Shepherd University
Shepherdstown, West Virginia 25443
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences — excellent value
Shepherd University is a public institution in Shepherdstown with particular strength in health sciences and business. With an average SAT of 1022, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 2.4K undergraduates with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio. The rural location provides a peaceful, focused academic environment.
49% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $49,358 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $12,391.
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •History Shepherd University began when the county seat of Jefferson County, West Virginia, was moved from its temporary location in Shepherdstown back to Charles Town in July 1871.
- •Professor Joseph McMurran was appointed the first principal of the institution, which opened with 42 students in September 1871, under the authority of the board of trustees.
- •Shepherd was authorized to implement liberal arts programs in 1943, and in 1950 the Bachelor of Science degree was added.
- •Also in 1950 Shepherd was accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and in 1951 it became a member of the Association of American Colleges.
- •On April 7, 2004, Governor Bob Wise signed legislation allowing Shepherd College to change its name to Shepherd University.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1022
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
59.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
1.1%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$14,297
Programs (51)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
72%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
14
Peer Average
13
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from WV state average