Shepherd University

School Overview

Shepherd University is located in Shepherdstown, WV, 25443. The university is ranked #82 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.

Shepherd University has an acceptance rate of 97%, providing broad access to higher education and welcoming students from diverse academic backgrounds. Successful applicants typically present SAT scores of 878-1140 and ACT scores of 19-24.

With just 2,906 undergraduates, Shepherd University provides an intimate academic setting where small class sizes and close faculty mentorship are central to the student experience. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. The institution achieves a four-year graduation rate of 33%, a strong indicator that students receive the support they need to finish on time and move into their careers or further study.

However, the average net price after financial aid is $8,418, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with Shepherd University's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. Shepherd University combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, meaningful financial aid to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether Shepherd University is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.