At Washington and Lee, a student-run honor tradition shapes a trust-first campus where conversation matters. The university is known for rigorous study in the liberal arts and sciences, with strong preparation in business and legal perspectives. Resources sit close at hand, from libraries and labs to studios, a busy student center, advising, career coaching, and writing and tutoring support.
Student life spans publications, debate, the arts, and club and intramural sports, plus a big outdoor scene. With the Blue Ridge nearby, weekends often mean trails and rivers, while walkable Lexington brings coffee shops, galleries, and service with local nonprofits. And careers grow through internships and an active alumni network in law, media, and finance. Traditions like Mock Convention stand out. Notable alumni include Lewis F. Powell Jr. and Tom Wolfe.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Location:
204 West Washington Street, Lexington, Virginia, 24450, USA
Explore degree programs offered at Washington and Lee University (W&L) 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.
Business (3)
Most Graduates (21%)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0201
Business Administration and Management, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that generally prepares individuals to plan, organize, direct, and control the functions and processes of a firm or organization. Includes instruction in management theory, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision-making.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
11-1011
Chief Executives
$262,930
$223,410
-$39,520 (-15%)
11-1021
General and Operations Managers
$133,120
$104,520
-$28,600 (-21.5%)
11-2022
Sales Managers
$160,930
$176,170
+$15,240 (+9.5%)
11-3012
Administrative Services Managers
$126,030
$104,010
-$22,020 (-17.5%)
11-3013
Facilities Managers
$114,520
$100,360
-$14,160 (-12.4%)
11-3051
Industrial Production Managers
$129,180
$117,440
-$11,740 (-9.1%)
11-3071
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
$116,010
$113,860
-$2,150 (-1.9%)
11-3111
Compensation and Benefits Managers
$156,230
$141,470
-$14,760 (-9.4%)
11-3121
Human Resources Managers
$160,480
$135,360
-$25,120 (-15.7%)
11-3131
Training and Development Managers
$140,590
$131,860
-$8,730 (-6.2%)
11-9021
Construction Managers
$119,660
$96,800
-$22,860 (-19.1%)
11-9072
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
$87,060
$89,080
+$2,020 (+2.3%)
11-9151
Social and Community Service Managers
$86,100
$80,320
-$5,780 (-6.7%)
11-9179
Personal Service Managers, All Other
$70,620
$67,500
-$3,120 (-4.4%)
11-9199
Managers, All Other
$149,890
$126,730
-$23,160 (-15.5%)
13-1051
Cost Estimators
$83,160
$67,100
-$16,060 (-19.3%)
13-1071
Human Resources Specialists
$79,730
$69,020
-$10,710 (-13.4%)
13-1081
Logisticians
$87,600
$92,470
+$4,870 (+5.6%)
13-1082
Project Management Specialists
$108,100
$95,900
-$12,200 (-11.3%)
13-1111
Management Analysts
$114,710
$106,790
-$7,920 (-6.9%)
13-1141
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
$82,920
$66,070
-$16,850 (-20.3%)
13-1199
Business Operations Specialists, All Other
$92,380
$69,390
-$22,990 (-24.9%)
25-1011
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
$113,840
$132,070
+$18,230 (+16%)
52.0301
Accounting.
(Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to practice the profession of accounting and to perform related business functions. Includes instruction in accounting principles and theory, financial accounting, managerial accounting, cost accounting, budget control, tax accounting, legal aspects of accounting, auditing, reporting procedures, statement analysis, planning and consulting, business information systems, accounting research methods, professional standards and ethics, and applications to specific for-profit, public, and non-profit organizations.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
13-2011
Accountants and Auditors
$93,520
$79,970
-$13,550 (-14.5%)
13-2022
Appraisers of Personal and Business Property
N/A
N/A
N/A
13-2031
Budget Analysts
$93,920
$126,410
+$32,490 (+34.6%)
13-2041
Credit Analysts
$98,040
$60,630
-$37,410 (-38.2%)
13-2054
Financial Risk Specialists
$119,930
$83,980
-$35,950 (-30%)
13-2061
Financial Examiners
$103,650
$72,020
-$31,630 (-30.5%)
13-2081
Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents
$67,570
$48,280
-$19,290 (-28.5%)
13-2082
Tax Preparers
$58,860
$48,420
-$10,440 (-17.7%)
25-1011
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
$113,840
$132,070
+$18,230 (+16%)
52.0305
Accounting and Business/Management.
