Best
Private Colleges in Virginia Beach in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Virginia Beach, VA, can combine coursework in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and organizational behavior. Programs typically build communication, analytical, and leadership skills through projects and internships. Graduates pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, business analyst, sales representative, or operations manager. Local options include Regent University, Virginia Wesleyan University, and Tidewater Community College's Virginia Beach campus, each offering business-related study pathways suited to different goals.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Virginia Beach, Virginia, offers coursework in human development, cognitive psychology, research methods, statistics, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Regent University and Virginia Wesleyan University both offer psychology programs locally. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis. Typical career options include behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources assistant, research assistant, and community support worker. Graduates seeking psychologist roles generally need graduate education and relevant licensure beyond a bachelor's degree first.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Virginia Beach, Virginia, combines programming, mathematics and problem-solving. Programs typically cover algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Options include Regent University, Virginia Wesleyan University and Tidewater Community College, which offers transfer-focused coursework. Graduates may pursue careers as software developers, web developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists or database administrators.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Virginia Beach can prepare you to support individuals, families, and groups through mental-health and life challenges. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and supervised clinical practice. Depending on the degree and licensure path, graduates may work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, or behavioral health counselors in clinics, schools, and community agencies. Regent University and South University's Virginia Beach campus offer local options for counseling-related study programs.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Virginia Beach, VA can prepare students for entry-level clinical careers or advanced practice. Typical coursework includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and supervised clinical rotations. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse educators, or patient care coordinators, depending on their degree and licensure. Local options include Tidewater Community College's Virginia Beach campus and ECPI University's Virginia Beach campus, both offering nursing education pathways and clinical training.

Best Colleges in Virginia Beach, VA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $17,743, compared with $28,250 at schools in the top 10% - a $10,507 difference. Average financial-aid coverage is 100% overall, versus 60% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 60%. Schools receive an average of 3,606.4 applicants, compared with 7,180.4 at top-10% schools. The median applicant counts are 1,576 men and 2,232 women.
• Average test scores are 1,180 on the SAT and 27.5 on the ACT. The average number of enrolled students is 2,406, including averages of 229.75 men and 310.25 women.
• The average graduation rate is 42%, while the average for top-10% schools is 68%. Median graduation rates are 34% for men and 48.5% for women.
• Among the institutions, 6 offer associate's degrees, 5 offer bachelor's degrees, 5 offer master's degrees, and 1 offers a doctor's degree. There are 6 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with the financial aid available, and consider how admissions selectivity and test-score averages fit your circumstances. Also weigh graduation outcomes and the degree levels offered, paying attention to differences between overall figures and those for top-10% schools.

How much does studying at a college in Virginia Beach, VA cost?

The average reported total cost of studying for a degree in Virginia Beach, VA, is $20,489. That figure gives you a useful starting point for budgeting for your college budget, though your actual bill will depend on your school, program, housing choice, and financial aid. Local options include Regent University and Virginia Wesleyan University; nearby Old Dominion University in Norfolk is another popular choice for students in the area.

• Average tuition and fees: $22,163.67.
• Average room and board: $7,797.33.
• Average books and supplies: $1,210.

These averages are reported separately, so they should not be added to estimate a single student's bill; the total-cost figure can reflect a different calculation. Living at home, commuting, applying for scholarships, and comparing aid packages can help you shape a more comfortable budget. For a Virginia Beach student, checking each college's current cost-of-attendance estimate is the best way to understand what you may actually pay.

How long does it take to finish college in Virginia Beach, VA?

In Virginia Beach, VA, plan on about four years for a full-time bachelor's degree and around two years for an associate degree. Students at Regent University or Virginia Wesleyan University typically follow the standard bachelor's timeline, while Tidewater Community College offers associate pathways and transfer options. Part-time study, work, family responsibilities, or changing majors can extend these timelines. Faster completion may be possible through summer classes, heavier course loads, Advanced Placement or other prior-learning credits, and transferring eligible credits. Ask each school how credits apply before enrolling, since policies vary. Local students can also explore accelerated or online formats where available. Graduation rates offer useful context: the average is 42.0%, compared with 68.0% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 38.5% for men and 44.67% for women. These figures show completion differs across groups and institutions; they aren't a personal prediction. A thoughtful plan can make progress feel exciting.

Salary

College graduates in Virginia Beach can use $43,555 a year as a median alumni salary benchmark. Graduates of top-performing schools have a higher median benchmark of about $54,441. Your own earnings may vary with your field, degree level, experience, and employer, but these figures offer a hopeful starting point as you plan your next step.

Virginia Beach students can explore local options such as Regent University, Virginia Wesleyan University, and Tidewater Community College. The right program can help you build skills for careers in areas like business, healthcare, education, and technology. Comparing programs and career outcomes can help you find a path that fits both your interests and your income goals.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Virginia Beach?

"Prettiest" is a matter of taste, but Virginia Wesleyan University is a lovely choice if you enjoy a green, nature-filled campus. Its grounds include trees, open spaces, and ponds, creating a peaceful setting that feels especially appealing between classes. Regent University is another strong contender, particularly if you're drawn to striking Georgian-style architecture.

What is the most selective college in Virginia Beach?

Among the city's larger undergraduate institutions, Regent University appears to be one of the more selective, based on publicly reported acceptance rates. Admissions figures change by year and may vary by program, so they're best treated as a guide rather than a guarantee. If you're considering a particular major, check its specific admission requirements.

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

Advanced Technology Institute is a career-focused technical school for students seeking practical training in fields such as automotive, diesel, and skilled trades. Its 415 enrolled students make it a comparatively small option for someone studying in Virginia Beach, VA. The reported graduation rate is 79%, with a 54% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $13,848, and median alumni salary is $42,963. These figures may help local applicants compare affordability and outcomes while considering hands-on education close to home in Virginia.

Regent University is a private Christian university based in Virginia Beach, giving local students the option to pursue undergraduate or graduate study without leaving the area. It enrolls 10,657 students, with a 57% graduation rate and 38% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $19,950, while median alumni salary is $44,147. For students weighing campus size, faith-oriented education, and costs in Virginia Beach, VA, these reported figures offer a useful starting point for comparing Regent with nearby colleges and career goals.

Virginia Wesleyan University is a private liberal arts institution in Virginia Beach, VA, offering students a campus-based option for undergraduate study. Its enrollment is 1,978, and graduation and acceptance rates are 42% and 73%, respectively. The total cost of studying is $36,550; median alumni salary is $40,858. Applicants comparing colleges in the Virginia Beach area can weigh its smaller university setting against the listed cost and outcomes, alongside academic interests, financial aid, and preferred campus experience before making a decision.

ECPI University is a career-oriented institution known for programs designed around workforce preparation, making it a practical option for students seeking applied study in Virginia Beach, VA. The data lists 556 enrolled students, a 42% graduation rate, and a 75% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $17,424, and median alumni salary is $55,652. Local applicants can consider these figures when comparing cost and reported outcomes, while checking that programs, schedules, and financial aid fit their educational plans and career interests.

Bryant & Stratton College-Virginia Beach is a career-focused college serving students who want practical education in their local community. It reports 572 enrolled students and a 24% graduation rate; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. The total cost of studying is $18,062, and median alumni salary is $39,764. For prospective students in Virginia Beach, VA, these figures provide comparison points, but applicants should also investigate program availability, support services, financial aid, and how each credential aligns with their intended career after graduation.