Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia

Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (28 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Randolph-Macon College$56,557
University of Virginia-Main Campus$74,958$80,369$19,0000.25
Washington and Lee University$71,737$110,050$23,3990.33
William & Mary$65,603$72,419$19,6780.30
James Madison University$62,286$86,390$18,5750.30
University of Richmond$61,027$102,501$23,0000.38
National Median$51,722$22,8160.44

Other Economics Programs in Virginia

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Virginia schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Virginia-Main Campus
Charlottesville
$20,986$74,958$19,000
Washington and Lee University
Lexington
$64,525$71,737$23,399
William & Mary
Williamsburg
$25,040$65,603$19,678
James Madison University
Harrisonburg
$13,576$62,286$18,575
University of Richmond
University of Richmond
$62,600$61,027$23,000

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Randolph-Macon College, approximately 20% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.