Cheapest Political Science and Government Colleges in West Virginia

Marshall University's Political Science program leads West Virginia's affordability rankings at just $8,327 net cost, while private institutions reach $22,012 annually. The state's 13 programs show a striking earnings gap, with American Public University System graduates earning $54,109 compared to Marshall's $21,964. West Virginia's government sector employs thousands across state agencies, the legislature, and county courthouses, creating steady demand for political science graduates. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with six programs under $13,000 net cost.

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	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	American Public University System Charles Town, West Virginia	$9,104	$8,400	53.2%
4	West Virginia University Institute of Technology Beckley, West Virginia	$9,957	$8,064	36.1%	64.6%
5	Concord University Athens, West Virginia	$9,983	$9,700	42.3%	91.4%
6	West Virginia State University Institute, West Virginia	$10,191	$9,049	33.5%	96.2%
7	Shepherd University Shepherdstown, West Virginia	$12,391	$8,642	49.5%	95.9%
8	West Virginia University Morgantown, West Virginia	$12,997	$9,648	61.2%	88.4%
9	Bethany College Bethany, West Virginia	$15,306	$34,816	46.3%	64.9%
10	West Virginia Wesleyan College Buckhannon, West Virginia	$18,148	$33,494	49.5%	96.4%
11	Wheeling University Wheeling, West Virginia	$19,040	$29,475	32.0%	72.7%
12	Davis & Elkins College Elkins, West Virginia	$19,428	$31,270	36.6%	75.3%
13	University of Charleston Charleston, West Virginia	$22,012	$32,842	46.3%	67.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge earnings difference between Political Science programs in West Virginia?

American Public University System graduates earn $54,109 annually, more than double Marshall University's $21,964. This gap likely reflects APUS's online format attracting working professionals who continue careers while studying, versus traditional students entering entry-level positions after graduation.

How do West Virginia's public universities compare for Political Science affordability?

Seven public institutions offer Political Science programs with net costs ranging from Marshall's $8,327 to West Virginia University's $12,997. Fairmont State follows closely at $9,055, while the state flagship WVU costs nearly $5,000 more but maintains a 61.20% graduation rate.

Is West Virginia University worth the extra cost for Political Science students?

WVU costs $12,997 annually but delivers the state's highest graduation rate at 61.20% for Political Science majors. The university's location in Morgantown provides internship access to state government agencies and the state legislature, justifying the premium over cheaper alternatives.

Where do West Virginia's private Political Science programs rank on value?

Private options range from $15,306 at Bethany College to $22,012 at University of Charleston. Most private programs show graduation rates between 32% and 49.50%, comparable to public alternatives that cost significantly less.

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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.