Virginia is one of the most beautiful states in the nation. It is full of rich history, as it was the home for many of our founding fathers, the site of so many definitive American conflicts, and is now the home to a rich and diversified economy that stretches from beautiful Atlantic beaches to stunning Appalachian vistas. Virginians can pursue careers in shipping, high-technology, government, engineering, and even tourism. There is no limit to what you can do in Virginia.
To support this incredible breadth of opportunity, Virginia is home to some of our nation's storied and venerated colleges and universities. University of Virginia, to name one example, is a pillar of U.S. education and the state still supports stellar women's colleges. The state even has at least one non-military college for men only. If you live in Virginia, you have your pick of some of our top schools. Your career already shines bright.
How Much Can You Make by Earning a Degree in Virginia?
Considering a college degree in Virginia? You're making a smart move. Education opens doors to higher earnings and better career opportunities. In Virginia, graduates from top universities like the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech see significant salary increases after completing their degrees.
On average, Virginia college graduates with a bachelor's degree earn about $59,600 annually, compared to $35,600 for those with only a high school diploma. This substantial difference demonstrates the financial value of pursuing higher education in the state. Even associate degree holders see a boost, with average earnings of $44,100 per year.
Your specific earnings potential can vary based on your chosen field of study and the university you attend. For example, University of Virginia graduates report average earnings of $52,800 six years after enrolling, which rises to $77,200 after ten years. As you explore your options, remember that investing in education often leads to greater financial stability and career growth in the long run.
Education Level & National Average Median Compensation
NO FORMAL EDUCATION | HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA | ASSOCIATE DEGREE | BACHELOR’S DEGREE | MASTER’S DEGREE | DOCTORAL DEGREE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$36,816* | $46,748* | $55,016* | $77,636* | $90,324* | $109,668* |
Featured Online Programs
Most Popular Degrees and Careers in Virginia
Virginia has a very diverse economy. You can work as a shipbuilder on the coast, or in agribusiness for the Federal Government in the far northern part of the state. While the state is largely divided along a north/south divide with the southern regions lagging in economic activity, the overall picture shows the Virginia economy ranked #30 in the nation. However, the state is ranked 9th for its business environment and 18th in employment.
Once you have graduated with your Virginia bachelor's degree, you can become a mover and shaker in the state's economy. No matter what field you choose, there will be loads of opportunities waiting for you.
Top Business Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Accounting | 42,200 | $85,720 |
Budget Analyst | 3,600 | $59,100 |
Cost Estimator | 9,000 | $54,100 |
Financial Analyst | 8,550 | $59,300 |
Financial Analysts | 7,900 | $97,990 |
Logistician | 7,850 | $86,970 |
Market Research Analysts | 19,600 | $52,200 |
Operations Managers | 58,150 | $137,730 |
Personal Financial Advisor | 330 | $85,150 |
Tax Revenue Agent | 1,400 | $59,900 |
- Accounting
- Budget Analyst
- Business
- Business Administrator
- Business Manager
- Cost Estimator
- Economist
- Entrepreneur
- Financial Analyst
- Hospitality Manager
- Human Resources Manager
- International Business Manager
- Logistician
- Market Research Analysts
- Marketing Manager
- Operations Manager
- Organizational Leader
- Personal Financial Advisor
- Project Manager
- Supply Chain Manager
- Tax Revenue Agent
Top Computers Careers and Salaries
- Computer Engineer
- Computer Information Technologist
- Computer Programmer
- Computer Scientist
- Cybersecurity
- Database Administrator
- Database Management
- Software Engineer
- Web Development
Top Education Careers and Salaries
- Early Childhood Administrator
- Early Childhood Education Teacher
- General Education Teacher
- Secondary School Teacher
Top Healthcare Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Healthcare Informatics / Systems Analysts | 26,050 | $106,490 |
Hospital Administration | 7,650 | $116,770 |
Human Resources Specialist | 21,900 | $75,810 |
Nurse Practitioner | 5,200 | $109,110 |
Occupational Therapist | 3,050 | $91,970 |
Physical Therapist | 6,720 | $91,930 |
Public Health Educator | 1,200 | $54,640 |
Public Relations Management | 1,300 | $85,600 (N/A for 2021) |
Registered Nursing | 66,040 | $71,870 |
Speech-Language Pathologists | 3,090 | $87,140 |
- Gerontology Nurse or Physician
- Healthcare Administrator
- Healthcare Informatics / Systems Analyst
- Healthcare Manager
- Hospital Administration
- Human Resources Specialist
- Nurse
- Nurse Practitioner
- Occupational Therapist
- Physical Therapist
- Public Health Educator
- Public Relations Management
- Registered Nursing
- Speech-Language Pathologists
Top Legal Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Corrections Officer | 14,750 | $42,380 |
Detective / Investigator | 3,160 | $97,770 |
Fish and Game Warden | 210 | $48,850 |
Forensic Science Technician | 440 | $69,260 |
Security Specialist | 30,600 | $34,800 |
- Corrections and Case Managers
- Criminal Justice Careers
- Criminal Justice Professional
- Cybersecurity
- Detective / Investigator
- Fish and Game Warden
- Forensic Science Technician
- Law Enforcement
- Security Specialist
Top Occupations With the Highest Forecasted Growth Rate
The Virginia Employment Commission projects high growth for these occupations, listed with their projected growth through 2024:
Occupation | Projected Growth |
---|---|
Registered Nurses: | +8,900 jobs |
Management Analysts: | +8,900 jobs |
Software Developers, Applications: | +8,000 jobs |
Computer Systems Analysts: | +7,000 jobs |
Accountants and Auditors: | +6,300 jobs |
Software Developers, Systems Software: | +5,300 jobs |
General and Operations Managers: | +4,400 jobs |
Elementary Education Teachers, except Special Education: | +4,000 jobs |
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists: | +3,700 jobs |
Computer and Information Systems Managers: | +2,900 jobs |
