Engineering-Related Fields at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
68 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
69
Optimistic
68
Base Case
66
Pessimistic
Earnings $56,513/yr (-18% vs median)
AI Risk High (38% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (111,400 openings/yr)
ROI 13.3x earnings multiple (5.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #10 of 31 Engineering-Related Fields programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

Virginia Tech's engineering programs consistently produce highly capable graduates, a fact reflected in its national standing. While initial earnings might appear more modest compared to some national benchmarks, this often reflects the regional labor market, particularly the strong presence of defense contractors, government agencies, and established manufacturing firms within Virginia and neighboring states. These employers offer stable careers with excellent benefits and clear advancement paths, though entry-level salaries may not match the extremes seen in major tech hubs. You'll benefit from a robust recruitment pipeline directly on campus. Focus on securing multiple internships and leveraging the vast alumni network; doing so can provide a crucial springboard for accelerating your career trajectory and maximizing your long-term earning potential, especially given the program's reputation for preparing students for leadership in complex engineering and management roles.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Engineering-Related Fields graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $852K $826K $731K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.8x 13.3x 11.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.8x 5.6x 5.0x
Probability of Field Employment 55% 52% 41%
DegreeOutlook Score 69 68 66

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$61,912
Out-of-state: $146,776 (5.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$95,160
-54% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,750
5.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$98,448
74% growth from Year 1

About Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University accepts 57% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, serving a student body of 30,435 in Blacksburg, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University →

Top Career Paths

Architectural and engineering managers $167,740/yr
Industrial production managers $121,440/yr
Engineers, all other $117,750/yr
View all 10 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Engineering-Related Fields at Other Schools

Other Majors at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 68/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Engineering-Related Fields at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University?
At 68/100, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University's Engineering-Related Fields program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Engineering-Related Fields at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University?
The 38% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University a good choice for Engineering-Related Fields despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →