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Virginia Military Institute (VMI) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings

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About Virginia Military Institute

Known for its citizen soldier ethos, Virginia Military Institute pairs a rigorous military regimen with serious academics. Cadets study engineering, science, social science, and the humanities, taught with an emphasis on problem solving, clear writing, and leadership. The campus blends historic barracks with modern labs, well-used fitness and training spaces, and quiet nooks for study. Support includes advising, tutoring, health and counseling, and career services.

Life here is tight knit and disciplined, with parades, early formations, and traditions that test grit. And there's a release valve, from club sports and intramurals to outdoor treks on nearby trails and rivers. The culture prizes honor, teamwork, and service, and it connects to clear career paths, including military commissioning and civilian internships supported by a loyal alumni network. Lexington adds a classic small town scene with bookstores, cafes, and the arts, plus quick access to the Blue Ridge. Notable alumni include George C. Marshall and Jonathan Daniels.

Key Institutional Details

Contact & Profile

Location: VMI Parade, Lexington, Virginia, 24450, USA
Phone: +1 (540) 464-7207
Website: vmi.edu
Unit ID: 234085

Academic & Institutional

Control: Public institution (funded by state or local government)
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Length of Study: Programs under 2 years (e.g. certificate or diploma)
Calendar System: Semester system (two main terms per year)
Award Levels: Bachelor's
Carnegie Classification: Doctoral Universities: Very High Research Baccalaureate - Arts & Sciences
Campus Setting: Located in a distant town (10-35 miles from urbanized area)
Tuition: In-state: $20,484 (Tuition $10,076 + Fee $10,408) · Out-of-state: $51,186 (Tuition $40,778 + Fee $10,408)
Student Profile:
Total Students: 1,560
Undergraduate: 1,560
Graduate/Other: 0
Male: 1,356 Female: 204
Applications:
Total Applicants: 1,171
Admitted: 957
Enrolled: 469
Acceptance: 81.7% Yield: 49%
Staff:
Total: 630 Full-time: 588 Part-time: 42

Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects

Explore degree programs offered at Virginia Military Institute (VMI) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Virginia. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.

