At $22,881/yr net price, University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates earn $86,863/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $52,863/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $22,881 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $91,524 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $86,863/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$52,863/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 95.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $17,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $10,123/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,842/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,658/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $24,023/yr |
| $110,001+ | $34,777/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Law. | Doctoral | $162,255 | $178,812 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $155,263 | $71,452 |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | Master | $144,240 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $117,572 | $56,522 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $107,256 | $61,118 |
| Computer Software and Media Applications. | Master | $101,406 | $38,614 |
| Systems Engineering. | Master | $95,739 | $37,900 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $92,077 | $16,547 |
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $90,146 | $16,875 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $89,869 | $55,606 |
The Risk Factor
95.3% of students at University of Virginia-Main Campus graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
University of Virginia delivers strong financial returns with median graduates earning $86,863 annually while carrying just $17,500 in debt. The school's 95% graduation rate and $22,881 net price create favorable economics for most students.
Business and law programs generate strong returns at UVA. Business Administration graduates earn $155,263 with manageable debt loads, while the law program produces $162,255 earners despite heavy borrowing of $178,812. Management Information Systems graduates command $144,240 without excessive debt burdens. Even general business majors clear $107,000 annually.
UVA's location near Washington D.C. feeds graduates into high-paying government, consulting, and finance roles that justify the investment. The nursing program offers solid middle-class earnings at $117,572 with reasonable debt levels.
The main financial risk involves UVA's selectivity creating pressure to succeed in competitive programs. Lower-earning majors may struggle to justify costs at a school where peers land lucrative business and law careers.
UVA works best financially if you can access its top-tier business school or plan to pursue law. Virginia residents get the strongest deal given in-state tuition advantages. Out-of-state students should focus on high-return majors to offset higher costs.
Financial aid reaches only 14% of students, suggesting most families can afford the published prices. Merit scholarships exist but remain competitive given UVA's strong applicant pool. Your best cost strategy involves applying early and demonstrating clear career focus in business or pre-professional tracks where UVA's alumni network and regional reputation create tangible value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Virginia-Main Campus worth the debt?
UVA typically offers strong return on investment with graduates earning $86,863 annually after 10 years and median debt of only $17,500. The combination of relatively low debt and solid earnings makes it worth the cost for most students.
What are the highest paying majors at University of Virginia-Main Campus?
Law graduates from UVA earn the highest salaries at $162,255, followed by business administration at $155,263 and management information systems at $144,240. Even general business majors earn over $107,000 annually.
How does University of Virginia-Main Campus financial aid affect affordability?
UVA's net price averages $22,881 per year, which is reasonable for a top public university. The school's strong financial aid helps keep debt levels low compared to similar institutions.
Does University of Virginia-Main Campus have good job prospects after graduation?
UVA graduates have strong earning potential with 10-year median income of $86,863 and a 95% graduation rate. The school's reputation and alumni network provide solid career opportunities across most fields.