Top Colleges in Virginia

The state of Virginia is home to a large number of colleges and universities as well as the vocational, technical and religious schools. Virginia also boasts the second oldest university in the Unites States. The state of Virginia classifies institutions of higher learning into four categories: public, private, private out of state, and religious institutions.

Virginia’s public schools provide a variety of educational opportunities to students. Some school are for graduate studies, others offering a traditional 4 year education, while others still are primarily research institutions

Additionally, Virginia is host to a very large number of private institutions. These schools vary in size, and a portion of them are religious institutions. Some of the institutions are branches of out of state schools operating in Virginia, while others are state approved and nationally accredited.

The state of Virginia also operates many community colleges throughout the state. These two year institutions feed students into 4 year programs, or alternatively prepare them for a career through vocational training. Many of the community colleges also have higher enrollment numbers than either public or private 4 year institutions. Virginia also has many small vocational and technical schools that are privately owned, specializing in only a few fields and preparing individuals for the workplace.

The most populous city in Virginia is Virginia Beach, followed by Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Richmond.  While the most populous county in Virginia is Fairfax County with Prince William County close behind.   If you are interested in visiting the state of Virginia, consider visiting their state page or the state chapter of the Chamber of Commerce.

2024 Best Colleges in Virginia


Averett University - Non - Traditional Programs provides a variety of educational opportunities for students to assist them in their growth and development. The school is located in Danville, VA and operated as a private institution. Approximately a thousand students are enrolled yearly at AU GPS.

A list of some of the popular programs are:

  • Business Administration
  • Curriculum and Instruction
  • Management Science
  • Law and Justice Administration
  • Information Science Studies

Students applying for admission are most often asked to submit an application, transcripts, records, standardized test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by admissions officials. More information from the admissions office can be found here.

The cost of tuition is close to $9,400, but may change from year to year. Students are encouraged to visit the school's net price calculator to better understand their personal tuition costs. Students at Averett University - Non - Traditional Programs may qualify for aid which is typically loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

Acceptance Rate

23.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1


About
Washington and Lee University, located in Lexington, Virginia, was founded in 1749. The school was originally known as Augusta Academy, but has its name changed in 1776 to Liberty Hall, later Liberty Hall Academy, in response to the revolutionary fervor that had become part of the American identity. In 1796 the school was given $20,000 dollars in stocks as an endowment from President George Washington, preventing the school's closure. The school was renamed Washington Academy, later Washington College, in appreciation of the endowment. In 1865 General Robert E. Lee became president of the institution, and remained so until his death five years later. The school was then renamed to Washington and Lee University.

Academics
W&L has two separate schools for academic programs, with the College focusing on the liberal arts and humanities and the Ernest Williams II School of Commerce, Economics, and Politics covering fields within the scope of the school. In total there are 41 academic programs available to graduates, though all freshman students begin their education at the College. Students may throughout their four years take elective courses offered at both schools. The law school provides juris doctor and master of law degrees through its programs.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Students interested in enrollment must submit an application along with all pertinent transcripts and test scores as well as two teacher recommendations and one counselor recommendation. The submitted application will be reviewed and students notified if they have been admitted into the school.

Financial aid is available in the form of grants, loans, work study programs and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit it along with their most recent tax information in order to determine eligibility and awards. Scholarships may be awarded by the school, through federal programs, or by private scholarship granting committees and organizations.

Acceptance Rate

18.57

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1


University of Virginia, Charlottesville (U.Va.), is a public research university that was founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819. One of the original public "ivy colleges," it is considered to be among the top 25 best universities in the United States, and is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the second best public university in the nation.

The University of Virginia is comprised of eleven schools at it Charlottesville location, in addition to its College at Wise in southwest Virginia. The university offers more than 50 bachelor's degrees, 84 master's degrees, six educational specialist degrees, 57 doctoral degrees, and two professional degrees (law and medicine). The University of Virginia Health System, located adjacent to the U.Va. Charlottesville campus, is considered a top medical center that provides training for medical care professionals and excellent patient care.

One of the goals for which Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia was to develop leaders and foster leadership through many areas of study. The illustrious alumni of the University of Virginia include many great leaders, such as President Woodrow Wilson; Senators Robert and Edward Kennedy, John Warner, Charles Robb, and George Allen, among others.  The U.Va. is known for producing a great number of Rhodes Scholars.

Jefferson was also a strong supporter of the arts, and the university has educated many leaders in drama and literature, including Mark Johnson (the movie producer of Rain Man and Good Morning, Vietnam), Henry Taylor (the 1986 Pulitzer Prize winner for poetry), and Edgar Allan Poe.  The U.Va. offers excellent programs in drama, music and visual arts, and the Department of Drama has modern facilities and two theatres, while the McIntire Department of Art has a well-known art gallery. The University of Virginia Art Museum exhibits a notable permanent collection as well as changing exhibits.

History

When Thomas Jefferson founded the University of Virginia in 1819, his vision was to create a university that was publicly supported and dedicated to educating leaders in public service. Jefferson undertook the university project near the end of his life, and he was very involved in the planning of the curriculum, recruitment of the faculty, and the design of the buildings and campus.  One of the more noteworthy buildings Jefferson helped to design is the Rotunda, which stands at the north end of the Lawn.

