At $23,790/yr net price, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University graduates earn $81,698/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $47,698/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $23,790 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $95,160 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $81,698/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$47,698/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 86.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,536/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $14,891/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $19,660/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $26,533/yr |
| $110,001+ | $30,568/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $113,246 | $32,567 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Master | $100,317 | |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Doctoral | $97,959 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other. | Master | $96,691 | $33,240 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $91,211 | $61,500 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $88,678 | $20,500 |
| Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering. | Master | $84,653 | |
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $78,488 | $25,929 |
| Veterinary Medicine. | Doctoral | $77,184 | $170,773 |
| Public Administration. | Master | $75,518 |
The Risk Factor
86.3% of students at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
Virginia Tech delivers strong financial returns with graduates earning a median $81,698 ten years after graduation against a manageable $21,500 in debt. The school's engineering and technology focus aligns perfectly with high-demand careers in Virginia's growing tech corridor and defense industry.
Business administration majors see the highest returns at $113,246 annually, though they carry slightly more debt at $32,567. Engineering programs consistently perform well, with electrical engineering graduates earning over $100,000 and mechanical engineers close behind at $97,959. Computer science majors earn $96,691 but face higher debt loads at $33,240.
Educational administration stands out as a financial risk, with graduates carrying $61,500 in debt for median earnings of $91,211. This program likely attracts students pursuing advanced degrees, explaining the elevated borrowing.
You face minimal financial risk here given the 86% graduation rate and strong job placement in Virginia's tech-heavy economy. The low percentage of students receiving aid suggests families can often handle costs without excessive borrowing.
Virginia Tech works best if you want engineering, business, or computer science training with immediate job prospects in the Mid-Atlantic region. The school's reputation with major employers like Lockheed Martin and Amazon creates clear career pipelines. Skip this school if you need significant financial aid, as only 15% of students receive assistance. Also reconsider if you want liberal arts programs, where the job market alignment is weaker and returns less certain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University worth the cost?
Virginia Tech delivers solid ROI with graduates earning $81,698 ten years out and relatively low debt at $21,500. The engineering and business programs justify the $23,790 annual cost, but returns vary significantly by major.
What majors at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University have the best ROI?
Business Administration leads at $113,246 in earnings, followed by Electrical Engineering at $100,317 and Mechanical Engineering at $97,959. These programs easily cover the investment, while other majors may struggle to justify the cost.
How much debt do Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University graduates typically have?
Virginia Tech graduates leave with a median debt of $21,500, which is manageable given the strong earning potential in engineering and business. This debt level puts graduates in a better position than many state university peers.
Does Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University provide good financial aid?
With a net price of $23,790 for the average family, Virginia Tech's financial aid brings costs down from the full sticker price. The 86% graduation rate suggests most students can complete their degrees without excessive borrowing.