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West Virginia University at Parkersburg
Parkersburg, WVPublic
$5,148
Tuition/yr
92%
Grad rate
53.2
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best artificial intelligence degree programs: West Virginia, Concord, Bethany College
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $5,148 to $32,166/year
West Virginia University ... offers the most affordable option at $5,148/yr
Artificial Intelligence degree programs available: 1 associate's, 1 master's, 1 doctoral in West Virginia
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
West Virginia community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
1 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: Leidos, Northrop Grumman, FBI CJIS, NOAA
Tech hubs in Charleston and Morgantown
Hakia Research 2026
Artificial Intelligence degree programs near 42+ cities across West Virginia
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked West Virginia Artificial Intelligence programs
We rank 9 accredited artificial intelligence programs in West Virginia using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in West Virginia Worth It?
Answer
$86,540
Yes. The best artificial intelligence degree programs in West Virginia deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $86,540 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $16,859/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Artificial Intelligence Degree Rankings in West Virginia
Compare the top-ranked Artificial Intelligence programs in West Virginia by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Artificial Intelligence Programs in West Virginia
1
Programs ranked
$5,148
Avg tuition/yr
92%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
West Virginia offers 1 accredited associate's degree programs in artificial intelligence, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include West Virginia University ..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in West Virginia offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $5,148/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $47,597 in West Virginia.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with West Virginia's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Leidos, Northrop Grumman, FBI CJIS hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among artificial intelligence schools in West Virginia, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their artificial intelligence degrees in West Virginia.
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Programs in West Virginia
6
Programs ranked
$18,811
Avg tuition/yr
82%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
West Virginia ranks among the nation's top destinations for artificial intelligence education, with 6 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 3 public and 3 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are West Virginia, Concord, Bethany College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from West Virginia artificial intelligence programs earn a median salary of $73,559, 25% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Leidos, Northrop Grumman, FBI CJIS.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $8,924 to $32,166 annually, with an average of $18,811/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 82%, with the highest reaching 98%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to West Virginia's leading technology employers. For students seeking artificial intelligence degrees in West Virginia, these top-ranked artificial intelligence schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$9,648
Tuition/yr
65.3
Hakia Score
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$9,100
Tuition/yr
98%
Grad rate
52.0
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | West Virginia State University | Institute, WV | Public | $8,924 | — | 32.3 |
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Programs in West Virginia
1
Programs ranked
$9,648
Avg tuition/yr
0%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
West Virginia offers 1 master's degree programs in artificial intelligence, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, West Virginia, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in West Virginia earn a median salary of $86,540, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Leidos, Northrop Grumman, FBI CJIS actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $9,648/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among West Virginia's artificial intelligence schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$9,648
Tuition/yr
62.4
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Artificial Intelligence Programs in West Virginia
1
Programs ranked
$9,648
Avg tuition/yr
0%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
West Virginia is home to 1 doctoral programs in artificial intelligence, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at West Virginia are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with West Virginia PhD holders earning a median of $108,175, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Leidos, Northrop Grumman, FBI CJIS.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across West Virginia programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing artificial intelligence degrees in West Virginia, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Artificial Intelligence Degree Costs & Tuition in West Virginia
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $16,859/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $42,148/year |
| Community college tuition | $4,215/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $101,156 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $25,288 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Artificial Intelligence Students in West Virginia
State Aid Programs
West Virginia students pursuing artificial intelligence degrees have access to multiple funding pathways. The West Virginia PROMISE Scholarship is a merit-based program that provides tuition coverage at West Virginia public institutions, making it an excellent option for qualifying in-state students (West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission). Additionally, all students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities through StudentAid.gov. With average public in-state tuition at $7,697 for four-year institutions, many West Virginia students find their education costs manageable with proper financial planning and aid packages.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, West Virginia's AI programs offer institutional scholarships and financial aid packages tailored to incoming and current students. Most institutions participating in the federal aid system provide need-based and merit-based awards to help offset tuition costs. Students should explore scholarship opportunities directly through their chosen institution's financial aid office and use the College Scorecard to compare net price and aid availability across West Virginia schools. The WV Core Coursework Transfer Agreement ensures that credits earned at community colleges transfer smoothly to four-year institutions, potentially reducing overall costs for students who start at two-year schools (West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission).
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator, West Virginia
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree in West Virginia. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1064%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,967,896
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$147,619
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,003,304
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$155,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.5%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Artificial Intelligence Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in West Virginia metro areas
Charleston$95K
Morgantown$91K
Huntington$87K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Charleston | $95K |
| Morgantown | $91K |
| Huntington | $87K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Artificial Intelligence Graduates in West Virginia
Find artificial intelligence jobs in West Virginia. These major employers across West Virginia metro areas are actively hiring artificial intelligence degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Charleston
WVLeidos
defense
Intuit
tech
WV State Government
government
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Morgantown
WVWest Virginia University
education
NIOSH
government
Mylan (Viatris)
pharma
Transfer Pathways for Artificial Intelligence Degrees in West Virginia
State Transfer System
West Virginia's WV Core Coursework Transfer Agreement provides a structured pathway for students beginning their artificial intelligence education at community colleges to seamlessly transition to four-year universities (WV Core Coursework Transfer Agreement). This agreement ensures that approved core courses completed at two-year institutions, including mathematics, programming, and general education requirements, transfer with full credit to bachelor's degree programs. Currently, West Virginia has 2 institutions offering associate's degrees in artificial intelligence, with West Virginia University at Parkersburg (#1 ranked) and Salem University providing accessible entry points for students pursuing AI education. The agreement significantly reduces time-to-degree and total cost of education, making it an attractive option for students seeking affordable pathways to bachelor's and advanced degrees.