(Cert2y+)
An integrated or combined program in accounting and business administration/management that prepares individuals to function as accountants and business managers.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
11-3031
Financial Managers
$180,470
$140,010
-$40,460 (-22.4%)
13-2011
Accountants and Auditors
$93,520
$79,970
-$13,550 (-14.5%)
13-2022
Appraisers of Personal and Business Property
N/A
N/A
N/A
13-2051
Financial and Investment Analysts
$116,490
$100,800
-$15,690 (-13.5%)
13-2054
Financial Risk Specialists
$119,930
$83,980
-$35,950 (-30%)
25-1011
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
$113,840
$132,070
+$18,230 (+16%)
Law (1)
Most Graduates (19%)
Legal Studies, Jurisprudence and Professional Law Practice
22.0101
Law.
(Spec)
A program that prepares individuals for the independent professional practice of law, for taking state and national bar examinations, and for advanced research in jurisprudence. Includes instruction in the theory and practice of the legal system, including the statutory, administrative, and judicial components of civil and criminal law.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
23-1011
Lawyers
$182,760
$127,310
-$55,450 (-30.3%)
23-1012
Judicial Law Clerks
$69,850
$68,700
-$1,150 (-1.6%)
23-1021
Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers
$122,620
$53,410
-$69,210 (-56.4%)
23-1022
Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators
$91,170
$80,570
-$10,600 (-11.6%)
23-1023
Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates
$143,110
$123,700
-$19,410 (-13.6%)
25-1112
Law Teachers, Postsecondary
$139,950
$146,580
+$6,630 (+4.7%)
Social Sciences (3)
Most Graduates (16.4%)
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%)
45.1001
Political Science and Government, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the systematic study of political institutions and behavior. Includes instruction in political philosophy, political theory, comparative government and politics, political parties and interest groups, public opinion, political research methods, studies of the government and politics of specific countries, and studies of specific political institutions and processes.
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%)
19-4061
Social Science Research Assistants
$63,560
$51,790
-$11,770 (-18.5%)
25-1065
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$105,160
$102,780
-$2,380 (-2.3%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$59,110
-$14,590 (-19.8%)
45.1301
Sociology and Anthropology.
(Cert2y+)
A program that combines sociology and anthropology to study how society is organized, the origins and development of social institutions, social change, social organizations, race, class, gender and culture.
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%)
19-3041
Sociologists
$111,670
N/A
N/A
19-3091
Anthropologists and Archeologists
$71,070
$63,870
-$7,200 (-10.1%)
25-1061
Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,530
$101,980
-$550 (-0.5%)
25-1067
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,270
$80,620
-$16,650 (-17.1%)
Languages (6)
Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistic Studies
16.0300
East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics.
(Cert2y+)
Instructional content for this group of programs is defined in codes 16.0300 - 16.0399.
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%)
16.0501
German Language and Literature.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the German language and related dialects. Includes instruction in philology; dialects; and applications to business, science/technology, and other settings.
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%)
16.0900
Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics.
(Cert2y+)
Instructional content for this group of programs is defined in codes 16.0900 - 16.0999.
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%)
16.0901
French Language and Literature.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the French language and related dialects and creoles. Includes instruction in philology; Metropolitan French; Canadian French; African and Caribbean Creoles; dialects; and applications in business, science/technology, and other settings.
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%)
16.0905
Spanish Language and Literature.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the Spanish language and related dialects. Includes instruction in philology; Modern Castillan; Latin American and regional Spanish dialects; and applications in business, science/technology, and other settings.
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%)
16.1200
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics.
