Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 94.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 94.9%
- Retention Rate
- 95.4%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $94,810
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $19,500
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 8:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 87.9%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $207/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $91,744 | |
| Mathematics. | Bachelor | $76,460 | |
| Law. | Doctoral | $72,642 | $97,335 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $66,449 | $16,750 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $56,641 | |
| Economics. | Bachelor | $55,964 | $23,399 |
| Journalism. | Bachelor | $42,682 | |
| Political Science and Government. | Bachelor | $41,007 | |
| English Language and Literature, General. | Bachelor | $37,593 | |
| History. | Bachelor | $30,409 |
Outcomes Overview
Washington and Lee graduates earn a median salary of $94,810 ten years after graduation, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 21% based on the typical $19,500 in student loans. Monthly loan payments of $207 represent only 2.6% of gross income, well below the recommended 10% threshold. The university's extensive alumni network opens doors in finance, consulting, and politics, where many graduates build lucrative careers. With 90.1% employment rates and strong connections on Wall Street and in Washington D.C., students consistently land competitive positions at top firms. The combination of modest debt loads, high earning potential, and powerful professional networks delivers a strong return on investment for those who can afford the steep upfront costs.