Best
Public Colleges in Virginia in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Virginia provides a foundation in management, finance, marketing, and organizational strategy. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, business law, statistics, human resources, and operations. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, or operations manager. Popular Virginia options include the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, William & Mary, James Madison University, George Mason University, and Old Dominion University. Programs may offer internships and concentrations for career goals.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Virginia offers paths exploring behavior, cognition, and mental health. Typical courses include research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and neuroscience. Students can gain experience through labs, internships, and community placements. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources specialist, or research assistant; licensure is generally required for independent clinical practice. Popular Virginia choices include the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, and George Mason University.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Virginia offers access to strong universities and technology employers. Programs typically cover programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. Students build practical skills through projects, internships, and research. Popular choices include Virginia Tech, University of Virginia, George Mason University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and William & Mary. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, and computer systems engineers across sectors.

Counseling

Studying counseling programs in Virginia prepares students to support individuals and families with counseling. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and fieldwork. Depending on the degree and licensure, graduates may pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, case managers, or career advisors. Virginia institutions offering counseling study include Virginia Commonwealth University, George Mason University, Liberty University, Old Dominion University, and the University of Virginia.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Virginia prepares students for patient-centered care through coursework in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, ethics, and clinical practice. Programs combine classroom learning with hospital and community rotations. Popular options include the University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, James Madison University, Old Dominion University, and George Mason University. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, long-term care facilities, or schools, with opportunities to specialize as experience grows.

Best Colleges in Virginia Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $24,238, compared with $42,552.80 for schools in the top 10%, a difference of $18,314.80.
• An average of 99% of students receive financial aid, compared with 72.5% at top-10% schools, a difference of 26.5 percentage points.
• The average acceptance rate is 72.5%. Schools receive an average of 18,190.62 applicants, compared with 45,463 applicants on average at top-10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 4,268, while the median number of female applicants is 7,692.
• Average test scores are 1,184.13 on the SAT and 25.33 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 13,665.65. The reported averages are 1,044.94 enrolled men and 1,282.12 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 60.59%, compared with 87.2% at top-10% schools, a difference of 26.61 percentage points. The median graduation rate is 56% for men and 67% for women, an 11-percentage-point difference.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, 15 offer bachelor's degrees, 15 offer master's degrees, and 11 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 17 coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, consider how its cost and financial aid availability fit your budget, and compare its acceptance rate and test-score measures with your academic profile. Pay particular attention to graduation rates, including how they compare with the top-10% figure, and consider the degree options and school environment that best fit your goals.

How much does studying at a college in Virginia cost?

The average total cost of studying in Virginia is $27,624.76, giving prospective students a useful benchmark as they plan for a degree. Average tuition and fees are $14,988.35; room and board average $14,567.50, and books and supplies cost about $1,300. These statewide averages are planning reference points, not guaranteed prices: your actual expenses depend on the institution, Virginia residency, financial aid, housing, and course choices.

For example, students considering the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, or George Mason University should check each school's current cost-of-attendance estimate, because campus location and living arrangements can change the total. If you live at home, you may spend less on housing; scholarships, grants, and in-state tuition can also make college feel more affordable.

Because $27,624.76 is a study-cost benchmark, not necessarily the full degree price, check the program length and each college's included expenses before planning your total budget and compare available aid packages.

How long does it take to finish college in Virginia?

In Virginia, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree at a community college usually takes two. Your timeline can vary with major requirements, course availability, work, or part-time study. At the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, or George Mason, semester planning with an adviser can help keep you on track.

To finish sooner, earn credits through Advanced Placement or dual enrollment, transfer approved coursework, take summer classes, or choose an accelerated program. Check school-specific transfer and residency rules; a Virginia community-college transfer pathway may make a bachelor's route more efficient. Ask advisers about summer course availability early.

Graduation rates add context: the average is 60.59%, while the top 10% of schools average 87.2%. Rates are 56.59% for men and 63.35% for women. Completion outcomes vary; a realistic course load, advising, and support can help you build momentum and feel confident about your overall goal.

Salary

After graduating from college in Virginia, the median alumni salary is about $45,274. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is about $58,255 - a difference of nearly $13,000.

These figures offer a helpful benchmark as you consider studying at popular Virginia schools such as the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, George Mason University, or Virginia Commonwealth University. They are statewide figures, not salary guarantees for graduates of any particular school. Your own earnings can vary with your degree, career path, and experience, but it's encouraging to see that graduates from top-ranked schools have a higher median in this data.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in Virginia?

The University of Virginia (UVA) is often considered Virginia's most prestigious public university, thanks to its strong academic reputation, competitive admissions, and historic campus in Charlottesville. Prestige depends on the field and what matters to you, though: William & Mary and Washington and Lee are also highly regarded choices worth exploring.

Which city in Virginia has the best public schools?

Falls Church is frequently recognized for its strong public schools, including the Falls Church City Public Schools district. Families often value its academic results and close-knit community, but "best" depends on a student's needs, school programs, and current rankings. Check district boundaries and recent school data before choosing where to live.

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

University of Virginia, in Charlottesville, is a highly selective public university known for its historic grounds, strong academics, and lively student community. For Virginia students, the reported 26,685 enrolled students offer a sizable campus experience, while a 17% acceptance rate makes admission competitive. Its 96% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools. The listed total study cost is $57,261, balanced by a median alumni salary of $65,164. Consider UVA if you value prestige, campus traditions, and strong outcomes.

Virginia Commonwealth University, located in Richmond, places students in an urban setting with access to the state capital's cultural and professional life. Its 28,909 enrolled students make it the largest of the five institutions listed, and its 93% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking broader admission access. VCU reports a 63% graduation rate. The total cost of studying is $35,674, with median alumni earnings of $46,618. For Virginians, VCU combines city-based learning, diverse academic programs, and nearby internship possibilities.

William & Mary in Williamsburg offers a smaller university environment rooted in Virginia history and known for a close-knit community. Its 9,597 enrolled students make it the smallest school in this group, which may suit students looking for a more intimate campus. The university reports an 89% graduation rate and a 34% acceptance rate. Its listed study cost is $43,442, while median alumni salary reaches $50,003. For Virginia residents, its historic setting and completion outcomes offer a distinctive college experience.

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, commonly called Virginia Tech, is based in Blacksburg and is known for its large campus and hands-on, technology-focused identity. With 38,995 enrolled students, it is the largest by enrollment among these five colleges. Its 86% graduation rate and 55% acceptance rate offer useful context for applicants. The reported total study cost is $34,362, and median alumni salary is $61,391. For Virginia students, Tech blends a substantial university community with comparatively strong career earnings outcomes.

Old Dominion University in Norfolk gives Virginia students an urban campus near the Hampton Roads region and its coastal communities. It enrolls 23,469 students, providing a broad university setting, while its 90% acceptance rate suggests admission is accessible to applicants. The graduation rate is 46%, the lowest among these five schools, so prospective students may want to explore academic support and completion resources. Total study cost is $28,305, and median alumni salary is $49,281, making affordability and outcomes relevant considerations.