How Transfers Work
Students can begin their AI journey at one of West Virginia's 23 two-year institutions, complete foundational coursework through the transfer agreement, and then matriculate to programs at four-year universities such as West Virginia University (the state leader in AI education) or Marshall University. This pathway is particularly valuable given the affordability advantage, starting at a community college with lower tuition costs while maintaining guaranteed credit transfer. The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission oversees implementation of articulation agreements and ensures smooth transitions. Additionally, students interested in expanding their educational options should explore Data Science in West Virginia and Machine Learning in West Virginia, which often have aligned prerequisite and transfer pathways. Prospective students should consult their community college advisors and target four-year institutions' registrars to confirm current articulation agreements and course equivalencies (College Scorecard).
Why Pursue an Artificial Intelligence Degree in West Virginia?
Industry & Workforce
West Virginia offers a growing landscape for artificial intelligence education with 13 institutions currently offering AI programs across multiple degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, the state awarded 94 bachelor's degrees, 17 master's degrees, 8 doctoral degrees, and 4 associate's degrees in artificial intelligence, demonstrating strong educational pathways from community colleges to research-focused doctoral programs. West Virginia University leads the state with 97 total completions, establishing itself as the premier destination for AI education in the region. For students seeking affordable education, West Virginia's public four-year institutions offer an average in-state tuition of $7,697, significantly lower than the national average, making quality AI education accessible to a broader student population (College Scorecard).
Salary Outlook
The state's major employment hubs in Charleston, Huntington, and Morgantown host significant employers including WVU Medicine and CAMC Health System, where AI applications are increasingly critical for healthcare technology and data analytics. Students graduating from West Virginia's AI programs benefit from proximity to these growing tech sectors while enjoying the affordability advantage. For those interested in related fields, Machine Learning in West Virginia and Data Science in West Virginia programs offer complementary educational opportunities. Additionally, exploring Computer Science in West Virginia can provide broader foundational knowledge for AI specialization.
Artificial Intelligence Program Availability in West Virginia
7 Programs
West Virginia offers 7 accredited artificial intelligence programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Artificial Intelligence Job Market & Salary Data in West Virginia
Employment Outlook
West Virginia's artificial intelligence job market is experiencing notable growth as the state invests in technology infrastructure and workforce development. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for AI and machine learning professionals continues to expand across the state's major metropolitan areas. The strongest job markets are concentrated in Charleston, Huntington-Ashland, and Morgantown, where tech-forward employers are actively recruiting AI talent. West Virginia's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions is $7,697, making education in the field more accessible compared to national averages. This affordability, combined with growing employer demand, creates favorable conditions for students pursuing AI degrees in the state.
Salaries by Metro
The state's educational infrastructure supports this growing market with 13 institutions offering artificial intelligence programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). Bachelor's programs are the most prevalent, with 8 institutions awarding 94 completions annually. Master's programs are available at 2 institutions with 17 completions per year, while 1 institution offers doctoral-level training with 8 completions. West Virginia University leads the state with 97 completions across all AI program levels. Students seeking affordable education can benefit from the West Virginia PROMISE Scholarship, a merit-based program that covers tuition at West Virginia public institutions. Additionally, the WV Core Coursework Transfer Agreement ensures that approved core courses transfer seamlessly across the state's higher education system, supporting career advancement and credential flexibility.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in West Virginia$56,251$125,483
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Artificial Intelligence Programs in West Virginia
Online Programs
0 available in West Virginia
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$15,173/yr$16,859/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Artificial Intelligence Programs in Other States
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Pennsylvania
- Total Programs
- 75
- Median Tuition
- $38,800
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Maryland
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $9,200
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Kentucky
- Total Programs
- 7
- Median Tuition
- $26,500
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Ohio
- Total Programs
- 49
- Median Tuition
- $31,200
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 177
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 62
- Median Tuition
- $8,600
Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in West Virginia: FAQ
What are the best artificial intelligence degree programs in West Virginia?
The best artificial intelligence degree programs in West Virginia based on our methodology are: 1) West Virginia University (highly ranked), 2) Concord University, and 3) Bethany College. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). West Virginia offers 7 total accredited programs across 4 public and 3 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 6 bachelor's programs.
How much do artificial intelligence degree programs cost in West Virginia?
Artificial Intelligence degree program costs in West Virginia vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $16,859/year, while private institutions average $37,090/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $4,215/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $67,436 at public schools to $148,359 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can artificial intelligence degree graduates earn in West Virginia?
Artificial Intelligence professionals in West Virginia earn a median salary of $86,540, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $56,251, while senior roles exceed $125,483. Salaries vary by metro area: Charleston ($95,194), Morgantown ($90,867) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online artificial intelligence degree programs in West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia offers 0 accredited online Artificial Intelligence programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire artificial intelligence degree graduates in West Virginia?
Major Artificial Intelligence employers in West Virginia include Leidos, Northrop Grumman, FBI CJIS, NOAA, ManTech. The Charleston and Morgantown metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from West Virginia universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. West Virginia's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an artificial intelligence degree program worth it in West Virginia?
An artificial intelligence degree program in West Virginia offers strong ROI with a $86,540 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $16,859/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($97,790), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do artificial intelligence degree programs take in West Virginia?
Standard completion times for artificial intelligence degree programs in West Virginia are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. West Virginia community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a West Virginia university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for artificial intelligence degree students in West Virginia?
West Virginia artificial intelligence degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. West Virginia state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by West Virginia's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
West Virginia salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.