Civil Engineering at George Mason University

George Mason's civil engineering program lands graduates in the top 5% nationally for starting salaries, with first-year earnings of $75,822—significantly above the national median of $69,574. But here's the Virginia context that matters: among the state's five civil engineering programs, this ranks solidly middle-of-the-pack at the 60th percentile, essentially matching outcomes at UVA and Virginia Tech while costing students less in debt. The $23,812 median debt is below both state and national averages, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31 that most engineers can manage comfortably within a few years.

The earnings trajectory shows steady growth to $82,475 by year four, and the relatively accessible admission profile (89% acceptance rate) means this program delivers elite national outcomes without requiring the credentials needed for more selective engineering schools. For Virginia families, this represents strong value—you're getting comparable earnings to the state's flagship programs, with graduates positioned well above typical civil engineers nationwide.

The straightforward takeaway: if your child can gain admission to Virginia's top-tier programs, the earnings differences are minimal enough that factors like campus fit and cost should drive the decision. But for students who want excellent civil engineering outcomes without competing for spots at the most selective schools, Mason delivers.