Head-to-head · 2026
Shepherd University vs West Virginia University at Parkersburg
Compare average net price ($11,363 at Shepherd University; $1,807 at West Virginia University at Parkersburg), ROI score (10.86 vs 48.66), ten-year median earnings ($49,358 vs $35,171), and admissions context (96.8% at Shepherd University; Open / not reported at West Virginia University at Parkersburg) using federal College Scorecard data. West Virginia University at Parkersburg has a narrow 3-2 metric-level edge. West Virginia University at Parkersburg leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Shepherd University | West Virginia University at Parkersburg |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 10.86 | 48.66 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $11,363 | $1,807 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $49,358 ✓ | $35,171 |
| Acceptance rate | 96.8% | Open / not reported |
| Graduation rate | 51% ✓ | 9.1% |
| Median debt | $21,600 | $12,570 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 2,344 | 1,868 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1034 | — |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Shepherd University costs $9,556 more per year than West Virginia University at Parkersburg ($11,363 vs $1,807). Shepherd University graduates report $14,187 higher median earnings after ten years ($49,358 vs $35,171). On EduGradify's model that puts West Virginia University at Parkersburg ahead on projected ROI (48.66 vs 10.86, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (West Virginia University at Parkersburg) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Shepherd University reports 96.8% acceptance; West Virginia University at Parkersburg does not report a standard acceptance rate in the current federal data.
Frequently asked
Shepherd University vs West Virginia University at Parkersburg, answered
4 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Shepherd University or West Virginia University at Parkersburg the better value?
West Virginia University at Parkersburg has the higher EduGradify ROI score (48.66 vs 10.86), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
West Virginia University at Parkersburg is cheaper — average net price $1,807 per year vs $11,363 at Shepherd University. The annual difference of $9,556 adds up to about $38,224 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Shepherd University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $49,358 vs $35,171 at West Virginia University at Parkersburg. The annual gap in the federal data is $14,187.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Shepherd University reports a A value grade; West Virginia University at Parkersburg reports A+.