Analysis
Concord University's social work program graduates carry less than $19,000 in debt—significantly below both the national median ($26,362) and West Virginia average ($27,000) for this field. While first-year earnings of $35,930 trail the national median slightly, they exceed the typical West Virginia social work graduate by about $2,600, ranking this program in the 60th percentile statewide. For families prioritizing affordability in a helping profession, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53 is manageable, especially compared to many social work programs where students borrow more and earn less.
The concern here is stagnation: earnings essentially flatline between years one and four, suggesting limited advancement opportunities in the local market or within graduates' chosen career paths. That said, social work isn't typically chosen for salary growth—and with debt this low, graduates have flexibility to pursue nonprofit work, continue education for clinical licensure, or relocate without crushing financial pressure. Among West Virginia's eight social work programs, Concord sits in the middle of the pack for earnings but well ahead on keeping debt manageable.
If your child is committed to social work and plans to stay in West Virginia, this program offers a reasonable path with minimal financial risk. Just understand they're unlikely to see meaningful salary increases without additional credentials or career shifts.
Where Concord University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social work bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Concord University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concord University | $35,930 | $35,233 | -2% |
| Shepherd University | $32,965 | $45,931 | +39% |
| West Virginia University | $34,344 | $45,128 | +31% |
| Marshall University | $33,344 | $40,200 | +21% |
| West Virginia State University | $30,060 | $36,320 | +21% |
Compare to Similar Programs in West Virginia
Social Work bachelors's programs at peer institutions in West Virginia (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Concord UniversityAthens | $9,700 | $35,930 | $35,233 | $18,967 | 0.53 |
 West Virginia UniversityMorgantown | $9,648 | $34,344 | $45,128 | $25,000 | 0.73 |
 Marshall UniversityHuntington | $8,942 | $33,344 | $40,200 | $27,000 | 0.81 |
 Shepherd UniversityShepherdstown | $8,642 | $32,965 | $45,931 | $27,722 | 0.84 |
 West Virginia State UniversityInstitute | $9,049 | $30,060 | $36,320 | $37,371 | 1.24 |
| National Median | — | $37,296 | — | $26,362 | 0.71 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social work graduates
Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary
Social and Community Service Managers
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Marriage and Family Therapists
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Healthcare Social Workers
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Social Workers, All Other
Counselors, All Other
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Concord University, approximately 47% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 29 graduates with reported earnings and 46 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.