15 Biology, General Programs
| # | School | Net Price | In-State Tuition | Graduation Rate | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Marshall University
Huntington, West Virginia
|
$8,327 | $8,942 | 48.7% | 96.9% |
| 2 |
Fairmont State University
Fairmont, West Virginia
|
$9,055 | $8,454 | 48.3% | 98.5% |
| 3 |
West Virginia University Institute of Technology
Beckley, West Virginia
|
$9,957 | $8,064 | 36.1% | 64.6% |
| 4 |
Concord University
Athens, West Virginia
|
$9,983 | $9,700 | 42.3% | 91.4% |
| 5 |
West Virginia State University
Institute, West Virginia
|
$10,191 | $9,049 | 33.5% | 96.2% |
| 6 |
Shepherd University
Shepherdstown, West Virginia
|
$12,391 | $8,642 | 49.5% | 95.9% |
| 7 |
West Virginia University
Morgantown, West Virginia
|
$12,997 | $9,648 | 61.2% | 88.4% |
| 8 |
Salem University
Salem, West Virginia
|
$14,469 | $10,750 | 27.3% | |
| 9 |
Bethany College
Bethany, West Virginia
|
$15,306 | $34,816 | 46.3% | 64.9% |
| 10 |
West Liberty University
West Liberty, West Virginia
|
$16,295 | $8,732 | 60.6% | 74.1% |
| 11 |
Glenville State University
Glenville, West Virginia
|
$16,358 | $9,412 | 35.5% | |
| 12 |
West Virginia Wesleyan College
Buckhannon, West Virginia
|
$18,148 | $33,494 | 49.5% | 96.4% |
| 13 |
Wheeling University
Wheeling, West Virginia
|
$19,040 | $29,475 | 32.0% | 72.7% |
| 14 |
Davis & Elkins College
Elkins, West Virginia
|
$19,428 | $31,270 | 36.6% | 75.3% |
| 15 |
University of Charleston
Charleston, West Virginia
|
$22,012 | $32,842 | 46.3% | 67.7% |
Frequently Asked Questions
What explains the $17,000 salary difference between biology graduates from different West Virginia schools?
Shepherd University graduates earn $35,416 compared to Marshall's $18,540, reflecting geographic advantages and program focus. Shepherd's location near Washington DC provides access to federal agencies, research institutions, and biotechnology companies. Marshall serves a more economically challenged region where entry-level positions typically offer lower compensation. The $16,876 difference demonstrates how institutional location significantly impacts career earning potential.
How do private biology programs justify costs three times higher than public options?
Private schools like Bethany College charge $34,816 in tuition compared to public institutions averaging under $9,000. However, smaller class sizes, research opportunities, and alumni networks can offset higher costs through better career placement. Bethany's 64.92% acceptance rate suggests more selective admissions than public schools with 95%+ acceptance rates. Students must weigh the $25,000+ cost difference against potential career advantages.
Is West Virginia University worth the higher cost compared to regional schools?
WVU charges $12,997 net cost but delivers a 61.20% graduation rate, significantly higher than most state competitors. The flagship university offers extensive research facilities and connections to major employers that smaller schools cannot match. With the same $27,222 graduate earnings as WV Tech but better completion rates, WVU justifies its premium pricing. Students gain access to larger alumni networks and more advanced laboratory facilities.
Where do West Virginia biology graduates find the best job opportunities?
The state's energy sector employs biology majors in environmental compliance and monitoring roles for coal and natural gas operations. Healthcare systems across West Virginia need laboratory technicians and research assistants, particularly in rural areas facing physician shortages. Charleston and Morgantown offer the most opportunities, with state government agencies and WVU's medical center providing stable employment. Federal agencies near Shepherd University also recruit biology graduates for environmental and regulatory positions.
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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.