Social Work at Marshall University

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.