(Cert2y+)
Instructional content for this group of programs is defined in codes 16.1200 - 16.1299.
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%)
Biological Sciences (3)
Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Biomedical Research
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%)
26.0202
Biochemistry.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the scientific study of the chemistry of living systems, their fundamental chemical substances and reactions, and their chemical pathways and information transfer systems, with particular reference to carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Includes instruction in bio-organic chemistry, protein chemistry, bioanalytical chemistry, bioseparations, regulatory biochemistry, enzymology, hormonal chemistry, calorimetry, and research methods and equipment operation.
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%)
19-1021
Biochemists and Biophysicists
$115,570
$114,580
-$990 (-0.9%)
19-1042
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
$112,690
N/A
N/A
19-4013
Food Science Technicians
$54,400
$66,220
+$11,820 (+21.7%)
19-4021
Biological Technicians
$58,020
$44,670
-$13,350 (-23%)
25-1042
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$101,340
$80,000
-$21,340 (-21.1%)
26.1501
Neuroscience.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the interdisciplinary scientific study of the molecular, structural, physiologic, cognitive, and behavioral aspects of the brain and nervous system. Includes instruction in molecular and cellular neuroscience, brain science, anatomy and physiology of the central nervous system, molecular and biochemical bases of information processing, behavioral neuroscience, biology of neuropsychiatric disorders, and applications to the clinical sciences and biomedical engineering.
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%)
19-4021
Biological Technicians
$58,020
$44,670
-$13,350 (-23%)
25-1042
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$101,340
$80,000
-$21,340 (-21.1%)
Psychology (1)
Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies
42.2799
Research and Experimental Psychology, Other.
(Cert2y+)
Any instructional program in research and experimental psychology not listed above.
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%)
19-3039
Psychologists, All Other
$111,340
$122,970
+$11,630 (+10.4%)
25-1066
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
$93,530
$91,490
-$2,040 (-2.2%)
Physical Sciences (3)
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%)
40.0601
Geology/Earth Science, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the scientific study of the earth; the forces acting upon it; and the behavior of the solids, liquids and gases comprising it. Includes instruction in historical geology, geomorphology, and sedimentology, the chemistry of rocks and soils, stratigraphy, mineralogy, petrology, geostatistics, volcanology, glaciology, geophysical principles, and applications to research and industrial problems.
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%)
19-2042
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary
$112,950
$128,430
+$15,480 (+13.7%)
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%)
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
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%)
Philosophy (2)
Philosophical Studies, Ethics and Religious Thought
38.0101
Philosophy.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on ideas and their logical structure, including arguments and investigations about abstract and real phenomena. Includes instruction in logic, ethics, aesthetics, epistemology, metaphysics, symbolism, and history of philosophy, and applications to the theoretical foundations and methods of other disciplines.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
25-1126
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary
$88,210
$79,510
-$8,700 (-9.9%)
38.0201
Religion/Religious Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the nature of religious belief and specific religious and quasi-religious systems. Includes instruction in phenomenology; the sociology, psychology, philosophy, anthropology, literature and art of religion; mythology; scriptural and textual studies; religious history and politics; and specific studies of particular faith communities and their behavior.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
25-1126
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary
$88,210
$79,510
-$8,700 (-9.9%)
Communication (2)
Media Communications, Journalism and Public Relations
09.0401
Journalism.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the theory and practice of gathering, processing, and delivering news and that prepares individuals to be professional print journalists, news editors, and news managers. Includes instruction in news writing and editing; reporting; photojournalism; layout and graphic design; journalism law and policy; professional standards and ethics; research methods; and journalism history and criticism.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
25-1122
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,340
$77,930
-$12,410 (-13.7%)
27-3023
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists
$106,030
$63,770
-$42,260 (-39.9%)
27-3041
Editors
