Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Beach, VA 23455 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 65/100 | ROI Score: -67 | Affordability Score: 55/100

Tuition (In-State): $37,500 | Out-of-State: $37,500

Acceptance Rate: 72.9% | Graduation Rate: 45.7% | Retention Rate: 74.3%

Median Earnings (10yr): $50,074 | Median Debt: $27,000

ACT Midpoint: 29

Student Body Size: 1,256 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 27.1% | Federal Loan Rate: 45.0%

Average Faculty Salary: $8,756/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Virginia Wesleyan University is $37,500 per year, which is 5% below the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $37,500/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $150,000 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Virginia Wesleyan University:

Families earning $0–$30,000: $14,080/year
Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $17,108/year
Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $15,967/year
Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $22,603/year
Families earning $110,000+: $24,782/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $23,420/year, paying just 38% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

Virginia Wesleyan University has an acceptance rate of 72.9%, placing it in the Less Selective (70–85%) category. This means roughly 431 students apply each year.

The ACT midpoint is 29, 38% above the national average.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

45.7% of students at Virginia Wesleyan University complete their degree, 26% below the national average. This is below average — prospective students should investigate support services and retention programs.

First-year retention rate: 74.3% (8% below the national average). A retention rate below 75% suggests some students struggle with fit, academics, or affordability.

Graduates of Virginia Wesleyan University earn a median salary of $50,074 ten years after enrollment, 22% above the national average. This represents a $15,074/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $452,220 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $27,000, 26% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $293/month, with a total repayment of $35,160 (including $8,160 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.54x. This is a healthy ratio, suggesting debt is manageable for most graduates.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Virginia Wesleyan University pays for itself in approximately 10 years. This is a reasonable investment timeline.

Financial Aid Profile

27.1% of students at Virginia Wesleyan University receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 18% below the national average. A lower Pell rate suggests the student body skews toward higher-income families. Merit aid may be more prevalent than need-based aid.

45.0% of students take federal loans, 4% below the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $8,756/month, near the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Virginia Wesleyan University enrolls 1,256 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.

Diversity Index: 80/100 (higher = more diverse). Virginia Wesleyan University has a highly diverse student body with strong representation across multiple racial and ethnic groups.

Student body composition: White 39%, Hispanic 8%, Black 20%, Asian 3%.

Virginia Wesleyan University: Small Private Institution with Strong Liberal Arts Focus

Virginia Wesleyan: A Coastal Education with Moderate Career Returns
Beyond the Beach: Assessing the Job Market Impact of a Virginia Wesleyan Degree
Is the Virginia Wesleyan Experience Worth the Investment? A Data-Driven Look

Report Card: Overall Grade D+

Virginia Wesleyan University receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:

Academics: D
Value: F
Outcomes: C+
Affordability: B

College Analysis

Virginia Wesleyan University is a Private Nonprofit institution in Virginia Beach, VA with approximately 1,256 students. Academics: Strong focus on liberal arts with a small student body for personalized education. Value: Moderate tuition with a relatively low median debt, but ROI is negative. Outcomes: Graduates have above-average earnings but low graduation rates.

The Verdict: Is Virginia Wesleyan University Worth It?

Virginia Wesleyan University presents a complex value proposition. With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $37,500 and a 10-year median earning of $50,074, the immediate financial return is modest. The median debt of $27,000, when compared to the median earnings, suggests a payoff timeline of roughly 5-7 years, assuming a significant portion of earnings goes towards debt repayment. However, the ROI score of -67 indicates a negative return on investment when factoring in all costs and potential earnings over a longer period. This suggests that while graduates do find employment, the financial trajectory may not significantly outpace the initial investment, especially when compared to public university options or more specialized programs with higher earning potentials. It is not an inherently bad deal, but it is certainly not a clear financial win. For students who prioritize a specific liberal arts experience, a strong sense of community, or are deeply committed to remaining in the Virginia Beach area, the value might be perceived differently. However, from a purely financial standpoint, prospective students should carefully weigh the cost against potential career earnings and explore all available financial aid options. It's a moderate value, leaning towards being overpriced for those solely focused on maximizing financial return.

