Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

What are the graduation rates for students at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University?

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University demonstrates strong graduation outcomes, with an overall graduation rate of 86%, placing it in the top 10% nationally. Male students graduate at a slightly lower rate of 83%, while female students achieve a higher rate of 90%, both rates also ranking within the top 10% of universities. The four-year graduation rate stands at 69%, considered high and within the top 15% percentile, indicating a significant portion of students complete their bachelor's degrees within the traditional timeframe. The university's six-year graduation rate matches the overall graduation rate at 86%, reinforcing its ability to retain students until degree completion.

Retention rates further support these outcomes, with 92% of students returning after their first year, reflecting a high level of student satisfaction and stability early in their academic careers. This retention figure ranks in the top 15% nationally, contributing to the strong graduation performance. While detailed graduation rates by specific majors are not provided, these aggregate figures give prospective students a clear indication of academic success and progression rates at the institution.

What is the earning potential for graduates at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University?

Graduates from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University experience varied earning potentials depending on their fields of study. Degrees in engineering and technology stand out with some of the highest earnings. For instance, graduates in Computer and Information Sciences, General earn an average of $82,448, while those in Applied Mathematics make approximately $76,413. Other strong earning fields include Computer Engineering at $75,104, Chemical Engineering at $72,805, Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering at $73,162, and Industrial Engineering at $70,925. Mechanical Engineering and Mining and Mineral Engineering graduates also earn competitively, with salaries of $68,574 and $69,045 respectively.

Business-related degrees also offer solid income opportunities. Graduates in Business/Commerce, General report average earnings of $67,467, while those in Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods earn around $67,610. Business Administration, Management and Operations along with Marketing produce average salaries near $49,620 and $49,648 respectively. Accounting graduates see earnings close to $60,629, and Finance and Financial Management Services graduates earn about $59,846.

In the agricultural and natural resource sectors, salaries tend to be more moderate. Agricultural Business and Management graduates earn approximately $43,242, and Food Science and Technology graduates around $48,390. Natural Resources Conservation and Research yields roughly $40,493, while Forestry graduates make an average of $38,479.

Among the sciences, notable earnings include Mathematics at $52,028, Chemistry at $38,346, and Microbiological Sciences and Immunology at $30,897. Neurobiology and Neurosciences graduates earn about $19,929, while Biology graduates report $22,263.

Fields in liberal arts and social sciences show generally lower earnings. For example, Psychology graduates average $26,171, Political Science and Government $38,529, Sociology $35,639, and Communication and Media Studies $36,639. Geography and Cartography graduates make $33,269, while History graduates earn around $34,622.

Creative disciplines such as Design and Applied Arts offer average earnings near $49,418, and Fine and Studio Arts around $32,060. Degrees in Hospitality Administration/Management produce earnings close to $47,314.