Perhaps you just completed your undergraduate degree and want to continue your academic pursuits, or maybe you’re already working and looking to take your career to the next level. Either way, a flexible and affordable online master’s program in West Virginia is a logical next step. Only 6.38% of people who live in West Virginia have earned a master’s degree, so earning your master’s could help you stand out no matter what your career goals include.
Deciding to enroll in an online master’s program in WV is a big first step. Identifying the specific program and university that suits you will set you up for success. We can help with that. Get details and learn more about the leading online master’s degree programs in West Virginia, including programs offered, tuition costs, and length of programs.
The Best Online Master’s Degrees in West Virginia for 2024
WV universities and colleges offer an impressive array of learning options, from entirely online to entirely on campus. Most students these days prefer to take at least some of their classes online, and students in West Virginia are no exception. Students completed 4,605 online master’s degrees in West Virginia in 2021, a 10% increase from 2017, suggesting top-notch quality e-learning. All options are available, whether you want to focus on accounting, finance, health sciences, or business.
Additionally, you can plan your schedule according to your preference and outside-school responsibilities. A flexible learning schedule, reasonable costs, and quality education. What more can you ask for?Explore three of the leading online master’s schools in WV below. While everyone’s definition of “best” will be different, these three universities offer a variety of quality master’s programs with flexible study options and reasonable costs.
West Virginia University (WVU)
West Virginia University offers over 40 online degree programs catering to diverse student preferences. The online curriculum is identical to traditional in-person programs, so you’ll receive the same high-quality education and respected degree as campus-based students. To make online programs even better, the absence of housing and transportation costs makes tuition fees about $615 to $1200 per credit hour, which can make it cheaper than face-to-face programs.
Are you concerned about your work-life balance? WVU offers spaced learning for its online programs, meaning no overwhelming schedules or academic burnout. You can choose a learning schedule that works for you and your family. As an online student, you can access the same financial aid, scholarships, and grants as traditional students.
WVU offers superior technology systems and tools that enable online students to have a well-rounded academic experience, including a seamless communication system between students and professors and a robust collaboration platform so you can interact with your peers. As an online student, you’ll also have access to academic life coaches, accessibility services, 24/7 mental health help, career services, tutoring, and virtual library services.
Marshall University (MU)
Founded in 1837 and named after John Marshall, the fourth chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, Marshall University is another top institution for online master’s programs in West Virginia. You can choose from 52 master’s degree programs, with 600 classes having 100% online options. You’re probably also wondering about the affordability of their online master’s programs. At $382.75 per credit hour, MU is one of the more affordable master’s degree options in West Virginia.
Although the student housing and fraternity services may not interest online learners, your overall well-being is still catered to through additional career services, student legal assistance, counseling centers, and health services. Additionally, you can enjoy access to financial aid through scholarships, grants, and loans if you’re working with tight budgets. Marshall University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
West Liberty University
West Liberty University offers programs in numerous specialties ranging from health sciences to finance. Learning costs typically vary for in- and out-of-state students, but it averages $495 per credit hour. Tuition costs and the number of credit hours required to graduate differ depending on the master’s program you choose. Depending on your preference, you can access online or hybrid learning entirely. A hybrid program will have some in-person components, but you can complete some work remotely.
West Liberty University offers an entirely online business master’s program consisting of 30 credit hours spread across 10 courses. Each course follows a convenient online format, with classes running for seven weeks each. The program offers three specialization areas: management, forensic accounting, and healthcare management. Since West Liberty understands the financial burden of paying for graduate school, it offers financial aid services for students who need help paying for their degrees.
Available Options for Online Master’s Degrees in West Virginia
E-learning options are essential for students balancing school with family or work responsibilities. Perhaps you’re looking to complete an accelerated course, or maybe you want a slowed-down learning schedule. The vast choices include full-time online, part time, no-GRE programs, and accelerated programs. Keep reading to find out what option works for you.
Full-time Online Master’s Programs in WV
Are you self-motivated and good at managing your independent time, or do you live in a geographically remote area far from quality learning institutions? Either way, a full-time online master’s degree in West Virginia may suit you. Imagine not having to attend in-person classes or not having to commute to school. Heaven on earth, right? The Master of Business Administration, which runs for 12-18 months, and the Master of Science in cybersecurity at Marshall University are two great examples of full-time online programs in West Virginia that may suit you perfectly.
Part-time Online Master’s Programs in WV
Are you juggling multiple life responsibilities? You might need more time to digest and synthesize all your coursework. If you’re wondering how to make school work with your schedule, don’t worry. A part-time online master’s in West Virginia may be just what you need. West Virginia University offers a stellar part-time Master of Science in Nursing. The program duration runs longer than the standard in-person program, but you don’t have to break your back through it. Another good part-time program you can consider is a Master of Social Work offered by WVU.
No-GRE Online Master’s Programs in WV
Returning to graduate school after a long period in the job market can be difficult. Considering your outside school commitments, returning to a regular studying routine with assignments might be a tall order. If you can’t imagine having to sit a Graduate Record Examination(GRE) just to enter a master’s program, the good news is you may not have to.
The GRE might be a good alternative for students who have a better work experience than the grades they received in their undergraduate classes. If you passed your undergraduate exams with a GPA of more than 3.5, you shouldn’t have to go through the GRE process. Two no-GRE degree programs in West Virginia include the master’s degree in software engineering at WVU and the Virginia Tech Master of Public Health degree.
Accelerated Online Master’s Programs in WV
Do you know about accelerated online master’s programs in West Virginia? They are a real lifesaver if you have limited study time or are eager to hit the ground running in a new career. Instead of the traditional master’s program that can take two years or longer, these are some of the fastest online master’s programs in WV, some taking only about one year.