Return on Investment

While the university offers a strong liberal arts education and low median debt, the negative ROI and low graduation rates may not make it the best value for all students.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Virginia Wesleyan University: $27,000. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $307/month. Total repaid: $36,840 ($9,840 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 1.3 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $36,840.

Strengths

Strong focus on liberal arts and personalized education
Partnerships with local businesses for internships and job placements
Moderate tuition with a relatively low median debt

Weaknesses

Low graduation rates
Negative ROI
Limited focus on STEM fields

Academic Profile

ACT Midpoint: 29. Retention Rate: 74.3%.

Virginia Wesleyan University emphasizes a liberal arts education, aiming to provide students with a broad intellectual foundation alongside specialized knowledge. While specific departmental rankings are not readily available, the university highlights strong programs in areas such as Business, Psychology, and Environmental Studies, reflecting current student interests and market demands. The relatively small student body of around 1,250 students translates to a favorable student-faculty ratio, fostering opportunities for personalized attention and mentorship. While faculty salary data isn't provided, the commitment to undergraduate teaching is a hallmark of institutions like VWU. Research opportunities are available, particularly for students who actively seek them out, often involving faculty-led projects. The Honors Program offers a more rigorous academic experience for high-achieving students, providing enriched coursework and opportunities for independent study. Study abroad is encouraged, with various programs and partnerships available to broaden students' global perspectives. Academic support is a key focus, with resources like the Academic Success Center offering tutoring, academic advising, and workshops designed to enhance study skills and academic performance. The university's commitment to a holistic education is evident in its integration of experiential learning and career preparation.

Financial Aid Guide for Virginia Wesleyan University

Pell Grant recipients: 27.1%. Students taking federal loans: 45.0%.

Virginia Wesleyan University aims to make its private education accessible through a combination of merit-based and need-based financial aid. For the incoming class, prospective students should be aware that a significant portion of aid is likely to be merit-based, awarded for academic achievement. While specific dollar figures for merit scholarships vary widely based on academic profile, they can range from a few thousand dollars to covering a substantial portion of tuition. For example, a strong academic record might secure a merit award of $15,000-$25,000 annually. Need-based aid is also a critical component, determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the university's own institutional aid application. Families with an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) below $10,000 might expect to receive a package that includes grants and potentially federal loans to cover a larger percentage of costs. Work-study opportunities are available for eligible students, providing part-time employment on campus to help offset living expenses. Typical aid packages for middle-income families (e.g., $75,000-$125,000 annual income) might combine merit scholarships with some need-based grants and federal loans, potentially reducing the net cost of attendance significantly. Scholarship tips include applying early, highlighting extracurricular achievements and leadership roles, and exploring external scholarships. Negotiating financial aid at VWU is possible, especially if you have competing offers from similar institutions, but it's crucial to present a well-documented case for increased need or superior merit.

Hidden Costs at Virginia Wesleyan University

Room and Board: On-campus housing and meal plans can add an estimated $12,000 - $15,000 per academic year.
Textbooks and Supplies: Budget approximately $1,000 - $1,500 annually for required course materials.
Technology Fee: A mandatory fee, often around $200 - $300 per semester, supports campus technology infrastructure.
Transportation: Costs for travel to and from home, as well as local transportation in Virginia Beach, can range from $500 - $2,000+ depending on distance and frequency.
Personal Expenses: Allow for $1,500 - $3,000 per year for toiletries, entertainment, laundry, and other personal needs.
Parking Permit: If you plan to bring a car to campus, expect to pay $100 - $250 annually for a parking permit.
Health Insurance: Students without adequate health insurance may need to enroll in the university's plan, costing approximately $2,000 - $3,000 per year.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Virginia Wesleyan University graduates enter a diverse job market, with alumni finding opportunities across various sectors. While specific recruitment data from major corporations directly targeting VWU is not widely publicized, graduates often leverage the university's location in the Hampton Roads region. Key industries that employ VWU alumni include healthcare, education, government, and the maritime sector, given the significant military and port presence in Virginia Beach and Norfolk. Companies like Sentara Healthcare, Chesapeake Public Schools, and various federal agencies (e.g., Naval Air Station Oceana, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story) are common employers. The university's career services department aims to connect students with internship and job opportunities, though the depth of its internship pipelines can vary by major. Graduates pursuing further education have a moderate placement rate into graduate and professional programs, often in fields like law, counseling, and education. Notable alumni include individuals who have made significant contributions in local business, politics, and community leadership, though there isn't a large contingent of globally recognized figures. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong tendency for graduates to remain within Virginia, particularly in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, though some find positions in other East Coast states. The median earnings of $50,074 after 10 years suggest a solid, though not exceptionally high, return on investment for many career paths.

