We have compiled a list of online colleges in Virginia ranked by Salary Score and online enrollment. This data-driven approach empowers you to make informed decisions about your future. View our methodology for more details about our list, or learn about OnlineU. To find other colleges near you, check out our list of online colleges by state.
2025 Best UUÖ±²¥s in Virginia
#1 University of Virginia University of Virginia University of Virginia
- Salary Score: A+
- Median Earnings: $107,104
- Online Enrollment: 1,038 enrolled
- Location: Charlottesville
At the University of Virginia (), you can choose from several online degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate levels. Popular online master’s degrees at UVA include business analytics, education in administration and supervision, and data science. In addition to online degree programs, you can access certificates, non-credit programs, open educational resources, and tuition courses.
Why we like them: UVA's median earnings of $107,104, sitting at a stunning 99.68 percentile, showcases UVA's strong track record in empowering distance learners to achieve financially rewarding careers post-graduation. A graduation rate of 95% reinforces the university’s commitment to student success. Plus, as an online student at UVA, you can access free courses through Coursera. These online courses can be taken anytime and are accessible through the Coursera app or on a laptop computer. Please note that the online courses are non-credited, so they can’t be applied to a degree or certificate program. We like that UVA provides online students with the opportunity to explore online courses that may align with their personal or professional interests.
#2 Eastern Virginia Medical School Eastern Virginia Medical School Eastern Virginia Medical School
- Salary Score: A+
- Median Earnings: $93,075
- Online Enrollment: 225 enrolled
- Location: Norfolk
At Eastern Virginia Medical School (), you can pursue a variety of health-focused online programs, ranging from master's degrees to specialized certificates — all designed to meet industry standards and prepare you effectively for the job market. Despite its size, with an online enrollment of 225 students, EVMS ensures focused attention on each learner.
Why we like them: EVMS shines due to its stellar earnings potential for graduates, boasting a median salary of $93,075. This figure places EVMS in the top 2%, showcasing the school's commitment to producing highly remunerative career outcomes. Additionally, the institution's strong recommendation rate of 95% further underscores the value and satisfaction that students derive from their education. EVMS’s commitment to quality education, high earning potential, and student satisfaction makes it an excellent choice for advancing your career in the health sector.
#3 Shenandoah University Shenandoah University Shenandoah University
- Salary Score: A
- Median Earnings: $82,104
- Online Enrollment: 558 enrolled
- Location: Winchester
Shenandoah University () is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church that offers online degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The university provides a Safe Zone for LGBT students. SU’s most popular online master’s degree programs include business administration, nurse midwifery, and performing arts leadership & management. SU also offers several nursing programs across varying degree levels and specializations.
Why we like them: SU's student-faculty ratio of 11:1 allows for a more personalized and interactive learning experience. The university's retention rate of 83% further reaffirms that students are satisfied with their education. With an overall review rating of 3.84 and a recommendation rate of 87%, it's clear that SU not only meets but exceeds expectations. And if you want to graduate faster and save money on tuition, the university offers two accelerated online programs in public health and performing arts leadership & management. If accepted, you’ll complete graduate-level coursework in your last year of undergrad to obtain your master’s degree.
#4 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
- Salary Score: A
- Median Earnings: $72,831
- Online Enrollment: 1,625 enrolled
- Location: Blacksburg
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University () offer online master’s programs. Some of these include information technology, mechanical engineering, and public administration. You can also pursue a plethora of online certificate programs, including topics like cybersecurity policy, leadership for an aging society, and organizational communication management.
Why we like them: Virginia Tech is a military-friendly institution. It is one of the six nationwide schools classified as a Senior Military College. Virginia Tech’s Office of Veterans Services provides several educational benefits for veterans, active duty members, and their dependents. Some resources available include career assistance, academic advising, disability services, and more. Coupled with an impressive graduation rate of 86% and a retention rate of 91%, Virginia Tech demonstrates its commitment to student success and engagement. The overall review rating of 4.06 and a recommendation rate of 93% signal strong satisfaction among peers and educators alike.