The U.Va. opened its doors in 1825, with 68 students enrolled and a faculty of eight. The curriculum in 1825 included ancient and modern languages, mathematics, philosophy, chemistry, law and medicine.

Academics

The academic calendar for the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, follows the semester format, with fall and spring semesters. It also offers an accelerated January Term.

The Darden Graduate School of Business Administration, the School of Law, and the School of Medicine follow different academic calendars, and students should contact those schools for further information.

Colleges and Schools

  • School of Architecture
  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
  • Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy
  • Curry School of Education
  • Darden Graduate School of Business Administration
  • School of Engineering and Applied Science
  • McIntire School of Commerce
  • School of Law
  • School of Medicine
  • Basic Medical Sciences
  • School of Nursing
  • School of Continuing & Professional Studies

Student Life

There are hundreds of student clubs and organizations available for involvement at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville. Nearly every interest is represented, whether it is academic, political, professional, cultural, social, service-oriented, athletic, artistic, religious, or otherwise. The Greek Life on campus is very active, with many local chapters of fraternities and sororities, as well as inter-fraternity and inter-sorority councils, Multicultural Greek Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and more.

On campus housing is available, including in "residential colleges," and there is a wide range of on campus dining to choose from. University Avenue is a hub of student life at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, with a collection of student shops, bookstores, restaurants, cafes and more. Newcomb Hall, the student union, has a selection of snack shops.

Traditions

The school colors for the University of Virginia are navy blue and orange, with white as an accent color. The mascot is the cavalier.

The University of Virginia has several traditions for which it is known, including the reference to the campus as "the Grounds." The students are referred to as "first year," "second year," "third year," and "fourth year," rather than as freshmen, sophomores, junior and seniors.

There is a tradition of "secret societies" at Virginia, which have operated for many decades and are noted for leaving their painted marks on the university buildings. Many of the societies perform good works and service activities, though their efforts are unpublicized.

Athletics

The Virginia "Cavaliers" athletic teams compete in 25 intercollegiate sports for men and women, and all sports at U.Va. are very highly ranked. The U.Va. is one of only 15 schools to finish in the top 30 in the Learfield Sports Directors Cup standings. Intercollegiate sports at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville include:

Men's Sports:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross County
  • Field Hockey
  • Golf
  • Lacrosse
  • Rowing
  • Soccer
  • Swimming and Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track and Field
  • Wrestling 

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Field Hockey
  • Golf
  • Lacrosse
  • Soccer
  • Swimming and Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field

Satellite Campuses

The University of Virginia has its primary campus in Charlottesville, with a satellite campus at College at Wise in southwest Virginia. The University of Virginia Health System has its buildings and facilities adjacent to the primary U.Va. campus in Charlottesville.

Community Life

The city of Charlottesville was named for the wife of George III, Princess Charlotte, when it was settled in the 18th century. Today, this metropolitan city offers rich historical and cultural charm, and is considered one of the most desirable places to live in America.

The U.Va. campus itself is a big attraction for visitors, and a nearby attraction is Monticello, the home of the university's founder, Thomas Jefferson. Also nearby, are the homes of presidents James Monroe and James Madison. Other attractions in the area include the University of Virginia Art Museum, a city sculpture garden, and many local theater groups.

Many university and community ensembles and performance groups can be found in Charlottesville, including a chamber choir and orchestra, symphony orchestra, swing orchestra, wind ensemble, jazz ensemble, opera workshop, and various singing groups.

Acceptance Rate

23.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1


University of Richmond is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in University of Richmond, VA, which is a predominantly urban area. Enrollment at University of Richmond exceeds four thousand yearly.

Areas of study available at University of Richmond include:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Legal Professions And Studies
  • Education
  • Social Sciences
  • English Language And Literature

To be considered for admissions, students may be required to complete an application, write a personal statement, and submit test scores or other school records, which are then evaluated by admissions staff. A SAT or ACT exam is required prior to applying, with scores in a range of 1770 - 2080 for the SAT exam and between 28 - 31 on the ACT is common among students accepted to University of Richmond. Approximately 30 percent of all students that applied were accepted at this school, with 25 percent of those admitted choosing to enroll. More information regarding admissions can be found here.

Tuition is approximately $47,000 for the year, though it may vary based on any number of circumstances. Students may check the school's tuition calculator to see the personalize cost of attendance. Housing may be available for students that want to live on-campus at an estimated cost of $4,600 annually. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the required requirements by way of grants or student loans.

University of Richmond offers a variety of athletic programs overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs that are available include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)

Students can visit the school's http://www.richmond.edu to see additional information.

Acceptance Rate

28.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1


William and Mary is a public school that has many majors available for students to choose from. The school is located in Williamsburg, VA, in a predominantly suburban area. William and Mary has a yearly student enrollment of around 8,000.