Top 25 Best Associate Degree Programs in Virginia
Virginia University of Lynchburg
Score: 83.1
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,248
- Out-of-State:$9,248
- Net Price: $17,093
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Total Enrollment: 837
- Undergrad Students: 479
- Graduate Students: 358
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
ECPI University
Score: 70.5
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $18,484
- Out-of-State:$18,484
- Net Price: $22,578
- Acceptance Rate: 83%
- Retention Rate: 51%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 11,740
- Undergrad Students: 11,399
- Graduate Students: 341
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Mountain Gateway Community College
Score: 56.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,878
- Out-of-State:$10,881
- Net Price: $6,503
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- Total Enrollment: 946
- Undergrad Students: 946
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $35,500
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Germanna Community College
Score: 55.68
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,066
- Out-of-State:$11,069
- Net Price: $6,535
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 7,688
- Undergrad Students: 7,688
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $37,500
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Piedmont Virginia Community College
Score: 54.71
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,928
- Out-of-State:$10,931
- Net Price: $6,315
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 66%
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Total Enrollment: 5,022
- Undergrad Students: 5,022
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $37,600
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Brightpoint Community College
Score: 54.7
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,938
- Out-of-State:$10,941
- Net Price: $6,048
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Total Enrollment: 8,792
- Undergrad Students: 8,792
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $38,400
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Laurel Ridge Community College
Score: 54.58
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,928
- Out-of-State:$10,931
- Net Price: $6,499
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 5,720
- Undergrad Students: 5,720
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,600
- Student-to-faculty: 25:1
Columbia College-Vienna,VA
Score: 54.46
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,360
- Out-of-State:$9,360
- Net Price: $8,897
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 46%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Total Enrollment: 182
- Undergrad Students: 182
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $26,800
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College
Score: 53.95
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,136
- Out-of-State:$11,139
- Net Price: $3,890
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 66%
- Graduation Rate: 26%
- Total Enrollment: 7,527
- Undergrad Students: 7,527
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,500
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
New River Community College
Score: 53.79
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,835
- Out-of-State:$10,837
- Net Price: $8,219
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 3,980
- Undergrad Students: 3,980
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,200
- Student-to-faculty: 28:1
Wytheville Community College
Score: 53.75
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,863
- Out-of-State:$10,866
- Net Price: $5,839
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Total Enrollment: 2,116
- Undergrad Students: 2,116
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,300
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Mountain Empire Community College
Score: 53.58
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,863
- Out-of-State:$10,866
- Net Price: $6,331
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 1,928
- Undergrad Students: 1,928
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,700
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Virginia Highlands Community College
Score: 53.49
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,863
- Out-of-State:$10,866
- Net Price: $6,940
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 57%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 2,068
- Undergrad Students: 2,068
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,200
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Patrick Henry Community College
Score: 53.15
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,858
- Out-of-State:$10,861
- Net Price: $5,048
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- Total Enrollment: 1,861
- Undergrad Students: 1,861
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $27,900
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Danville Community College
Score: 52.59
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,848
- Out-of-State:$10,851
- Net Price: $6,775
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 2,274
- Undergrad Students: 2,274
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $29,900
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Virginia Western Community College
Score: 52.44
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,256
- Out-of-State:$11,259
- Net Price: $6,215
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 5,860
- Undergrad Students: 5,860
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,900
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Virginia Peninsula Community College
Score: 51.98
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,944
- Out-of-State:$10,947
- Net Price: $6,716
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 31%
- Total Enrollment: 6,018
- Undergrad Students: 6,018
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $35,400
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Central Virginia Community College
Score: 51.88
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,998
- Out-of-State:$11,001
- Net Price: $5,978
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Total Enrollment: 3,388
- Undergrad Students: 3,388
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $34,300