Campus Life & Culture at Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Wesleyan University attracts a student body that is largely drawn from Virginia and surrounding Mid-Atlantic states, though a growing number of students come from across the country. The university fosters a welcoming environment for students seeking a close-knit, residential liberal arts experience. Students who thrive here are typically engaged, community-oriented, and appreciate personalized attention from faculty.

Virginia Wesleyan University, nestled in the vibrant coastal city of Virginia Beach, offers a close-knit campus community with a distinct residential feel. The 'Vibe' here is often described as friendly, engaged, and supportive, fostering a strong sense of belonging among its approximately 1,250 students. Residential life is a cornerstone, with most students living on campus for at least their first two years. The university boasts several residence halls, each with its own character, and suite-style living options are popular. Beyond the dorms, students can find their niche in a wide array of over 100 student organizations, ranging from academic clubs and cultural groups to service-oriented initiatives and recreational pursuits. The Student Government Association (SGA) plays a significant role in campus life, advocating for student needs and organizing events. While Greek life exists, it's not the dominant social force, allowing for a more diverse social landscape. Athletics are a significant part of the culture, with the Marlins competing in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) across numerous NCAA Division III sports. Campus events, often organized by student groups or the university itself, are frequent, from intramural sports and movie nights to guest lectures and cultural festivals. The campus itself, with its blend of modern facilities and natural beauty, including the picturesque Lake Tingen, provides a pleasant backdrop for student life. Weekends often involve a mix of on-campus activities, exploring Virginia Beach's beaches and attractions, or venturing to nearby Norfolk and Chesapeake.

Campus Highlights

The beautiful 300-acre campus, featuring natural areas and the scenic Lake Tingen.
Strong emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities across various disciplines.
The 'Marlin Spirit' fostered through active NCAA Division III athletics.
A vibrant student life with over 100 clubs and organizations.
Proximity to the beaches and attractions of Virginia Beach.
Commitment to community service and global engagement.
The intimate class sizes that promote strong faculty-student relationships.

Location & Regional Advantages

Virginia Wesleyan University's location in Virginia Beach, VA, offers a unique blend of coastal living and strategic proximity to a significant economic region. The Hampton Roads metropolitan area, encompassing Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Portsmouth, boasts a robust job market driven by a strong military presence, a growing healthcare sector, tourism, and a significant port. This provides graduates with local employment opportunities in fields such as defense contracting, healthcare administration (Sentara Healthcare is a major employer), education, and hospitality. The cost of living in Virginia Beach is generally moderate compared to major East Coast hubs, making the $37,500 tuition more manageable, especially when considering potential in-state and out-of-state parity. While not directly adjacent to a major tech or finance hub like Washington D.C. or Charlotte, the region benefits from established industries and a steady demand for skilled professionals. The quality of life is high, with abundant recreational opportunities due to the beaches and proximity to the Chesapeake Bay. The weather is temperate, with four distinct seasons. Safety is generally good in Virginia Beach, though like any city, it has areas with higher crime rates. This location fosters a strong sense of community and offers a stable environment for graduates looking to establish careers locally, particularly within the established sectors of the region.

