About University of Charleston
The University of Charleston draws 2,083 students to West Virginia's capital city for hands-on learning in programs like pharmacy, health sciences, and business. This private university sits in a small city setting where students can walk to internships at hospitals, government offices, and businesses along the Kanawha River. The school has built a reputation for practical education that prepares students for immediate employment after graduation.
Students pay an average of $22,012 after financial aid, which makes this private education more affordable than many peers. Graduates earn a median of $55,774 ten years after starting college, while typical student debt sits at just $19,500. The math works in students' favor here, with monthly loan payments averaging only $207. About 93.4% of graduates find employment, which helps explain why the loan repayment rate reaches 52%.
The student body leans heavily male at 61%, partly due to strong programs in fields like engineering and business. With 16 varsity sports and 558 student athletes competing in NCAA Division II, athletics play a major role in campus life. The school awards over $6 million in athletic scholarships annually. However, the 46% six-year graduation rate suggests students should come prepared to work hard and stay focused on their goals.
Students pay an average of $22,012 after financial aid, which makes this private education more affordable than many peers. Graduates earn a median of $55,774 ten years after starting college, while typical student debt sits at just $19,500. The math works in students' favor here, with monthly loan payments averaging only $207. About 93.4% of graduates find employment, which helps explain why the loan repayment rate reaches 52%.
The student body leans heavily male at 61%, partly due to strong programs in fields like engineering and business. With 16 varsity sports and 558 student athletes competing in NCAA Division II, athletics play a major role in campus life. The school awards over $6 million in athletic scholarships annually. However, the 46% six-year graduation rate suggests students should come prepared to work hard and stay focused on their goals.
Academics & Faculty
The University of Charleston focuses heavily on health sciences and business programs, which explains why 93.4% of graduates find employment quickly after college. The school is particularly known for its pharmacy, nursing, and athletic training programs, drawing students who want hands-on healthcare experience. With a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, professors can work closely with students in labs and clinical settings. However, the 46.30% six-year graduation rate suggests some students struggle to finish, often because they transfer to other programs or leave for financial reasons. The school attracts many first-generation college students (28.63% receive Pell Grants) who need extra academic support to succeed.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 15:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 52.6%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 44.2%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 46.3%
- Retention Rate
- 69.1%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $55,774
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral/Professional University
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Doctoral | $119,148 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Master | $96,627 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $69,338 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $57,564 |
| Security Policy and Strategy. | Master | $48,432 |
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | Master | $46,478 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Bachelor | $46,321 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $44,928 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $43,798 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $42,682 |
Campus Life
The University of Charleston sits in West Virginia's capital city, about 200 miles from Pittsburgh and 300 miles from Washington D.C. With housing for 756 students and total enrollment of 2,083, about 36% of students live on campus in a close-knit environment. The campus overlooks the Kanawha River in downtown Charleston, giving students easy access to internships at state government offices and local businesses.
West Virginia means real winters with snow and temperatures often below freezing from December through February, so pack that heavy coat. The 61% male to 39% female ratio reflects the school's strong programs in pharmacy, business, and health sciences. With 558 athletes competing in 16 sports, athletics play a big role in campus life. Students often spend weekends at Golden Eagles games or exploring Charleston's riverfront and nearby hiking trails. The small city setting means most entertainment happens on campus or requires a car to reach shopping centers and restaurants. Greek life and residence hall activities fill much of the social calendar for the tight student community.
West Virginia means real winters with snow and temperatures often below freezing from December through February, so pack that heavy coat. The 61% male to 39% female ratio reflects the school's strong programs in pharmacy, business, and health sciences. With 558 athletes competing in 16 sports, athletics play a big role in campus life. Students often spend weekends at Golden Eagles games or exploring Charleston's riverfront and nearby hiking trails. The small city setting means most entertainment happens on campus or requires a car to reach shopping centers and restaurants. Greek life and residence hall activities fill much of the social calendar for the tight student community.
- Setting
- City-Small
- Housing Capacity
- 756 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1888
Campus Safety (2023)
2 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Violence | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 26°–43°F
- July Avg
- 65°–86°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 46.2"
- Annual Snowfall
- 31.5"
Student Demographics
The University of Charleston draws a mix of West Virginia locals and students from neighboring states, creating a community where about half come from in-state while others travel from across the region. The student body leans male, reflecting the school's strong programs in business, health sciences, and athletics. Many students come from working-class families who see UC as an affordable path to career advancement. The 2,083 students create a tight-knit campus where everyone knows each other, and the Golden Eagles athletic programs help unite the community around shared school pride.
- Men
- 61.4%
- Women
- 38.7%
- White
- 66.4%
- Black
- 8.6%
- Hispanic
- 8.1%
- Asian
- 1.2%
- In-State Students
- 53.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 28.6%
Location
Charleston sits in the heart of West Virginia's capital city, about 200 miles from Pittsburgh and 300 miles from Washington D.C. The city of 45,000 people serves as the state's political and business center, where the golden-domed State Capitol overlooks the Kanawha River. Charleston offers more internship and job opportunities than most West Virginia cities, which helps explain why 93.4% of University of Charleston graduates find employment. The surrounding area features rolling Appalachian hills and is known for its outdoor recreation, from whitewater rafting to hiking trails. The compact downtown means students can walk to restaurants, shops, and cultural events. Students considering colleges in West Virginia may also compare University of Charleston with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Charleston, West Virginia 25304
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $55,774
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $57,351
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $39,100
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 52.1%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $207/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $19,500
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at University of Charleston?
University of Charleston admits 67.73% of applicants. This private West Virginia institution offers accessible admission while maintaining selectivity in its programs. The school attracts students seeking personalized attention in a small city environment.
How much does University of Charleston cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $22,012 annually after aid, less than the sticker price of $32,842. The school keeps costs manageable with median debt of just $19,500 upon graduation. Monthly loan payments average $207 for graduates.
What is the student-faculty ratio at University of Charleston?
The student-faculty ratio stands at 15:1 with total enrollment of 2,083 students. This creates opportunities for close mentorship and individualized instruction. The school operates on a semester calendar system to maximize learning opportunities.
What are the graduation outcomes at University of Charleston?
The six-year graduation rate reaches 46.30% with graduates earning a median salary of $55,774 ten years after college. The employment rate hits 93.4% for recent graduates. The school has a 69.07% retention rate, indicating student satisfaction with their experience.
Where do University of Charleston students live on campus?
Housing capacity accommodates 756 students in residence halls and apartments. With 2,083 total students, campus housing serves roughly one-third of the student body. The school charges $11,162 annually for room and board.
How strong are athletics at University of Charleston?
The Golden Eagles compete in NCAA Division II with 16 varsity sports and 558 total athletes. The school awards $6,004,611 in athletic scholarships annually across all sports programs. They compete in the Mountain East Conference against regional rivals.
