Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing at West Liberty University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
West Liberty's nursing program sits in an interesting middle ground: while its $71,848 first-year salary falls below the national median by about $3,000, it actually outperforms most nursing programs within West Virginia, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide. For in-state students paying West Virginia tuition, that's meaningful context—you're getting above-median outcomes for the state while keeping debt reasonable at $29,408.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 means graduates owe roughly five months of their first year's salary, which is manageable for a healthcare field with strong employment prospects. However, it's worth noting that several WV schools achieve notably higher earnings: American Public University graduates earn $13,000 more annually, and Fairmont State and Shepherd also clear $75,000. The gap between West Liberty and these top performers represents real money over a career.
For families choosing between West Virginia nursing programs, this comes down to location and fit. West Liberty offers solid outcomes and isn't saddling graduates with excessive debt, but it's not the top financial performer in the state. If your student has strong academics and can access American Public or Fairmont State, the higher earnings justify exploring those options. Otherwise, West Liberty delivers a functional nursing education with reasonable debt—workable, if not exceptional.
Where West Liberty University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How West Liberty University graduates compare to all programs nationally
West Liberty University graduates earn $72k, placing them in the 34th percentile of all registered nursing, nursing administration, nursing research and clinical nursing bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in West Virginia
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing bachelors's programs at peer institutions in West Virginia (16 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Liberty University | $71,848 | — | $29,408 | 0.41 |
| American Public University System | $85,161 | $64,275 | $28,384 | 0.33 |
| Fairmont State University | $77,962 | $70,701 | $33,625 | 0.43 |
| Shepherd University | $75,914 | $71,847 | $27,206 | 0.36 |
| West Virginia University at Parkersburg | $73,315 | — | $18,223 | 0.25 |
| Potomac State College of West Virginia University | $71,298 | $67,758 | $26,000 | 0.36 |
| National Median | $74,888 | — | $27,000 | 0.36 |
Other Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing Programs in West Virginia
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across West Virginia schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Public University System Charles Town | $8,400 | $85,161 | $28,384 |
| Fairmont State University Fairmont | $8,454 | $77,962 | $33,625 |
| Shepherd University Shepherdstown | $8,642 | $75,914 | $27,206 |
| West Virginia University at Parkersburg Parkersburg | $4,420 | $73,315 | $18,223 |
| Potomac State College of West Virginia University Keyser | $5,040 | $71,298 | $26,000 |
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 West Liberty University, approximately 32% 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 37 graduates with reported earnings and 38 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.