Areas of study available at William and Mary include:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Legal Professions And Studies
  • Social Sciences
  • English Language And Literature
  • Interdisciplinary Studies

Students applying for admission are most often asked to submit an application, school records, standardized test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by admissions officials. An ACT or SAT exam is required prior to applying, with scores between 1860 - 2170 on the SAT and within the range of 28 - 32 for the ACT exam is typical among students admitted to this school. An estimated 30 percent of all students that applied were admitted at this school, with 33 percent of those admitted choosing to attend. More information from the admissions office can be found at wm.edu.

The cost of undergraduate tuition varies for in-state and out-of-state residents. In-state residents pay close to $14,000 and out-of-state residents pay $40,000 per year. Housing is available on-campus for students. The annual cost of housing is approximately $5,600. This school may provide financial aid for students that qualify in the form of grants and loans.

Athletic programs are available at William and Mary through the NCAA, allowing students to participate in intercollegiate athletics. Athletic programs available may include but not limited to:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)

Students can visit the College of William and Mary website to see a complete list of areas of study, student services, and more.

Acceptance Rate

37.68

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1


Overview

Advanced Technology Institute is a private for-profit two-year school with its main campus located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. It also has an additional campus in Virginia Beach and in Norfolk, Virginia. The institute strives to provide quality up-to-date education that meets and surpasses industry standards and prepares students for successful careers in technical areas. It is a small school, educating around 600 students. Advanced Technology Institute was founded in 1975. It was granted master certification for its automotive program in 1998. The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges nationally accredits Advanced Technology Institute.

Programs Offered

Advanced Technology Institute offers programs related to the automotive and technical fields including:

  • Automotive technology
  • Diesel/Heavy vehicle
  • Commercial driving
  • Maritime welding
  • HVAC/Refrigeration

Admissions Information

Applicants to Advanced Technology Institute must have at least a high school diploma or GED. All applicants must complete admissions testing and a preliminary background check. After the initial review of the applicant, prospective students must also schedule a personal interview with the admissions staff. Additional requirements are applicable to specific programs, such as minimum age, physical examination, and valid driver's license.

Acceptance Rate

47.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1


VMI is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Lexington, VA, which is a predominantly rural area. Virginia Military Institute has an annual student enrollment of approximately 1,600.

A list of some of the programs offered are:

  • International Relations
  • History
  • Economics
  • Psychology
  • Civil Engineering

The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, transcripts, and standardized test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions committee. The majority of students accepted to this school earn an SAT score between 1520 to 1810, or an ACT score within the range of 22 to 27. 46% of applicants are accepted to VMI, of which 49% choose to attend.  A full suite of information on VMI admissions can be found by reaching out to the school or requesting information here.

The tuition at this school varies based on the state of residence of the student. In-state residents pay approximately $15,000 per year, while out-of-state residents are charged $35,000 annually. Housing may be available for those who wish to live on-campus for a cost of $2,400 annually. Some students at Virginia Military Institute may qualify for financial aid, which is typically offered in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

The VMI Keydets participate in several athletic programs, within the NCAA organization. Available sports offered:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Football (NCAA Division I-AA)

Students should visit the Virginia Military Institute website to obtain a complete list of academic programs offered, admissions information, and more.

Acceptance Rate

59.54

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1


The Lewistown Hospital School of Nursing located in Pennsylvania offers an outstanding nursing education. It welcomes students who want to pursue an exciting career in nursing.

Nursing requires life-long learning and being ready for change. The school works to achieve excellence through constant evaluation that is used to improve courses and clinical work. Financial aid is available to help pay for one’s education.

This program can be completed in two or three years. The school offers an LPN to RN track. LPNs can take challenge exams for certain courses. Tuition is $9,050 per year.

The nursing school works to offer an outstanding education. It aims to offer an education that prepares graduates to function at an entry level in the profession of nursing. The school emphasizes clinical excellence in many areas of nursing. One aim is to help students to develop critical thinking skills that will help them to provide effective care. Another mission is to install commitment to the profession of nursing and the community it serves. Lewistown Hospital School of Nursing aims to improve the care of patients through different methodologies beginning with a caring teacher-learner relationship. The program seeks to offer mobility for every student. Recruiting outstanding facility is at the core of the schools mission.

The Lewistown Hospital School of Nursing has a 100% pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. For the 2011-2012 school year, 90% of students completed their course of study.

Acceptance Rate

51.25

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1


Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, known as "Virginia Tech," is a leading research institution - ranked 44th in the U.S. for its university research programs.  Virginia Tech is a land-grant institution located in Blacksburg, Virginia on 2,600 acres.  It offers nearly 70 undergraduate and 150 graduate degree programs. Virginia Tech's motto, Ut Prosim, translates from the Latin as "That I May Serve." It fulfills this motto through a dedication to learning, discovery and engagement.

Virginia Tech is comprised of eight colleges and a graduate school. Its campuses feature an airport, a computing and communications complex with international access, an adjacent corporate research center, and more.