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Northern Virginia Community College
Score: 51.81
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,703
- Out-of-State:$11,786
- Net Price: $10,109
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 51,896
- Undergrad Students: 51,896
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $40,000
- Student-to-faculty: 28:1
Southwest Virginia Community College
Score: 50.98
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,901
- Out-of-State:$10,904
- Net Price: $9,444
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 2,163
- Undergrad Students: 2,163
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,100
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Rappahannock Community College
Score: 50.59
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,985
- Out-of-State:$10,961
- Net Price: $7,508
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Total Enrollment: 2,591
- Undergrad Students: 2,591
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $28,400
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Paul D Camp Community College
Score: 49.84
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,868
- Out-of-State:$10,871
- Net Price: $3,395
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 54%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 1,188
- Undergrad Students: 1,188
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $30,300
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Tidewater Community College
Score: 49.83
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,714
- Out-of-State:$11,717
- Net Price: $8,823
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 28%
- Total Enrollment: 16,195
- Undergrad Students: 16,195
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,200
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Blue Ridge Community College-Weyers Cave
Score: 49.53
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,502
- Out-of-State:$11,505
- Net Price: $9,828
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 34%
- Total Enrollment: 3,562
- Undergrad Students: 3,562
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $33,300
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Eastern Shore Community College
Score: 48.82
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,938
- Out-of-State:$10,941
- Net Price: $6,023
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 45%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
- Total Enrollment: 658
- Undergrad Students: 658
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,600
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Top 25 Best Bachelor's Programs in Virginia
Washington and Lee University
Score: 90.13
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,525
- Out-of-State:$64,525
- Net Price: $24,733
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Retention Rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Total Enrollment: 2,243
- Undergrad Students: 1,867
- Graduate Students: 376
- Grads Salary: $90,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
University of Virginia
Score: 89.57
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,986
- Out-of-State:$58,014
- Net Price: $19,469
- Acceptance Rate: 19%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Total Enrollment: 26,082
- Undergrad Students: 17,444
- Graduate Students: 8,638
- Grads Salary: $84,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Virginia Tech
Score: 83.67
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,478
- Out-of-State:$36,694
- Net Price: $19,301
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 38,170
- Undergrad Students: 30,434
- Graduate Students: 7,736
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Virginia Military Institute
Score: 83.58
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,484
- Out-of-State:$51,186
- Net Price: $18,129
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 1,512
- Undergrad Students: 1,512
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
William & Mary
Score: 81.99
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $25,040
- Out-of-State:$49,412
- Net Price: $25,688
- Acceptance Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 9,654
- Undergrad Students: 6,797
- Graduate Students: 2,857
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
University of Richmond
Score: 78.76
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,600
- Out-of-State:$62,600
- Net Price: $29,248
- Acceptance Rate: 24%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 3,876
- Undergrad Students: 3,145
- Graduate Students: 731
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
James Madison University
Score: 78.02
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,576
- Out-of-State:$30,790
- Net Price: $18,274
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Total Enrollment: 22,224
- Undergrad Students: 20,346
- Graduate Students: 1,878
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
George Mason University
Score: 77.38
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,815
- Out-of-State:$39,397
- Net Price: $18,479
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 71%
- Total Enrollment: 39,049
- Undergrad Students: 27,014
- Graduate Students: 12,035
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Virginia University of Lynchburg
Score: 75.85
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,248
- Out-of-State:$9,248
- Net Price: $17,093
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Total Enrollment: 837
- Undergrad Students: 479
- Graduate Students: 358
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
University of Mary Washington
Score: 73
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,559
- Out-of-State:$31,479
- Net Price: $21,863
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Total Enrollment: 3,757
- Undergrad Students: 3,493
- Graduate Students: 264
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Christopher Newport University
Score: 72.33
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,351
- Out-of-State:$30,988
- Net Price: $23,287
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- Total Enrollment: 4,559
- Undergrad Students: 4,449
- Graduate Students: 110
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Shenandoah University
Score: 70.85
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $36,028
- Out-of-State:$36,028
- Net Price: $26,143