West Liberty University offers an accelerated seven-week class program for a Master of Business Administration (MBA). With this degree, You can access managerial roles in forensic accounting and healthcare management in under 12 months. Another option is an accelerated master’s program in industrial engineering at WVU.
Fields of Study for Master’s Degree Programs in WV
Sales
Are you a junior salesperson looking to step up that career ladder into leadership or managerial roles, or perhaps your negotiation and communication skills don’t suit your current career? An online master’s in business degree with a sales specialization at a West Virginia school could help you meet your aspirations for the future. Maybe you’re wondering whether these skills are marketable in the industry today. Check out the universities offering business sales and marketing online master’s programs in West Virginia below.
Quality Examples of Online Sales Programs
Engineering
Whether you just completed your undergraduate in an engineering-related field, are a project manager looking to get into engineering-related roles, or are interested in research, an engineering online master’s program in WV may be the right choice. Depending on your career goals, you can choose an engineering role in different fields, including computer, chemical, or electrical.
Quality Examples of Online Engineering Programs
Social Work
If you have already completed a bachelor’s degree in social work, enrolling in an online master’s program in WV in social work can help you access career advancement opportunities such as counselor roles. Regardless of the industry you already work in, if you’re looking to focus on positively impacting individuals or the community through social activities, then you’re a good contender for a master’s in social work online.
Quality Examples of Online Social Work Programs
Healthcare
Were you ever a fan of superhero stories and dreamed of being a hero in real life? A healthcare career is just the right choice to bring you a step closer to achieving this. Healthcare workers achieve hero status daily. You can practice as a nurse or medical officer with a bachelor’s degree. Still, expert roles as a nurse anesthesiologist, mental health practitioner, orthoptist, and healthcare manager or administrator need a master’s degree.
Quality Examples of Online Healthcare Programs
Sports Administration
Perhaps you’re an athlete or sports fanatic looking to specialize in the sports industry regardless of your career. Completing your master’s degree will open doors to jobs as a sports marketer, sports coach, or sports manager.
Quality Examples of Online Sports Administration Programs
Is Tuition Affordable for Online Master’s Students in West Virginia?
Enrolling in an online master’s program in West Virginia can be a significant investment that takes a firm commitment. Tuition costs can influence your university choice, but you can still get a top-quality education with a solid financial plan. Just as you wouldn’t start a road trip without knowing how much fuel it will take to get you to your destination, you shouldn’t start a degree program without knowing how much money it will take to get you to graduation. Use this table to get a general idea of how much money you’ll need to pay for your online master’s program in WV.
| School Name | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit | Est. Tuition Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
60 | $40,560 | ||
30 | $15,270 | ||
30 | $14,850 |
West Virginia Online Degree Funding Options
Financial aid, including scholarships and grants, isn’t just for bachelor’s degree students. As a master’s degree candidate, you have more financial aid options than you may realize. Unlike loans that require repayment, with scholarships or grants, you can complete your education without paying a cent. For example, Marshall University offers hundreds of scholarships for students based on need and merit. West Liberty University also offers student employment opportunities in which you can earn while studying simultaneously.
Career Outlooks for Master’s Graduates in WV
What do you typically expect to gain from completing an online master’s program in WV? A job advancement would be great, right? Besides the intellect and knowledge gain that comes with earning a master’s, the increased earnings are also a plus.
In West Virginia, salaries for master’s degree holders can vary, with some positions paying as much as $28.85 per hour and others as low as $9.30. However, most wages in this category fall between $14.52 (25th percentile) and $22.50 (75th percentile) in the state. Researching the projected national job outlook for specific careers can help you choose one that’s popular and in-demand.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists typically assess the distribution of disease occurrence in populations. An epidemiology online master’s program in West Virginia equips students with research and statistical skills to accurately assess the effects of disease on different population parameters.
| WV Median Annual Pay | National Job Outlook | Related Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $62,316 | 27% | MS in Public Health |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022
Urban and Region Planner
Are you good at design and do you have a passion for creating sustainable and functional spaces? An urban and region planner role may suit you. Policy development, environmental impact assessment, and community engagement are skills you can pick up when pursuing a master’s in urban and regional planning.
| WV Median Annual Pay | National Job Outlook | Related Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $64,833 | 4% | MS in Urban Planning and Geography |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022
Mental Health Counselor
If you have a knack for empathy, active listening, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives, a career as a mental health counselor might be the perfect fit. Pursuing a master’s in mental health counseling not only equips you with essential therapeutic skills but also provides training in clinical assessment, evidence-based interventions, and effective communication. You’ll have the opportunity to develop expertise in diverse counseling approaches and gain hands-on experience through internships, fostering the ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges.
| WV Median Annual Pay | National Job Outlook | Related Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $41,308 | 18% | MS in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022
Occupational Therapist
Occupation therapy typically involves using purposeful activities to address physical or psychological conditions. Your clients include adults recovering from neurological disorders and children with developmental delays. The master’s program combines human anatomy with physiology and philosophy to help you better understand how to achieve your client’s goals.
| WV Median Annual Pay | National Job Outlook | Related Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $79,622 | 12% | MS in Occupational Therapy |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022
Speech Language Pathologist
For people who struggle with speech disorders, articulating their thoughts and feelings can be incredibly challenging and frustrating. A master’s program on speech pathology teaches students how to associate brain and muscle coordination that affects their speech pathways. Speech language pathologists typically assess and diagnose children or adults with speech disorders and help them overcome communication barriers so they can live a more fulfilling life.
| WV Median Annual Pay | National Job Outlook | Related Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $69,638 | 19% | MS in Speech-Language Pathology |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022