History

Founded in 1872, Virginia Tech was originally called Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College. The name was changed in1896 to Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College and Polytechnic Institute.  This name was so long that locals shortened it to "VPI."  After the name change, a new school spirit cheer was needed.  A contest was held to select a new, more suitable cheer. 1896 graduate, O.M. Stull, won the top prize for the cheer he created, which is known as "Old Hokie."  The school mascot, which originally was a turkey, eventually became a "Hokiebird."  Today the mascot wears an orange and maroon bird costume that somewhat resembles a turkey.

The school colors of burnt orange and maroon were chosen in 1896.

Virginia Tech is one of only three public universities in the U.S. that still has both an active corps of cadets and civilian students on campus. Historically, Virginia Tech required corps participation for all able-bodied males.  This tradition continued until 1964, when corps participation became voluntary.

Academics

Virginia Tech follows the semester-format academic calendar with fall and spring semesters, and two shorter summer sessions.

Colleges and Schools

Virginia Tech's colleges are:

  • Agriculture & Life Sciences
  • Architecture & Urban Studies
  • Business, Pamplin College of
  • Engineering
  • Graduate Studies
  • Liberal Arts & Human Sciences
  • Natural Resources and Environment
  • Science
  • University Studies
  • Veterinary Medicine

As an enhancement to its academic, outreach and research programs, Virginia Tech has created schools in its colleges and in affiliation with Wake Forest University. Virginia Tech's schools are:

  • School of Architecture and Design (Part of the College of Architecture and Urban Studies)
  • School of Public and International Affairs (Part of the College of Architecture and Urban Studies)
  • School of Visual Arts (Part of the College of Architecture and Urban Studies)
  • School of Performing Arts and Cinema (Part of the College of Liberal Arts & Human Sciences)
  • Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences (Part of the College of Engineering and the College of Veterinary Medicine)
  • School of Education (Part of the College of Liberal Arts & Human Sciences)
  • Myers-Lawson School of Construction (Part of the College of Engineering and the College of Architecture and Urban Studies)
  • Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Research Institute

Student Life

Virginia Tech offers more than 600 student clubs and organizations, including fraternities and sororities, and only three people are required to form a new student club.

There are several residence halls to choose from for on-campus living, and there are also on-campus dining venues.

Athletics

Virginia Tech has 21 "Hokie" athletics teams that compete in intercollegiate sports, which include:

Men's Sports:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Swimming & Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track and Field
  • Wrestling 

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Golf
  • Lacrosse
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Swimming & Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track and Field
  • Volleyball 

Satellite Campuses

In addition to its main Blacksburg campus, Virginia Tech offers classes and programs online, as well as at the following satellite campuses and centers:

  • Western Campus
  • Valley Campus
  • National Capital Region
  • Central Campus
  • Hampton Roads Center
  • Capital Campus
  • Corporate Research Center

Community Life

Blacksburg is a traditional college town, situated between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains, in Virginia's New River Valley.  Blacksburg has been ranked one of the best places to live in the nation and one of the "50 Best Small Southern Towns," thanks to its moderate climate, affordable cost of living, low crime rate, stable community and small town charm.

Acceptance Rate

70.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1


Enrollment

384

Tuition

$20,000.00 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1


Hampden - Sydney College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Hampden-Sydney, Virginia, which is a predominantly rural area. Approximately a thousand students are enrolled annually at HSC.

Here is a list of some of the popular programs HSC offers:

  • Social Sciences
  • History
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
  • English Language And Literature

The admissions process begins with the submission of an application, school records, and test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions staff. Most common scores among applicants accepted to HSC are between 21 to 27 for the ACT exam, or 1470 to 1790 on the SAT. HSC has an acceptance rate of around 55% of which only 24% chose to enroll. More information regarding admissions can be found at hsc.edu.

The cost of tuition is close to $37,000 annually. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and as such students should use the school's tuition calculator to understand their personalized cost estimate of attendance. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the necessary requirements.

The mascot for HSC is the "Tigers", and they participate in intercollegiate athletic programs through oversight by the NCAA.

Students can visit the Hampden - Sydney College website to see a complete list of academic programs offered, student services, and more that is available at this school.

Acceptance Rate

57.43

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1


Enrollment

1,362

Tuition

$47,650.00 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

40:1


Cosmetology School of Arts and Sciences is located in Burley, ID, and is a beauty school that specializes in cosmetology education. For the last 10 consecutive years Cosmetology School of Arts and Sciences has received its accreditation from the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences. This school primarily offers classes in the area of cosmetology through professional and experienced teachers, increasing the chances that students who complete the program get the skills and education needed to pursue licensure and long term employment. The cosmetology training courses being offered at this school are:

About 100 students graduated from this school over the last few years.

Students must look up local and state licensing requirements to determine whether programs meet current standards. Get more information by visiting the school's official website, where you can learn about programs available, tuition, and disclosures.

Enrollment

23

Tuition

$14,840.00 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

4:1


Hampton University is a nonprofit private historically black institution located in Hampton, VA. Most historically black colleges and universities (also known as HBCUs) were established after the civil war to provide newly freed African Americans with educational opportunities. Around five thousand students enroll at Hampton University yearly.

