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Best Area Studies Schools in Virginia

Virginia has 6 colleges offering Area Studies programs tracked by the College Scorecard, producing 153 recent graduates. Graduates in Virginia earn $35,251 on average within two years — 7% above the national average of $32,868, making the state one of the stronger markets for this field.

School choice matters significantly: University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates earn $44,356 while Virginia Commonwealth University graduates earn $28,753 — a $15,603 gap. Research each program's curriculum, employer connections, and career services before deciding.

6
Schools in VA
$35,251
VA Avg. Earnings
$32,868
National Avg.
98
Schools Nationally

Public vs Private: Area Studies in Virginia

Public Schools (4)
$33,482
avg. 2yr earnings
Private Schools (2)
$38,788
avg. 2yr earnings

Private schools produce $5,306 more in early earnings on average, but typically cost more. Compare net price to determine which offers better ROI.

Area Studies Schools in Virginia, Ranked by Earnings

#1
U

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · Public

$44,356
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $22,566
Graduates: 34
Acceptance: 16.9%
#2
M

Mary Baldwin University

Staunton, VA · Private

$39,648
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: N/A
#3
U

University of Richmond

University of Richmond, VA · Private

$37,928
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $25,863
Graduates: 20
Acceptance: 23.3%
#4
G

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · Public

$31,133
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 88.8%
#5
W

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · Public

$29,685
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $34,517
Graduates: 27
Acceptance: 32.7%
#6
V

Virginia Commonwealth University

Richmond, VA · Public

$28,753
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $31,111
Graduates: 72
Acceptance: 93.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best school for Area Studies in Virginia?
University of Virginia-Main Campus ranks #1 for Area Studies in Virginia with median graduate earnings of $44,356 within two years of graduation. There are 6 schools offering Area Studies programs in the state.
How much do Area Studies graduates earn in Virginia?
Area Studies graduates in Virginia earn an average of $35,251 within two years of graduation. This is 7% above the national average of $32,868 for this major.
What is the hardest Area Studies school to get into in Virginia?
University of Virginia-Main Campus is the most selective Area Studies program in Virginia with an acceptance rate of 16.9%. The average acceptance rate across Area Studies programs in the state is 51.0%.
Should I attend a public or private school for Area Studies in Virginia?
In Virginia, private Area Studies programs produce average earnings of $38,788 vs $33,482 at public schools. However, public schools typically cost less — consider net price relative to earnings when calculating ROI. There are 4 public and 2 private options in the state.

Other Popular Majors in Virginia

Computer Science $71,200 Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $69,947 Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering $69,803 Computer Engineering $69,212 Chemical Engineering $67,280 Computer and Information Sciences, General $64,785 Dental Support Services and Allied Professions $61,922 Civil Engineering $61,546
All colleges in Virginia →

Area Studies in Other States

California Massachusetts New York Pennsylvania Washington Maryland Illinois Ohio Washington DC Connecticut New Jersey Wisconsin View All →

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Data updated June 2026. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.