Online Colleges in West Virginia

Approximately one in five West Virginian adults have completed some college courses, yet do not hold a college degree. Over the past several years, the state has turned to online education opportunities as a way to increase degree completion rates among residents. In 2014, the West Virginia Network (WVNET), the organization that provides campus computing systems and wide-area networks to schools throughout the state received a $500,000 grant to expand service to adult learners statewide.

The state legislature and the Department of Education are also working together to further integrate digital and web-based learning platforms into West Virginia classrooms. For instance, the e-Learning for Educators initiative provides state educators access to professional development coursework and networking opportunities online.

While local and state educational grants have continued to increase since 2006, the rate of state spending per student fell 21.6% within the same period. Educational costs have also been on the rise in West Virginia; between 2008 and 2014, the average tuition inflation-adjusted rate at four-year public schools rose over 25%. Fortunately, at just over $6,000, the average tuition rate at four-year public universities in West Virginia is significantly lower than the national average of $9,139 in 2014-15. Rates at West Virginia's public two-year schools are comparable to national averages, running at just over $3,300 per year.

Explore distance education options in West Virginia by using the search filters below. You can find additional information about how the state's educational environment compares nationally in the state facts tab.