PublicMaster's UniversityQuestionable

Is Virginia State University Worth It?

Petersburg, VA · Large suburb · 5,074 students · Data: College Scorecard, June 2026 release

Virginia State University is a Master's University located in large suburb in Petersburg, VA. It enrolls approximately 5,074 students. The acceptance rate is 89%, making it broadly accessible. 39% of students finish within 6 years (150% of normal time) — low, which is a red flag worth researching before enrolling. Median earnings of $45,543 vs. $26,500 in median debt means median debt equals about 7 months of gross pay (estimate). Only 27% of borrowers are making progress on their loans 3 years after leaving school — a warning sign about post-graduation outcomes.

WHERE THIS CAMPUS STANDS

No published FIRE survey data for this school, so we don't rate its politics. See surveyed campuses →

Source: FIRE 2027 College Free Speech Rankings (student survey fielded 2026 by College Pulse)

Avg Net Price / Year
$15,840
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,500
Median Earnings (10yr)
$45,543
Acceptance Rate
89%
4-yr Grad Rate
39%
Tuition (In-State)
$10,043
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$22,650
3-yr Loan Repayment
27%

⚠️ At this debt load, median debt equals ~7 months of full gross earnings (estimate).

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