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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 data science 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
Data Science degree programs available: 2 associate's, 3 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
2 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
Data Science 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 Data Science programs
We rank 12 accredited data science 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 Data Science Degree Programs in West Virginia Worth It?
Answer
$86,540
Yes. The best data science degree programs in West Virginia deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $86,540 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $14,008/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Science Degree Rankings in West Virginia
Compare the top-ranked Data Science programs in West Virginia by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Data Science Programs in West Virginia
2
Programs ranked
$6,774
Avg tuition/yr
92%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
West Virginia offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in data science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include West Virginia University ..., American Public Universit..., 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 $6,774/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 data science schools in West Virginia, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their data science degrees in West Virginia.
Best Bachelor's Data Science 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 data science 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 data science 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 data science degrees in West Virginia, these top-ranked data science 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 Data Science Programs in West Virginia
3
Programs ranked
$7,769
Avg tuition/yr
0%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
West Virginia offers 3 master's degree programs in data science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, West Virginia, Marshall, Shepherd, 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 $7,769/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 data science 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 Data Science 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 data science, 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 data science 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.
Data Science Degree Costs & Tuition in West Virginia
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $14,008/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $35,020/year |
| Community college tuition | $3,502/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $84,048 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $21,012 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Science Students in West Virginia
State Aid Programs
West Virginia students pursuing data science degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The West Virginia PROMISE Scholarship is a cornerstone program offering merit-based tuition coverage at West Virginia public institutions, making it an excellent option for qualifying students (West Virginia PROMISE Scholarship). Additionally, all students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. The Federal Student Aid website provides comprehensive guidance on these opportunities, which are available regardless of your program of study.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, West Virginia institutions offer institutional scholarships specific to data science and technology programs. Many of the top-ranked schools, including West Virginia University and Marshall University, provide merit-based scholarships and need-based financial packages tailored to their student bodies. Students should contact financial aid offices directly to learn about department-specific scholarships in data science. The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission maintains comprehensive information about all state-funded aid programs and can direct students toward additional resources. For transfer students, the WV Core Coursework Transfer Agreement ensures that approved core courses transfer seamlessly across institutions, potentially reducing overall time-to-degree and associated costs (West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission).
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator, West Virginia
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data science 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.
Data Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+697%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,289,731
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
6 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$114,286
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)$2,325,139
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)$120,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.1%
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
Data Science 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 Data Science Graduates in West Virginia
Find data science jobs in West Virginia. These major employers across West Virginia metro areas are actively hiring data science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Science Jobs in Charleston
WVLeidos
defense
Intuit
tech
WV State Government
government
Data Science Jobs in Morgantown
WVWest Virginia University
education
NIOSH
government
Mylan (Viatris)
pharma
Transfer Pathways for Data Science Degrees in West Virginia
State Transfer System
West Virginia provides a well-structured transfer system enabling students to begin their data science education at community colleges and seamlessly progress to four-year universities. The state's 23 two-year institutions include 4 that offer associate's degree programs in data science, such as West Virginia University at Parkersburg and American Public University System. These associate's programs produce quality graduates annually and serve as excellent pathways for students seeking more affordable entry points, with tuition as low as $5,148 at WVU Parkersburg, before transferring to bachelor's programs (College Scorecard). The WV Core Coursework Transfer Agreement ensures that approved core courses transfer automatically between institutions statewide, eliminating redundancy and protecting student credits when changing schools.
How Transfers Work
Students following transfer pathways complete general education and foundational data science coursework at community colleges, then transfer to one of West Virginia's 8 bachelor's degree institutions to complete specialized upper-level courses. West Virginia University, Marshall University, and Concord University actively recruit transfer students and offer structured articulation agreements with community college partners. The transfer-friendly environment reduces total degree costs substantially, community college tuition averages $5,148–$8,400, compared to $6,288–$30,360 at four-year institutions. After earning a bachelor's degree, graduates can pursue master's degrees at 4 institutions or explore advanced credentials. This pathway model benefits cost-conscious students and those needing flexible scheduling. For complementary pathway information, review data analytics in West Virginia and computer science in West Virginia programs, which follow similar transfer structures (West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission).
