett Fire and Rescue, Goon Squad intramural team, Eagle Scout

We realize this is a special place—one whose enormous natural resources form a playground, an outdoor labora-tory, and a safe territory for learning. Our students don’t have to travel far to appreciate the region’s natural beauty: the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, which cover 70 percent of Wise County, adjoin the UVa-Wise campus. Students use it as a tranquil haven for meditation, a place of study, and—when hiking and rock climbing—a fitness center.

farther afield. Beyond the forest, outdoor recreation hot spots include such destinations as Breaks Interstate Park, the Guest River Gorge Trail, Natural Tunnel, and Wilderness Road State Park.

take it all in. Cultural attractions surround Wise as well. Students head to Abingdon to take in productions at the Barter Theatre (the State Theatre of Virginia), to visit galleries and shops, and to attend regional festivals. The Southwest Virginia Museum and the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail offer glimpses of the region’s frontier history. And wherever you go in the region, you’ll find the people as friendly and laid-back as they come.

Outdoor Activities�� Bicycling

�� Camping

�� Canoeing

�� Cross-country skiing

�� Downhill skiing

�� Fishing

�� Golf

�� Hiking

�� Horseback riding

�� Hunting

�� Kayaking

�� Mountain biking

�� Road cycling

�� Rock climbing

�� Snowboarding

�� Swimming

�� Tubing

�� Whitewater rafting

House CriCKet

how you’ll live

serene beAuTY. ruGGeD ADvenTure.

ON THE TOWN students head into

the town of wise to eat local food,

hear mountain music, and peruse

the goods of appalachian artisans.

INTO THE FOREST with 370,000 acres in wise

County alone, the george

washington and Jefferson

national forests stand high

on the list of destinations—

for hiking, rock climbing,

and canoeing, among

other activities.

TAKING PART the outdoor recreation Program sponsors off-campus

recreation activities for students, such as caving, hiking, rock climbing,

and horseback riding; recently added outings include tandem skydiving

and professional sporting events in nearby cities. through the program,

students can borrow tents, sleeping bags, and camping and fishing

gear—and soon will have access to mountain bikes and climbing gear.

31

The sense of community in residence life is apparent right from the start. As soon as your car full of belongings arrives on “Move In Day,” you’ll likely be surrounded by students, faculty, and staff volunteering to help you unload.

Home away from home. All freshmen (who are under the age of 25, unmarried, and not residents of Wise County) live on campus. Most start off in McCraray Hall (first-year living and learning community), which has two-person rooms and community baths on each floor. Other living options for upperclassmen include suites and two- or three-bedroom apartments with or without kitchens. All residence halls are coed, tobacco-free, and wired for high-speed Internet access.

commuter connection. Students who don’t live on campus benefit from the commuter facilities in the Slemp Student Center, including Wi-Fi access, dining options closer to academic buildings, a fitness center, study spaces, and a T.V. lounge.

Residence Halls�� Asbury Hall

(1984, 48 residents, apartment- style units with kitchens)

�� Commonwealth Hall (2009, 120 residents)

�� Culbertson Hall (2006, 125 residents, air- conditioned suite-style units)

�� Henson Hall (2000, 112 residents, air-conditioned)

�� Martha Randolph Hall (1992, 48 residents, air- conditioned suite-style units)

�� McCraray Hall (1973, freshmen only, 223 residents, alcohol-free)

�� Theme Houses (1958, 6 residents per house)

�� Thompson Hall (1988, 48 residents, apartment- style units with kitchens)

�� Townhouses (1971, 38 residents, apartment-style units)

FOOD AND FRIENDSHIP Meals in the smith Dining Commons are a perfect

time to catch up with friends. and Mondo’s subs and Coyote Jack’s grill, located

in the slemp student Center, provide additional dining options for students.

ROOM TO GROW students who live

on campus spend less time on the

road—leaving more time for study

or student activities.

SOMETHING IN COMMON in campus lounges and

common areas, students get

together to study, take breaks

between classes, and simply

relax and catch up.

how you’ll live

our cAMPus. Your hoMe.

long-taileD salaManDer

live Where You Work (AnD PlAY)

When asked which intramural programs he participates

in, music major Jahmal Potter says, “Pretty much

everything you can think of.” That includes everything

from foosball to flag football to Ultimate Frisbee—his

favorite. In addition to all the fun offerings, Jahmal says

living on campus has helped him manage his schedule:

“I have two jobs on campus, and everything is within

walking distance. All my coaches and employers know

each other and are willing to work together.”

“Living on campus, everything is so close and easily accessible, and there are so many resources. it’s a comfortable and easy transition from living at home.”Jahmal Potter, Virginia Beach, Va., music major, communications minor, football, intramural supervisor

32

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