Compare 5 Geochemistry. programs in Virginia. Average earnings: $38,883.
Geochemistry programs produce graduates earning between $30,409 and $55,946—a $25K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 5 ranked programs in Virginia, outcomes vary based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
James Madison University's Geochemistry program leads with graduates earning $55,946, well above the state average of $38,883. George Mason University follows at $39,009, while Old Dominion University rounds out the top three at $35,060. The gap between top and bottom performers spans $25K—proof that program-level factors drive outcomes.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. James Madison University graduates borrow $20,093 and face just an 8.3% payment burden, landing in the 'Good' category. Old Dominion University students face a concerning 26.4% burden despite lower debt, showing how earnings impact affordability calculations.
Highest program earnings: $55,946
Strong outcomes with 76% acceptance rate
8.3% payment burden | Good - payment 8-12% of discretionary
25.9% family burden | High burden - payment over 25% of discretionary
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | James Madison UniversityPublic | $55,946 | 25 | $20,093 | Good | $37,285 | High |
| #2 | George Mason UniversityPublic | $39,009 | 15 | $19,500 | Manageable | $25,142 | High |
| #3 | Old Dominion UniversityPublic | $35,060 | 7 | $24,000 | High | $18,866 | High |
| #4 | William & MaryPublic | $33,993 | 22 | $18,500 | Challenging | $30,326 | High |
| #5 | $30,409 | 19 | $21,500 | High | $35,325 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