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 4,260
- Undergrad Students: 2,461
- Graduate Students: 1,799
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Marymount University
Score: 70.58
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $39,050
- Out-of-State:$39,050
- Net Price: $24,664
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Total Enrollment: 3,711
- Undergrad Students: 2,275
- Graduate Students: 1,436
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Hampden-Sydney College
Score: 69.56
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $52,388
- Out-of-State:$52,388
- Net Price: $29,899
- Acceptance Rate: 40%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 846
- Undergrad Students: 846
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Virginia Commonwealth University
Score: 69.42
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,458
- Out-of-State:$39,042
- Net Price: $21,294
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Total Enrollment: 28,082
- Undergrad Students: 20,958
- Graduate Students: 7,124
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
The University of Virginia's College at Wise
Score: 69.18
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,656
- Out-of-State:$32,540
- Net Price: $9,923
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Total Enrollment: 1,704
- Undergrad Students: 1,704
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Old Dominion University
Score: 68.82
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,262
- Out-of-State:$32,662
- Net Price: $16,098
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Total Enrollment: 23,107
- Undergrad Students: 18,375
- Graduate Students: 4,732
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Eastern Mennonite University
Score: 68.35
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $41,860
- Out-of-State:$41,860
- Net Price: $23,783
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 1,334
- Undergrad Students: 892
- Graduate Students: 442
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Randolph-Macon College
Score: 68.33
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $48,002
- Out-of-State:$48,002
- Net Price: $28,389
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Total Enrollment: 1,490
- Undergrad Students: 1,490
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Averett University
Score: 68.23
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $38,550
- Out-of-State:$38,550
- Net Price: $23,781
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 1,363
- Undergrad Students: 1,140
- Graduate Students: 223
- Grads Salary: $86,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Radford University
Score: 67.16
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,286
- Out-of-State:$25,185
- Net Price: $17,105
- Acceptance Rate: 93%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Total Enrollment: 7,718
- Undergrad Students: 6,008
- Graduate Students: 1,710
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Regent University
Score: 66.71
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,686
- Out-of-State:$20,686
- Net Price: $17,341
- Acceptance Rate: 32%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 10,337
- Undergrad Students: 4,541
- Graduate Students: 5,796
- Grads Salary: $63,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Longwood University
Score: 66.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,200
- Out-of-State:$27,410
- Net Price: $21,772
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 4,358
- Undergrad Students: 3,154
- Graduate Students: 1,204
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
University of Lynchburg
Score: 65.57
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $35,540
- Out-of-State:$35,540
- Net Price: $23,256
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Total Enrollment: 2,394
- Undergrad Students: 1,589
- Graduate Students: 805
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Virginia State University
Score: 65.42
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,755
- Out-of-State:$22,006
- Net Price: $15,773
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Total Enrollment: 4,648
- Undergrad Students: 4,300
- Graduate Students: 348
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Top 25 Best Master's Programs in Virginia
University of Virginia
Score: 91.34
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,986
- Out-of-State:$58,014
- Net Price: $19,469
- Acceptance Rate: 19%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Total Enrollment: 26,082
- Undergrad Students: 17,444
- Graduate Students: 8,638
- Grads Salary: $84,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Washington and Lee University
Score: 91.17
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,525
- Out-of-State:$64,525
- Net Price: $24,733
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Retention Rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Total Enrollment: 2,243
- Undergrad Students: 1,867
- Graduate Students: 376
- Grads Salary: $90,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
William & Mary
Score: 82.91
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $25,040
- Out-of-State:$49,412
- Net Price: $25,688
- Acceptance Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 9,654
- Undergrad Students: 6,797
- Graduate Students: 2,857
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
James Madison University
Score: 79.95
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,576
- Out-of-State:$30,790
- Net Price: $18,274
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Total Enrollment: 22,224
- Undergrad Students: 20,346
- Graduate Students: 1,878
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
George Mason University
Score: 79.28
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,815
- Out-of-State:$39,397
- Net Price: $18,479
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 71%
- Total Enrollment: 39,049
- Undergrad Students: 27,014
- Graduate Students: 12,035
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
University of Richmond
Score: 79.19
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,600
- Out-of-State:$62,600
- Net Price: $29,248
- Acceptance Rate: 24%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 3,876
- Undergrad Students: 3,145
- Graduate Students: 731
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Virginia University of Lynchburg
Score: 77.94
