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Virginia's finance programs show striking earnings gaps that mirror the state's bifurcated economy. James Madison University graduates earn $67,380 annually while Old Dominion University graduates start at $41,406, reflecting different career paths in the Commonwealth's finance sector. The proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors like Northrop Grumman creates distinct opportunities for finance graduates, particularly those skilled in government contracting and compliance work that drives much of Virginia's economic activity.
9
Programs
$14,170 – $32,145
Net Price Range
$56,122
Avg. Program Earnings
58.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

9 Finance and Financial Management Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $18,287 $58,057 $13,815 69.3% 90.0%
2 $21,816 $67,380 $13,576 80.9% 78.3%
3 $16,640 $50,856 $12,286 49.6% 93.3%
4 $19,452 $57,318 $16,458 65.4% 91.0%
5 $14,170 $41,406 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
6 $23,790 $61,714 $15,478 86.3% 57.0%
7 $22,085 $38,320 28.9% 84.3%
8 $32,145 $29,162 55.7% 74.5%
9 $19,580 $14,880 41.3% 80.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $26,000 earnings difference between Virginia finance programs?

James Madison University finance graduates earn $67,380 compared to Old Dominion's $41,406, largely due to different career trajectories and geographic placement. JMU's higher graduation rate of 80.90% versus ODU's 44.40% also suggests stronger program completion and job placement support.

How do Virginia's public finance programs compare on affordability?

Old Dominion offers the lowest net cost at $14,170, while Virginia Tech costs $23,790 despite being public. The $9,620 difference reflects varying state funding levels and living costs, though Tech's 86.30% graduation rate may justify the premium.

Does the VTAG grant make private Virginia finance programs competitive?

Virginia Union University nets $19,580 after aid, making it competitive with public options like VCU at $19,452. However, the 41.30% graduation rate at Virginia Union versus 65.40% at VCU suggests completion risk remains a factor.

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