How to Get Into Virginia Wesleyan University

Virginia Wesleyan University's admission rate of approximately 73% suggests a moderately selective admissions process. While not highly competitive, a thoughtful application is still crucial. The university likely values a demonstrated commitment to academics and a genuine interest in the VWU community. Early Action (EA) is a good strategy if VWU is a top choice, allowing you to receive an admission decision earlier without the binding commitment of Early Decision (ED). While SAT/ACT scores are not a primary focus (indicated by N/A data), strong grades in a challenging high school curriculum are paramount. A GPA in the B+ to A- range is generally competitive. Essays should showcase your personality, intellectual curiosity, and how you envision contributing to the VWU campus. Topics that highlight leadership, overcoming challenges, or a passion for a particular field of study tend to resonate. Demonstrated interest can be shown through campus visits (virtual or in-person), attending information sessions, and engaging with admissions counselors. The admissions timeline typically involves deadlines for Early Action in November and Regular Decision in February or March, with decisions released in December and April, respectively. Focus on presenting a well-rounded profile that aligns with VWU's liberal arts mission.

How Virginia Wesleyan University Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Christopher Newport University, Old Dominion University, Regent University, Longwood University

Advantages

Smaller class sizes and more personalized attention due to its private, smaller nature.
A strong emphasis on liberal arts and interdisciplinary studies, fostering well-rounded graduates.
A dedicated, potentially more intimate alumni network within the Virginia Beach/Hampton Roads area.

Disadvantages

Higher tuition cost compared to the public university peers (Christopher Newport, Old Dominion).
Lower graduation rates compared to some public counterparts, potentially indicating challenges with student retention or program completion.
Less robust research infrastructure and fewer graduate program options compared to larger public institutions.

Best For

Students seeking a large campus with extensive sports facilities may find Virginia Wesleyan less appealing.
Prospective students with a focus on STEM fields may find the curriculum less aligned with their interests.
Students looking for a high graduation rate may need to consider other options.

Avoid If

Students who prioritize a strong liberal arts education and personalized learning experiences should consider Virginia Wesleyan.
Prospective students interested in sustainability and environmental studies will find a strong program here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Virginia Wesleyan University

How much does it cost to attend Virginia Wesleyan University?

In-state tuition at Virginia Wesleyan University is $37,500 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $37,500 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $27,000.

What is the acceptance rate at Virginia Wesleyan University?

Virginia Wesleyan University has an acceptance rate of 72.9%.

What is the graduation rate at Virginia Wesleyan University?

Virginia Wesleyan University has a graduation rate of 45.7%.

How much do Virginia Wesleyan University graduates earn?

The median earnings for Virginia Wesleyan University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $50,074. With median debt of $27,000, graduates earn roughly 1.9x their debt level annually.

How big is Virginia Wesleyan University?

Virginia Wesleyan University has approximately 1,256 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Virginia Beach, VA and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Virginia Wesleyan University worth the cost?

Virginia Wesleyan University has an ROI score of -67 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $37,500 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $50,074, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Virginia Wesleyan University located?

Virginia Wesleyan University is located in Virginia Beach, VA. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 1,256 students.

How much student debt do Virginia Wesleyan University graduates have?

The median student debt for Virginia Wesleyan University graduates is $27,000. With median earnings of $50,074 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 54%.

Is Virginia Wesleyan University a good college?

Virginia Wesleyan University has a graduation rate of 45.7% and median post-graduation earnings of $50,074. Highly diverse student body with a significant Hispanic population.

How does Virginia Wesleyan University compare to similar colleges?

Strong focus on sustainability and environmental studies. Compared to peer institutions, Virginia Wesleyan University offers a strong liberal arts education but has lower graduation rates and a negative ROI.

What career prospects do Virginia Wesleyan University graduates have?

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in non-profit organizations, education, and environmental fields.

What should prospective students know about Virginia Wesleyan University?

Located in Virginia Beach, the university is well-positioned for students interested in coastal and environmental careers.

What makes Virginia Wesleyan University stand out?

Partnerships with local businesses for internships and job placements.

What are the pros and cons of attending Virginia Wesleyan University?

High admission rate with a relatively small student body.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.