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,248
- Out-of-State:$9,248
- Net Price: $17,093
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Total Enrollment: 837
- Undergrad Students: 479
- Graduate Students: 358
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
University of Mary Washington
Score: 74.44
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,559
- Out-of-State:$31,479
- Net Price: $21,863
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Total Enrollment: 3,757
- Undergrad Students: 3,493
- Graduate Students: 264
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Christopher Newport University
Score: 73.58
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,351
- Out-of-State:$30,988
- Net Price: $23,287
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- Total Enrollment: 4,559
- Undergrad Students: 4,449
- Graduate Students: 110
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Shenandoah University
Score: 71.71
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $36,028
- Out-of-State:$36,028
- Net Price: $26,143
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 4,260
- Undergrad Students: 2,461
- Graduate Students: 1,799
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Marymount University
Score: 71.64
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $39,050
- Out-of-State:$39,050
- Net Price: $24,664
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Total Enrollment: 3,711
- Undergrad Students: 2,275
- Graduate Students: 1,436
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Old Dominion University
Score: 71.05
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,262
- Out-of-State:$32,662
- Net Price: $16,098
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Total Enrollment: 23,107
- Undergrad Students: 18,375
- Graduate Students: 4,732
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Virginia Commonwealth University
Score: 70.93
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,458
- Out-of-State:$39,042
- Net Price: $21,294
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Total Enrollment: 28,082
- Undergrad Students: 20,958
- Graduate Students: 7,124
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Eastern Mennonite University
Score: 69.53
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $41,860
- Out-of-State:$41,860
- Net Price: $23,783
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 1,334
- Undergrad Students: 892
- Graduate Students: 442
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Radford University
Score: 69.25
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,286
- Out-of-State:$25,185
- Net Price: $17,105
- Acceptance Rate: 93%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Total Enrollment: 7,718
- Undergrad Students: 6,008
- Graduate Students: 1,710
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Regent University
Score: 68.77
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,686
- Out-of-State:$20,686
- Net Price: $17,341
- Acceptance Rate: 32%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 10,337
- Undergrad Students: 4,541
- Graduate Students: 5,796
- Grads Salary: $63,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Longwood University
Score: 68.11
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,200
- Out-of-State:$27,410
- Net Price: $21,772
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 4,358
- Undergrad Students: 3,154
- Graduate Students: 1,204
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Virginia State University
Score: 67.69
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,755
- Out-of-State:$22,006
- Net Price: $15,773
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Total Enrollment: 4,648
- Undergrad Students: 4,300
- Graduate Students: 348
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Norfolk State University
Score: 67.1
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,910
- Out-of-State:$21,412
- Net Price: $14,652
- Acceptance Rate: 89%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 5,783
- Undergrad Students: 5,337
- Graduate Students: 446
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Bridgewater College
Score: 67.04
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $41,350
- Out-of-State:$41,350
- Net Price: $19,332
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 58%
- Total Enrollment: 1,421
- Undergrad Students: 1,385
- Graduate Students: 36
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
University of Lynchburg
Score: 66.82
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $35,540
- Out-of-State:$35,540
- Net Price: $23,256
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Total Enrollment: 2,394
- Undergrad Students: 1,589
- Graduate Students: 805
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Emory & Henry College
Score: 66.52
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $35,280
- Out-of-State:$35,280
- Net Price: $20,834
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 58%
- Total Enrollment: 1,358
- Undergrad Students: 1,082
- Graduate Students: 276
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Hollins University
Score: 66.08
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $42,260
- Out-of-State:$42,260
- Net Price: $21,207
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Total Enrollment: 803
- Undergrad Students: 691
- Graduate Students: 112
- Grads Salary: $59,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Sweet Briar College
Score: 63.9
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $25,110
- Out-of-State:$25,110
- Net Price: $28,408
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Total Enrollment: 460
- Undergrad Students: 457
- Graduate Students: 3
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Bluefield University
Score: 63.77
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $29,696
- Out-of-State:$29,696
- Net Price: $22,904
- Acceptance Rate: 63%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 31%
- Total Enrollment: 991
- Undergrad Students: 705
- Graduate Students: 286
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Cost of Virginia College Education & Salaries
Education is an investment. It's an investment in personal growth, career development, and your long-term well-being in our society. That's why you should take great care when deciding which college to attend, which major to study, and how you intend to finance the whole four-year adventure.
