Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Virginia Tech's Management Sciences program delivers exceptional national performance that places graduates well ahead of typical programs, though the Virginia landscape tells a more nuanced story. With first-year earnings of $77,877—ranking in the 90th percentile nationally—graduates earn $15,800 more than the national median for this field. The debt load of $21,700 is reasonable, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28.
However, within Virginia's competitive environment, this program sits at the median level. Among the state's five programs, Virginia Tech matches the typical earnings but carries slightly higher debt than the $18,500 state median. UVA's program leads significantly at $93,565, while George Mason trails at $68,049. Still, Virginia Tech's 22% earnings growth over four years demonstrates strong career trajectory potential.
The bottom line: This program offers solid preparation for a lucrative field with manageable debt, performing exceptionally well nationally even if it's middle-of-the-pack within Virginia. For families weighing Virginia Tech's strong reputation and reasonable tuition against alternatives, the robust job market outcomes and steady earnings growth make this a financially sound choice, particularly given the program's broad applicability across industries.
Where Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all management sciences and quantitative methods bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University graduates earn $78k, placing them in the 90th percentile of all management sciences and quantitative methods bachelors programs nationally.
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
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (5 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | $77,877 | $95,280 | $21,700 | 0.28 |
| University of Virginia-Main Campus | $93,565 | — | $18,347 | 0.20 |
| George Mason University | $68,049 | $83,986 | $18,500 | 0.27 |
| National Median | $62,069 | — | $23,250 | 0.37 |
Other Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Programs in Virginia
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Virginia schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Virginia-Main Campus Charlottesville | $20,986 | $93,565 | $18,347 |
| George Mason University Fairfax | $13,815 | $68,049 | $18,500 |
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 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, approximately 15% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 370 graduates with reported earnings and 357 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.