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Best Value Political Science and Government Colleges in West Virginia

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Marshall University delivers the strongest value proposition among West Virginia's 13 Political Science and Government programs, charging just $8,327 net cost while connecting students to the state's government center in Charleston. The earnings gap tells a striking story across these programs, ranging from Marshall's $21,964 to American Public University System's $54,109. West Virginia's position as a major coal and natural gas producer creates steady demand for policy analysts and regulatory specialists, particularly as the state navigates energy transitions. Public universities dominate the affordability market, with six of the eight most affordable options being state institutions that benefit from the PROMISE Scholarship program.
13
Programs
$8,327 – $22,012
Net Price Range
$33,373
Avg. Program Earnings
44.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

13 Political Science and Government Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $9,104 $54,109 $8,400 53.2%
2 $9,055 $29,685 $8,454 48.3% 98.5%
3 $9,957 $30,554 $8,064 36.1% 64.6%
4 $8,327 $21,964 $8,942 48.7% 96.9%
5 $12,997 $30,554 $9,648 61.2% 88.4%
6 $15,306 $34,816 46.3% 64.9%
7 $22,012 $32,842 46.3% 67.7%
8 $9,983 $9,700 42.3% 91.4%
9 $19,428 $31,270 36.6% 75.3%
10 $12,391 $8,642 49.5% 95.9%
11 $10,191 $9,049 33.5% 96.2%
12 $18,148 $33,494 49.5% 96.4%
13 $19,040 $29,475 32.0% 72.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes American Public University System stand out for Political Science earnings?

American Public University System graduates earn $54,109 annually, more than double the $21,964 earned by Marshall University graduates. This online institution serves many working professionals and military personnel, which may contribute to higher post-graduation salaries.

How do West Virginia's public universities compare on graduation rates?

West Virginia University leads public institutions with a 61.2% graduation rate, followed by Shepherd University and Marshall University both at approximately 49%. The state's public universities generally outperform private colleges in graduation rates despite lower costs.

Is the cost difference between public and private programs significant?

Public programs average around $9,000-$13,000 in net costs, while private institutions range from $15,306 to $22,012. University of Charleston represents the highest cost at $22,012, nearly three times Marshall University's $8,327 price tag.

Where do most Political Science graduates find employment in West Virginia?

Charleston serves as the state capital and primary government employment center, while the energy sector in regions like the Northern Panhandle offers regulatory and policy positions. Many graduates also pursue opportunities in neighboring Virginia and Maryland's government corridors.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.