Best
Private Colleges in Virginia in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Virginia combines core courses in accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and data analysis. Programs often include internships and projects with employers. Popular choices include the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, James Madison University, George Mason University, and Virginia Commonwealth University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations supervisors, sales representatives, or financial analysts. The degree also prepares students for entrepreneurship and graduate study.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Virginia offers pathways through universities such as the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, William & Mary, and George Mason University. Programs typically cover developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and neuroscience. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis through coursework and practical experiences. Graduates may pursue roles as research assistants, behavioral technicians, case managers, or human resources specialists; clinical practice generally requires graduate education and licensure in Virginia.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Virginia offers programs at schools such as Virginia Tech, the University of Virginia, George Mason University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and William & Mary. Typical coursework includes programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students develop problem-solving skills through projects and internships with technology, government, and research employers. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, or IT consultants, with opportunities across Virginia.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Virginia prepares students to support people through mental health challenges, life transitions, and relationship concerns. Coursework typically includes counseling theories, ethics, assessment, lifespan development, multicultural counseling, group therapy, and supervised fieldwork. Graduates may pursue roles such as licensed professional counselor, school counselor, substance use counselor, or behavioral health clinician, depending on degree level and licensure. Virginia colleges offering programs include Virginia Commonwealth University, William & Mary, and George Mason University.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Virginia offers pathways from associate to bachelor's and graduate degrees at colleges such as the University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, George Mason University, and James Madison University. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, and clinical practice. Programs combine classroom learning with patient care. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, or community health settings, including pediatric and critical-care units.

Best Colleges in Virginia Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 20,671, compared with 42,835 at schools in the top 10%, while average financial aid availability is 100% overall and 70.15% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 70.15%. Schools receive an average of 3,849.61 applicants, compared with 8,313.5 among top-10% schools; the median applicant counts are 936.5 men and 1,185.5 women.
• Average test scores are 1,151 on the SAT and 25.14 on the ACT.
• Average enrollment is 3,698.51 students. Average enrollment figures are 246.81 men and 264.27 women.
• The average graduation rate is 55.82%, compared with 91.3% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 49.0% for men and 61.5% for women.
• There are 26 institutions offering associate's degrees, 45 offering bachelor's degrees, 38 offering master's degrees, and 9 offering doctor's degrees.
• Of the schools, 43 are coeducational, 0 are schools for men, and 0 are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with the financial aid available, and consider how acceptance rates, applicant numbers, test scores, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes fit your priorities. The differences between overall figures and those for top-10% schools may help you weigh cost and support against selectivity and graduation outcomes.

How much does studying at a college in Virginia cost?

The average reported cost of studying in Virginia is $24,686.24. Treat this as a typical study-cost estimate, not the complete price of earning a degree: your total bill depends on the college, program, living arrangements, and how many years you attend. For a Virginia student, tuition and fees, housing and meals, and books and supplies are key expenses to compare when planning.

Costs can look different at popular options such as the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, George Mason University in Northern Virginia, and Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. Each school has its own tuition rates and campus-living costs, so check the current estimate for your chosen program and whether you will live at home or on campus. Scholarships, grants, and in-state tuition eligibility may also reduce what you personally pay. Request a personalized estimate, and ask about aid, scholarships, payment plans, and commuting costs before deciding.

How long does it take to finish college in Virginia?

In Virginia, an associate degree generally takes two years, while a bachelor's degree usually takes four; part-time study may take longer. At Virginia Tech, George Mason, or James Madison, timing depends on your major, course availability, and credits completed each term. Changing majors or demanding course sequences can add time, but an adviser can help you build a practical plan.

Virginia's average graduation rate is 55.82%, compared with 91.3% at the top 10% of schools. Rates average 48.82% for men and 61.3% for women. Completing a degree takes persistence, and campus support may help you stay on track.

Your own completion time depends on enrollment, program demands, transfer policies, and available campus support.

To graduate sooner, consider:

• Use accepted AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits to start ahead.
• Take summer classes or extra credits when manageable.
• Transfer eligible credits or ask about accelerated degree pathways.
• Ask advisers which credits will transfer.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Virginia have a median alumni salary of $45,953. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $72,164 - a promising benchmark if you're comparing where to study and what your degree could help you earn.

Virginia offers many well-known options, including the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, George Mason University, and William & Mary. Your own earnings can vary depending on your field, experience, location, and the school you attend, so treat these figures as guideposts rather than a guarantee.

• Median alumni salary: $45,953
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: about $72,164

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Virginia?

Beauty is subjective, but the University of Virginia in Charlottesville is a leading choice. Its historic grounds, known as the Academical Village, feature graceful colonnades and the Rotunda, designed by Thomas Jefferson. With lawns, gardens, and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains nearby, the campus offers a memorable setting for everyday student life.

What is the most selective college in Virginia?

The University of Virginia is often considered Virginia's most selective large university, with recent first-year admission rates around the mid-teens. Selectivity can shift from year to year and depends on how it is measured; Washington and Lee University is also highly selective. For applicants, a low admit rate is a reminder to build a balanced college list.

What is the richest university in Virginia?

By total endowment, the University of Virginia is generally the wealthiest university in the state. Its endowment supports teaching, research, financial aid, and other university priorities. That institutional wealth does not automatically mean every student's costs are covered, but UVA does offer need-based aid, so Virginia residents should check their individual eligibility.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Virginia Ranking in 2026-2027

Washington and Lee University offers a small Virginia campus community, with 2,286 students and a strong liberal arts focus. Its 94% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, while its 14% acceptance rate indicates selective admission. The listed total study cost is $66,800, and median alumni salary is $61,380. For Virginia-based students, it combines an in-state location with comparatively high cost and strong completion outcomes; explore aid and program fit before deciding on enrollment and long-term value carefully.

Hampton University, located in Virginia, is a historically Black university with a diverse academic community and 4,686 enrolled students. Its 57% graduation rate and 62% acceptance rate provide an admissions and completion profile that differs from the more selective options listed here. The reported total cost is $27,482, and median alumni salary is $44,501. For a Virginia student, Hampton's comparatively lower listed cost may merit attention; compare financial aid, intended major, campus experience, and career support when estimating affordability and outcomes.

Hampden-Sydney College is a small Virginia liberal arts college, enrolling 931 students and reporting a 62% graduation rate. Its 41% acceptance rate places it between the most and least selective schools in this group. The listed total cost of studying is $51,808, while median alumni salary is $50,988. For Virginia students seeking a smaller college setting, its enrollment may appeal; weigh cost, academic offerings, and support services against your goals, and confirm expenses and aid with the college before applying.

Sweet Briar College is a small Virginia women's college, with 447 enrolled students and a 52% graduation rate. Its 76% acceptance rate is the highest among the five schools, which may be relevant for applicants comparing admission profiles. The reported total study cost is $24,740, and median alumni salary is $32,995. For Virginia students interested in a close-knit college environment, consider how its academic programs, campus setting, financial aid, and career resources align with your priorities before making a decision.

The University of Richmond is a Virginia university with 3,693 enrolled students and an 85% graduation rate, the second-highest in this group. Its 22% acceptance rate reflects a selective admissions process. The listed total cost of studying is $65,230, and median alumni salary is $58,143. For students based in Virginia, its location may make campus visits convenient; compare aid, academic options, and living expenses to assess the full cost and determine whether the university suits your educational and career plans.