Analysis
Marshall University's social work program performs solidly within West Virginia, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide for earnings, though it trails the national median by about $4,000 annually. Graduates start at $33,344 but see healthy income growth to $40,200 by year four—a 21% increase that suggests the degree builds practical career momentum. The $27,000 debt load sits near both state and national medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.81.
The key consideration here is geographic: This program makes most sense if your child plans to work in West Virginia, where the earnings align with local market rates and the degree comes from a recognized state institution serving a large Pell-eligible population. The career trajectory is stable and improving, which matters for a helping profession where early salaries are modest but experience pays off. However, graduates heading to higher-cost regions should know they're starting below what peers at other programs might earn.
For families comfortable with West Virginia's social work job market and cost of living, Marshall delivers reasonable value—moderate debt for steady, growing income in a field your child can rely on. If relocating to areas with higher salaries is part of the plan, comparing outcomes at programs in those target states would be worthwhile.
Where Marshall University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social work bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Marshall 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marshall University | $33,344 | $40,200 | +21% |
| Shepherd University | $32,965 | $45,931 | +39% |
| West Virginia University | $34,344 | $45,128 | +31% |
| West Virginia State University | $30,060 | $36,320 | +21% |
| Concord University | $35,930 | $35,233 | -2% |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Marshall UniversityHuntington | $8,942 | $33,344 | $40,200 | $27,000 | 0.81 |
 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 |
 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 Marshall University, approximately 38% 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 36 graduates with reported earnings and 62 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.