How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in Virginia vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Social Sciences (2)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies
45.0601 Economics, General. (Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the systematic study of the production, conservation and allocation of resources in conditions of scarcity, together with the organizational frameworks related to these processes. Includes instruction in economic theory, micro- and macroeconomics, comparative economic systems, money and banking systems, international economics, quantitative analytical methods, and applications to specific industries and public policy issues.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9199 Managers, All Other $149,890 $126,730 -$23,160 (-15.5%)
19-3011 Economists $130,910 $120,360 -$10,550 (-8.1%)
19-3022 Survey Researchers $73,470 $63,970 -$9,500 (-12.9%)
19-4061 Social Science Research Assistants $63,560 $51,790 -$11,770 (-18.5%)
25-1063 Economics Teachers, Postsecondary $133,140 $125,980 -$7,160 (-5.4%)
25-2031 Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $73,700 $59,110 -$14,590 (-19.8%)
45.0901 International Relations and Affairs. (Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the systematic study of international politics and institutions, and the conduct of diplomacy and foreign policy. Includes instruction in international relations theory, foreign policy analysis, international law and organization, the comparative study of specific countries and regions, and the theory and practice of diplomacy.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9199 Managers, All Other $149,890 $126,730 -$23,160 (-15.5%)
19-3094 Political Scientists $137,600 $154,860 +$17,260 (+12.5%)
25-1065 Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary $105,160 $102,780 -$2,380 (-2.3%)
Engineering (3)
Engineering Sciences and Applied Technology Solutions
14.0801 Civil Engineering, General. (Cert2y+)
A program that generally prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of structural, load-bearing, material moving, transportation, water resource, and material control systems; and environmental safety measures.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9041 Architectural and Engineering Managers $175,710 $165,770 -$9,940 (-5.7%)
17-2051 Civil Engineers $107,050 $87,750 -$19,300 (-18%)
25-1032 Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary $119,340 $118,890 -$450 (-0.4%)
14.1001 Electrical and Electronics Engineering. (Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of electrical and electronic systems and their components, including electrical power generation systems; and the analysis of problems such as superconductor, wave propagation, energy storage and retrieval, and reception and amplification.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9041 Architectural and Engineering Managers $175,710 $165,770 -$9,940 (-5.7%)
17-2011 Aerospace Engineers $141,180 $128,250 -$12,930 (-9.2%)
17-2061 Computer Hardware Engineers $156,770 $123,080 -$33,690 (-21.5%)
17-2071 Electrical Engineers $120,980 $116,110 -$4,870 (-4%)
17-2072 Electronics Engineers, Except Computer $132,500 $156,320 +$23,820 (+18%)
25-1032 Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary $119,340 $118,890 -$450 (-0.4%)
14.1901 Mechanical Engineering. (Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of physical systems used in manufacturing and end-product systems used for specific uses, including machine tools, jigs and other manufacturing equipment; stationary power units and appliances; engines; self-propelled vehicles; housings and containers; hydraulic and electric systems for controlling movement; and the integration of computers and remote control with operating systems.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9041 Architectural and Engineering Managers $175,710 $165,770 -$9,940 (-5.7%)
13-1051 Cost Estimators $83,160 $67,100 -$16,060 (-19.3%)
17-2011 Aerospace Engineers $141,180 $128,250 -$12,930 (-9.2%)
17-2141 Mechanical Engineers $110,080 $96,510 -$13,570 (-12.3%)
25-1032 Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary $119,340 $118,890 -$450 (-0.4%)
History (1)
Historical Studies, Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Research
54.0101 History, General. (Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the general study and interpretation of the past, including the gathering, recording, synthesizing and criticizing of evidence and theories about past events. Includes instruction in historiography; historical research methods; studies of specific periods, issues and cultures; and applications to areas such as historic preservation, public policy, and records administration.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9199 Managers, All Other $149,890 $126,730 -$23,160 (-15.5%)
19-3093 Historians $78,470 $103,230 +$24,760 (+31.6%)
25-1125 History Teachers, Postsecondary $93,710 $92,600 -$1,110 (-1.2%)
25-2031 Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $73,700 $59,110 -$14,590 (-19.8%)
39-7011 Tour Guides and Escorts N/A N/A N/A
Psychology (1)
Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies
42.0101 Psychology, General. (Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of individual and collective behavior, the physical and environmental bases of behavior, and the analysis and treatment of behavior problems and disorders. Includes instruction in the principles of the various subfields of psychology, research methods, and psychological assessment and testing methods.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9199 Managers, All Other $149,890 $126,730 -$23,160 (-15.5%)
19-3032 Industrial-Organizational Psychologists $134,400 N/A N/A
19-3033 Clinical and Counseling Psychologists $106,850 $103,030 -$3,820 (-3.6%)
19-3039 Psychologists, All Other $111,340 $122,970 +$11,630 (+10.4%)
19-4061 Social Science Research Assistants $63,560 $51,790 -$11,770 (-18.5%)
25-1066 Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary $93,530 $91,490 -$2,040 (-2.2%)
Biological Sciences (1)
Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Biomedical Research
26.0101 Biology/Biological Sciences, General. (Cert2y+)
