West Virginia Veteran Healthcare, Education & Jobs: Complete 2025 Guide
Comprehensive guide to West Virginia veteran resources including VA Medical Centers in Beckley, Clarksburg, Huntington, and Martinsburg, community clinics, WVU and Marshall University benefits, state tuition waivers, employment programs, and job opportunities across the state.
Bottom Line Up Front
West Virginia operates 4 full-service VA Medical Centers (Beckley, Clarksburg, Huntington, Martinsburg) plus 15+ community clinics providing comprehensive healthcare access across this rural state. The state-owned West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility in Clarksburg offers 120 beds of skilled nursing care. Education benefits are strong: WVU and Marshall University both provide in-state tuition for all veterans regardless of state of origin, with WVU offering up to $10,000/year in state tuition assistance for Guard members. West Virginia offers tuition waivers for Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipients (8 semesters), plus proposed legislation for 50%+ disabled veterans. Employment support comes through WorkForce West Virginia with dedicated veteran representatives in all 55 counties. Major employers include state government (153,700 employees), WVU Medicine (21,700), and Walmart (12,600). Veteran unemployment in WV runs lower than civilian rates, but limited job market and coal industry transition create challenges.
VA Healthcare in West Virginia: Complete Facility Guide
West Virginia's VA healthcare system serves approximately 120,000 enrolled veterans through a network of medical centers and community clinics strategically positioned to serve the state's mountainous, rural geography.
VA Medical Centers: The Big Four
West Virginia is fortunate to have FOUR full-service VA Medical Centers, providing comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. Most states have only one or two.
Beckley VA Medical Center
Official Name: Beckley VA Medical Center Address: 200 Veterans Avenue, Beckley, WV 25801 Main Phone: 304-255-2121 Toll-Free: 877-902-5142 Emergency: Available 24/7 Website: va.gov/beckley-health-care
Services Provided
Primary Care
- Internal medicine
- Women's health
- Geriatrics
- Preventive care
- Same-day urgent care
Specialty Care
- Cardiology
- Pulmonary medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Orthopedics
- Urology
- Podiatry
- Ophthalmology
- ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat)
Mental Health
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- PTSD treatment programs
- Substance abuse treatment
- Military Sexual Trauma (MST) counseling
- Suicide prevention coordination
Surgical Services
- Outpatient surgery center
- General surgery
- Orthopedic surgery
- Urology procedures
Diagnostic Services
- Full laboratory
- Radiology (X-ray, CT, MRI)
- Ultrasound
- EKG/cardiac monitoring
- Pulmonary function testing
Pharmacy
- Full-service pharmacy
- Mail-order prescriptions
- 90-day supplies available
Other Services
- Audiology/hearing aids
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Prosthetics
- Nutrition/dietetics
- Social work
- Home-based primary care
Coverage Area
Beckley VA serves veterans primarily in southern West Virginia, including:
- Raleigh County
- Wyoming County
- Mercer County
- Summers County
- Monroe County
- Greenbrier County
- Fayette County
- McDowell County
Hours
Main hospital: Monday-Friday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Primary care appointments: Monday-Friday 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM Emergency care: 24/7 (always available)
Parking
Free parking available for all veterans in designated lots adjacent to medical center.
Affiliated Clinics
Beckley VA oversees several community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs):
- Greenbrier County VA Clinic (Ronceverte)
- Princeton VA Clinic
- Franklin VA Clinic
Clarksburg VA Medical Center (Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center)
Official Name: Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center Address: 1 Medical Center Drive, Clarksburg, WV 26301 Main Phone: 304-623-3461 Toll-Free: 800-733-0512 Emergency: Available 24/7 Website: va.gov/clarksburg-health-care
Services Provided
Clarksburg is one of WV's largest VA facilities, offering comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services.
Inpatient Services
- Medical/surgical beds
- Intensive care unit (ICU)
- Mental health inpatient unit
- Extended care (nursing home)
- Palliative care
Primary Care
- General internal medicine
- Women's health clinic
- Geriatric primary care
- PACT (Patient Aligned Care Team) model
Specialty Care
- Cardiology (including cardiac catheterization)
- Neurology
- Pulmonology
- Gastroenterology
- Nephrology/dialysis center
- Hematology/oncology
- Infectious disease
- Rheumatology
- Endocrinology
- Pain management
Mental Health Services
- PTSD Clinical Team
- Mental health intensive case management
- Substance abuse treatment (SARRTP - residential program)
- Compensated Work Therapy
- Homeless veteran programs
- Suicide prevention
Surgical Services
- General surgery
- Orthopedic surgery
- Urology surgery
- Vascular surgery
- Ophthalmology (cataract surgery)
Diagnostic Services
- Full laboratory (on-site)
- Radiology department (X-ray, CT, MRI, fluoroscopy)
- Nuclear medicine
- Ultrasound
- EKG/stress testing
- Pulmonary function lab
- Sleep lab
Rehabilitation Services
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Blind rehabilitation
- Spinal cord injury care
Other Programs
- Polytrauma support clinic
- Caregiver support
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Recreation therapy
- Chaplain services
Coverage Area
Clarksburg VA serves north-central West Virginia:
- Harrison County
- Barbour County
- Braxton County
- Doddridge County
- Gilmer County
- Lewis County
- Monongalia County (shared with Morgantown clinic)
- Randolph County
- Taylor County
- Tucker County
- Upshur County
- Wood County (shared with Parkersburg clinic)
Hours
Inpatient services: 24/7 Outpatient clinics: Monday-Friday, hours vary by department (typically 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM) Emergency department: 24/7
Special Programs
Substance Abuse Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (SARRTP) One of the region's premier residential substance abuse treatment programs, providing 45-90 day intensive treatment.