Why Pursue a Data Science Degree in West Virginia?
Industry & Workforce
West Virginia offers a growing ecosystem for data science education, with 17 institutions currently offering programs across multiple degree levels (IPEDS). The state hosts 8 bachelor's degree programs, 4 master's programs, 4 associate's programs, and 1 doctoral program, producing 94 bachelor's completions and 20 master's completions annually. West Virginia University leads the state with 97 total completions, establishing itself as the premier destination for data science education. Students benefit from affordable tuition at public four-year institutions, with an average in-state cost of just $7,697, significantly below the national average, making quality data science education accessible and affordable (College Scorecard).
Salary Outlook
The state's major employment hubs create excellent career opportunities for graduates. Cities like Morgantown, Charleston, and Huntington host major employers including WVU Medicine, CAMC Health System, Walmart, and West Virginia University, all seeking data-driven talent. For students seeking career advancement, explore complementary programs in data analytics in West Virginia, machine learning in West Virginia, and artificial intelligence in West Virginia. The West Virginia PROMISE Scholarship provides merit-based tuition coverage at public institutions, further reducing educational costs. With strong regional demand and affordable pathways to degree completion, West Virginia positions students to enter the data science workforce without substantial debt.
Data Science Program Availability in West Virginia
10 Programs
West Virginia offers 10 accredited data science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Data Science Job Market & Salary Data in West Virginia
Employment Outlook
West Virginia's data science job market is experiencing steady growth, with opportunities concentrated in major metropolitan areas including Charleston, Huntington-Ashland, and Morgantown. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state's technology and data-driven sectors are expanding as employers increasingly recognize the value of data analytics and insights. The job market reflects West Virginia's diversification beyond traditional industries, with healthcare systems, educational institutions, and government agencies becoming major consumers of data science talent. Current demand shows that professionals with data science credentials can access roles across multiple sectors and geographic regions within the state.
Salaries by Metro
Educational pathways in West Virginia support this growth trajectory. The state currently offers 17 institutions providing data science programs across all credential levels, from 4 associate's programs to 1 doctoral program, with 94 bachelor's completions recorded in 2023 (IPEDS). This educational infrastructure ensures a steady pipeline of qualified graduates entering the workforce. Students pursuing data science degrees at top-ranked institutions like West Virginia University and Marshall University gain practical experience and networking opportunities positioned directly within the state's primary job markets. For those seeking related expertise, programs in Data Analytics in West Virginia, Machine Learning in West Virginia, and Computer Science in West Virginia offer complementary career advancement pathways.
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 Data Science Programs in West Virginia
Online Programs
0 available in West Virginia
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$12,607/yr$14,008/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 Data Science Programs in Other States
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Pennsylvania
- Total Programs
- 84
- Median Tuition
- $36,800
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Maryland
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $9,200
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 33
- Median Tuition
- $11,400
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Kentucky
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $11,600
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Ohio
- Total Programs
- 59
- Median Tuition
- $14,100
Best Data Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 180
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 43
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Data Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 77
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Data Science Degree Programs in West Virginia: FAQ
What are the best data science degree programs in West Virginia?
The best data science 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 10 total accredited programs across 6 public and 3 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 6 bachelor's programs.
How much do data science degree programs cost in West Virginia?
Data Science degree program costs in West Virginia vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $14,008/year, while private institutions average $30,818/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $3,502/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $56,032 at public schools to $123,270 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 data science degree graduates earn in West Virginia?
Data Science 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 data science degree programs in West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia offers 0 accredited online Data Science 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 data science degree graduates in West Virginia?
Major Data Science 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 a data science degree program worth it in West Virginia?
A data science 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 $14,008/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 data science degree programs take in West Virginia?
Standard completion times for data science 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 data science degree students in West Virginia?
West Virginia data science 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.