Urban Studies/Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University

VCU's Urban Studies program graduates start well below national expectations at $33,626—landing in just the 5th percentile nationally for this field. While that initial figure looks concerning, the trajectory tells a different story: earnings jump 57% to $52,812 by year four, ultimately surpassing both the national median ($40,294) and the 75th percentile ($46,712) for Urban Studies programs nationwide. The debt load of $26,416 is reasonable, creating a manageable 0.79 debt-to-earnings ratio even in that difficult first year.

The state comparison provides limited insight since VCU appears to be Virginia's only Urban Studies program, but the pattern here is clear: this is a slow-burn credential. That first year after graduation looks rough—possibly reflecting the realities of entry-level work in urban planning or municipal government—but graduates who stick with the field see substantial income growth. The admission rate of 93% and moderate Pell representation (30%) suggest this serves as an accessible pathway for students interested in city planning and urban policy work.

For families comfortable with a challenging first year or two after graduation, the math works out. But students will need patience and likely some financial cushion to get through that initial period before earnings catch up to where they should be.