Compensated Work Therapy Veterans earn wages while developing job skills in a supportive environment. Operates businesses on campus including janitorial services, groundskeeping, and food service.
Affiliated Clinics
- Braxton County VA Clinic (Gassaway)
- Monongalia County VA Clinic (Westover/Morgantown area)
- Wood County VA Clinic (Parkersburg)
Huntington VA Medical Center (Hershel "Woody" Williams VA Medical Center)
Official Name: Hershel "Woody" Williams VA Medical Center Named After: Medal of Honor recipient and last surviving WWII Medal of Honor recipient Hershel "Woody" Williams (1923-2022) Address: 1540 Spring Valley Drive, Huntington, WV 25704 Main Phone: 304-429-6741 Toll-Free: 800-827-8244 Emergency: Available 24/7 Website: va.gov/huntington-health-care
Services Provided
Huntington serves as a major referral center for southwestern West Virginia and parts of eastern Kentucky and southern Ohio.
Primary Care
- General medicine
- Women's health
- Geriatrics
- Patient-centered medical home (PCMH)
Specialty Care
- Cardiology (full cardiac services including catheterization lab)
- Pulmonary/critical care
- Gastroenterology
- Nephrology/dialysis
- Hematology/oncology/chemotherapy
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
- Urology
- General surgery
- Vascular surgery
- Ophthalmology
- Podiatry
- Dermatology
- Rheumatology
- Endocrinology
Mental Health & Behavioral
- PTSD outpatient program
- Mental health clinic
- Substance abuse treatment
- Veterans Justice Outreach (for justice-involved veterans)
- Suicide prevention
- Military Sexual Trauma counseling
Inpatient Care
- Medical/surgical unit
- ICU
- Mental health unit
Diagnostic & Imaging
- Full laboratory
- Radiology (CT, MRI, X-ray, ultrasound, mammography)
- Nuclear medicine
- Cardiac catheterization lab
Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Blind rehabilitation
- Prosthetics
Pharmacy
- Full service on-site
- Mail order available
- Medication refills via phone/online
Coverage Area
Huntington VA serves:
- Cabell County
- Wayne County
- Lincoln County
- Logan County
- Mingo County
- Boone County
- Putnam County
- Mason County
- Parts of eastern Kentucky (Boyd, Carter, Greenup, Lawrence counties)
- Parts of southern Ohio (Lawrence, Gallia counties)
Hours
Emergency care: 24/7 Outpatient clinics: Monday-Friday 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM (varies by clinic) Inpatient services: 24/7
Transportation
VA shuttle service available from select locations. Call 800-827-8244 to inquire about transportation assistance.
Affiliated Clinics
- Charleston VA Clinic (South Charleston) - major clinic with extensive services
- Logan VA Clinic
- Wayne County VA Clinic (Wayne)
Martinsburg VA Medical Center
Official Name: Martinsburg VA Medical Center Address: 510 Butler Avenue, Martinsburg, WV 25405 Main Phone: 304-263-0811 Toll-Free: 800-817-3807 Emergency: Available 24/7 Website: va.gov/martinsburg-health-care
Services Provided
Martinsburg is West Virginia's largest VA facility and serves as a major medical center for the Eastern Panhandle, western Maryland, and parts of southern Pennsylvania.
Inpatient Services
- Medical/surgical care
- ICU
- Mental health unit
- Domiciliary (residential rehabilitation)
- Extended care/nursing home
Primary Care
- General internal medicine
- Women's health
- Geriatrics
- Preventive care
- Team-based care model
Specialty Care
- Cardiology (comprehensive, including cath lab)
- Pulmonary medicine
- Gastroenterology/endoscopy
- Nephrology/dialysis center
- Hematology/oncology
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
- Urology
- General surgery
- Vascular surgery
- Ophthalmology
- Otolaryngology (ENT)
- Podiatry
- Dermatology
- Pain management
Mental Health
- PTSD programs
- Individual and group therapy
- Substance abuse residential program (domiciliary)
- Mental health intensive case management
- Veterans Justice Outreach
- Homeless veteran services
Surgical Services
- Operating rooms for general, orthopedic, urologic, and vascular surgery
- Outpatient surgery center
- Pre-operative assessment clinic
Diagnostic Services
- Full laboratory
- Radiology (X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, fluoroscopy)
- Nuclear medicine
- Cardiac catheterization
- Echocardiography
- Stress testing
- Sleep study center
Rehabilitation Services
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Blind rehabilitation
- Recreation therapy
Other Services
- Audiology/hearing aids
- Nutrition counseling
- Social work
- Chaplain services
- Prosthetics
- Home-based primary care
- Telehealth services
Coverage Area
Martinsburg VA serves:
- Berkeley County
- Jefferson County
- Morgan County
- Hampshire County
- Mineral County
- Grant County
- Hardy County
- Pendleton County
- Parts of western Maryland (Washington, Allegany, Garrett counties)
- Parts of southern Pennsylvania (Franklin, Adams counties)
- Parts of northern Virginia (Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Shenandoah counties)
Hours
Emergency care: 24/7 Outpatient clinics: Monday-Friday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM (varies by specialty) Inpatient care: 24/7
Special Programs
Domiciliary Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program Residential program for veterans struggling with mental health, substance abuse, or homelessness. Provides housing, treatment, and support for up to 180 days.
Polytrauma Support Clinic Team Specialized care for veterans with multiple traumatic injuries, particularly traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Parking
Free parking in main lot and satellite lots. Handicapped parking available near main entrance.
