Visual and Performing Arts at University of Mary Washington

Visual and performing arts programs rarely promise quick financial returns, but University of Mary Washington's graduates face a particular challenge: while they earn well above the national median for arts majors ($29,130 vs. $25,286), they're falling short of what their peers make at other Virginia schools. With a median of $30,536 statewide, UMW's outcomes sit near the 40th percentile among Virginia programs—meaning six out of ten similar programs in the state deliver better earnings.

The debt picture is more neutral. At $26,000, graduates carry exactly the Virginia median and about average nationally for arts programs. That creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.89, which means less than a year's salary in debt—manageable for an arts degree, where earnings typically grow slowly. The real comparison to watch is against Virginia's stronger programs: Longwood University's arts graduates earn $34,812, about 20% more than UMW, often with similar debt loads.

The small sample size here (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly year to year. For families prioritizing in-state tuition, UMW offers a legitimate option with below-average risk. But if your child is choosing between Virginia schools, push them to understand why other programs produce noticeably better outcomes. The difference between $29,000 and $34,000 annually compounds over a career.