Southern Virginia University
Comprehensive ROI analysis based on tuition costs, graduate earnings, financial aid, and long-term earning potential.
ROI Summary
Total 4-Year Cost
$80,160
In-state tuition x 4
Earnings Premium
$1,988/yr
vs high school diploma avg
Break-Even Point
40.3 years
After graduation
20-Year ROI
-50%
Return on investment
The Numbers
Annual Tuition (In-State)
$20,040
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,224
Median Earnings (5yr)
$36,988
Graduation Rate
42%
Receive Financial Aid
56%
Avg Aid Amount
$0
Program-Level ROI
| Program | 4yr Cost | Median Earnings (5yr) | Est. 20yr ROI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
| Psychology, General. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | $80,160 | $34,997 | N/A |
| Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
| English Language and Literature, General. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
| Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
| History. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
| Biology, General. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
| Music. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
| Political Science and Government. | $80,160 | $0 | N/A |
Peer Comparison
-50%
20yr ROI
-62%
20yr ROI
-71%
20yr ROI
-75%
20yr ROI
-59%
20yr ROI
Financial Aid Impact
Before Aid
After Aid (Estimated)
Methodology
ROI calculations are based on data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. The earnings premium is calculated as the difference between median graduate earnings and the national average earnings for high school diploma holders ($35,000).
The 20-year ROI formula: ((Earnings Premium x 20) - Total Cost) / Total Cost x 100. Break-even point: Total Cost / Annual Earnings Premium. All figures use in-state tuition and do not account for inflation, opportunity cost, or financial aid variations.