Glenville State University, located in Glenville (Gilmer County), was founded in 1872 as a teacher-training school. It now also focuses on business, music, human services, and natural resources.

The school started in a small donated building and held its first classes in 1873. Over time, it grew and began offering four-year degrees in 1930, with it officially becoming Glenville State Teachers College. In 1943, it was renamed Glenville State College.

During and after World War II, the college expanded with new buildings and more programs. The campus, located on College Hill, overlooks Glenville and celebrates Appalachian culture as host of the West Virginia State Folk Festival.

In March 2022, its women’s basketball team won the NCAA Division II National Championship. That same year, Glenville was officially named a university.