Areas of study offered at HU include but are not limited to:

  • Psychology
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Health And Clinical Professions
  • Communications And Journalism
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences

To be considered for admissions, you may be required to fill out an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit high school records and test scores, which are then studied by admissions officials. Students may submit either the ACT or SAT exam scores to be considered for admissions to HU. A score in a range of 1043 to 1076 on the SAT, or 21 to 26 for the ACT is common among accepted students. 37% of students that apply are accepted to this school, of which 24% choose to enroll. More information on admissions can be found at hamptonu.edu.

Undergraduate tuition is approximately $21,000 for the year, though it may change based on different types of circumstances. Students should check the school's price of attendance calculator to see the personalize cost of attendance. The price of on-campus housing is estimated to be $4,800 for the year. Hampton University may offer financial aid for students who are eligible in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

The Hampton University "Pirates" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include:

  • Basketball (NCAA Division I-A)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division I-A)
  • Football (NCAA Division I-A)
  • Golf (NCAA Division I-A)

Contact information, tuition information, areas of study offered, and more can be viewed on school's website at http://www.hamptonu.edu.

Acceptance Rate

36

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1


CNU is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Newport News, VA, which is a predominantly urban area. Approximately 4,900 students are enrolled yearly at CNU.

A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Communications And Journalism
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Psychology
  • Social Sciences

The admissions process begins with the submission of an application, transcripts, records, and test scores, which are then evaluated by admissions staff. Students may submit either the SAT or ACT exam scores to be considered for admissions to CNU. A score within the range of 1040 - 1240 on the SAT, or 22 - 26 for the ACT is usually submitted among admitted students. Roughly 60 percent of all students that applied were accepted at this school, with 29 percent of those accepted choosing to enroll.  Additional information on admissions can be found by calling CNU or by completing the form on this page today.

Tuition & fees at CNU vary for in-state and out-of-state residents. In-state tuition costs around $11,000 per year and out-of-state tuition costing $21,000 annually. The cost of on-campus housing is about $7,000 annually. Some students at this school may qualify for financial aid, which is generally provided in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

The CNU "Captains" compete in a number of intercollegiate sports through participation in the NCAA. Sports available may include the following:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
  • Football (NCAA Division III)

Students should visit the CNU website to see a complete list of areas of study, student services, and more.

Acceptance Rate

71.89

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1


Randolph - Macon College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Ashland, VA, which is a predominantly suburban area. The school's United Methodist affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school's vision. Approximately 1,200 students are enrolled yearly at Randolph - Macon College.

Students can pick from several areas of study, including:

  • Social Sciences
  • History
  • Psychology
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences

The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, transcripts, and test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions staff. The majority of students admitted to Randolph - Macon College earn an SAT score between 1470 - 1770, or an ACT composite score between 22 - 27. 56% of students that apply are admitted to this school, of which 17% choose to attend. More information from the admissions office can be found here.

The cost of undergraduate tuition is close to $35,000 per year. Tuition prices may change for a variety of reasons, and that is why students should use the school's net price calculator to get a better idea of their personalized cost estimate of attendance. On-campus housing is available for students, which costs around $6,000 for the year. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the necessary requirements.

Randolph - Macon College offers several athletic programs overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)

To see a full list of areas of study, programs, enrollment information, admissions information, and more, please visit the school's website at www.rmc.edu.

Acceptance Rate

70.89

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1


James Madison University provides a variety of degree programs for students to assist them in their growth and development. The school is located in Harrisonburg, VA and publically funded. Enrollment at JMU is nearly nineteen thousand yearly.

A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Communications And Journalism
  • Education
  • Health And Clinical Professions
  • Liberal Arts And Sciences

To be considered for admissions, applicants may be required to fill out an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit any transcripts or test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions office. Either the ACT or SAT exam must be taken to apply to JMU. Scores between 23 - 27 on the ACT or 1630 - 1930 on the SAT are recommended to greatly increase the chance of acceptance. 60% of those who apply are accepted to JMU, of which 30% choose to attend. More information from the admissions office can be found at jmu.edu.

The tuition at James Madison University varies based on the state of residence of the student. In-state residents pay nearly $9,300 per year, while out-of-state residents are charged $24,000 annually. Housing may be available for those who wish to live on-campus for a cost of $4,600 each year. Students enrolled at this school may be eligible for aid which is typically loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

The James Madison University "Dukes" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Available athletic programs offered:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division I-AA)
  • Football (NCAA Division I-AA)

Students who wish to get more about this school can visit their website at http://www.jmu.edu/.

Acceptance Rate

76.75

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1


Jefferson College of Health Science in Roanoke, Virginia can prepare you for a future in the growing health care industry. JCHS awards Master's degrees in Healthcare Administration, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and Physician's Assistant. Are you ready to start your career right away? A 12-month certificate program is available in Medical Laboratory Science, as well as two year Associate's degrees and four-year Bachelor's programs! Almost every type of healthcare career is represented at JCHS. Many options are available in Wellness, Therapy, Administration, Nursing, and Science! Whether you want to teach people how to get in shape, rehabilitate them after an injury, or analyze their test results, Jefferson College has a program for you!

