Virginia Commonwealth University vs J Sargeant Reynolds Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Virginia Commonwealth University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $93,732 in 9.6 years versus not at all at J Sargeant Reynolds Community College, on median earnings of $58,128 vs $39,529 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Virginia Commonwealth University | J Sargeant Reynolds Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $23,433 | $5,168 |
| Total net cost | $93,732 | $20,672 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $58,128 | $39,529 |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $10,500 |
| Payback | 9.6 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $101,628 | -$197,292 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Virginia Commonwealth University vs J Sargeant Reynolds Community College: frequently asked questions
Is Virginia Commonwealth University or J Sargeant Reynolds Community College a better value?
Virginia Commonwealth University. It clears its $93,732 net cost in about 9.6 years versus no clear payback at J Sargeant Reynolds Community College, on median earnings of $58,128 vs $39,529 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Virginia Commonwealth University or J Sargeant Reynolds Community College?
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College: $5,168/yr net price after aid versus $23,433/yr at Virginia Commonwealth University — a difference of $18,265 a year, or about $73,060 over four years.
Do Virginia Commonwealth University or J Sargeant Reynolds Community College graduates earn more?
Virginia Commonwealth University graduates earn a median $58,128 ten years after entry, versus $39,529 at J Sargeant Reynolds Community College — a $18,599 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.