#5 William & Mary School of Education William & Mary School of Education William & Mary School of Education
- Salary Score: A
- Median Earnings: $72,404
- Online Enrollment: 1,042 enrolled
- Location: Williamsburg
At William & Mary (), you can explore a variety of online programs designed to fit your educational and professional goals. The university offers a comprehensive range of online courses and degrees, providing flexibility and access to quality education. With an online enrollment of 1,042 students and a dedicated military enrollment of 604, WM offers plenty of support for diverse learners.
Why we like them: WM stands out due to its significant earnings potential for graduates, boasting a median salary of $72,404, which places it among the top 14% of institutions on a national scale. This strong earning potential is complemented by a high graduation rate of 91%, situating it in the top 3% nationwide. The student-to-faculty ratio at WM is 12:1, ensuring a personalized learning experience. Additionally, the school has a high recommendation rate of 94% and a review rating of 4.16 out of 5, highlighting the positive experiences of its students.
#6 George Mason University George Mason University George Mason University
- Salary Score: A
- Median Earnings: $72,188
- Online Enrollment: 7,421 enrolled
- Location: Fairfax
At George Mason University (), you can take courses 100% online or in a hybrid format that includes face-to-face meetings on campus. Overall, there are more than 50 online degree programs that are fully or partially remote, which fall under areas of study such as business management, social science, math, and engineering. More specifically, there are 100% online programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and a Master of Arts in Economics.
Why we like them: GMU's overall review rating is a robust 3.77, complemented by an impressive 93% recommendation rate. These figures tell us a lot about student satisfaction and the quality of education at GMU. But that's just the beginning. What truly stands out is GMU's earnings percentile at 86.65, highlighting that graduates from GMU tend to do well financially. GMU specifically provides opportunities for adult learners. For example, if you’re returning to college, you can apply for one of GMU’s online degree completion programs, such as cybersecurity, international security and law, technology and innovation, and health, wellness, and social services. These programs can build on your skills and knowledge and help you graduate faster.
#7 Marymount University Marymount University Marymount University
- Salary Score: A-
- Median Earnings: $67,893
- Online Enrollment: 864 enrolled
- Location: Arlington
At Marymount University (), you can choose from a diverse range of online programs, including an Accelerated BSN, a Doctor of Education, and a Doctor of Business Administration. These online degree programs are designed to combine flexibility with rigorous academic standards, ensuring a high-quality education.
Why we like them: Marymount's graduates have median earnings of $67,893, positioning it in the top 19% nationwide. This strong earning potential makes it a compelling option for prospective students. Additionally, Marymount's graduation rate of 61% places it among the top 29% of universities, indicating that a significant portion of students successfully complete their programs. The university also stands out for its high average financial aid package of $26,190, ranking it in the top 12% in the country, making higher education more accessible.
#8 Hampton University Hampton University Hampton University
- Salary Score: A-
- Median Earnings: $65,991
- Online Enrollment: 374 enrolled
- Location: Hampton
Hampton University () is a private, nonprofit, and Historically Black College and University (HBCU) offering online degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Some online bachelor’s degrees at this university include business management, general studies, and nursing. Hampton U also offers several online degrees for those who specifically have a calling for ministry work. Examples include an Associate of Arts in Applied Theology, a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies, and a Master of Divinity in Pastoral Leadership and Executive Ministry.
Why we like them: A whopping 94% of students receive financial aid, with an average financial aid package of $13,710. This shows an impressive commitment to making education accessible. Plus, the student-faculty ratio is favorable at 13:1. This ensures you're part of a closely-knit community where educators can give you more personalized attention. Finally, the overall review rating of 3.74 and an 83% recommendation rate confirm that the general consensus among alums at this school is positive.
#9 Virginia Commonwealth University Virginia Commonwealth University Virginia Commonwealth University
- Salary Score: A-
- Median Earnings: $64,467
- Online Enrollment: 2,680 enrolled
- Location: Richmond
Virginia Commonwealth University () offers online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Examples of online bachelor’s degrees at VCU include accounting, marketing, and RN to BSN. VCU offers nationally ranked online programs, a wide variety of online courses to choose from, and a student-centered online learning experience. If you’re seeking shorter programs, there are also several online certificate programs you can apply for.
