About Ferrum College
Founded in 1913, Ferrum College is a private liberal arts college associated with the United Methodist Church, offering liberal arts and professional programs such as business, recreation leadership, musical theatre, agriculture, environmental science, teacher education and criminal justice. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains along with numerous lakes, rivers and state parks, Ferrum College provides an outstanding educational experience in a setting of rich natural beauty.
At Ferrum College, every student’s education is impacted by the natural world. Ferrum has one of the oldest environmental science programs in the country and offers internship and research opportunities in all majors. The Boone Honors Program fosters the exploration of intellectual, social and ethical issues. Ferrum College is the only private college in Virginia with an academic program in agricultural science. The College’s Blue Ridge Institute and Museum is a state repository for Virginia folklore and provides an important link to the history and culture of the Blue Ridge region of Appalachia.
Ferrum students are known for their commitment to service and community action, as expressed in the College motto, “Not Self, but Others.”
Not Self, but Others
mission
We are a dynamic learning community where students enter with promise and leave with purpose.
vision
Inspire everyone to do good work, build good futures and live good lives.
goals
Provide pathways to meaningful work.
Make education attainable.
Stay connected for a lifetime.
Quick Facts
700
Acres of campus, located in Ferrum, VA
13:1
Student-to-faculty ratio
93%
Graduates employed two years after graduation
Rankings and Recognitions
“Best Regional Colleges” in the South
U.S. News & World Report, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2021
“Best Bang for the Buck” in the Southeast
Washington Monthly, 2015, 2016, 2017
“State of Education: Top High Schools & Colleges”
Virginia Living, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2021, 2024
“Military Friendly”
Guide to Military Friendly Schools, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
“Most Diverse Colleges in Virginia”
Niche.com, 2017
“Homeschool friendly”
Homeschooling Parent Magazine, 2023
Dr. mirta martin
Meet the President
“Welcome home to Ferrum College!”