Study in West Virginia

As its nickname the 'Mountain State' may suggest, West Virginia is better known for natural grandeur than any large urban developments.

West Virginia was founded during the American Civil War, when it broke away from Virginia to join the Union. Its landscape is dominated by the Appalachian Mountains, which has led it to being labelled the Mountain State.

The resultant climate means that it is also known for its lush natural beauty. offering mountains, greenery, and aglut of lakes and rivers.

If you’re looking for large sprawling cosmopolitan metropolises, perhaps you might be advised to look elsewhere. The two largest cities in the state – capital Charleston and Huntington – both have populations of around 50,000.

The state’s flagship public university is based in the even smaller Morgantown, which has a population of around 30,000 (though the larger metropolitan area is estimated to have a population around four times that size).

However, if it is a quieter, more peaceful experience you’re after, then these small ex-industrial cities have plenty to offer. Charleston and Huntington, for example, are rich with historical architecture, and have plenty of museums and galleries to keep you entertained.

Both host a number of annual festivals too, ranging from the more traditional country music variety, to the more idiosyncratic ‘Grumble Run’ – a five kilometre ‘run’ complete with breaks for snacks and grumbling!

Student dominated Morgantown is a charming riverside town, which among other accolades has been labelled one of America’s best small places for business by Forbes, and one of a ‘Dozen Distinctive Destinations" by National Trust for Historic Preservation. It temporarily becomes the biggest city in the state when the Mountaineers – the West Virginia University American football team – play.