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Marshall University delivers the state's most affordable Economics education at just $8,327 net cost, while private options like Davis & Elkins College reach $19,428. This $11,000 gap reflects West Virginia's emphasis on accessible public education through institutions that prepare graduates for the state's energy and healthcare sectors. With 96% acceptance rates common across programs, students find multiple pathways to study economic principles relevant to coal, natural gas, and emerging renewable industries.
8
Programs
$8,327 – $19,428
Net Price Range
$36,674
Avg. Program Earnings
46.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

8 Economics Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $8,327 $8,942 48.7% 96.9%
2 $10,191 $9,049 33.5% 96.2%
3 $12,391 $8,642 49.5% 95.9%
4 $12,997 $9,648 61.2% 88.4%
5 $15,306 $34,816 46.3% 64.9%
6 $16,943 $13,920 50.0%
7 $18,148 $33,494 49.5% 96.4%
8 $19,428 $31,270 36.6% 75.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the dramatic cost difference between public and private Economics programs?

Public universities like Marshall ($8,327) and West Virginia State ($10,191) benefit from state funding that keeps costs low for residents. Private colleges such as Bethany College ($15,306) and Davis & Elkins ($19,428) rely on tuition revenue, creating price gaps exceeding $10,000 annually.

How do graduation rates vary among the most affordable options?

West Virginia University leads with a 61.2% graduation rate despite moderate costs at $12,997 net price. Marshall University graduates 48.7% of students at the lowest cost, while West Virginia State shows a 33.5% rate at $10,191.

Is financial aid significant for Economics students in West Virginia?

The PROMISE Scholarship covers full tuition for qualifying residents, making programs like Shepherd University particularly attractive with $8,642 in-state costs. Private colleges offer substantial aid, with Bethany College reducing sticker prices from $34,816 to $15,306 net cost.

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