Security Science and Technology at West Virginia University

Morgantown, WV · Public · Bachelor's Degree
60 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
60
Optimistic
60
Base Case
47
Pessimistic
Earnings $44,255/yr (10% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (385,400 openings/yr)
ROI 13.5x earnings multiple (4.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #9 of 41 Security Science and Technology programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

West Virginia University's Security Science and Technology program stands out nationally, reflecting its strong curriculum and industry connections. This program uniquely blends technical security expertise with critical leadership and analytical skills, preparing you for diverse roles beyond purely technical implementation. You'll find graduates excelling in federal agencies, critical infrastructure protection, and corporate security management, leveraging their ability to understand and mitigate complex threats. While many tech roles face evolving AI risks, this program's emphasis on strategic oversight, human intelligence, and policy development cultivates skills less susceptible to automation. To maximize your prospects, actively pursue internships or co-ops; practical experience applying these varied security principles is invaluable for securing top positions upon graduation.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Security Science and Technology graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $521K $519K $478K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.5x 13.5x 12.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.8x 4.7x 4.4x
Probability of Field Employment 34% 32% 23%
DegreeOutlook Score 60 60 47

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$38,592
Out-of-state: $109,440 (4.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$51,988
-35% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,121
6.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$55,315
25% growth from Year 1

About West Virginia University

With 86% of applicants admitted, West Virginia University prioritizes broad access, serving 17,705 students in Morgantown, WV.

See all programs and financial aid at West Virginia University →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Information security analysts $124,910/yr
Computer occupations, all other $108,970/yr
View all 17 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Security Science and Technology at Other Schools

Other Majors at West Virginia University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 60/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Security Science and Technology at West Virginia University?
At 60/100, West Virginia University's Security Science and Technology program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Security Science and Technology at West Virginia University?
The 46% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is West Virginia University one of the best schools for Security Science and Technology?
Among 41 Security Science and Technology programs, West Virginia University's #9 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →