Hollins University
Hollins University — Earnings vs Cost (vs National Average)
Hollins University at a Glance
Hollins University is a private liberal arts university in Hollins, Virginia, United States. Founded in 1842 as Valley Union Seminary in the historical settlement of Botetourt Springs, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher education for women in the US.
1842
184 years old
$327M
$327.1 million (2025)
783
676 undergrad · 107 grad
Identity
Is Hollins University Worth It?
At a value score of 32/100, Hollins University is a below-average value relative to its cost. Graduates earn $40,075 — 25% below average — while paying $20,896/year. Consider alternatives with better earnings-to-cost ratios.
With a 2.1-year payback period, most graduates recoup their total cost of attendance relatively quickly.
The 67% graduation rate means roughly 33% of students leave without a degree — taking on debt without the earnings boost that completion brings.
With median debt of $27,000 representing 67% of first-year earnings, loan repayment will be a significant burden for most graduates.
Bottom line: consider whether the specific program you're interested in at Hollins University has outcomes that justify the cost — the institution-wide numbers suggest caution.
How Hollins University compares to peer private nonprofit colleges of similar tier nationally
Ranked #13 of 72 on value score. Peers are matched by size, median earnings, SAT, and admission rate — not just geography.
| Rank | College | Value | Net price / yr | Median earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Turtle Mountain College | 100 | $3,428 | $32,079 |
| #2 | College of Biblical Studies-Houston | 100 | $672 | $39,260 |
| #3 | Pillar College | 49 | $8,470 | $45,577 |
| #4 | University of Fort Lauderdale | 48 | $19,965 | $38,062 |
| #5 | Gods Bible School and College | 46 | $9,329 | $37,722 |
| #6 | Boricua College | 43 | $15,245 | $35,348 |
| #13 | Hollins University | 32 | $20,896 | $40,075 |
Peer group: private nonprofit colleges within ±60% of Hollins University's student body size and within a similar academic tier (SAT ±80, admit rate ±10pp, median earnings ±25%). 1 in VA.
Best Programs at Hollins University
The highest-earning program at Hollins University is English Language and Literature, General at $19,500/year (4 years after graduation).
Your major matters more than the school name — a English Language and Literature, General graduate from Hollins University earns $19,500, while a English Language and Literature, General graduate earns $19,500. Choose your program carefully — it's the single biggest lever you control.
Debt also varies by program: English Language and Literature, General graduates carry $27,000 in median debt vs. $27,000 for English Language and Literature, General.
Return on Investment
Estimated 4-Year Cost
Based on $20,896/yr net price × 4 years
Earnings Premium
vs. national average of $53,787/yr
Payback Period
Time to recoup the total cost through higher earnings
10-Year Net Gain
Median earnings over 10 years minus total cost of attendance
Programs & Earnings by Major
Graduate earnings data by field of study (4 years after graduation):
| Major | Earnings (4yr) | Earnings (1yr) | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General | $19,500 | $19,500 | $27,000 |
Similar Colleges in VA
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- private
- Location
- Roanoke, VA
- Student Body
- 665 students
- Admission Rate
- 68%
- Graduation Rate
- 67%
- Net Price (Annual)
- $20,896
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $40,075
- Median Student Debt
- $27,000