Affiliated Clinics
- Cumberland VA Clinic (Maryland)
- Petersburg VA Clinic (Grant County)
- Franklin VA Clinic (Pendleton County)
VA Community Clinics: Bringing Care Closer to Home
In addition to the four medical centers, West Virginia operates 15+ Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) to serve veterans in rural areas.
Charleston VA Clinic
Address: 700 Technology Drive, South Charleston, WV 25309 Phone: 304-781-3300 (option 1) Overseen by: Huntington VA Medical Center
Services:
- Primary care
- Mental health
- Podiatry
- Audiology
- Laboratory
- Radiology
- Pharmacy
Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
This is one of WV's largest clinics, serving the state capital region with near-comprehensive services.
Monongalia County VA Clinic (Westover)
Address: 40 Commerce Drive, Suite 101, Westover, WV 26501 Phone: 304-599-4800 Overseen by: Clarksburg VA Medical Center
Services:
- Primary care
- Mental health
- Laboratory
- Radiology
Serves Morgantown area veterans, including large WVU student veteran population.
Wood County VA Clinic (Parkersburg)
Address: 2311 Ohio Avenue, Suite A, Parkersburg, WV 26101 Phone: 304-422-5114 Overseen by: Clarksburg VA Medical Center
Services:
- Primary care
- Mental health
- Podiatry
- Laboratory
Serves mid-Ohio Valley region.
Greenbrier County VA Clinic (Ronceverte)
Address: 804 Industrial Park Road, Ronceverte, WV 24970 Phone: 304-645-2005 Overseen by: Beckley VA Medical Center
Services:
- Primary care
- Mental health
- Laboratory
Princeton VA Clinic
Address: 905 Mercer Street, Princeton, WV 24740 Phone: 304-425-5156 Overseen by: Beckley VA Medical Center
Services:
- Primary care
- Mental health
Braxton County VA Clinic (Gassaway)
Address: 364 Procurement Drive, Gassaway, WV 26624 Phone: 304-364-5252 Overseen by: Clarksburg VA Medical Center
Services:
- Primary care
- Mental health
Logan VA Clinic
Address: 21 Veterans Drive, Logan, WV 25601 Phone: 304-752-4453 Overseen by: Huntington VA Medical Center
Services:
- Primary care
- Mental health
Complete Clinic Directory
Find all VA facilities in West Virginia: Website: va.gov/find-locations Search by: ZIP code, city, or facility type VA Hotline: 844-698-2311
West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility
West Virginia operates a state-of-the-art skilled nursing facility exclusively for veterans.
Official Name: West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility Address: One Freedoms Way, Clarksburg, WV 26301 Phone: 304-626-1600 Fax: 304-626-1610 Operated by: West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance Website: veterans.wv.gov
Facility Details
Opened: 2008 Size: 120,000 square feet Capacity: 120 beds Type: Skilled nursing care facility
Eligibility:
- Honorably discharged veterans
- Wartime service required for most (exceptions exist)
- Must meet nursing home level of care criteria
- Priority given to service-connected disabled veterans
Services Provided
Skilled Nursing Care
- 24/7 nursing staff
- Registered nurses (RNs) on duty all shifts
- Licensed practical nurses (LPNs)
- Certified nursing assistants (CNAs)
Medical Services
- Physician oversight
- Medication management
- Wound care
- IV therapy
- Catheter care
- Feeding tube management
Rehabilitation Services
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
Specialty Care
- Memory care/dementia unit
- Hospice care
- Palliative care
- Mental health services
Daily Living Support
- Assistance with bathing, dressing, eating
- Mobility assistance
- Continence care
- Personal hygiene
Recreational Activities
- Recreation therapy
- Social events
- Holiday celebrations
- Outdoor activities (weather permitting)
- Music therapy
- Pet therapy visits
Spiritual Care
- Chaplain services
- Religious services
- Spiritual counseling
Dining
- Three meals daily plus snacks
- Dietitian-planned menus
- Accommodations for special diets (diabetic, low-sodium, etc.)
- Dining room and bedside service
Cost & Payment
Payment sources accepted:
- VA Aid & Attendance Pension
- Medicare
- Medicaid
- Private pay
- Long-term care insurance
Important: The facility works with veterans to identify ALL available funding sources to cover care costs. No veteran is turned away solely for inability to pay.
Admission Process
Step 1: Contact facility Call 304-626-1600 to request information and application packet.
Step 2: Complete application Provide:
- DD-214 (honorable discharge)
- Medical history and current health status
- Physician certification of need for nursing home care
- Financial information for payment determination
Step 3: Assessment Facility conducts assessment to determine eligibility and appropriate level of care.
Step 4: Admission If approved, veteran is placed on waiting list (if no immediate bed available) or admitted directly.
Average wait time: Varies from immediate to several months depending on bed availability and priority level.
Visiting
Visiting hours: Generally open, but confirm current policy by calling Amenities for visitors: Sitting areas, outdoor spaces, dining room for meals with residents
Location Advantage
The facility is located on the campus adjacent to the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center in Clarksburg, providing seamless coordination between nursing facility and hospital care.
Vet Centers: PTSD and Readjustment Counseling
Vet Centers provide free counseling and support for combat veterans and their families, separate from VA medical centers.
Charleston Vet Center
Address: 512 Washington Street West, Charleston, WV 25302 Phone: 304-343-3825 Hours: Monday-Friday, call for appointment
Services:
- Individual counseling
- Group counseling
- Marriage and family counseling
- PTSD counseling
- Substance abuse assessment
- Employment counseling
- Bereavement counseling
- Military Sexual Trauma counseling
Huntington Vet Center
Address: 3135 16th Street Road, Suite 11, Huntington, WV 25701 Phone: 304-523-8387 Hours: Monday-Friday, call for appointment
Services: Same as Charleston Vet Center
Martinsburg Vet Center
Address: 900 Winchester Avenue, Martinsburg, WV 25401 Phone: 304-263-6776 Hours: Monday-Friday, call for appointment
Services: Same as Charleston Vet Center
Who Qualifies for Vet Center Services?
