Top PhD Programs in West Virginia (WV): Campus & Online
Ready to rise to the top of your field? Let’s explore doctoral programs in West Virginia to help you develop the skills and expertise to make significant contributions in your specialized area of study.
If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a leader and driving innovation within your field, then it might be time to explore doctoral programs in West Virginia. Luckily, the great state of West Virginia is home to several top-tier research universities that are committed to elevating your skills, enhancing your knowledge, and helping you become an expert in science, health, psychology, business, and other vital fields.
From traditional, in-person formats to 100% online doctoral programs, West Virginia colleges and universities offer a variety of options. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore top doctoral and PhD programs in West Virginia as well as answer questions regarding program format, financial aid, and potential career opportunities once you graduate.
Top-Rated PhD and Doctoral Programs in West Virginia for 2025
West Virginia is home to several high-quality PhD and doctoral programs that offer multiple study options and affordable tuition to make advanced education easily accessible. No matter which field of study you pursue, top-rated PhD and doctoral programs are available to elevate your knowledge and unlock new career opportunities. Below we’ll spotlight two highly rated PhD and doctoral programs in West Virginia to help you get started. Even if these schools don’t align with your specific career goals, you can use them as a barometer to help you find the right school for you.
West Virginia University
West Virginia University offers in-person, hybrid, and online doctoral programs in engineering, education, computer science, business, science, math, and social sciences. With over 208 graduate programs that cater to a diverse group of students from over 100 nations, West Virginia University creates an inclusive learning environment that welcomes innovative thinking.
As a top-rated high performance research institution, West Virginia University is equipped to prepare the next generation of innovators and changemakers by providing you with the necessary resources to make a real impact within your chosen field. The length of time required to get your degree will vary. For example, the doctorate in audiology is a three-year, on-campus program. The doctorate in business administration is a three-year, online program with optional on-campus residencies. And the doctorate in biology is a four- to five-year, on-campus program. Application deadlines vary as well. Some programs have multiple start dates per year, and others have only one.
- Total Doctoral Programs: 60+ programs, three online (doctorate in business administration, PhD in nursing, and doctor of nursing practice)
- Tuition and Fees: $10,098 (in state); $25,632 (out of state)
- Financial Aid Offerings: Scholarships, grants, federal work-study, fellowships, graduate assistantships
- Student Support Services: Peer Mentorship Program
Marshall University
With innovative experiences and research opportunities, Marshall University’s doctoral programs prepare you to become an expert in education, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, business, or physical therapy. Rated as a university with high research activity, Marshall University receives $65 million annually in funding. The university provides ample opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research and make significant contributions to your field. Not only does Marshall University offer a world-class education, but the school has awarded over $23 million in institutional scholarships and grants, making it more affordable than many other doctoral and PhD programs in West Virginia.
Start times and program lengths vary. The EdD in curriculum and instruction requires 57 credits and takes three to six years. The doctorate in business administration requires 66 credit hours and takes about three years.
- Total Doctoral Programs: Ten doctoral programs, three online (doctor of education, doctor of business administration, and doctor of nursing)
- Tuition and Fees: Vary. $4,695 (in state); $11,036 (out of state)
- Financial Aid Offerings: Scholarships, grants, federal work-study, fellowships, graduate assistantships
- Student Support Services: Higher Education for Learning Problems Center
Types of PhD and Doctoral Programs Available in West Virginia
Doctoral and PhD programs in West Virginia aren’t one-size-fits-all. In fact, there are many ways to pursue advanced education both in person and online. Additionally, many doctoral and PhD programs in West Virginia offer part-time and full-time formats to accommodate education into your already jam-packed schedule. Let’s explore several types of PhD and doctoral programs in West Virginia.
Full-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in West Virginia
If you can commit 40+ hours per week to education, a full-time PhD or doctoral program in West Virginia can be an ideal choice. While scheduling options are dependent on the program, most full-time PhD and doctoral programs in West Virginia can be completed in four to six years.
Here are some examples of full-time doctoral programs in West Virginia:
Part-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in West Virginia
A full-time doctoral or PhD program in West Virginia can be challenging, especially if you’re juggling work and other life commitments. Luckily, prominent universities in West Virginia also offer part-time doctoral programs so that you can fit an education seamlessly into your schedule. However, it’s important to note that part-time programs typically take longer than full-time programs.
Here are a few examples of part-time doctoral programs in West Virginia:
Fully Funded PhD/Doctoral Programs in West Virginia
It’s no secret that PhD and doctoral programs can be expensive, even with financial aid. However, several fully funded PhD and doctoral programs in West Virginia offer tuition reimbursement and stipends to cover the cost of living while pursuing advanced education. Generally, most PhD programs are fully funded.
Here are a few examples of fully funded doctoral programs in West Virginia:
No-GRE PhD/Doctoral Programs in West Virginia
Stressing over the GRE? Good news: You don’t have to. Many doctoral and PhD programs in West Virginia, and nationwide, are moving away from GRE requirements because recent studies have shown the standardized test may hinder diversity and inclusion efforts. While removing the GRE requirement is still a relatively new practice, there are a few no-GRE doctoral programs in West Virginia, including West Virginia University’s Doctorate in Political Science.