$85,700
$71,910
-$13,790 (-16.1%)
27-3043
Writers and Authors
$85,780
$73,090
-$12,690 (-14.8%)
43-9081
Proofreaders and Copy Markers
$52,730
$49,910
-$2,820 (-5.3%)
09.0902
Public Relations/Image Management.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the theories and methods for managing the media image of a business, organization, or individual and the communication process with stakeholders, constituencies, audiences, and the general public; and that prepares individuals to function as public relations assistants, technicians, and managers. Includes instruction in public relations theory; related principles of advertising, marketing, and journalism; message/image design; image management; special event management; media relations; community relations; public affairs; and internal communications.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
11-2011
Advertising and Promotions Managers
$149,270
$151,930
+$2,660 (+1.8%)
11-2032
Public Relations Managers
$163,520
$164,840
+$1,320 (+0.8%)
11-2033
Fundraising Managers
$137,290
$126,780
-$10,510 (-7.7%)
13-1131
Fundraisers
$73,130
$71,170
-$1,960 (-2.7%)
25-1122
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary
$90,340
$77,930
-$12,410 (-13.7%)
27-3031
Public Relations Specialists
$80,310
$68,310
-$12,000 (-14.9%)
Engineering (2)
Engineering Sciences and Applied Technology Solutions
14.0101
Engineering, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that generally prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to solve a wide variety of practical problems in industry, social organization, public works, and commerce. Includes instruction in undifferentiated and individualized programs in engineering.
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%)
17-2199
Engineers, All Other
$121,720
$139,240
+$17,520 (+14.4%)
25-1032
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
$119,340
$118,890
-$450 (-0.4%)
14.1301
Engineering Science.
(Cert2y+)
A program with a general focus on the general application of various combinations of mathematical and scientific principles to the analysis and evaluation of engineering problems, including applied research in human behavior, statistics, biology, chemistry, the earth and planetary sciences, atmospherics and meteorology, and computer applications.
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%)
17-2199
Engineers, All Other
$121,720
$139,240
+$17,520 (+14.4%)
25-1032
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
$119,340
$118,890
-$450 (-0.4%)
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
27.0101
Mathematics, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the analysis of quantities, magnitudes, forms, and their relationships, using symbolic logic and language. Includes instruction in algebra, calculus, functional analysis, geometry, number theory, logic, topology and other mathematical 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%)
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%)
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$59,110
-$14,590 (-19.8%)
Arts (4)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance
50.0501
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the general study of dramatic works and their performance. Includes instruction in major works of dramatic literature, dramatic styles and types, and the principles of organizing and producing full live or filmed productions.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$75,790
-$26,450 (-25.9%)
27-2011
Actors
N/A
N/A
N/A
27-2012
Producers and Directors
$114,280
$61,850
-$52,430 (-45.9%)
27-2099
Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers, All Other
N/A
N/A
N/A
50.0702
Fine/Studio Arts, General.
(Cert2y+)
A program that prepares individuals to generally function as creative artists in the visual and plastic media. Includes instruction in the traditional fine arts media (drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, CAD/CAM) and/or modern media (ceramics, textiles, intermedia, photography, digital images), theory of art, color theory, composition and perspective, anatomy, the techniques and procedures for maintaining equipment and managing a studio, and art portfolio marketing.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$75,790
-$26,450 (-25.9%)
27-1013
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
$76,450
$68,220
-$8,230 (-10.8%)
27-1019
Artists and Related Workers, All Other
$79,490
$101,980
+$22,490 (+28.3%)
50.0703
Art History, Criticism and Conservation.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the study of the historical development of art as social and intellectual phenomenon, the analysis of works of art, and art conservation. Includes instruction in the theory of art, art history research methods, connoisseurship, the preservation and conservation of works of art, and the study of specific periods, cultures, styles, and themes.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
13-2022
Appraisers of Personal and Business Property
N/A
N/A
N/A
25-1121
Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
$102,240
$75,790
-$26,450 (-25.9%)
25-4011
Archivists
$67,620
$66,720
-$900 (-1.3%)
25-4012
Curators
$70,060
$59,440
-$10,620 (-15.2%)
25-4013
Museum Technicians and Conservators
$53,630
$51,360
-$2,270 (-4.2%)
50.0901
Music, General.
