Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $92,405/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$58,405/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 100.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,919 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $71,315 | $22,213 |
The Risk Factor
100.0% of students at Chamberlain University-Virginia graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
Chamberlain University-Virginia delivers strong financial returns despite its for-profit status, with graduates earning a median of $92,405 ten years after enrollment. Your debt load stays manageable at $20,919, creating a favorable debt-to-income ratio that puts you ahead financially compared to many traditional universities.
The nursing program dominates this campus, with registered nursing graduates earning $71,315 annually. While this sits below the school's overall median, nursing offers stable employment in the competitive Northern Virginia market where healthcare demand remains high. The program's debt load of $22,213 aligns closely with the school median, making the investment reasonable for a field with strong job security.
Your biggest financial risk centers on the school's for-profit structure and limited program diversity. If nursing doesn't work out, you have few alternatives at this campus. The 100% graduation rate suggests strong student support, but this metric can be misleading at smaller, specialized institutions.
This school makes financial sense if you're committed to nursing and want to enter the workforce quickly in the DC metro area. The location gives you access to high-paying healthcare jobs at major medical centers and government facilities. However, you should look elsewhere if you're undecided about your major or want a broader range of career options.
Less than half of students receive financial aid, suggesting either higher family incomes or limited aid availability. Research merit scholarship opportunities early, as for-profit schools often have different aid structures than traditional universities. The school's specialized focus means fewer cross-subsidization opportunities that might lower costs at larger institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chamberlain University-Virginia worth the cost for nursing students?
For nursing programs, Chamberlain University-Virginia can be worth it since graduates earn around $92,405 annually within 10 years and typical debt is $20,919. The school has a 100% graduation rate and focuses specifically on nursing careers that are in high demand.
What is the return on investment for Chamberlain University-Virginia graduates?
With median debt of $20,919 and 10-year earnings of $92,405, graduates typically earn about 4.4 times their debt annually. This is a solid ROI, especially considering the school's 100% graduation rate reduces the risk of dropping out with debt but no degree.
How much debt do Chamberlain University-Virginia students typically graduate with?
The median debt is $20,919, which is relatively manageable compared to many private schools. Since this is a nursing-focused institution with strong earning potential, most graduates can handle this debt load.
Are non-nursing programs at Chamberlain University-Virginia worth the money?
Chamberlain University-Virginia is primarily a nursing school, and most of its value comes from nursing programs. Students interested in other fields would likely find better ROI at different institutions that specialize in those areas.