Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 40.3%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 41.3%
- Retention Rate
- 61.8%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $38,275
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $29,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 22:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 19.8%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $307/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Doctoral | $37,980 | |
| Social Work. | Bachelor | $33,993 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $32,925 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $32,563 | $26,505 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $32,213 | $28,749 |
| Criminology. | Bachelor | $29,685 | $30,200 |
| General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations. | Bachelor | $28,212 | $27,000 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $24,730 | $27,000 |
| History. | Bachelor | $21,964 | |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $20,530 | $29,400 |
Outcomes Overview
Virginia Union graduates earn a median of $38,275 ten years after graduation, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 76%. Monthly loan payments of $307 consume about 10% of typical graduate income. The university's strong connections to government and ministry help explain why 94.1% of graduates find employment. Many VUU alumni enter public service, education, and religious leadership roles that prioritize social impact over high salaries. The school's legacy of producing political leaders like Douglas Wilder demonstrates its influence in these sectors. However, the low loan repayment rate of 19.82% signals financial challenges for many graduates. Given the modest earnings relative to debt levels, this represents a weak return on investment.