JCHS is one of the only private healthcare colleges in the southeast; there are only about 1,000 total students. Over 90% of which pass license or certification exams on their first try!

Roanoke is one of the largest cities in Virginia and students are given opportunities to participate in clinical programs in the area or abroad.

The career resources center offers students help with resume writing, interview preparation, and career guidance. JCHS boasts 100% of graduates find employment in their field within six months.

Get your health care career started at Jefferson College today by visiting JCHS or by simply completing the form on this page.

Acceptance Rate

27.67

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1


Interested individuals in and around Bismarck may get a cosmetology education by registering and enrolling at The Hair Academy. For the last five years this school has received its accreditation from the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences. The Hair Academy has a comprehensive cosmetology program that prepares individuals get started in the beauty industry as licensed professionals.

The Hair Academy graduates approximately thirty-eight students per year.

The Hair Academy offers cosmetology career counseling assistance to help students. Students are advised to look up state and county licensing regulations to make sure programs meet current standards. Get more information by visiting the school's official website, where you can learn about programs available, tuition, and disclosures.

Enrollment

55

Tuition

$10,920.00 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1


Hollins University is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Roanoke, VA, which is a predominantly suburban area. The school enrolls 1000 students annually, allowing for a more personalized education.

Here is a list of some of the popular programs Hollins University offers:

  • English Language And Literature
  • Education
  • Psychology
  • Visual And Performing Arts
  • Social Sciences

The admissions process will include the submission of an application, student records, and test scores, which are then reviewed by admissions officials. Either the ACT or SAT exam must be taken in order to be able to apply to Hollins University. Scores in a range of 21 to 28 on the ACT or 920 to 1200 on the SAT are recommended to increase the chance of getting accepted. This school admits roughly 80 percent of students applying. Of those students admitted, around 27 percent enrolled. More information regarding admissions can be found at hollins.edu.

Tuition is approximately $34,000 per year, though it may change based on any number of circumstances. Students should check the school's net price calculator to determine a more personalized cost estimate. Student housing is available for students and costs approximately $7,000 for the year. Students attending this school may qualify for aid which is typically scholarships, grants, and loans.

Hollins University participates in intercollegiate sports through the NCAA's Old Dominion Athletic Conference in Basketball.

Contact information, tuition information, areas of study offered, and much more may be viewed on school's website at http://www.hollins.edu.

Acceptance Rate

71.24

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1


Roanoke College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Salem, VA, which is a predominantly suburban area. The school maintains an Evangelical Lutheran Church affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Approximately 2,100 students enroll at Roanoke College per year.

Students may pick from a few areas of study, including:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Psychology
  • History
  • Social Sciences

Students applying for admission are generally required to submit an application, transcripts, records, test scores and any requested personal statements, which will then be reviewed by the admissions office. An ACT or SAT exam may be required prior to applying, with scores between 1478 to 1770 on the SAT and in a range of 21 to 26 for the ACT exam is common among students accepted to Roanoke College. 70% of those students that apply are accepted to this school, of which 18% choose to attend. More information regarding admissions can be found here.

Tuition is approximately $36,000 for the year, though it may change based on any number of circumstances. Students should visit the school's net price calculator to determine cost. The price of on-campus housing is approximately $5,500 annually. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the required requirements by way of scholarships, grants, and loans.

Roanoke College offers several athletic programs overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include but not limited to:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
  • Golf (NCAA Division III)

Students can visit the Roanoke College website to get a complete list of academic programs offered, financial aid details, and more that is available at this school.

Acceptance Rate

74.8

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1


Bridgewater College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Bridgewater, VA, which is a predominantly suburban area. The Church of Brethren affiliation of this school is an important part of the history, education and mission that defines the school. Approximately a thousand students are enrolled yearly at Bridgewater College.

Areas of study offered at Bridgewater College include:

  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Biological And Biomedical Sciences
  • Liberal Arts And Sciences
  • Communications And Journalism
  • Recreation And Fitness Studies
  • Psychology

To be considered for admissions, you may be asked to complete an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit school records, which are then studied by admissions staff. The majority of students accepted to Bridgewater College achieve an SAT score in a range of 1370 to 1670, or an ACT score between 20 to 24. 52% of those students that apply are admitted to Bridgewater College, of which 14 percent choose to enroll. More information on admissions can be found here.

The cost of tuition is approximately $29,000, but may change yearly. Students are encouraged to visit the school's tuition calculator to better estimate their cost of attendance. Housing may be available for those that want to live on-campus for around a cost of $5,800 annually. Some students at BC may be eligible for financial aid, which is generally provided in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.

The mascot for BC is the "Eagles", and they participate in intercollegiate athletics through oversight by the NCAA. Athletic programs offered may include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)

Students should take a look at the school's http://www.bridgewater.edu to view additional information.

Acceptance Rate

67.29

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1


EMU is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Harrisonburg, VA, which is a predominantly urban area. The school's Mennonite Church affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school's mission. Approximately a thousand students enroll at EMU yearly.