Why we like them: VCU stands out for its inclusive environment. For those of you who are veterans or serving in the military, VCU's significant military enrollment of 1,680 showcases the university's strong support. Plus, the overall review rating of 3.95 and a recommendation rate of 96% signal a high level of satisfaction among students and graduates. These figures suggest a supportive and enriching university experience. VCU offers several online student resources to help you succeed. These services include technical support, a bookstore, disability services, counseling, financial aid assistance, and much more.
#10 James Madison University James Madison University James Madison University
- Salary Score: B+
- Median Earnings: $62,833
- Online Enrollment: 1,036 enrolled
- Location: Harrisonburg
At James Madison University (), you can choose from a variety of online programs, including undergraduate offerings such as the RN to BSN and inclusive early childhood education tracks. These programs highlight JMU's commitment to providing flexible and accessible education pathways for diverse student needs.
Why we like them: JMU stands out with a median earning of $62,833 for graduates, positioning it in the top 25% compared to similar institutions. JMU's impressive graduation rate of 81% places it among the top 7% nationally, signifying exceptional educational quality and student support. Complementing these statistics is a solid retention rate of 89%, placing JMU in the top 9% of institutions, which indicates high student satisfaction and engagement. JMU’s commitment to quality education, strong student outcomes, and flexible online programs make it an excellent choice for advancing your education and career.
#11 Strayer University Strayer University Strayer University
- Salary Score: B+
- Median Earnings: $61,389
- Online Enrollment: 36,583 enrolled
- Location: Nationwide
At Strayer University (), you can join a robust online learning community with an impressive enrollment of 36,583 students, placing it in the top 2% of most popular schools for online education. This substantial online presence underscores Strayer's commitment to delivering quality higher education to a large number of distance learners.
Why we like them: Strayer excels in median earnings, with graduates earning $61,389, positioning the school in the top 28%. This indicates a strong return on investment for students who complete their degrees here. Additionally, Strayer has a significant military enrollment of 6,698 students, placing it among the top 1% of universities that cater to military personnel, further highlighting its dedication to supporting diverse learner populations. Strayer maintains an overall review rating of 3.5 out of 5, reflecting positively on student satisfaction and experience.
#12 Averett University Averett University Averett University
- Salary Score: B+
- Median Earnings: $60,100
- Online Enrollment: 539 enrolled
- Locations: Danville (and 13 others)
Averett University () is a private, nonprofit, Baptist university with several online degrees at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. Examples of online bachelor’s degrees include business administration, criminal justice, and sociology. At Averett, busy professionals can complete their degrees while handling career and family obligations. If you’re interested in pursuing or furthering your career in nursing, Averett offers an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing. With this program, you can graduate in less than 16 months.
Why we like them: AU showcases an impressive earnings percentile of 70.88, indicating a strong return on investment for graduates. Furthermore, there are only twelve students in relation to each professor. This ratio highlights AU's commitment to providing personalized education and support, making it easier for you to connect with professors and get the help you need. Not to mention, the 100% recommendation rate and overall review rating of 4.29 both showcase that AU alums believe in the quality of education so much that they’d recommend it to others.
#13 University of Lynchburg University of Lynchburg University of Lynchburg
- Salary Score: B+
- Median Earnings: $57,182
- Online Enrollment: 416 enrolled
- Location: Lynchburg
At the University of Lynchburg (), you can expect a supportive educational environment with strong financial aid and personalized instruction. It has an online enrollment in the hundreds, with over 400 distance learners currently enrolled in various programs. We also like to see that it hosts 180 military members, showcasing its inclusive, diverse student body.
Why we like them: Lynchburg achieves its position due to notable earnings for its graduates, with a median salary of $57,182 and Salary Score of B+ when compared to similar institutions. A key strength is the substantial average financial aid package of $24,138, positioning it among the top 15% of institutions for financial aid. Additionally, the university offers a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, ranking it in the top 17% for this metric, which ensures personalized instruction. Every student at Lynchburg receives financial aid, reinforcing the university's commitment to making education accessible.
#14 Old Dominion University Old Dominion University Old Dominion University
- Salary Score: B
- Median Earnings: $56,183
- Online Enrollment: 8,674 enrolled
- Location: Norfolk
Old Dominion University () features over 120 online academic offerings. You can find degrees online from the certificate level up to the doctoral level, along with several certificates, endorsements, and minor options. ODU offers bachelor's degrees in the arts and sciences across a diverse range of subjects, such as fashion merchandising, geography, and political science.
