Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Patrick Henry College

Patrick Henry College charges a significant premium for a general liberal arts degree that, based on comparable Virginia programs, produces middling outcomes. The estimated $26,000 debt load might seem manageable against first-year earnings around $41,400, but that's precisely the state median—unremarkable for a school with a highly selective student body (average SAT of 1351, zero Pell recipients). Schools drawing from less advantaged populations are producing similar or better results.

The comparison to other Virginia programs is instructive. James Madison graduates in this field earn an estimated $49,400 their first year out, nearly $8,000 more than what Patrick Henry's peer data suggests. Even Bridgewater and Eastern Mennonite—smaller Christian colleges that might be natural comparisons—show stronger earnings patterns. This matters because Patrick Henry's student profile suggests incoming academic strength that isn't translating into standout financial outcomes.

For a family paying full freight at a private Christian college, these estimates should prompt hard questions. You're likely investing considerably more than $26,000 in total costs for a degree that appears to deliver state-average results. If the college's distinctive mission and tight-knit community justify that premium for your family, fine—but don't assume the liberal arts credential itself will provide financial advantage over more affordable Virginia options.