A general program of biology at the introductory, basic level or a program in biology or the biological sciences that is undifferentiated as to title or content. Includes instruction in general biology and programs covering a variety of biological specializations.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9121 Natural Sciences Managers $173,500 $123,740 -$49,760 (-28.7%)
19-1029 Biological Scientists, All Other $100,440 $112,110 +$11,670 (+11.6%)
19-1099 Life Scientists, All Other $101,940 $99,120 -$2,820 (-2.8%)
19-4012 Agricultural Technicians $49,680 $43,360 -$6,320 (-12.7%)
19-4013 Food Science Technicians $54,400 $66,220 +$11,820 (+21.7%)
19-4021 Biological Technicians $58,020 $44,670 -$13,350 (-23%)
19-4092 Forensic Science Technicians $75,260 $64,240 -$11,020 (-14.6%)
25-1042 Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary $101,340 $80,000 -$21,340 (-21.1%)
25-2031 Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $73,700 $59,110 -$14,590 (-19.8%)
Computer & IT (1)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0701 Computer Science. (Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on computer theory, computing problems and solutions, and the design of computer systems and user interfaces from a scientific perspective. Includes instruction in the principles of computational science, computer development and programming, and applications to a variety of end-use situations.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-3021 Computer and Information Systems Managers $187,990 $171,540 -$16,450 (-8.8%)
15-1212 Information Security Analysts $127,730 $121,480 -$6,250 (-4.9%)
15-1221 Computer and Information Research Scientists $152,310 $127,650 -$24,660 (-16.2%)
15-1231 Computer Network Support Specialists $79,610 $76,400 -$3,210 (-4%)
15-1243 Database Architects $142,620 $158,740 +$16,120 (+11.3%)
15-1251 Computer Programmers $103,640 $104,150 +$510 (+0.5%)
15-1252 Software Developers $144,570 $130,810 -$13,760 (-9.5%)
15-1253 Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers $110,260 $104,310 -$5,950 (-5.4%)
15-1254 Web Developers $98,790 $100,220 +$1,430 (+1.4%)
15-1255 Web and Digital Interface Designers $111,450 $67,480 -$43,970 (-39.5%)
15-1299 Computer Occupations, All Other $116,700 $107,960 -$8,740 (-7.5%)
15-2051 Data Scientists $124,590 $99,610 -$24,980 (-20%)
25-1021 Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary $105,830 $131,170 +$25,340 (+23.9%)
English (1)
English Literature, Creative Writing and Literary Analysis
23.0101 English Language and Literature, General. (Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the English language, including its history, structure and related communications skills; and the literature and culture of English-speaking peoples.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
25-1123 English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary $90,400 $95,580 +$5,180 (+5.7%)
25-2031 Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $73,700 $59,110 -$14,590 (-19.8%)
43-9081 Proofreaders and Copy Markers $52,730 $49,910 -$2,820 (-5.3%)
Mathematics (1)
Mathematical Sciences, Statistics and Computational Analysis
27.0301 Applied Mathematics, General. (Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the application of mathematics to the solution of functional problems in fields such as engineering and the applied sciences. Includes instruction in natural phenomena modeling continuum mechanics, reaction-diffusion, wave propagation, dynamic systems, numerical analysis, controlled theory, asymptotic methods, variation, optimization theory, inverse problems, and applications to specific scientific and industrial topics.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9121 Natural Sciences Managers $173,500 $123,740 -$49,760 (-28.7%)
15-2011 Actuaries $134,990 $146,890 +$11,900 (+8.8%)
15-2021 Mathematicians $122,520 $141,720 +$19,200 (+15.7%)
15-2041 Statisticians $112,330 $93,800 -$18,530 (-16.5%)
15-2051 Data Scientists $124,590 $99,610 -$24,980 (-20%)
15-2099 Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other $84,700 $76,290 -$8,410 (-9.9%)
25-1022 Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary $92,880 $74,430 -$18,450 (-19.9%)
Languages (1)
Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistic Studies
16.0101 Foreign Languages and Literatures, General. (Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on one or more modern foreign languages that is not specific as to the name of the language(s) studied; that is otherwise undifferentiated; or that introduces students to language studies at the basic/elementary level.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
25-1124 Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary $87,670 $75,850 -$11,820 (-13.5%)
25-2031 Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $73,700 $59,110 -$14,590 (-19.8%)
27-3091 Interpreters and Translators $64,950 $61,240 -$3,710 (-5.7%)
Physical Sciences (2)
Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences Research
40.0501 Chemistry, General. (Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of the composition and behavior of matter, including its micro- and macro-structure, the processes of chemical change, and the theoretical description and laboratory simulation of these phenomena.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9121 Natural Sciences Managers $173,500 $123,740 -$49,760 (-28.7%)
19-2031 Chemists $95,940 $86,610 -$9,330 (-9.7%)
19-4013 Food Science Technicians $54,400 $66,220 +$11,820 (+21.7%)
19-4031 Chemical Technicians $61,300 $50,030 -$11,270 (-18.4%)
19-4092 Forensic Science Technicians $75,260 $64,240 -$11,020 (-14.6%)
25-1052 Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary $103,030 $83,560 -$19,470 (-18.9%)
25-2031 Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $73,700 $59,110 -$14,590 (-19.8%)
40.0801 Physics, General. (Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the scientific study of matter and energy, and the formulation and testing of the laws governing the behavior of the matter-energy continuum. Includes instruction in classical and modern physics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, mechanics, wave properties, nuclear processes, relativity and quantum theory, quantitative methods, and laboratory methods.

Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia

Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code Occupation US National Virginia Avg VA vs US
11-9121 Natural Sciences Managers $173,500 $123,740 -$49,760 (-28.7%)
19-2012 Physicists $166,000 $131,940 -$34,060 (-20.5%)
25-1054 Physics Teachers, Postsecondary $105,460 $92,110 -$13,350 (-12.7%)
25-2031 Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $73,700 $59,110 -$14,590 (-19.8%)

Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs

Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students

Estimated Total Cost
(In-state)
$34,824
Estimated Total Cost
(Out-state)
$65,526
In-state Tuition (incl. fees)
$20,484
Tuition and fees for students residing in-state
Out-of-state Tuition (incl. fees)
$51,186
Tuition and fees for non-resident students
Room & Board
$10,990 (on-campus)
Housing and meal plan expenses
Books & Supplies
$1,200
Average yearly cost of books and study materials
Other Expenses
$2,150 (on-campus)
Miscellaneous personal and institutional expenses
Other Expenses (with family)
N/A
Estimated cost for students living with family
Graduate In-state Tuition (incl. fees)
N/A
Graduate tuition rates for in-state students
Graduate Out-of-state Tuition (incl. fees)
N/A
Graduate tuition rates for non-resident students

Financial Aid & Student Support

Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students

24%
FTFT Aid Recipients
Avg. Grant
$13,735
Avg. Loan
$8,998
Avg. Federal Loan
$3,906
Additional
Students with Any Grant
296
Students who received any type of grant aid
Students with Any Loan
242
Students who received any type of loan-based aid
Students with Federal Grant
86
Students who received a federal grant
Avg. Institutional Grant
$12,186
Average amount of institutional grant awarded
Show more financial aid data

Student Success Metrics

Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.

82%
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
84%
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$52,604 – $90,374
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$52,604 (25th %) $90,374 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years: $77,369
Median Salary After 6 Years
$63,545
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$77,369
Average annual earnings of former students ten years after starting college.

Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes

Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.

3-Year Loan Repayment Rate
83.9%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
89.1%
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
$22,996
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
Low 80.7%
Middle 80.0%
High 86.7%
Repayment by Dependency

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about Virginia Military Institute (VMI)

How much does it cost to attend Virginia Military Institute (VMI)?

The annual tuition at Virginia Military Institute (VMI) is $20,484 for in-state students and $51,186 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $34,824 for in-state students and $65,526 for out-of-state students. Additional costs include room and board $10,990 (on-campus) and books and supplies $1,200.

Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.

What academic programs and degree levels does Virginia Military Institute offer?

Virginia Military Institute (VMI) offers 15 academic programs across 10 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Bachelor's.

Most popular program areas include:

  • Engineering Sciences and Applied Technology Solutions (3 programs)
  • Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences Research (2 programs)
  • Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies (2 programs)
  • Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity (1 programs)
  • Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistic Studies (1 programs)

Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.

What is the acceptance rate for Virginia Military Institute?

Virginia Military Institute (VMI) has an 81.7% acceptance rate and a 49% yield rate, making it moderately selective.

Admission statistics breakdown:

  • Total applicants: 1,171
  • Students admitted: 957
  • Students enrolled: 469

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Admission statistics may vary by program and application cycle.

What financial aid and scholarships are available at Virginia Military Institute?

Virginia Military Institute (VMI) provides financial aid to 24% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $13,735 and average loans of $8,998.

Average financial aid amounts by type:

  • Pell grants: $3,429
  • State/Local grants: $6,563
  • Institutional grants: $12,186
  • Federal loans: $3,906

The university supports 296 students with grants and 242 students with loans annually.

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.

What is the average salary for Virginia Military Institute graduates?

Virginia Military Institute (VMI) graduates earn a median salary of $63,545 after 6 years and $77,369 after 10 years.

The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $52,604 (25th percentile) to $90,374 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $97,800 (90th percentile).

Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.

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