Compare 7 Physics. programs in Virginia. Average earnings: $45,891.
While school rankings suggest predictable outcomes, Physics tells a different story. Across 7 programs in Virginia, earnings range from $29,685 to $67,271—variation that tracks program quality, not overall school reputation.
Virginia Tech's Physics program leads with graduates earning $67,271, significantly above the state average of $45,891. The University of Virginia follows at $52,289, while James Madison University delivers $47,260—demonstrating that program-level factors drive these outcomes more than institutional prestige alone.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Virginia Tech graduates borrow $21,500 and face just a 6.6% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. That means loan payments take a minimal bite out of their post-grad income, making it both the top earner and most affordable option.
Highest program earnings: $67,271
Strong outcomes with 57% acceptance
6.6% payment burden | Excellent
19.1% family burden | Challenging
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $67,271 | 75 | $21,500 | Excellent | $35,325 | Challenging | |
| #2 | $52,289 | 32 | $17,500 | Good | $28,903 | Challenging | |
| #3 | James Madison UniversityPublic | $47,260 | 13 | $20,093 | Good | $37,285 | High |
| #4 | $46,641 | 12 | $22,996 | Manageable | $36,278 | High | |
| #5 | $39,804 | 38 | $21,500 | Manageable | $23,585 | High | |
| #6 | George Mason UniversityPublic | $38,289 | 13 | $19,500 | Manageable | $25,142 | High |
| #7 | Bridgewater CollegePrivate | $29,685 | 6 | $26,000 | High | $37,735 | 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 →