Accelerated PhD/Doctoral Programs in West Virginia
Looking to earn your PhD or doctorate quickly? You just might be in luck! Some higher education institutions now offer accelerated PhD and doctoral programs in West Virginia that allow you to earn your degree in as little as a year. However, it’s important to note that accelerated programs are quite rare and not available in every field, especially in fields that are highly scientific. However, West Liberty University recently launched the accelerated Doctor of Education in Instructional Leadership, Management, and Innovation.
No Dissertation PhD/Doctoral Programs in West Virginia
Does the thought of writing a dissertation fill you with dread? If so, you’re not alone. Writing and defending a dissertation requires months, if not years, of time and effort, making it intimidating to pursue a doctoral degree. However, there are many doctoral programs that no longer require you to complete a dissertation to earn your degree. Instead, you’ll complete a capstone project, portfolio, exams, or an internship to demonstrate what you’ve learned. As you investigate programs, be sure to ask about no-dissertation options.
West Virginia’s Favorite PhDs: What are the Most Popular Degrees?
Education
If you’re an educator looking to advance your career, earning a doctorate in education provides you with the skills and knowledge to become a principal, superintendent, or curriculum director. A doctorate in education also unlocks opportunities to work as a researcher and university faculty member.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
- West Virginia State University’s Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies
- West Virginia University’s Doctor of Education
Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs
Engineering
Earning a doctorate in engineering opens the doors to a diverse range of opportunities within the field, including as a researcher, academic professor, or senior-level executive. Regardless of which career path you choose, a doctorate in engineering arms you with the knowledge and research experience to make groundbreaking discoveries and tackle complex problems that drive innovation.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Psychology
As one of the most popular undergraduate majors, it’s easy to see why many pursue a doctoral degree in psychology. Like many doctoral programs, doctorates or PhDs in psychology cater to those who want to pursue roles as clinical practitioners or researchers on the academic side.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Health Sciences
Did you know doctors aren’t the only medical professionals who can benefit from a doctorate in health sciences? This degree program is popular for seasoned healthcare professionals looking to elevate their careers as advanced practitioners, healthcare leaders and administrators, and health educators.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Social Sciences
From criminal justice to public policy, a doctorate in social science spans a broad range of exciting and interesting fields. With programs focused on research and academics as well as more specialized programs for careers in social work and public policy, a doctorate in social science can be a great option for those looking to broaden their career opportunities.
Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs
Earning Your PhD or Professional Doctorate Online in West Virginia
Many PhD and doctoral programs in West Virginia are offered online and in a hybrid format to accommodate busy working professionals and distance learners. Many of the top institutions in West Virginia, including West Virginia University and West Virginia State, offer online programs in business, history, and nursing.
So, how do hybrid and online PhD programs in West Virginia work? Ultimately, each school and program has its own unique requirements for virtual and hybrid learning. However, for online doctoral programs in West Virginia, you can expect that coursework will either include live, virtual lectures that you need to attend at a specific time or asynchronous courses that you can complete on your own schedule.
Hybrid programs require you to attend in-person sessions at least some of the time. Hybrid programs are common in the healthcare and science fields in which you may have to attend clinicals or labs to gain hands-on experience.
Remember, hybrid and online doctoral programs in West Virginia aren’t easier than in-person programs. They require a high level of self-discipline to be successful.
Funding Opportunities for Doctoral Students in West Virginia
As the highest education level, PhD and doctoral programs in West Virginia can be costly. Luckily, many financial aid opportunities are available to help offset the costs of your degree. Let’s take a look at several popular financial aid options that you can use to fund your PhD or doctoral program in West Virginia:
- Scholarships and Grants: Many universities in West Virginia offer scholarships and grants to help pay for education. For example, West Virginia University offers the WVU Foundation Distinguished Doctoral Scholarships.
- Fellowships: Fellowship programs often cover full tuition and a stipend for research. Programs such as the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program provide fellowship opportunities for students pursuing degrees across science and engineering.
- Graduate Research Assistantships: Many graduate programs also offer graduate research assistantships that allow graduate students to work on research projects with faculty while receiving tuition assistance or a stipend.
West Virginia Insights: PhDs’ Income Potential
Earning a PhD signifies you’re an expert within your chosen field and allows you to move to the very top of your profession. As such, the income potential for doctoral graduates is much higher than those with only a bachelor’s or master’s degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, those with a doctoral degree earn a median of $2,109 per week and have an unemployment rate of just 1.6%, which is much lower than the national average. Ultimately, your earning potential will depend on your field and career path. To help you get a better idea of your earning potential, let’s take a look at salary data for several popular jobs for PhD and doctoral graduates.
| Job Title | Related Doctoral Degree(s) | Median Earnings | 90th Percentile Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthropologist | PhD in Anthropology | $63,800 | $102,150 |
| Biostatistician | PhD in Statistics | $116,440 | $183,500 |
| Chemist | PhD in Chemistry | $84,680 | $149,550 |
| Economist | PhD in Economics | $115,730 | $216,900 |
| Nurse Practitioner | Doctor of Nursing Practice | $129,480 | $211,820 |
| Pharmacist | Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) | $136,030 | $168,650 |
| Physical Therapist | Doctor of Physical Therapy | $99,710 | $130,870 |
| Professor | PhD | $84,380 | $182,710 |
| Psychologist | Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)/PhD in Psychology | $92,740 | $151,880 |
| Research Scientist | PhD | $145,080 | $233,110 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023