Exploring Degree Programs at West Virginia University
West Virginia University (WVU) and West Virginia State University (WVSU) offer a diverse range of degree programs designed to cater to a multitude of academic and professional aspirations. From traditional disciplines like the humanities and sciences to cutting-edge fields like engineering and technology, students have access to a wide array of educational opportunities. This article explores the various degree programs available at these institutions, highlighting their unique features and potential career pathways.
Foundational Programs in Arts and Sciences
WVU and WVSU both recognize the importance of a strong foundation in the arts and sciences. These programs equip students with critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills applicable across various fields.
Psychology
The psychology program at WVSU provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for graduate studies or direct entry into the workforce. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of psychology as a scientific discipline, while also learning about its practical applications in everyday life. The undergraduate certificate in Behavior Analysis, housed within the Department of Psychology in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at WVU, offers a structured series of courses and experiential learning opportunities. This program provides a broad and deep understanding of the principles of behavior, emphasizing how they are discovered and applied to improve human well-being.
Sociology
Sociology students at WVSU engage in the scientific study of social life, investigating diverse topics ranging from family dynamics to cultural beliefs. This program fosters an understanding of social structures and processes, preparing students for careers in social work, research, or related fields.
Biology
The Department of Biology at WVSU is dedicated to providing students with a comprehensive understanding of science, specifically within the field of biology. The Biology program is taught in a true research environment. Most courses contain an integrated laboratory component, and students work closely with faculty to enhance their laboratory, field and research skills. Biology majors at WVU study living organisms and the processes of life.
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Mathematics and Computer Science
In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, the Mathematics and Computer Science department at WVSU offers comprehensive programs designed to prepare students for success. With a focus on both theoretical understanding and practical application, students engage in rigorous coursework that covers topics ranging from advanced mathematical concepts to cutting-edge computer science methodologies. WVU Tech's Computer Science program, accredited by ABET, teaches students the theory and practice of computing, providing them with the tools to design and implement complex software packages and understand the basics of computer networking and database management.
English
WVSU offers three distinct tracks for English majors: Literature, Professional Writing, and Technical Writing. Majoring in English develops skills in communication, research, critical thinking and focused creativity. Students interested in any of these options can find more information at the departmental office in Hill Hall 118.
Interdisciplinary Studies
WVSU’s Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) Program allows students to create customized academic programs tailored to their unique interests and career aspirations, fostering a personalized learning experience.
Modern Foreign Languages
The Department of Modern Foreign Languages at WVSU offers degrees in International Studies with a focus on foreign languages such as French or Spanish, preparing students for global careers.
Music
The Department of Music at WVSU provides various opportunities for students interested in pursuing musical studies and performance.
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Engineering and Technology Programs
WVU and WVSU offer a range of engineering and technology programs designed to meet the demands of modern industry and infrastructure development.
Civil Engineering
West Virginia State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Engineering/Civil. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6 percent growth in employment for civil engineers from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations, with approximately 22,900 openings projected each year. Due to the need to maintain and upgrade existing infrastructure, civil engineers will be needed to manage projects that meet society's need for upgrading bridges, roads, water systems, buildings, and other structures. WVU Morgantown Campus also offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees in Civil Engineering. WVU Tech's Civil Engineering program is ABET-accredited, ensuring it meets the highest standards of quality and relevance.
Chemical Engineering
West Virginia State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Engineering/Chemical. According to WV Economic Outlook 2023-27, chemicals manufacturing continues to represent the single-largest manufacturing subsector. WVU Morgantown Campus also offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees in Chemical Engineering. WVU Tech's Chemical Engineering program is ABET-accredited, demonstrating its commitment to providing students with a high-quality education.
Aerospace Engineering
WVU Tech's Aerospace Engineering program follows a 2+2 model, where students complete the first two years at WVU Tech and the following two years at WVU (Morgantown). WVU Morgantown Campus offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees in Aerospace Engineering.
Computer Engineering
WVU Morgantown Campus offers Bachelor's and Ph.D. degrees in Computer Engineering.
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Electrical Engineering
WVU Morgantown Campus offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical Engineering.
Industrial Engineering
WVU Morgantown Campus offers Master's and Ph.D. degrees in Industrial Engineering.
Mining Engineering
WVU Morgantown Campus offers Master's and Ph.D. degrees in Mining Engineering.
Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering
WVU Morgantown Campus offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees in Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering.
Mechanical Engineering
WVU Morgantown Campus offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees in Mechanical Engineering. WVU Tech's Mechanical Engineering program is ABET-accredited and designed to prepare students for real-world engineering challenges through a practice-oriented education that emphasizes hands-on experience.
Robotics Engineering
WVU Morgantown Campus offers Bachelor's degree in Robotics Engineering.
Other Engineering Programs
WVU Morgantown Campus also offers degrees in Biomedical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, and Software Engineering.
Construction Management
WVU Tech offers a four-year degree in Construction Management, the only one of its kind in West Virginia. This program trains students to be leaders in the construction industry, emphasizing technical competence, safety, quality, ethics, and social and environmental responsibility.
Engineering Technology
WVU Morgantown Campus offers a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology.
Health Sciences Programs
WVU has a strong presence in the health sciences, offering a range of programs to prepare students for careers in healthcare and related fields.
