Best
Value Colleges in Virginia in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Virginia combines foundational coursework in accounting, economics, finance, marketing, management, business law, and data analytics. Students develop communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills through projects and internships. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, or sales manager. Popular Virginia options include Virginia Tech's Pamplin College of Business, George Mason University, James Madison University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Old Dominion University, and the University of Virginia.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Virginia offers science-based study of behavior. Typical courses include introductory psychology, statistics, research methods, developmental psychology, social psychology, cognition, and abnormal psychology. Popular colleges offering psychology degrees include the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, George Mason University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and William & Mary. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, human resources specialist, behavioral health technician, research assistant, or community outreach worker; clinical practice generally requires graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Virginia combines programming fundamentals with projects and access to a strong technology sector. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular choices include the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, George Mason University, and William & Mary. Graduates pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or network engineers. Internships and research opportunities can help students build practical skills and connections.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Virginia typically combines psychology foundations with supervised practice. Courses often cover counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural counseling, group work, and diagnosis, followed by field placement. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, career counselors, or substance-use counselors; independent clinical practice generally requires state licensure. Virginia colleges offering counseling study include William & Mary, Virginia Commonwealth University, George Mason University, Old Dominion University, and Liberty University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Virginia offers pathways from associate and bachelor's degrees to advanced study, with clinical training in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and supervised clinical practice. Graduates work as registered nurses in medical-surgical units, emergency departments, pediatrics, intensive care, public health, or long-term care. Virginia study options include the University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, George Mason University, and Old Dominion University.

Best Colleges in Virginia Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 21,662.0, compared with 42,976.0 at schools in the top 10%, making cost an important point of comparison when weighing value.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 70.9% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 70.9%. Schools receive an average of 8,262.23 applicants, while top-10% schools average 20,647.1 applicants. The median number of applicants is 1,599.0 for men and 2,161.5 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,168.14 for the SAT and 25.24 for the ACT.
• Schools average 6,431.44 enrolled students, including averages of 518.51 enrolled men and 596.63 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 57.15%, compared with 89.0% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 51.0% for men and 65.0% for women.
• There are 31 institutions offering associate's degrees, 60 offering bachelor's degrees, 53 offering master's degrees, and 20 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 60 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, graduation outcomes, degree offerings, and school type. The figures show meaningful differences between the overall averages and top-10% schools, particularly in cost, applicant volume, and graduation rates, so consider which factors best fit your academic goals and budget.

How much does studying at a college in Virginia cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Virginia is $25,479.17. For a prospective student, this is a useful planning benchmark, not a guaranteed bill: actual expenses depend on college, program, residency, and whether you live on or off campus. Virginia has many choices, including the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, and George Mason University. Compare each school's current cost of attendance and financial aid before choosing.

Other reported average cost figures also include:

• Tuition and fees: $23,438.12.
• Room and board: $14,289.67.
• Books and supplies: $1,244.69.

These category figures are separate reported averages, so use them as comparison points rather than adding them to the total as though they were one student's bill. Ask admissions offices whether quoted amounts reflect your residency classification, housing choice, and program, then subtract grants and scholarships when estimating what you may pay. This can make choosing among Virginia campuses feel clearer.

How long does it take to finish college in Virginia?

In Virginia, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at a community college usually takes about two. Your timeline can vary with your major, course availability, work or family commitments, and whether you attend part time. At schools such as the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, and George Mason, early course planning with an adviser can help you stay on track each semester.

Graduation outcomes offer context: the average graduation rate is 57.15%, compared with 89% among the top 10% of schools. Rates average 51.18% for men and 61.87% for women. These figures show degree completion is achievable, though persistence and support matter; ask each Virginia college about its own rates, advising, and completion resources.

Options to finish sooner may include:

• Transfer eligible credits from another institution or Virginia community college when accepted.
• Take summer courses or use approved accelerated programs when manageable.

Salary

College graduates in Virginia have a median alumni salary of $45,742. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is $65,164 - a difference of $19,422 that may make pursuing a degree feel especially promising.

These figures are statewide benchmarks, not guaranteed starting salaries or earnings for any one college. What you earn can vary with your field, experience, and location. If you're comparing Virginia options, you might explore schools such as the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, George Mason University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and William & Mary, then look into outcomes for the specific programs you're considering.

• Virginia median alumni salary: $45,742
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: $65,164

People also ask

What college in Virginia has the lowest tuition?

For a Virginia resident, a Virginia community college is generally the lowest-cost place to start college, especially if you're earning transferable credits before moving to a four-year school. There isn't one dependable lowest-tuition college for every student: costs vary by residency, program, fees, and academic year, so compare the current total cost for your situation.

What are Tier 1 schools in Virginia?

"Tier 1" has no single official definition, but it often refers to universities with Carnegie R1 status for very high research activity. In Virginia, that group includes George Mason University, Old Dominion University, the University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Tech, and William & Mary. R1 status describes research activity, not which school is best for every student.

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

University of Virginia offers a rigorous public university experience in Charlottesville, with a historic campus and strong academic reputation. For Virginia-based students, its 26,685 enrolled students create a sizable community while the 96% graduation rate signals excellent completion outcomes. Admission is selective, with a 17% acceptance rate. Annual total study cost is $57,261, balanced by median alumni earnings of $65,164. Consider whether its cost fits your budget and academic goals before applying to this flagship Virginia institution in the state.

Virginia Commonwealth University is a large public institution in Richmond, offering an urban setting with access to the state's capital and its cultural resources. Its 28,909 enrolled students make for a broad campus community. The university's 63% graduation rate and 93% acceptance rate may appeal to students seeking a less selective admissions process. Total study cost is $35,674, while median alumni salary is $46,618. For Virginia residents, VCU combines comparatively accessible admission with city-based learning and a lower listed cost.

William & Mary is a historic public university in Williamsburg, known for its campus and strong liberal arts tradition. With 9,597 enrolled students, it offers a smaller community than many Virginia universities. Its 89% graduation rate reflects strong completion, while a 34% acceptance rate means applicants should prepare carefully. Total study cost is $43,442, and median alumni salary is $50,003. Virginia students can weigh the academic environment and historic setting against cost when choosing a degree path close to home.

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, widely called Virginia Tech, is a major public research university in Blacksburg, with a campus known for engineering, technology, and school spirit. Its 38,995 enrolled students make it the largest institution in this group. The graduation rate is 86%, and a 55% acceptance rate suggests moderately competitive admission. Total study cost is $34,362, while median alumni salary reaches $61,391. For Virginia students, its strong outcomes and relatively lower listed cost merit consideration for future careers.

Washington and Lee University is a small private liberal arts university in Lexington, offering a close-knit campus experience in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Enrollment is 2,286, the smallest among these five schools. Its 94% graduation rate is high, but admission is highly selective, with a 14% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $66,800, the highest listed, while median alumni salary is $61,380. Virginia applicants should compare the substantial cost with its intimate setting, academic focus, and strong graduation outcomes for degree-seekers.