(Cert2y+)
A general program that focuses on the introductory study and appreciation of music and the performing arts. Includes instruction in music, dance, and other performing arts media.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
25-2031
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
$73,700
$59,110
-$14,590 (-19.8%)
27-2042
Musicians and Singers
N/A
N/A
N/A
Natural Resources (1)
Environmental Science and Natural Resource Management
03.0103
Environmental Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on environment-related issues using scientific, social scientific, or humanistic approaches or a combination. Includes instruction in the basic principles of ecology and environmental science and related subjects such as policy, politics, law, economics, social aspects, planning, pollution control, natural resources, and the interactions of human beings and nature.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
13-1041
Compliance Officers
$84,980
$73,630
-$11,350 (-13.4%)
19-2041
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
$88,640
$98,620
+$9,980 (+11.3%)
25-1053
Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary
$100,360
N/A
N/A
Cultural Studies (1)
Cultural Anthropology, Ethnic Studies and Social Group Research
05.0110
Russian Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the history, society, politics, culture, and economics of one or more of the peoples of the Russian Federation and its Soviet, Czarist, and medieval predecessors and related borderlands.
Graduate Career Earnings in Virginia
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code
Occupation
US National
Virginia Avg
VA vs US
25-1062
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary
$97,350
$83,530
-$13,820 (-14.2%)
Interdisciplinary (2)
Cross-Disciplinary Studies and Integrated Research Programs
30.1301
Medieval and Renaissance Studies.
(Cert2y+)
A program that focuses on the study of the Medieval and/or Renaissance periods in European and circum-Mediterranean history from the perspective of various disciplines in the humanities and social sciences, including history and archeology, as well as studies of period art and music.
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and
long-term value of education.
95%
Graduation Rate
Percentage of students who successfully graduate from the institution
95%
First-Year Retention Rate
Percentage of first-year students who continue for a second year
Median Earnings Over Time
$64,147 – $141,033
Salary Range (25th–75th Percentile, 10 Years)
$64,147 (25th %)$141,033 (75th %)
*Median Salary After 10 Years:
$94,810
Median Salary After 6 Years
$76,516
Average annual earnings of former students six years after starting college.
Median Salary After 10 Years
$94,810
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
87.9%
Share of borrowers who repaid loans within 3 years
Repayment Rate (Graduates Only)
N/A
Repayment rate among students who completed their program
Median Student Loan Debt
$19,500
Median federal loan debt of undergraduate completers at time of graduation.
Repayment by Income
High87.1%
Repayment by Dependency
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Washington and Lee University (W&L)
How much does it cost to attend Washington and Lee University (W&L)?
The annual tuition at Washington and Lee University (W&L) is $64,525 for in-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $87,000 for in-state students.
Additional costs include
room and board $17,685 (on-campus) and books and supplies $2,290.
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 Washington and Lee University offer?
Washington and Lee University (W&L) offers 40 academic programs across 18 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Bachelor's, Doctorate (Professional).
Most popular program areas include:
Foreign Languages, Literature and Linguistic Studies (6 programs)
Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (4 programs)
Life Sciences, Biotechnology and Biomedical Research (3 programs)
Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences Research (3 programs)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies (3 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 Washington and Lee University?
Washington and Lee University (W&L) has an 17.4% acceptance rate and a 42.4% yield rate, making it highly selective.
Admission statistics breakdown:
Total applicants: 6,820
Students admitted: 1,184
Students enrolled: 502
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 Washington and Lee University?
Washington and Lee University (W&L) provides financial aid to 25% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $58,323 and average loans of $10,360.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
Pell grants: $4,993
State/Local grants: $6,302
Institutional grants: $60,797
Federal loans: $5,090
The university supports 299 students with grants and 85 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 Washington and Lee University graduates?
Washington and Lee University (W&L) graduates earn a median salary of $76,516 after 6 years and $94,810 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $64,147 (25th percentile) to $141,033 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $164,000 (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.