Historic Baptist university in West Virginia that pioneered nursing and physician assistant education before closing in 2023.
Alderson Broaddus University was formed in 1932 through the merger of two Baptist institutions: Broaddus College (founded 1871 in Winchester, Virginia) and Alderson Academy (founded 1901 in Alderson, West Virginia). The institution was historically committed to liberal arts education with emphasis on Christian faith, literature, the arts, and sciences. It became a pioneer in health professions education, establishing West Virginia's first four-year nursing program in 1945 and the nation's first four-year physician assistant degree program in 1968. The university adopted its final name in 2013 and expanded significantly under President Richard Creehan (2011–2023), increasing enrollment by over 600 students and adding numerous academic programs.
Prior to closure, the university operated five academic divisions: the College of Health, Science, Technology, and Math; the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences; the College of Business; the College of Medical Science; and the College of Adult and Distance Education. The institution was particularly known for its nursing and physician assistant programs, which emerged as flagship offerings. The university also offered graduate-level education, including a Physician Assistant Master's program established in 1991.
The 170-acre campus in Philippi overlooked the Tygart Valley River and featured historic buildings including Whitescarver Hall (1911–1912, on the National Register of Historic Places) and Burbick Hall (administration). The university was home to the Alderson Broaddus Battlers, competing in NCAA Division II. At closure, the institution offered 20 varsity sports including football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, wrestling, volleyball, cross country, track and field, baseball, softball, and acrobatics.
In June 2017, the Higher Learning Commission placed the university on probation due to financial difficulties. Though removed from probation in 2019, financial challenges persisted. On July 31, 2023, the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission revoked the university's ability to confer degrees, citing inability to maintain a stable learning environment. The board of trustees voted to close the institution the same day, and the campus filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidation on August 31, 2023.