- Veterans who served in combat zone
- Veterans who experienced military sexual trauma
- Veterans who provided direct emergency medical care in combat setting
- Family members for bereavement counseling
- Active-duty service members (with command approval)
No VA healthcare enrollment required. Vet Center services are available regardless of VA healthcare eligibility.
Education Benefits: Universities and Colleges
West Virginia's public universities offer exceptional benefits for veterans pursuing higher education.
West Virginia University (WVU)
Main Campus: Morgantown, WV Phone: 304-293-0111 Veterans Office: WVU Center for Veteran, Military and Family Programs Veterans Office Phone: 304-293-6837 Veterans Office Email: veterans@mail.wvu.edu Website: veterans.wvu.edu
In-State Tuition for All Veterans
WVU grants in-state tuition rates to:
- Any veteran with at least a general discharge (includes National Guard/Reservists)
- Active-duty service members
- Students using GI Bill benefits
- Students actively serving in WV National Guard or WV Reserve unit
- Dependents with sponsor on active-duty orders
This applies regardless of your state of origin. A veteran from California using GI Bill benefits pays WV resident tuition, not out-of-state rates.
Cost savings:
- In-state tuition: $9,360/year (2024-2025)
- Out-of-state tuition: $27,440/year
- Savings: $18,080/year
- Four-year savings: $72,320
If your GI Bill benefits run out while attending WVU, you remain at the in-state rate for the duration of your program.
West Virginia Educational Encouragement Program (WVEEP)
Eligibility: West Virginia National Guard members Benefit amount: Up to $10,000 per service member per fiscal year Can be combined with: Federal tuition assistance and GI Bill
This state-funded program provides substantial tuition assistance specifically for WV Guard members, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Federal Tuition Assistance
Active-duty service members and WV Guard/Reserve students can use federal TA:
- Army TA: Up to $250 per credit hour, $4,500 per fiscal year
- Air Force TA: Up to $250 per credit hour, $4,500 per fiscal year
- Navy/Marines TA: Up to $250 per credit hour, up to $4,500 per fiscal year
GI Bill Benefits Accepted
WVU certifies enrollment for all VA education benefit chapters:
Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
- Covers tuition and fees (at in-state rate)
- Monthly housing allowance (BAH rate for Morgantown: ~$1,800/month for 2024-2025)
- Annual books and supplies stipend: $1,000 (paid proportionately)
Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (Chapter 30)
- Monthly payment: $2,210/month for full-time students (2024 rate)
Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)
- Monthly payment: $463/month for full-time students (2024 rate)
Vocational Rehabilitation (Chapter 31)
- For veterans with service-connected disabilities
- Covers tuition, fees, books, supplies, housing
Survivors and Dependents (Chapter 35)
- For dependents of veterans who died or are permanently disabled due to service
- Monthly payment: $1,488/month for full-time students (2024 rate)
Veteran Support Services
WVU Center for Veteran, Military and Family Programs provides:
- GI Bill certification and enrollment processing
- Academic advising specifically for veterans
- Assistance navigating VA benefits
- Career counseling
- Referrals to VA healthcare and other resources
- Peer mentorship programs
- Study spaces in veteran lounge
- Priority registration (allows early class selection)
Student Veterans Organization
- Active student group connecting veteran students
- Social events, networking, advocacy
- Leadership development opportunities
Campus Resources:
- Dedicated veteran parking
- Veteran-specific orientation programs
- Tutoring and academic support
- Mental health counseling (university counseling center)
- Disability services for veterans with service-connected conditions
WVU Campuses
Morgantown Campus (main)
- Comprehensive four-year programs
- Graduate and professional programs (law, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy)
WVU Potomac State College (Keyser, WV)
- Two-year associate degrees
- Transfer programs to main campus
- More intimate campus (fewer than 2,000 students)
WVU Institute of Technology (Beckley, WV)
- Engineering and technology focus
- Four-year degrees
- Located near Beckley VA Medical Center
All three campuses offer in-state tuition and veteran support services.
Contact for Veterans
WVU Center for Veteran, Military and Family Programs One Waterfront Place, 7th Floor Morgantown, WV 26506 Phone: 304-293-6837 Email: veterans@mail.wvu.edu Walk-in hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Marshall University
Main Campus: Huntington, WV Phone: 304-696-3170 Veterans Office: Office of Military and Veterans Affairs Veterans Office Phone: 304-696-5278 Veterans Contact: Jonathan McCormick, Director Veterans Email: mccormick@marshall.edu Website: marshall.edu/military
In-State Tuition for Veterans
Marshall University provides in-state tuition rates to:
- Non-resident veterans
- Dependents of veterans
- Active-duty service members and their dependents
Must submit required documentation to Office of Registrar.
Cost savings:
- In-state tuition: $8,806/year (2024-2025)
- Out-of-state tuition: $19,946/year
- Savings: $11,140/year
- Four-year savings: $44,560
Yellow Ribbon Program
Marshall participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program with:
- Unlimited undergraduate students accepted
- Unlimited maximum contribution per student
This means Marshall will cover any tuition/fees that exceed the Post-9/11 GI Bill's in-state tuition payment, with VA matching the university's contribution.
For veterans from states with higher tuition costs, this can provide substantial additional benefits beyond standard GI Bill coverage.
GI Bill Benefits Accepted
Marshall certifies students for all VA education benefits:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
- Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30)
- Vocational Rehabilitation (Chapter 31)
- Survivors and Dependents (Chapter 35)
- Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)
Certification handled by: Office of the Registrar Phone: 304-696-6410
Veteran-Specific Scholarships
Tennyson J. & Velma L. Bias Endowed Scholarship
- First priority: Veteran students
- Amounts vary
Wellman Family Foundation Scholarship
- First priority: Veteran students
- Amounts vary
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 949 Scholarship
- For incoming freshmen
- Must be veteran OR have relatives who served
- Amounts vary
Application: Apply through Marshall University scholarship portal during admissions process.
Veterans Upward Bound Program
Free assistance for military-connected students including:
- FAFSA help
- Admission paperwork assistance
- Registration support
- Academic advising
Veterans Lounge
Location: Memorial Student Center Amenities:
- Free printing for military-connected students
- Study space
- Computers
- Coffee/refreshments
- Comfortable seating
- Community building
Hours: Check with Office of Military and Veterans Affairs
Student Veteran Organization
Active student group providing:
- Peer support and networking
- Social events
- Community service opportunities
- Advocacy for veteran students
Contact for Veterans
Office of Military and Veterans Affairs Jonathan McCormick, Director Phone: 304-696-5278 Email: mccormick@marshall.edu
Office of the Registrar (for GI Bill certification) Phone: 304-696-6410
Marshall Campuses
Huntington Campus (main)
- Four-year undergraduate programs
- Graduate programs including MBA, education, nursing
- Medical school (Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine)
South Charleston Campus
- Associate and bachelor's degree programs
- Smaller campus atmosphere
- Located near Charleston VA Clinic
West Virginia State Tuition Waivers
West Virginia offers tuition waivers for specific categories of veterans at all state-supported institutions (includes WVU, Marshall, state colleges, community and technical colleges).
Medal of Honor and Purple Heart Tuition Waiver
Eligibility:
- Veterans awarded the Medal of Honor, OR
- Veterans awarded the Purple Heart
Benefit:
- Complete waiver of tuition and mandatory fees
- Valid for up to 8 semesters (or 12 semesters for 5-year programs)
- Applies to undergraduate courses
- At any state-supported institution
How to Apply:
- Contact school's financial aid office or veteran certifying official
- Provide DD-214
- Provide award citation for Medal of Honor or Purple Heart
- Complete institution's waiver application
Legal Authority: West Virginia Code §18B-10-1A
This is an ACTUAL waiver - the school charges $0 for tuition and mandatory fees. Not a scholarship you have to pay back.
Surviving Spouses and Children Waiver
Eligibility:
- Surviving spouses of resident service members killed in the line of duty
- Children of resident service members killed in the line of duty
Benefit:
- Waiver of tuition and fees
- For undergraduate courses
- At state institutions
- Up to 8 semesters or completion of bachelor's degree
How to Apply: Contact institution's financial aid office with documentation of service member's death in line of duty.
Proposed Legislation: Disabled Veteran and Dependent Tuition Waiver (2025)
House Bill 2610 introduced in March 2025 would establish new tuition waivers.
Eligibility (if passed):
- Veterans with 50% or greater VA disability rating (VASRD)
- Spouses of eligible veterans (current spouse living in household)
- Dependents of eligible veterans (legal dependents living in household)
Benefit (if passed):
- Tuition and fee waiver for associate or bachelor's degree programs
- Can only be used AFTER other financial aid (Pell grants, etc.) is exhausted
- Must maintain 2.5 GPA to renew
Status: Bill introduced but not yet passed. Monitor wvlegislature.gov for updates.
If passed, this would substantially expand tuition benefits to veterans with 50-90% disability ratings who currently don't qualify for property tax credits but have significant service-connected disabilities.
Community and Technical Colleges
West Virginia's community and technical colleges offer affordable two-year degrees and technical training.
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College (Martinsburg)
Location: 13650 Apple Harvest Drive, Martinsburg, WV 25403 Phone: 304-260-4380 Veteran Services: 304-260-4380 ext. 2189
Programs:
- Associate degrees (business, criminal justice, health sciences, IT)
- Technical certificates (welding, HVAC, electrical, automotive)
- Transfer programs to four-year schools
Veteran benefits: GI Bill accepted, in-state tuition for veterans, veteran certifying official on staff.
Pierpont Community and Technical College (Fairmont)
Location: 1201 Locust Avenue, Fairmont, WV 26554 Phone: 304-534-8900
Programs:
- Advanced manufacturing
- Information technology
- Healthcare (nursing, dental hygiene, surgical technology)
- Business
Veteran benefits: GI Bill accepted, veteran coordinator available.
Mountwest Community and Technical College (Huntington)
Location: 1 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 25755 Phone: 304-710-3400
Programs:
- Associate degrees
- Technical certificates
- Workforce training
Proximity advantage: Located near Huntington VA Medical Center
All Community and Technical Colleges Accept:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Other GI Bill chapters
- Federal Tuition Assistance (for active duty, Guard, Reserve)
- In-state tuition rates for veterans (per state policy)
Complete list of WV community and technical colleges: wvctcs.org
Employment and Career Services
West Virginia provides dedicated employment support for veterans through state and federal programs.
WorkForce West Virginia
Main Office: 1321 Plaza East, Charleston, WV 25301 Phone: 800-252-5627 (800-252-JOBS) Website: workforcewv.org
WorkForce West Virginia operates One-Stop Career Centers in all 55 counties, providing employment services with dedicated veteran representatives.