Students can pick from several areas of study, including:

  • Health And Clinical Professions
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • Education
  • Interdisciplinary Studies

To be considered for admissions, students may be required to complete an application, write a personal statement, and submit high school records and test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions committee. The majority of students admitted to EMU earn an SAT score between 1360 to 1790, or an ACT composite score within the range of 21 to 28. Approximately 70% of all students that applied were accepted at Eastern Mennonite University, with 40% of those admitted choosing to enroll. More information from the admissions office can be found at emu.edu.

The cost of tuition is approximately $29,000, but may change from year to year. Students are encouraged to visit the school's tuition calculator to better estimate their cost of attendance. School housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is around $5,400. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the required requirements.

The Eastern Mennonite University Royals participate in a number of intercollegiate athletic programs, with competitions managed and overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)

Students may take a look at the school's http://www.emu.edu to view additional information.

Acceptance Rate

64.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1


George Mason University, established in 1972 and commonly known as "Mason," is a top-ranking educational institution located in Northern Virginia.  Mason has strong research programs that span topic areas such as cancer, climate change, biosciences and information technology. Mason offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and has particularly strong programs in public policy, information technology and engineering, economics, visual and performing arts, conflict resolution, healthcare, biotechnology and life sciences.  The university's School of Law has been widely recognized as one of the top law schools in the U.S.

The area where the university's campuses are based, near Washington, D.C., is known as "the technology corridor."  George Mason University has four campuses, which are Fairfax Campus, Arlington Campus, Prince William Campus and Mason in Loudoun.

Mason has many innovative study programs such as study abroad programs for anthropology students, astronomy apprenticeships, Capitol Hill internships, and more.  The Mason faculty includes many celebrated scholars and historians, as well as cutting-edge researchers.

History

The university is named for George Mason, who lived in Fairfax County, Virginia, and was one of the founding fathers of the United States. George Mason drafted the Virginia Declaration of Rights, a model for the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution, or Bill of Rights.

Traditions

For good luck, students at George Mason University have a tradition of rubbing the toe of the George Mason statue before an exam.

Academics

George Mason University follows the semester system, offering fall, spring and summer semesters.

Colleges and Schools

Mason offers more than 100 academic degree programs through its many colleges and schools, which are:

  • College of Education and Human Development
  • College of Health and Human Services
  • College of Humanities and Social Sciences
  • College of Visual and Performing Arts
  • College of Science
  • Center for Global Education
  • Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution
  • School of Management
  • School of Public Policy
  • School of Law
  • The Volgenau School of Information Technology and Engineering

Student Life

George Mason University has one of the largest residential communities in Virginia, and all freshmen are guaranteed on-campus housing.

Social activities, student clubs and organizations are plentiful at Mason, and the university hosts 23 fraternities and 14 sororities.

Athletics

Intercollegiate athletics at George Mason University include basketball, baseball, softball, track and field, Lacrosse, volleyball, soccer, swimming and diving.

Satellite Campuses

George Mason University is comprised of four campuses:

  • Fairfax Campus
  • Arlington Campus
  • Prince William Campus
  • Mason in Loudoun.

Community Life

There are many activities available on campus and in the community to keep Mason students busy, from hot cedar saunas to musical concerts or kickboxing classes. The campuses of Mason boast many arts venues and athletics facilities, and many social and cultural activities.

Acceptance Rate

86.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1


Mary Washington College, a public institution, offers a large number of degree programs, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Fredericksburg, VA, the school offers a suburban setting for students to study in. Enrollment at Mary Washington College is nearly five thousand annually.

A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:

  • Education
  • Business And Marketing Studies
  • English Language And Literature
  • Psychology
  • Interdisciplinary Studies

To be considered for admissions, applicants may be required to complete an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit school records, which are then reviewed by admissions staff. Either the SAT or ACT exam can be taken in order to be able to apply to Mary Washington College. Scores in a range of 22 - 27 on the ACT or 1550 - 1870 on the SAT are required to increase the chance of acceptance. Mary Washington College accepts approximately 80% of applicants yearly. Of those admitted, around 27% of students attended the school. More information from the admissions office can be found here.

The tuition at University of Mary Washington varies based on the state of residence of the student. In-state residents pay close to $9,800 per year, while out-of-state residents are charged $23,000 annually. Housing may be available for students that want to live on-campus at an estimated cost of $5,600 per year. Mary Washington College may provide financial aid for students who are eligible in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans.

Athletic programs are available at University of Mary Washington through the NCAA, allowing students to compete in intercollegiate sports. Athletic programs offered include:

  • Baseball (NCAA Division III)
  • Basketball (NCAA Division III)
  • Track & Field (NCAA Division III)

Acceptance Rate

74.73

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

There are fourteen public 4-year state universities and colleges in Virginia. These four-year institutions predominantly offer bachelor's or higher level programs and some may even include research facilities. See a state-wide list of the state universities and colleges in Virginia.

In Virginia there are thirty-three accredited private four-year colleges. Similar to public schools, private colleges and universities offer bachelor's or higher level programs and research opportunities, although they usually have smaller classes and higher tuition. Compare admission requirements and tuition details for private colleges in Virginia.

