University of Richmond
University of Richmond is a private nonprofit university in University of Richmond, VA ranked #124 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of A, enrolling about 3,002 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 23.3%. Students most often pursue Economics and Computer and Information Sciences.
Academically, students benefit from a 7:1 student-faculty ratio, 93.2% first-year retention, and 87.8% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $33,417, about $16,419 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -49.2%, roughly 134.5 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $67,927. That's about $24,239 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for motivated learners who want a competitive yet collaborative community and students looking for meaningful faculty access.
Who is University of Richmond Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
University of Richmond graduates 87.8% of students within six years and keeps 93.2% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use University of Richmond's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $62,600 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $16,210 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $1,510 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $77,290 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 17.5% of University of Richmond students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $11,026 to $47,669 depending on family income. Use University of Richmond's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $27,086/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $47,669/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $67,927
- 10-Year Median Earnings $67,927
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $19,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 76.3%
- Employment Rate 78.6%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for University of Richmond graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
University of Richmond vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how University of Richmond's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes University of Richmond's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While University of Richmond graduates earn $67,927 median, the -49.2% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 690-750
- SAT Math 720-780
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 32-34
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 3,002
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 93.2%
- Graduation Rate 87.8%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 7:1
How to Get Into University of Richmond
1. Meet Academic Requirements: University of Richmond requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 23.3%, University of Richmond is highly selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: University of Richmond's 23.3% acceptance rate makes it highly selective. Strong test scores, GPA, and a well-rounded application are essential. Early application can improve your chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1410 and 1530 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among University of Richmond undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Human Resources Management and Services, and Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 22.1%
- Human Resources Management and Services 8.0%
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other 5.4%
- Biology, General 5.2%
- Political Science and Government 5.1%
- Accounting and Related Services 4.7%
See more majors
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 4.4%
- Economics 4.1%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Economics $122,879
- 2. Computer and Information Sciences, General $121,774
- 3. Accounting and Related Services $99,714
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations $97,662
- 5. Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other $81,521
- 6. Human Resources Management and Services $76,301
- 7. Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics $71,914
- 8. Area Studies $70,722
- 9. Biology, General $67,736
- 10. Political Science and Government $67,169
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $127,183
- 2. Law (First Professional Degree) $97,641
- 3. Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degree) $87,589
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Educational Administration and Supervision (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $67,763
- 5. Curriculum and Instruction (Master's Degree) $54,772
- 6. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $47,775
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Economics grads earn $122,879—83% more than Political Science and Government ($67,169). Graduate: Business Administration, Management and Operations programs lead with $127,183 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for University of Richmond. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 227 graduates)
- Law (First Professional Degree, 116 graduates)
- Human Resources Management and Services (Bachelor's Degree, 82 graduates)
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other (Bachelor's Degree, 55 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 53 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (39 programs)▼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Biology, General
- Political Science and Government
- Accounting and Related Services
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Economics
- Psychology, General
- Area Studies
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Mathematics
- International/Global Studies
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- English Language and Literature, General
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- History
- Journalism
- Chemistry
- Sociology
- Physics
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Philosophy
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Legal Support Services
- Geography and Cartography
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Cognitive Science
- Anthropology
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Classical and Ancient Studies
- Music
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Dance
Online Master's Degrees (7 programs)▼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (4 programs)▼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Human Resources Management and Services
- History
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (4 programs)▼
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Information Science/Studies
- Legal Support Services
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)▼
- Law
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 3,002
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 46.0%
- Female Students 54.0%
- Caucasian 61.0%
- Asian 6.1%
- Hispanic 10.1%
- Black 6.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients 17.5%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects University of Richmond's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of University of Richmond's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does University of Richmond support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at University of Richmond, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: About 17.5% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does University of Richmond support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at University of Richmond, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
University of Richmond offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -49.2% ROI. Ranked #124 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $33,417 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $67,927 median earnings. With 87.8% graduating within six years and 93.2% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: University of Richmond's Positioning
With a A grade and #124 ranking, University of Richmond competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $33,417 annually, University of Richmond charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 93.2% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $23,392 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -49.2% ROI and $67,927 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $23,417+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: University of Richmond ranks #124 of 6272 institutions, with 1032 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 87.8% six-year graduation rate sits 25.3 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 93.2% first-year retention is 16.4 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -49.2% return on investment is 134.5 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $67,927 run about 55% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $33,417 is roughly $16,299 higher than the national median of $17,118.
Helpfulness for Students
- 7:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 93.2% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 78.6% employment rate within three years sits 10.4 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $33,417 is about $16,299 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 17.5% trails the national share by 21.3 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
EDsmart rates University of Richmond—a private nonprofit university in University of Richmond, VA—at A overall. It stands at #124 among 6272 schools Grades by category break down as Completion A, Support A, Career Outcomes A-, and Affordability C-.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 93.2% of first-year students return, and roughly 87.8% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -49.2% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $33,417 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $77,290.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $43,873 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $19,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 17.5% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $67,927 at the median. That sits about 55% above the national median.
Roughly 78.6% of graduates are employed three years out.
EDsmart lists the ROI at -49.2%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
23.3% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the University of Richmond admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address University of Richmond, VA 23173
- Website www.richmond.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$3.15B
- Transfer Enrollment Rate9.3%