Veteran Priority Service
Eligible veterans and their spouses receive:
- Priority in ALL employment and training programs funded with state or federal dollars
- Access to programs before non-veterans
- Dedicated staff trained in veteran issues
Disabled Veteran Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists
DVOP specialists provide intensive services to qualified veterans:
- One-on-one career counseling
- Resume writing assistance
- Job search strategies
- Interview preparation
- Skills assessment
- Case management
- Referrals to training programs
Qualified veterans include:
- Disabled veterans
- Veterans who served in combat
- Veterans recently separated (within 12 months)
- Veterans facing barriers to employment (homelessness, incarceration history, etc.)
To find your DVOP specialist: Call 800-252-5627 or visit your local WorkForce office.
Local Veteran Employment Representatives (LVER)
LVERs conduct employer outreach:
- Educate employers about veteran hiring benefits
- Advocate for veteran employment
- Build relationships with employers to create veteran job opportunities
- Promote tax credits and incentives for hiring veterans
LVERs work FOR veterans by working WITH employers to create pathways into jobs.
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E / Chapter 31)
Eligibility: Veterans with service-connected disabilities affecting employability
Services:
- Career counseling
- Resume development
- Job search assistance
- Training and education
- Apprenticeships
- Starting a business support
- Accommodations coordination
To apply:
- Visit va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation
- Apply online or call 800-827-1000
- Complete evaluation to determine eligibility
Local VR&E counselors are assigned at each of the four VA Medical Centers in WV.
Military Incentive Program (Tax Credit for Employers)
West Virginia offers tax credits to private sector employers who hire veterans, incentivizing veteran hiring.
Contact WorkForce WV for employer information: 800-252-5627
Veterans Hiring Preference for State Jobs
Eligible veterans receive up to 10 preference points added to passing entrance exam scores when applying for state employment.
Eligibility:
- Honorably discharged veterans who served during wartime or received armed forces expeditionary medal
- Points awarded based on service record and disability status
How to claim: When applying for West Virginia state jobs, indicate veteran status and provide DD-214. Points are automatically added during hiring process.
West Virginia state jobs: personnel.wv.gov
Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program
Services for homeless veterans:
- Job training
- Job placement assistance
- Housing assistance referrals
- Case management
- Supportive services
Contact: 800-252-5627 or visit local WorkForce office
Federal Contractor Jobs (VEVRAA Compliance)
Federal contractors must meet veteran hiring goals under the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA).
This creates opportunities because:
- Contractors actively recruit veterans
- Veteran status gives you advantage in hiring
- Many contractors have veteran-specific recruiters
Major federal contractors with operations in WV:
- Lockheed Martin
- Northrop Grumman
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- General Dynamics
- Leidos
To find federal contractor jobs: Search USAJobs.gov and major job boards filtering by "federal contractor."
West Virginia Job Market for Veterans
Major Employers
West Virginia's largest employers provide the most job opportunities:
1. State of West Virginia (Government)
- Employees: 153,700 (largest employer)
- Jobs: Healthcare (state hospitals), education, corrections, administration, transportation
- Veteran preference for hiring
2. WVU Medicine (Healthcare System)
- Employees: 21,700
- Locations: Morgantown, Clarksburg, Fairmont, Uniontown (PA), and throughout state
- Jobs: Nurses, physicians, technicians, administrative, facilities
- Strong benefits, union representation for many positions
3. Walmart
- Employees: 12,600 across WV locations
- Jobs: Retail, distribution centers, management
- Veteran hiring initiatives
4. Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC / Vandalia Health)
- Employees: 8,000
- Locations: Charleston area
- Jobs: Healthcare professionals, support staff
5. West Virginia University
- Employees: 6,100
- Jobs: Faculty, research, administration, facilities, police
- State benefits, veteran hiring preference
6. Kroger
- Employees: ~5,000
- Jobs: Retail, distribution, management
7. Mon Health Medical Center
- Employees: ~4,000
- Location: Morgantown area
- Jobs: Healthcare
8. Lowe's
- Multiple locations statewide
- Jobs: Retail, distribution, skilled trades
- Veteran hiring programs
9. Target
- Multiple locations
- Veteran-friendly employer
10. Mylan Pharmaceuticals (now Viatris)
- Headquarters: Morgantown
- Jobs: Pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality control, engineering, management
Industries with Veteran Opportunities
Healthcare: WV's largest growth industry
- Nurses (LPNs, RNs, NPs)
- Medical technicians
- Healthcare administration
- EMS/paramedics
- Mental health counselors
Many military medics, corpsmen transition well to civilian healthcare roles.
Education:
- Teachers (especially STEM, special education)
- School administrators
- Higher education staff
Law Enforcement and Corrections:
- State Police
- County sheriffs
- Municipal police departments
- Corrections officers at state prisons
Veterans with MP backgrounds have clear pathway.
Manufacturing:
- Quality control
- Production management
- Maintenance technicians
- Skilled trades (welding, machining, electrical)
Utilities:
- Electric companies (Appalachian Power, Mon Power)
- Natural gas (EQT, Antero)
- Water utilities
Often seek veterans for skilled technical positions and management.
Transportation and Logistics:
- CDL truck drivers (high demand)
- Logistics coordinators
- Distribution center operations
Construction and Skilled Trades:
- Electricians
- HVAC technicians
- Plumbers
- Heavy equipment operators
- Construction management
Many military maintenance personnel transition successfully to these trades.
Information Technology:
- Cybersecurity
- Network administration
- Software development
- IT support
Growing sector, especially in Morgantown and Martinsburg areas.
