Skip to main content

Best Value Economics Colleges in Virginia

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

George Mason University delivers the strongest value proposition among Virginia's economics programs, combining a $18,287 net cost with $51,915 median earnings that outpace many higher-priced competitors. The data reveals a stark divide between public and private options, with University of Richmond commanding $33,417 annually while producing the highest earners at $65,821. Virginia's proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors like Northrop Grumman creates unique opportunities for economics graduates, particularly in policy analysis and government consulting roles. Public institutions dominate the affordability market, with Radford University offering the lowest net cost at $16,640, though this comes with trade-offs in graduation rates. The state's 15 programs span from highly selective options like UVA with its 18.66% acceptance rate to accessible choices like Eastern Mennonite at 99.48%, creating pathways for students across different academic profiles.
27
Programs
$11,180 – $33,417
Net Price Range
$48,917
Avg. Program Earnings
66.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

27 Economics Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $18,287 $51,915 $13,815 69.3% 90.0%
2 $22,881 $62,409 $20,986 95.3% 18.7%
3 $16,640 $41,025 $12,286 49.6% 93.3%
4 $22,529 $53,108 $25,040 91.0% 33.5%
5 $23,911 $55,964 $64,525 94.9% 17.0%
6 $21,816 $49,270 $13,576 80.9% 78.3%
7 $18,849 $41,937 $20,484 81.8% 71.1%
8 $23,790 $48,198 $15,478 86.3% 57.0%
9 $21,108 $42,682 $14,559 67.4% 85.8%
10 $33,417 $65,821 $62,600 87.8% 24.4%
11 $22,197 $41,007 $16,351 75.1% 85.4%
12 $24,668 $39,153 $52,388 65.3% 39.8%
13 $27,759 $43,426 $48,002 74.6% 85.5%
14 $20,173 $41,350 49.4% 90.4%
15 $23,615 $41,860 47.1% 99.5%
16 $11,180 $11,656 49.8% 75.6%
17 $23,383 $25,110 48.1% 75.8%
18 $27,786 $36,774 65.9% 79.8%
19 $18,436 $29,010 51.5% 95.0%
20 $20,591 $35,280 53.8% 96.9%
21 $14,170 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
22 $25,153 $39,050 57.9% 81.4%
23 $17,833 $33,157 55.7%
24 $20,187 $35,540 61.6% 95.9%
25 $20,814 $15,200 61.6% 87.8%
26 $22,263 $42,260 69.7% 72.4%
27 $32,145 $29,162 55.7% 74.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $15,000 gap between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

The gap primarily reflects the public versus private divide in Virginia's economics market. Radford University leads affordability at $16,640 net cost, while University of Richmond reaches $33,417. However, Richmond graduates earn $24,796 more annually than Radford alumni. Public institutions benefit from state subsidies that keep costs manageable, while private colleges rely on tuition revenue and endowment income.

How do Virginia Tech and UVA compare for economics value?

UVA commands a premium at $22,881 net cost versus Virginia Tech's $23,790, but produces significantly higher earners at $62,409 compared to Tech's $48,198. UVA's 95.30% graduation rate also surpasses Tech's 86.30% rate. However, Tech offers better in-state affordability at $15,478 versus UVA's $20,986. Both schools provide excellent federal government and defense industry connections through their alumni networks.

Does William & Mary justify its cost for economics students?

William & Mary presents a complex value equation with $22,529 net cost producing $53,108 median earnings and a strong 91% graduation rate. The school accepts only 33.50% of applicants, indicating selectivity that often correlates with career outcomes. Students graduate with manageable $19,500 debt loads. The college's government and policy connections in nearby Richmond and Washington DC create valuable internship and job placement opportunities.

What makes George Mason University stand out for economics value?

George Mason combines moderate costs with strong earnings potential, charging $18,287 net while producing $51,915 median salaries. The 90% acceptance rate makes admission accessible, though the 69.30% graduation rate requires attention. Mason's Fairfax location provides direct access to federal agencies, think tanks, and consulting firms. Students graduate with reasonable $19,000 debt loads while gaining exposure to real-world policy and economic research.

Where do the lowest-earning programs still provide decent value?

Hampden-Sydney College produces the lowest median earnings at $39,153 despite charging $24,668 net cost, creating challenging return on investment dynamics. However, the 65.30% graduation rate and small class sizes may appeal to students seeking personalized attention. Eastern Mennonite and Bridgewater College also show modest earnings potential but offer more affordable pathways into economics careers. These programs work best for students planning graduate school or specific career paths.

More Economics Rankings

Cheapest Economics in Virginia Economics Under $20,000 in Virginia

Related

All Economics Programs Best Colleges in Virginia Best Economics in Virginia

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.