Virginia Commonwealth University vs Duke University

Richmond, VA — Durham, NC

Metric
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
Duke University
Durham, NC
Location Richmond, VA Durham, NC
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 20,753 6,442
Acceptance Rate 92.6% 5.7%
SAT Average 1,137 1,548
In-State Tuition $16,945 $68,758
Out-of-State Tuition $40,109 $68,758
Avg Net Price $23,433 $29,612
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $13,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 64.2% 96.3%
Retention Rate 85.3% 97.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,161 $85,792
Median Earnings (10 yr) $58,128 $97,800
Loan Repayment Rate 886300.0% 124100.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
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Duke University
Durham, NC
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Virginia Commonwealth University and Duke University compare?
Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond, VA) has an acceptance rate of 92.6%, in-state tuition of $16,945, and median 10-year earnings of $58,128. Duke University (Durham, NC) has an acceptance rate of 5.7%, in-state tuition of $68,758, and median 10-year earnings of $97,800.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Virginia Commonwealth University or Duke University?
Duke University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $97,800 vs $58,128. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Virginia Commonwealth University or Duke University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Virginia Commonwealth University is the more affordable option at $23,433 per year versus $29,612.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Duke University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.3% vs 64.2%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025