Most
Affordable Colleges in Virginia Beach in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Virginia Beach, VA, offers students grounding in management, finance, marketing, accounting, economics, business law, and organizational behavior. Programs often include teamwork, data analysis, and entrepreneurship. Popular options include Regent University and Virginia Wesleyan University, both offering business-related undergraduate study; ECPI University also has business programs. Graduates pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, operations supervisor, human resources specialist, sales representative, or administrative manager. Internships can build experience and connections.

Psychology

Psychology study in Virginia Beach, Virginia, covers human development, cognition, abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics and counseling theories. Students can pursue programs at Regent University and Virginia Wesleyan University, both in the city. Graduates often work as case managers, behavioral health technicians, research assistants, human resources specialists or community support workers. Further education can lead to counseling or clinical psychology careers. Programs also develop communication, assessment and critical-thinking skills for work with individuals and communities.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Virginia Beach, Virginia, combines programming, mathematics, and problem-solving. Typical coursework includes data structures, algorithms, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, computer networks, and artificial intelligence. Regent University, Virginia Wesleyan University, and Tidewater Community College offer pathways for studying computing, with program levels and options varying by institution. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, web developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity analysts, database administrators, or network specialists. Internships and projects help students build job-ready experience.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Virginia Beach, VA, typically covers psychology, human development, counseling theories, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, and supervised clinical experience. Graduates may pursue work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, or behavioral health specialists; licensure requirements vary. Regent University offers graduate counseling degrees locally, and South University's Virginia Beach campus is another school to investigate for relevant programs.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Virginia Beach, Virginia, can lead to an associate or bachelor's degree through schools such as Tidewater Community College and ECPI University. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, patient assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical practice. Programs combine classroom learning with supervised care in health settings. Graduates may qualify for licensure and pursue roles such as registered nurse, practical nurse, clinic nurse, or hospital nurse in community and acute-care health settings.

Best Colleges in Virginia Beach, VA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is $17,743, compared with $28,250 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of $10,507.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid, compared with 60% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 60%. Schools receive an average of 4,508 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 7,488.8 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 1,712 men and 2,822 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,180, and the average ACT score is 27.5.
• Schools have an average of 2,406 enrolled students, including an average of 229.75 men and 310.25 women.
• The average graduation rate is 42%, compared with 68% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 34% for men and 48.5% for women.
• Six institutions offer associate's degrees, five offer bachelor's degrees, four offer master's degrees, and one offers a doctor's degree.
• There are six coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside admissions figures, academic measures, enrollment, and graduation rates. In particular, consider how each school's costs and aid affect affordability, and compare graduation outcomes with your own priorities.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Virginia Beach is $20,489, giving you a practical starting point when planning for a degree. This is an average study cost, not a guaranteed price for every student or program. Your actual expenses can change based on your college, major, housing choice, and financial aid. Local options include Regent University and Virginia Wesleyan University, so compare program-specific costs and aid offers before enrolling.

• Tuition and fees: $22,163.67
• Room and board: $7,797.33
• Books and supplies: $1,210

Because reported averages describe separate expense categories, they may not add up to $20,489. Ask Regent and Virginia Wesleyan for program-specific tuition, fees, housing, meals, and book estimates. Living at home may lower room-and-board expenses. Compare net prices after aid and contact financial-aid offices about eligibility and deadlines. This helps you budget clearly and choose a degree path with confidence before making your final enrollment decision.

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

In Virginia Beach, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at Tidewater Community College's Virginia Beach campus usually takes about two. Regent University and Virginia Wesleyan University offer local bachelor's pathways; actual timelines depend on your major, course availability, and whether you study full or part time.

The reported average graduation rate is 42%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 68%. That means graduation is achievable, but finishing on schedule takes planning. The average rate is 38.5% for men and 44.67% for women. To shorten your route, ask an adviser about:

• Transferring eligible credits from prior college or exams.
• Taking summer classes, heavier course loads, or approved accelerated courses.

At Regent, online or accelerated formats may provide added scheduling flexibility; confirm the pace and course sequence for your program before enrolling. At Virginia Wesleyan, ask whether prior learning or transfer work applies to your degree plan. Because required classes may run only in certain terms, mapping prerequisites early can prevent delays. Part-time study generally extends the calendar, while internships and clinical requirements can affect timing in some fields. Check each school's program map, financial-aid rules, and transfer evaluation before choosing a faster pace. A steady, realistic plan can help you stay motivated and celebrate each milestone.

Salary

After graduating from college in Virginia Beach, VA, a useful salary benchmark is about $43,555 per year. Graduates of schools in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $54,441 per year - a promising point of comparison as you consider your options.

Virginia Beach students can explore programs at places such as Regent University, Virginia Wesleyan University, and Tidewater Community College. Your own earnings may vary depending on your degree, experience, and career path, but these figures offer a practical starting point for planning your next step.

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Virginia Beach?

Costs vary widely by school, residency, program, and whether you attend full- or part-time. For a Virginia resident, tuition at Tidewater Community College is generally much less than at local four-year universities; private colleges can cost tens of thousands of dollars per year in tuition alone. Budget separately for fees, books, housing, and transportation, and check each school's current cost estimate.

What college in Virginia Beach has the lowest tuition?

Tidewater Community College (TCC) is generally the lowest-tuition option among colleges serving Virginia Beach, especially for Virginia residents taking lower-division courses. Its community-college pricing can make starting locally a more affordable path before transferring to a four-year school. Your final bill depends on credits, program fees, and residency status, so compare current estimates before enrolling.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Virginia Beach, VA Ranking in 2026-2027

Advanced Technology Institute is a career-oriented technical college option close to home for Virginia Beach students seeking practical training. It enrolls 415 students, and its 79% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools. Its acceptance rate is 54%. The reported total study cost is $13,848, while median alumni salary is $42,963. That combination may appeal to students prioritizing completion and cost. Compare program details, schedules, and financial aid directly before enrolling in Virginia Beach.

Regent University offers Virginia Beach residents a larger campus environment, enrolling 10,657 students. It is a university with a broad academic setting and Christian identity. Its reported acceptance rate is 38%, while its graduation rate is 57%. The total cost of studying is $19,950, and median alumni salary is $44,147. Students weighing Regent against other Virginia Beach options should consider their desired learning environment, commute, program availability, and financial aid alongside these outcome figures.

ECPI University may suit Virginia Beach students looking for a career-focused university with a relatively large student community: its enrollment is 556. The school reports a 75% acceptance rate, a 42% graduation rate, and a total study cost of $17,424. Median alumni salary is $55,652, the highest of the five colleges listed. Its career-oriented identity may appeal to students seeking applied education. Before choosing, check your specific program's format, course sequence, and financial aid options for your Virginia Beach study plans.

South University-Virginia Beach offers a Virginia Beach location for students who want to study locally. The school enrolls 258 students. Its reported graduation rate is 8%, and acceptance rate data were not available. Total study cost is $17,100, with median alumni salary of $53,229. As a university with a career-oriented higher education profile, it may be worth considering for students. Ask about the programs available at the Virginia Beach campus, class schedules, admission requirements, and aid before making decisions.

Bryant & Stratton College-Virginia Beach serves students in the Virginia Beach area through a career-focused college setting. It has 572 enrolled students, and reports a 24% graduation rate. Acceptance rate data are not available. The total cost of study is $18,062, while median alumni salary is $39,764. For students, the school's applied career orientation may be relevant. Compare its program offerings, campus services, class formats, and financial aid with Virginia Beach choices to decide whether it fits your goals.