Most students in the United States must take on some sort of debt to complete their studies. In order to mitigate this outcome, there are a few things you can do. You can attend an in-state, public college or university, apply for scholarships and grants, and take courses at a lower-cost community or online institution. Since you are in Virginia, it's easy to stay in-state. After all, you have some of the nation's top public universities available for the in-state tuition rate. Consider that an equivalent education in North Carolina might cost as much as three times the tuition.
When you find the in-state school for you, apply for as many scholarships and grants as you possibly can. In fact, make this a habit every term. Take a few days to apply to many different scholarships. Though you might win many smaller scholarships, that money doesn't come with any strings. You'll never pay interest on those $500 scholarships.
Finally, to reduce costs, you can take your core curriculum from a community college. If the school is fully accredited the courses should transfer to your four-year institution. In fact, you might find that the courses are even a bit better than the equivalent at a major university. You'll receive top instruction from experts who have received master's degrees from top universities, and the class sizes will be smaller.
With a little creativity, you can not only reduce your college budget, but you will come out with a top-notch education.
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Tuition Cost Analysis - In-state vs. National
Average Tuition & Fees at 4 Year Public Schools
In-State Tuition - $13,413
National Average – $9,580
Out-of-State Tuition – $34,890
National Average – $27,437
Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid
Financial Aid | Virginia | Nationally |
---|---|---|
Received Federal Grants | 36% | 37.7% |
Average $ per Recipient | $10,930 | $10,927 |
* Institutional aid represents grant and scholarship funds directly awarded by a post-secondary institution.
* Financial aid data represents 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.
Scholarships for Virginia College Students
Virginia students use Scholarships and Grants for a dual purpose. First, they help pay tuition, fees, and book bills. Second, they are a great honor that can be added to one's resume. Thus, even if a scholarship will only cover a portion of your books, for instance, when you add the award to your resume your future employers will note your initiative and achievement.
KFLP
KPMG Future Leaders Program
https://womensleadership.kpmg.us/charitable.html
Amount: $10,000 (Renewable for 4 years)
Deadline: January 31
This prestigious scholarship fund offers $10,000 per year for all four years of college, but pays off in other ways, too. Women who become part of this program are paired with an alumnus of the program, a woman who has achieved great things. The program also includes a retreat where awardees learn about leadership from Condoleezza Rice, and even get to learn the game of golf. If you are an up-and-coming high school student with a stellar transcript and extra-curricular activities, you owe it to yourself to apply to this magnificent program.
NFBSP
National Federation of the Blind Scholarship Program
https://nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-program
Amount: $3,000-$12,000
Deadline: March 31
To apply for this prestigious scholarship, you will need to prove that you are legally blind in both eyes, be a citizen or resident of the United States or Puerto Rico, be in pursuit of a four-year degree, and be willing to participate in the NFB's national convention. If you are a finalist, you will receive funds to travel to the conference. There, you and fellow finalists will participate in a variety of activities. Your outcomes will determine whether or not you win a scholarship worth $3,000 to $12,000.
ASEC
Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest
https://www.aynrand.org/students/essay-contests#overview
Amount: $2,000 (1st Place); $250 (2nd Place); $100 (3rd Place); $25 (Finalists)
Deadline: Varies (Previously April)
This is award is structured more as an essay contest than a scholarship competition, but you can win as much as $2,000 which will certainly help with your education, no matter how you choose to spend it. The Ayn Rand Institute provides a choice of three essay topics that revolve around her novel Atlas Shrugged. You'll need to rely on keen powers of literary analysis to win, but if you love the book it will be a pleasure.
JNKS
James N. Kincanon Scholarship
http://roanokebar.com/for-the-community/roanoke-law-foundation/scholarships/
Amount: Up to $2,500 (Multiple Awards per year)
Deadline: March 31
If you live in the Roanoke area (City of Roanoke, the City of Salem, or the County of Roanoke) or have graduated high school from a school in that area, this is a good scholarship to pursue. You will need a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and be in pursuit of a law degree and career.
JSGS
Jane S. Glenn Scholarship
http://roanokebar.com/for-the-community/roanoke-law-foundation/scholarships/
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: March 31
This scholarship is for undergraduate seniors or degree holders who have been accepted to law school in the Commonwealth of Virginia. You should be a resident of the Roanoke Area (City of Roanoke, the City of Salem, or the County of Roanoke) or else you must have graduated from a high school there. Given the high cost of law school, this scholarship is a no-brainer.
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