Roanoke College is a private liberal arts university located in Salem, Virginia. Founded in 1842, it is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America but welcomes students of all faiths. As a private institution, it relies on tuition, donations, and endowments rather than state funding. The college offers undergraduate degrees in over 40 majors and emphasizes small class sizes and personalized education. Unlike public universities, Roanoke College sets its own tuition rates and admission policies, prioritizing a close-knit academic community.