Unemployment Rates
West Virginia overall unemployment (2024): 4.1% National unemployment (2024): 3.9%
Veteran unemployment (2024 national): 3.0% Nonveteran unemployment (2024 national): 3.9%
West Virginia veteran unemployment (2022 data): 3.80% West Virginia nonveteran unemployment (2022 data): 4.70%
Key insight: Veterans in West Virginia have LOWER unemployment than nonveterans, consistent with national trends. Veteran skills, work ethic, and hiring preferences create employment advantages.
Salary Expectations
Median household income in WV: $51,615 (2023) National median: $74,580
West Virginia salaries are lower than national averages, BUT cost of living is also significantly lower (home prices 40-50% below national median).
Example salaries for veteran-friendly jobs (WV averages):
- Registered Nurse: $62,000-75,000
- Electrician: $45,000-65,000
- Police Officer: $40,000-55,000
- Software Developer: $65,000-85,000
- Construction Manager: $70,000-90,000
- Healthcare Administrator: $75,000-95,000
- Teacher: $45,000-55,000
- CDL Truck Driver: $50,000-70,000
Job Search Resources
WorkForce West Virginia Job Board Website: workforcewv.org/job-seekers Search thousands of jobs posted by WV employers
USAJobs (Federal Government) Website: usajobs.gov Filter by location (West Virginia) and veteran preference
Indeed, LinkedIn, Monster Standard job boards with WV listings Use veteran-specific search filters
WV State Jobs Website: personnel.wv.gov/JobOpportunities All state government positions with veteran preference
VA for Vets (VA Careers) Website: va.gov/jobs VA facilities are major employers in WV with veteran hiring preference
Coal Industry Transition
West Virginia's historic coal industry continues to decline, but transition programs are developing opportunities.
Current State of Coal
Coal mining employment in WV (2022): 10,219 workers Down from: 20,000+ in early 2010s
The shift toward renewable energy and natural gas continues to reduce coal jobs across the state.
Transition Programs
GROW Now Workforce Initiative
- Retrains coal workers for clean energy and technology jobs
- 33-6-3 model: 33 hours per week work, 6 hours training, 3 hours community service
- Subsidized employment during training
- Focus: Solar installation, biomanufacturing, green construction
Just Transition Center (Logan, WV)
- New workforce training center in heart of coal country
- Training: Solar technicians, biomanufacturers, technology careers
- Targets displaced coal workers and veterans
Contact: GROW Now - growwv.org
Veteran-Owned Businesses in Transition
Mountain State Fiber
- Veteran-owned broadband company
- Deploying high-speed internet in southern WV
- Hiring for installation, network operations, customer service
Opportunities for Veterans
Veterans with technical skills (electrical, mechanical, IT) from military can transition into:
- Renewable energy installation (solar, wind)
- Broadband infrastructure deployment
- Advanced manufacturing
- Environmental remediation
West Virginia is investing heavily in economic diversification. Veterans willing to pursue new skills can benefit from transition programs.
Starting a Business in West Virginia
WV Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Services for veteran entrepreneurs:
- Free business counseling
- Business plan development
- Financial projections
- Marketing strategies
- Funding source identification
Locations: Multiple offices statewide (hosted at colleges/universities) Contact: wvsbdc.com or 304-558-2960
Veteran-Owned Business Certifications
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Certification for federal contracting opportunities Apply: sba.gov/federal-contracting/contracting-assistance-programs
West Virginia Veteran-Owned Business Directory Register your business: veterans.wv.gov
Resources
Small Business Administration (SBA) - WV District Office Location: 320 West Pike Street, Clarksburg, WV 26301 Phone: 304-623-5631 Website: sba.gov/offices/district/wv/charleston
Boots to Business SBA entrepreneurship training for transitioning service members and veterans Free training on starting/running a business Apply: sba.gov/bootsto business
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which VA Medical Center should I go to?
A: Generally, use the facility closest to your home. Beckley serves southern WV, Clarksburg serves north-central, Huntington serves southwestern, and Martinsburg serves eastern panhandle. You can also use community clinics. Call 844-698-2311 to establish care.
Q2: Do I need to be enrolled in VA healthcare to use Vet Centers?
A: No. Vet Centers provide counseling services independently. You only need to have served in a combat zone or experienced military sexual trauma. No VA healthcare enrollment required.
Q3: Can I use my GI Bill at community colleges in West Virginia?
A: Yes. All West Virginia community and technical colleges accept GI Bill benefits. You'll also receive in-state tuition rates as a veteran.
Q4: Does WVU's in-state tuition for veterans apply to online programs?
A: Yes. Veterans receive in-state tuition rates for WVU online programs, regardless of where you physically live. Contact WVU's veteran office to confirm for specific programs.
Q5: How do I apply for the Medal of Honor / Purple Heart tuition waiver?
A: Contact the financial aid office or veteran certifying official at the West Virginia college you plan to attend. Provide your DD-214 and award citation. Each school processes the waiver application.
Q6: I'm a dependent of a 100% disabled veteran. Do I qualify for any West Virginia education benefits?
A: Currently, only Medal of Honor, Purple Heart recipients, and surviving spouses/children of service members killed in line of duty qualify for state tuition waivers. However, HB 2610 (if passed) would extend benefits to dependents of 50%+ disabled veterans. Monitor legislation at wvlegislature.gov. You may still qualify for federal Chapter 35 benefits.
Q7: Can I get both the WVEEP (state tuition assistance) and federal TA at the same time?
A: Yes. West Virginia National Guard members can combine WVEEP (up to $10,000/year) with federal TA (up to $4,500/year) for significant tuition coverage.
Q8: Where do I find a DVOP specialist to help with my job search?
A: Call WorkForce West Virginia at 800-252-5627 and ask to be connected with the Disabled Veteran Outreach Program specialist in your county. You can also visit any One-Stop Career Center.
