Private nonprofit Institution

University of Charleston — Charleston, West Virginia

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Annual Tuition $32,842

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 64.5%

Moderately Open

Enrollment 2,083

Active Students

Avg. Salary $55,774

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Charleston, West Virginia

Institution type Private nonprofit

Accreditation Higher Learning Commission

Founded 12/1/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"University of Charleston stands as a pillar of higher education in Charleston, providing a robust academic foundation for 2,083 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus

Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does University of Charleston offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at University of Charleston. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Business & Marketing

51.3%

Enrollment Share

Health Professions

29.6%

Enrollment Share

Parks & Recreation

Enrollment Share

Biological Sciences

2.9%

Enrollment Share

Security & Law Enforcement

2.9%

Enrollment Share

Education

1.5%

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Business & Marketing College

Positioned as a premier hub for future executives...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Health Professions College

Ranked as a top destination for healthcare education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Parks & Recreation College

The Parks & Recreation program at University of Charleston provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

Institutional Choice

Best Biological Sciences College

The Biological Sciences program at University of Charleston provides a comprehensive education...

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Institutional Choice

Best Security & Law Enforcement College

The Security & Law Enforcement program provides a comprehensive education...

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Institutional Choice

Best Education College

We develop educators who are passionate about transforming classrooms...

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at University of Charleston?

Admissions & Selectivity Dashboard — 2026

Acceptance 64.5%

Difficulty Low

University of Charleston maintains an acceptance rate of 64.5%, reflecting its status as a moderately open institution. The admissions process evaluates academic potential alongside standardized testing trends to ensure a balanced student body.

Test Requirement SAT/ACT scores are neither required nor recommended.

Student Body Composition

Men Enrollment 61.4%

Women Enrollment 38.7%

Open Pathway Confirmed

University of Charleston follows an open admission policy. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are typically not part of the mandatory evaluation process, ensuring broader access to academic programs.

Start Your Journey Today

Unlock access to University of Charleston's high-demand programs without the stress of standardized testing benchmarks.

Official Admission Portal

How much does University of Charleston cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $32,842

Out-of-State Tuition $32,842

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 28.6%

Median Student Debt $19,500

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $32,842, graduates see a median starting salary of $55,774, making it one of the most affordable pathways in West Virginia.

What salary can University of Charleston graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $55,774

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 46.3%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $22,012

Median Salary (6yr) $42,698

Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average

Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at University of Charleston in Charleston?

2,083 Students

Gender Comparison

61.4% Men

38.7% Women

Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

69.1%

Retention First-year

Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

American Indian

0.1%

Pacific Islander

0.2%

Asian

1.2%

Black

8.6%

White

66.4%

Unknown

3.4%

Hispanic

8.1%

Two or More Races

4.6%

International

7.4%

Campus Demographics

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Avg. Age at Entry 24

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First-Generation 43.1%

💰

Receive Pell Grant 59.9%

💍

Married Students 20.8%

🔄

Retention (Part-time) 36.7%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income	$50,707
Average Family Income	$56,138
Median Family Income	$44,569

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

38.1%

61.9%

Women Men

Premium Campus Location

Explore the Charleston Campus Environment

Located at 2300 MacCorkle Avenue, SE, University of Charleston offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of West Virginia. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan

Access High Connectivity

Get Directions Open in Google Maps

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How does University of Charleston compare?

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Common Questions about University of Charleston

Is University of Charleston a good college in Charleston, West Virginia?

University of Charleston is a recognized institution in Charleston with an enrollment of 2,083 students. It is accredited by Higher Learning Commission and offers a robust ROI for students in West Virginia based on Department of Education data.

Is University of Charleston worth attending in 2026?

Yes, University of Charleston offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $55,774. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.

How much does University of Charleston cost for West Virginia residents in 2026?

For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at University of Charleston is approximately $32,842. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $32,842. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.

What is the real cost of University of Charleston after financial aid and FAFSA?

The real cost of attending University of Charleston for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 59.9% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.

Is University of Charleston good for Business & Marketing and Health Professions programs?

University of Charleston is highly regarded for its Business & Marketing and Health Professions programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.

What career can I get after attending University of Charleston?

Graduates of University of Charleston often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Business & Marketing. With a median salary of $55,774, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.

What are the admission requirements for University of Charleston?

University of Charleston operates with a Moderately Open policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.

Does University of Charleston require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

No, University of Charleston follows a test-optional approach for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.

What salary can University of Charleston graduates expect after 10 years?

Graduates of University of Charleston earn a median salary of $55,774 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.

Is University of Charleston a good investment compared to other WV colleges?

University of Charleston stands out as a high-value investment in West Virginia. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.

Where is University of Charleston located and what is the campus like?

University of Charleston is located at 2300 MacCorkle Avenue, SE in Charleston, WV. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 2,083 learners.

Who typically attends University of Charleston in Charleston, WV?

The student body at University of Charleston is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 43.1% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.

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2026 Rankings: West Virginia

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare University of Charleston with other leading institutions in West Virginia across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

Nursing

Business Administration