Are There Tuition-Free Master's Degrees Online in West Virginia?

Although fully free online master's degrees are not available, students seeking an affordable degree path can significantly reduce costs through various financial aid options. Federal and state aid, scholarships from higher education institutions, and other funding sources can cover a portion of tuition costs for eligible students. However, it is important to note that additional costs beyond tuition may apply.

Despite the lack of tuition-free online master's degrees available from in-state schools, there are still plenty of low-cost degrees for graduate students. Learn more about the universities in West Virginia that offer affordable master's degrees, as well as strategies and tips to lower your overall costs.

Can I Get a Master's Degree Online for Free in West Virginia?

No, you can't find free master's degree online programs in West Virginia because there are no truly free accredited degrees. Even tuition-free online colleges, like University of the People (UoPeople), still have some costs. Tuition-free colleges work by charging for final exams to receive credit � in addition to other expenses like fees, books, and supplies.

How To Make Your Online Master's Degree Affordable

School choice is only one factor in finding the cheapest online master's degrees. There are several other strategies that you should employ to try to find the most affordable graduate-level degree programs.

• Choosing an in-state school with lower tuition costs: In-state, public universities have the lowest average tuition costs. Online education can change this, as many schools offer in-state rates to all learners.
• Apply for institutional and state-based scholarships and grants: Many schools have their own scholarship programs, including graduate-level and subject-specific awards. There are also state-based programs that offer last-dollar programs and even full-tuition scholarships for eligible students, which is the closest a learner can get to a free master's degree online.
• Enlist in the military: The branches of the military have tuition-assistance programs to help active-duty service members and veterans afford college. These programs usually involve a minimum commitment and shouldn't be considered lightly.
• Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): All students should submit their FAFSA each academic year to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Accredited online colleges that accept FAFSA also use these results to assign institutional, need-based programs.
• Choose full-time enrollment: Many schools have different tuition rates between full-time and part-time enrollment. Choosing a full-time schedule or a program you complete at your own pace can result in lower total tuition costs.
• Look into prior learning assessments and transfer credits: Some schools allow students to take prior learning assessments or use work experience as an alternative to credits. Although these exams aren't free, they often cost much less than a full course.

Low-Cost Online Master's Programs

Students in West Virginia can find low-cost master's degrees from some of the top-ranking universities in the state. These schools offer a combination of degrees with fully online courses and hybrid options, with schools having different degrees available to learners. Read about all your available options to make an informed choice about your graduate degree.

1. Shepherd University

Shepherd University offers three fully online master's degrees. Students can choose between degrees in curriculum and instruction, data analytics, and an MBA program.

The MBA program also has four certificates and concentration options for students looking to further specialize in their education. These opportunities include health administration, sport management, management information systems, and public management.

• Average in-state tuition: $500
• Average out-of-state tuition: $717
• Financial aid: In addition to FAFSA-based aid, students at Shepherd can apply for graduate-specific aid, including assistantships, grants, and scholarships.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Marshall University

Marshall University has 23 different master's degree options. Students can earn advanced degrees in subjects such as computer science, business administration, and data science. The online graduate degrees at Marshall University utilize both self-paced and guided courses to give students flexibility to work around their other responsibilities.

Marshall also offers graduate certificate programs for students looking to expand their education.

• Average in-state tuition: $521
• Average out-of-state tuition: $521
• Financial aid: Marshall offers merit- and need-based scholarships and accepts FAFSA grants and other federal aid programs.
• Accreditation: HLC

3. Fairmont State University

Fairmont State University (FSU) has 16 master's degrees that can be earned online. These degrees include synchronous and asynchronous formats, depending on the field of study. Some available programs include cybersecurity, healthcare administration, and criminal justice. These programs are designed specifically for working professionals looking to advance their careers.

• Average in-state tuition: $530
• Average out-of-state tuition: $530
• Financial aid: FSU has need-, talent-, and merit-based scholarships that complement federal grants.
• Accreditation: HLC

4. West Virginia University

There are 32 online master's degrees available at West Virginia University (WVU). These degrees include in-demand, high-paying majors such as business analytics, artificial intelligence marketing, and multiple master of business administration (MBA) programs.

WVU's online master's degrees are offered in asynchronous formats, making it easier for working professionals to advance their careers without stepping on campus.

• Average in-state tuition: $557
• Average out-of-state tuition: $557
• Financial aid: WVU students can use federal grants, scholarships, and work-study programs to help cover tuition costs. There are also institutional aid programs, including tuition waivers.
• Accreditation: HLC

5. West Liberty University

West Liberty University (WLU) has two available online graduate programs. Students can enroll in a Master of Science in dental hygiene or a Master of Arts in art therapy and counseling. The MA in art therapy and counseling can lead to licensure nationwide, making it a viable option for all online students.

Both programs are designed to be completed within two and a half years, utilizing summer sessions.

• Average in-state tuition: $575
• Average out-of-state tuition: $575
• Financial aid: WLU students can access federal aid through FAFSA or apply for one of the school's institutional or foundation scholarships.
• Accreditation: HLC

6. Salem University

Salem University offers six online master's degree programs. These graduate degree options include nursing, two information technology concentrations, and nine MBA concentrations. Students can select from fully online or hybrid formats, including in-person and hands-on learning. The online courses are offered both in asynchronous and synchronous coursework.

• Average in-state tuition: $586
• Average out-of-state tuition: $586
• Financial aid: Salem University has internal scholarship opportunities for graduate students, with special programs for alumni who earned their bachelor's degree at the school. The school also accepts FAFSA-based grants and scholarships.
• Accreditation: HLC

7. Strayer University - West Virginia

Strayer University has over 50 locations across 17 states, including West Virginia. In addition to these campuses, Strayer has diverse online degree offerings, with 10 master's degrees available. Graduate students can find degrees in business administration, cybersecurity, and health services administration.

• Average in-state tuition: $490
• Average out-of-state tuition: $684
• Financial aid: Strayer offers tuition discounts to alumni as well as students enrolled in two master's courses at a time. Students who submit their FAFSA can also use federal aid at the school.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Find an Affordable Online Master's Degree

Whether you're looking for a low-cost master's degree in Virginia or one of the tuition-free online master's degree programs, read our articles and school profiles to learn more about all of your options. Once you've found the best degree and school for your financial means and career goals, use our resources to request more information or start your application today.