Q9: Does veteran hiring preference apply to county and local government jobs, or just state jobs?
A: State law provides veteran preference for STATE employment (the 10-point preference). Counties and municipalities may have their own veteran preference policies—check with specific local governments when applying.
Q10: I'm transitioning out and will be looking for work in West Virginia. When should I start?
A: Start 6-9 months before your ETS/EAS if possible. Register with WorkForce West Virginia, connect with DVOP specialists, attend job fairs, and network with veteran organizations. TAP (Transition Assistance Program) can connect you to state resources.
Q11: Are there apprenticeship programs in West Virginia for veterans?
A: Yes. WorkForce WV coordinates apprenticeships in construction trades, manufacturing, and healthcare. Many are VA-approved for GI Bill BAH payments while you apprentice. Contact WorkForce WV at 800-252-5627.
Q12: Can I receive VA healthcare at a facility in a different state if I live near the border?
A: Yes. If you live in the WV panhandle near Ohio or Pennsylvania, you can enroll at VA facilities in those states if closer. Contact VA at 844-698-2311 to discuss options.
Q13: My parent is a veteran who needs nursing home care. How do I apply to the WV Veterans Nursing Facility?
A: Call 304-626-1600 to request an application packet. You'll need their DD-214, medical records, and financial information. The facility will conduct an assessment to determine eligibility.
Q14: Does Marshall University's Yellow Ribbon Program apply to graduate students?
A: Check with Marshall's Office of Military and Veterans Affairs (304-696-5278) for current Yellow Ribbon eligibility by program level. Policies can vary for undergraduate vs. graduate programs.
Q15: I have a service-connected disability that requires accommodations in school. Who do I contact?
A: Contact the disability services office at your college/university. At WVU, it's the Office of Accessibility Services (304-293-6700). At Marshall, it's Disability Services (304-696-2271). They'll coordinate accommodations based on your VA disability documentation.
Q16: Can I use VR&E (Chapter 31) and Post-9/11 GI Bill at the same time?
A: No, you must choose one or the other. However, VR&E is often MORE generous (covers more expenses, provides additional support) if you qualify due to service-connected disability affecting employment. Consult with a VR&E counselor to compare.
Q17: Are there IT jobs in West Virginia, or do I need to move to a bigger state for tech careers?
A: Morgantown and Martinsburg have growing IT sectors. Proximity to DC/Baltimore creates opportunities in the eastern panhandle. Remote work options also allow you to work for out-of-state companies while living in WV with low cost of living. IT jobs exist but are more limited than in major metros.
Q18: What's the best city in West Virginia for veteran job opportunities?
A: Charleston (state capital, government jobs), Morgantown (WVU, healthcare, tech), and Martinsburg (proximity to DC, federal jobs) offer the most opportunities. Huntington also has strong healthcare employment with Marshall and Cabell Huntington Hospital.
Q19: I want to become a teacher in West Virginia. Do I need a degree in education?
A: West Virginia has alternative teacher certification pathways (Alternative Certification Program) that allow you to teach with a bachelor's degree in another field while completing education coursework. Veterans with leadership experience may be good candidates. Contact WV Department of Education (wvde.us) for details.
Q20: Are there veteran networking groups in West Virginia?
A: Yes. American Legion, VFW, DAV, and Student Veterans of America chapters operate throughout WV. Check facebook groups like "West Virginia Veterans Network" and attend events at VA facilities and Vet Centers. Building veteran networks is crucial for job leads and support.
Take Action Today
For Healthcare:
1. Enroll in VA healthcare: Call 844-698-2311 or visit va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply
2. Find your nearest facility: va.gov/find-locations
3. Schedule your first appointment: Contact the facility directly or use MyHealtheVet online portal
For Education:
1. Choose your school: WVU (veterans@mail.wvu.edu) or Marshall (mccormick@marshall.edu) or community college
2. Apply for GI Bill: va.gov/education/how-to-apply
3. Request in-state tuition determination: Contact school's registrar/admissions with DD-214
4. Apply for additional scholarships: Check school's financial aid office
For Employment:
1. Register with WorkForce WV: workforcewv.org or call 800-252-5627
2. Request DVOP specialist: Ask for one-on-one assistance
3. Update resume: Translate military experience to civilian terms (get help from DVOP)
4. Apply for jobs: Use WorkForce WV job board, USAJobs.gov, Indeed, LinkedIn
5. Claim veteran preference: Always indicate veteran status on applications
Additional Resources
West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance Phone: 1-866-WVA-VETS (1-866-982-8387) Website: veterans.wv.gov 16 benefit offices statewide providing FREE assistance
VA Regional Benefit Office (Huntington) Address: 640 Fourth Avenue, Huntington, WV 25701 Phone: 800-827-1000 Services: Benefits counseling, claims filing, appeals
Veterans Crisis Line Phone: 988 (press 1) Text: 838255 Chat: veteranscrisisline.net Available 24/7 for veterans in crisis
DAV (Disabled American Veterans) - WV Website: wvdav.org Free claims assistance for disabled veterans
VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) - Department of WV Phone: 304-343-7569 Website: wvvfw.org Over 100 posts statewide
American Legion - Department of WV Phone: 304-343-7591 Website: wvlegion.org Post locations throughout state
Easterseals - West Virginia Phone: 304-345-2841 Services: Employment, training, supportive services for veterans with disabilities
This guide was last updated November 2024. Program details, contact information, and benefits change regularly. Always verify current information with the specific facility, school, or agency before making decisions. For VA healthcare enrollment or benefits questions, call 1-800-827-1000.
Sources: VA.gov, Military OneSource, Benefits.gov
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