Community colleges are public institutions that offer low cost, high quality education for residents throughout the state. These schools offer 2-year programs that grant associate degrees or offer training courses in specialized trades. Virginia" Community colleges also are the number one transfer-out programs available for four-year colleges and universities. Learn more and compare community colleges in Virginia.

Bible and Christian colleges generally provide specialized undergraduate education with a focus on religious or biblical study. There are approximately nineteen such colleges in Virginia located throughout the state. See a full list of Christian colleges in Virginia along with program and tuition information.

Virginia has thirteen accredited liberal arts colleges. These schools primarily focus on undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences through comprehensive and flexible curriculums. Compare all the liberal arts colleges in Virginia.

2022 Top Virginia Colleges

Students seeking to find the best college in Virginia will find a full listing of accredited colleges and universities with MatchCollege.  Proprietary search technology meld with thousands of free educational resources for students looking to apply to colleges in Virginia.  Data you may find useful includes empirical data from the Department of Education on school tuition, financial aid, student to teacher ratios, enrollment trends, sports programs, online degree programs, acceptance rates, degree programs, and much more for top ranked Virginia colleges.   To find the school that best suits you, take the time to understand your unique strengths and abilities, then request information from any number of colleges via MatchCollege.  The information you receive will help you further understand the school’s mission and program offerings before talking to an admissions counselor and moving things forward.

Degree Breakdown State of Virginia

  • Doctoral or
    Professional degree

    93,880 2.55%

  • Master's
    Degree

    66,580 1.81%

  • Bachelor's
    Degree

    913,280 24.80%

  • Associate's
    Degree

    88,400 2.40%

  • Postsecondary
    Nondegree award

    215,040 5.84%

  • Some college,
    No degree

    95,790 2.60%

  • High school diploma or
    Equivalent

    1,245,310 33.82%

  • No formal
    Educational credential

    964,160 26.18%

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Browse Schools by Career in Virginia

Follow the links below to get information on accredited schools in our database that offer programs or degrees.

Law & Criminal Justice

Featured Online Colleges

What Colleges Exist in Virginia?

Understanding important details about colleges in the State of Virginia has never been more straightforward.  Our expansive portal includes profiles for all types of schools including private colleges, public universities, community colleges, liberal arts schools, trade schools, and bible colleges across the Virginia state college system.  A complete list of accredited colleges includes the college degree programs for each public college and private university to help you best understand their offerings.

The state of Virginia is home to a large number of colleges and universities as well as the vocational, technical and religious schools. Virginia also boasts the second oldest university in the Unites States. The state of Virginia classifies institutions of higher learning into four categories: public, private, private out of state, and religious institutions.

Virginia’s public schools provide a variety of educational opportunities to students. Some school are for graduate studies, others offering a traditional 4 year education, while others still are primarily research institutions.

Where can I find online degrees at Virginia colleges?

Students searching for the best online schools in Virginia can look to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. their site is intended to give you the information for each and every accredited college and university in the state of Virginia. You can also check out the College Navigator site. HERE you will be able to search for information for each school and compare it to other schools.

Which free online classes can I take from Virginia colleges?

The University of Virginia offers over 214 courses available for free, these courses do not award credits. Students majoring in business can take courses including foundations of business strategy, fundamentals of project planning and management, digital marketing, marketing analytics, and advanced business strategy. At University of Virginia MOOCs you are able to search for the classes that you are looking for. They have hundreds of courses available.

Which Virginia online colleges will accept FAFSA?

While Virginia ranks sixth in the nation for highway educational costs according to a 2019 report from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, the cost of attending college is continually increasing. 85% of college students in Virginia are currently receiving aid. There are many schools that accept FAFSA.  BlueField State College, University of Virginia, and the Virginia Wesleyan University all accept FAFSA.

Is taking college online more affordable in Virginia?

Often online schools charge lower tuition because they do not pay the same overhead as brick-and-mortar schools and because they do not utilize the on-campus facilities. At James Madison University, residents can earn their bachelor's degree for $7,250 per year despite the learning environment. while at Virginia State University residents pay $5,540 per year, while distance learners pay just $199 per local online course.

Do online Virginia colleges accept a GED?

Yes. As of 2011, students who have a GED are welcome to apply to Christendom College. Each student must complete an application and have their GED score results mailed directly to the college. You must also submit three essays based on the questions listed on the Christendom College admissions page.

Which colleges in Virginia accept the most transfer credits?

Students at two-year colleges may transfer up to 60 credits, while four-year institutions accept 90 credits maximum.   Most Virginia schools accept transfer credits like George Mason University, Old Dominion University, and Virginia Commonwealth University. you will want to check with your school to make sure that your credits will transfer.

College Student Resources

A wide variety of resources can be found from MatchCollege. In fact, students have thousands of free educational resources to choose from. Exclusive search technology coupled with insider tips and financial aid hacks will help give you the right tools to successfully navigate the upcoming process. Leverage our articles to find programs of interest and better understand the college admissions process before starting your next college application

 
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