Shepherd University
Shepherdstown, United States • Founded 1871
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Founded in 1871, the Shepherd University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the small town of Shepherdstown (population range of under 2,500 inhabitants), West Virginia.
Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Shepherd University is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Shepherd University offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 152-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 90-99% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
Shepherd University also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Below are the location pin, postal details, and primary contact methods for Shepherd University. International applicants should account for postal mail processing time when sending physical documents.
Academic Details
A snapshot of Shepherd University's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and the bodies recognising its work. Useful as a benchmark when comparing against peer institutions or national leaders.
Academic Structures
The departmental layout below shows how Shepherd University groups subjects, faculties, and teaching units. Subject grouping reflects institutional priorities, research strengths, and historical evolution.
Unit 4 items
- School of Arts and Humanities
- School of Business and Social Sciences
- School of Education and professional Studies
- School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
Programs Offered
Shepherd University's teaching offering by degree level. Programmes archived in past intakes may still appear on search engines; the live list here is the current source of truth.
52 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 33 programmes
Showing 10 of 33.
Master's Degree 7 programmes
Professional Doctorate 1 programme
Certificate 4 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 7 programmes
How to apply to Shepherd University
Practical steps to apply to Shepherd University, suitable as a starting checklist before contacting the admissions team directly.
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1
Research programmes at Shepherd University
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Shepherd University offers 52 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
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2
Review admissions criteria
Each programme at Shepherd University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
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3
Gather supporting documents
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
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4
Lodge your application
Apply directly via Shepherd University's online portal at www.shepherd.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
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5
Confirm receipt and track progress
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (304) 876 5000. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shepherd University
Common questions students ask about Shepherd University — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.
When was Shepherd University founded?
Shepherd University was established in 1871 (approximately 155 years ago).
What city is Shepherd University in?
Shepherd University operates from Shepherdstown, United States.
What is Shepherd University's control type?
Shepherd University operates as a public institution.
How big is Shepherd University's student body?
Shepherd University serves approximately 2,344 students.
What is Shepherd University's academic structure?
Shepherd University has 4 academic units.
Is Shepherd University officially recognised?
Yes, Shepherd University is recognised by Higher Learning Commission.
How do I find Shepherd University online?
Shepherd University's official website is www.shepherd.edu.
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Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Shepherd University and the universities below are both members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Faculties at nearby universities
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