Dentistry
The WVU School of Dentistry has a strong reputation as the state's only dental school, with over 80% of West Virginia dentists being graduates of the program. WVU offers advanced programs in endodontics, periodontics, and prosthodontics, designed to qualify dentists for careers in clinical practice, teaching, and research.
Pharmacy
The WVU School of Pharmacy has been offering pharmacy as a major for over 100 years and is recognized statewide and nationally for its leadership in the profession. The curriculum leads to a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree.
Nursing
WVU Tech's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is recognized by healthcare agencies for providing excellent preparation for the nursing profession, with small classes that encourage student-professor interaction. Baccalaureate-prepared nurses can also pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree at WVU, primarily online, which can be completed in 47 credit hours.
Other Health-Related Programs
WVU also offers programs and minors in fields such as health coaching, exercise physiology, and sport and performance psychology, catering to students interested in health, wellness, and human performance.
Business and Social Sciences Programs
Both WVU and WVSU offer programs in business and social sciences, preparing students for careers in management, administration, and public service.
Business Administration
The Business Management program at WVU Tech provides a broad understanding of management and leadership principles. WVU's John Chambers College of Business and Economics offers a variety of graduate certificates in areas such as Business Data Analytics, Business Data Science, Business Data Technology Management, and Business Operations Research. WVU also offers an online Master of Arts in Communication Studies with an emphasis in Corporate and Organizational Communication, designed to develop leaders who can communicate strategically with diverse audiences. The Ph.D. in Business Administration with a major in Finance is a full-time, in-residence program lasting 4-5 years. It is a relatively small, high-quality program.
Accounting
WVSU’s Accounting program equips students with a strong foundation in accounting and business, along with the technical skills needed to be competitive in the modern job market. The MAcc program at WVU prepares students to meet the challenges they face in launching a career in public accounting.
Public Administration
The College of Business and Social Sciences at West Virginia State University offers a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree for those interested in public management and service.
Criminal Justice
WVU Tech offers a program designed to provide an understanding of crime and the criminal justice system, offering an excellent background for those wishing to pursue graduate studies or law school.
Social Work
Social work is a valuable profession with broad opportunities to serve local, national, and international populations. The MSW program educates graduate students in advanced integrated practice with individuals, families, groups, and communities so that they can effectively address social and human problems across a wide range of practice areas.
Marketing
Students interested in business, psychology, or social studies may find Marketing a good fit. This major covers everything from advertising to market research, and you can choose from three areas of emphasis to customize your degree.
Natural Resources and Agriculture Programs
WVU has a strong focus on natural resources and agriculture, offering programs that address environmental issues and promote sustainable development.
Natural Resources Science
The Ph.D. in Natural Resources Science is an interdisciplinary program that allows doctoral students the opportunity to specialize in a range of competencies.
Forestry
Students seeking admission for the degree of Master of Science in Forestry (M.S.F.) should have completed an undergraduate curriculum in forestry. Candidates for the degree may pursue an emphasis in forest resources management or wood science and technology.
Animal and Nutritional Sciences
The Master of Science in Animal and Nutritional Sciences in the Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources allows maximum flexibility in courses and research. Students may major in either animal physiology or nutrition and food sciences.
Entomology
The M.S. in Entomology provides students the opportunity to take courses and conduct original, master’s-level research.
Environmental, Soil and Water Sciences
The M.S. in Environmental, Soil and Water Sciences provides students the opportunity to take courses and conduct original, master’s-level research in their areas of specialization.
Biotechnology
At West Virginia State University, you will learn state-of-the-art Biotechnology as you conduct research that addresses environmental, agricultural, and bio-medical problems.
Other Programs
Regents Bachelor of Arts (RBA)
The Regents Bachelor of Arts (RBA) degree program is the University’s only non-traditional degree. The degree, designed especially for adult learners, allows students to enter the program four years after high school graduation. The RBA degree program at WVU Tech is designed for working adults who want to complete their college studies and head into a better career with a bachelor’s degree.
Tourism and Hospitality
WVU Potomac State College program - delivered on the WVU Tech campus in Beckley, West Virginia - provides traditional and non-traditional students with a chance to complete a marketable two-year degree in tourism and hospitality with a culinary emphasis.
Instructional Leadership
The Master of Education in Instructional Leadership program creates opportunities for educators to expand their skills and advance into administrative positions. The curriculum is focused on the exploration and application of new techniques and concepts that help instructional leaders to create pathways to success for students and staff members.
Special Education
This program prepares special education teachers and other professionals to provide high-quality educational programs and services in elementary and/or secondary schools.
Sport Coaching and Communication
The sport coaching minor is designed for students to learn the theoretical foundations and best practices of effective sport coaching. The sport communication minor can prepare you for a career in this exciting field. The program offers a multidisciplinary curriculum which allows students to take a variety of sport discipline courses in addition to accounting, business management and communications.
Energy and Sustainable Development Law
The goal of the JD/LLM in Energy and Sustainable Development Law is to give our law students added expertise in a dynamic and vital legal field.
Geography
Our Master of Arts in geography provides students with cutting-edge training in the history and theory of geography, experience with advanced geographic research methodologies, and specialized mentoring from faculty experts across the subdisciplinary fields of human geography, environmental geography, and geographic information science.
Human Resource Leadership
The Master of Science in Human Resource Leadership offered by the John Chambers College of Business and Economics and focuses on giving students advanced professional knowledge, data-driven decision-making skills and leadership capabilities.
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