Public Health Schools and MPH Programs in West Virginia

If you live in West Virginia and want to pursue a career in public health, there are currently several Master of Public Health (MPH) programs available at universities in the state. The education offered in these programs can set you on the path for a career involved in the research, development and implementation of public health agendas, programs and policies at various agencies throughout the state.

Public Health Schools and Highlights in West Virginia

The state of West Virginia currently has two universities offering Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)-accredited MPH programs. Those schools and programs are listed below.

Marshall University’s College of Health Professions

Marshall University offers a CEPH-accredited Master of Public Health (MPH) program designed for students who want training in population health, policy, research, and community-based practice. The program includes concentrations in Global and Community Health and Research, Evaluation and Policy, along with practicum and capstone experiences that help students apply what they learn in real-world settings. Marshall also offers pathways that may appeal to students seeking added flexibility or interdisciplinary study, including an accelerated option for some health sciences students and a PharmD/MPH dual-degree pathway. 

West Virginia University’s School of Public Health

West Virginia University’s School of Public Health is the first and only CEPH-accredited school of public health in West Virginia. Its MPH program combines foundational public health coursework with hands-on training through an applied practice experience and an integrative capstone project. Students can tailor their studies through areas of emphasis in Applied Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Public Health Leadership and Practice, or Social and Behavioral Sciences. WVU also offers an online MPH option for students interested in Public Health Practice and Leadership. 

Online MPH Programs in West Virginia

As an alternative to an on-campus MPH program with in-person classes, some students may choose to pursue their MPH degree online, as these programs often offer greater flexibility and work-life balance. It’s important to note that many MPH programs—online and in person—require the completion of in-person public health practicum hours. 

West Virginia University offers a CEPH-accredited online MPH option in Public Health Practice and Leadership. Students may also consider online CEPH-accredited MPH programs offered by universities across the United States. Their online MPH program is CEPH-accredited and offers monthly start dates. In addition to West Virginia University’s online MPH option, students may also explore CEPH-accredited online MPH programs offered by universities across the United States.

Public Health Careers Outlook in West Virginia

According to the Census Bureau, West Virginia has one of the oldest populations in the United States. According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts data available in 2026, 21.9% of West Virginia residents are age 65 or older. With an aging population and ongoing health challenges, public health professionals can play an important role in improving health outcomes, expanding access to care, and supporting healthier communities across the state.

For public health career opportunities in West Virginia, see the table below for salaries and projected job growth data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024).

Job TitleMed.  Salary in WV (Yearly)Med. Salary in U.S. (Yearly)Projected Job Growth in U.S., 2024–2034
Statisticians
$80,580
$103,300
9%
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
$106,940
$105,620
17%
Environmental Scientists and  Specialists
$77,980
$80,060
4%
Epidemiologists
$65,490
$83,980
16%
Medical and Health Services Managers
$110,780
$117,960
23%
Health Education Specialists
$62,400
$63,000
4%
Occupational Health and Safety Specialist
$86,940
$78,900
12%
Medical Records and Health Information Technicians
$43,710
$50,250
7%
Dietitians and Nutritionists
$66,660
$73,850
6%
Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars
$59,750
$67,310
15%

Specializations to Consider in West Virginia

While nearly all of the public health jobs listed above are growing in West Virginia, the outlook is particularly bright for biostatisticians. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for mathematicians and statisticians is projected to grow 8% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. Specializing in biostatistics may equip you to apply data analysis techniques to identify the causes of public health issues and develop solutions.

There is also an opportunity for medical and health services managers in West Virginia. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 23% job growth for these roles from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. These professionals plan, direct or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, and public health agencies.

Organizations to Work for with a Public Health Degree

Career opportunities for public health graduates vary. Check out the following organizations for information on public health careers and opportunities in West Virginia:

  • West Virginia Department of Health: Provides a wide range of public health services to West Virginia residents and oversees key programs and offices that work with public health professionals statewide.
  • West Virginia Department of Education: Works with public health professionals on initiatives like ReClaimWV, which is a collaborative response to the opioid epidemic that focuses on the physical, social-emotional, behavioral and mental health needs of students.
  • West Virginia Center for Local Health: Serves as a link between the state public health system and local boards of health, helping support the delivery of public health services across West Virginia.
  • West Virginia Bureau for Public Health: Works with people, families and partners to help assure and advance safety and health for the state. The Bureau for Public Health embraces the values of community, science and evidence-based decision making, health equity, prevention and wellness, as well as the protection and improvement of the health of the community.
  • USDA Rural Development West Virginia State Office: Committed to helping improve the economy and quality of life in all of rural America, the Rural Development State Office provides information about rural development programs and applications for financial assistance.
  • West Virginia Public Health Association: Promotes health and the prevention of illness for all West Virginia residents.
  • WVU Institute for Community and Rural Health: Coordinates rural health education and service opportunities for West Virginia University Health Sciences schools and programs, with a focus on improving the health status of rural populations within the state. 
  • West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services: Focuses on the needs of older citizens of the state with programs that promote health, dignity and independence. Some senior programs and services that are offered throughout the state of West Virginia include transportation, meals, exercise classes and in-home services.

State Health Information

If you are getting ready to enroll in a graduate-level program in public health, you may want to consider some of the reasons why public health plays a significant role in this state.

West Virginia faces several significant public health challenges. According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau and public health data available in 2026, the state has about 1.77 million residents and continues to face elevated rates of poverty, smoking, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Last updated April 2026