On May 9, 1972, the West Virginia Board of Regents created a dual-campus community college out of what was formerly the Hancock County Branch and the Wheeling Campus of West Liberty State College. The Board specified that the newly created institution was to be a comprehensive community college responsible for educational programs of two years or less duration for high school graduates and adults. Responding to local community requests, the College began offering courses in New Martinsville in 1973 and established a campus there in 1975. In 1976, WVNCC began offering classes in Weirton with a campus built in 1985.

As a comprehensive community college, Northern offers a wide variety of programs and courses in the arts and sciences, career-technical education, developmental studies and community service. Under an open-door enrollment policy, the College admits all adults desiring postsecondary education. High school students recommended by their schools for early entrance are also admitted. Graduates receive Associate in Arts degrees, Associate in Science degrees, Associate in Applied Science degrees and Certificates.