Why we like them: ODU uses Canvas as the school's online learning management system. Along with Canvas support, you can take advantage of complimentary software (LinkedIn Learning, Microsoft Office 365, G Suite for Education, etc.), 24/7 technical support, and career development services. The availability of support and services for online students underscores ODU's commitment to your success, every step of the way. In addition, ODU offers free unofficial transfer evaluation if you’re a returning student. Once admitted, you’ll have a student success director who ensures you stay on track to graduation. We appreciate that ODU provides a robust learning management system and helps adult learners earn a bachelor’s degree.
#15 Regent University Online Regent University Online Regent University Online
- Salary Score: B
- Median Earnings: $54,814
- Online Enrollment: 8,451 enrolled
- Location: Virginia Beach
Regent University Online () has several online programs in over 150 subjects, such as cybersecurity, healthcare, government, and ministry. As a religious university, Christian studies are emphasized as the framework for many degrees, including its Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering, among others. Associate, bachelor's, master's, certificates, and doctoral programs are available in a wide array of disciplines. RU ensures that you're prepared for the demands of today's job market — with a Christian foundation.
Why we like them: Through eight-week course sessions, you're given a streamlined path to progress through your degree at a pace that suits your lifestyle, with access to success coaches, online writing labs, and even online chapel services to ensure a holistic educational journey. By taking shorter classes, you may be able to graduate much faster. In addition, the university allows you to transfer up to 90 credit hours, which can also help you move along your degree quickly. We like that Regent Online provides opportunities for students to expedite their online education.
#16 Radford University Radford University Radford University
- Salary Score: B
- Median Earnings: $53,484
- Online Enrollment: 1,436 enrolled
- Location: Radford
Discover the many online degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels at Radford University (). Popular online bachelor’s degrees at RU you can pursue include healthcare administration, health sciences, and RN to BSN. An online bachelor’s at RU is 120 credit hours, lasting at least four years. The university's online enrollment, although not the highest, is noteworthy at 1,436. This indicates a strong online presence and a commitment to offering distance learning opportunities.
Why we like them: RU facilitates online learning on the learning management system D2L Brightspace. Through D2L Brightspace, you can access your courses, contact your instructors directly, and connect with classmates through virtual discussion boards. In addition to D2L Brightspace, RU offers Handshake. Handshake is a virtual platform that is a career hub for online students. You can get career coaching, search for job opportunities, find local hiring events near you, and much more. This is a fairly unique opportunity for distance learners.
#17 Liberty University Liberty University Liberty University
- Salary Score: B-
- Median Earnings: $50,809
- Online Enrollment: 81,026 enrolled
- Location: Lynchburg
Liberty University () offers more than 600 online programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. For bachelor's degrees, you can explore criminal justice, business administration, and psychology, among dozens of other subjects. To get an idea of its master's degree offerings, here are three examples: a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Master of Public Health, and a Master of Education.
Why we like them: LU's curricula heavily emphasize Christ-based learning and general education requirements. LU may be a good fit for your online education if you practice Christianity. Also, if you’re an active-duty law enforcement officer or first responder, you’re eligible for the First Responder Tuition Discount. In addition, you can receive personalized service during your degree, potential college credit for training and life experience, and potential stacking with other tuition benefits. Moreover, a staggering 98% of LU's students receive financial assistance, highlighting the institution's efforts to make education affordable and accessible.
#18 Bluefield College Bluefield College Bluefield College
- Salary Score: B-
- Median Earnings: $49,183
- Online Enrollment: 467 enrolled
- Location: Bluefield
Bluefield University () is a private Christian college offering many online degree programs, most of which are at the bachelor's level. Examples include a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science, a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education, and a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. Additionally, there are advanced-level degrees, such as a Master of Arts in Education - Curriculum and Instruction and a Master of Science in Nursing.
Why we like them: As an online student at BU, you'll receive a personal success coach to assist you with organizing your schedules and setting academic goals. Other virtual resources are abundant, including academic coaching, disability services, math and writing labs, testing services, and tutoring. This student-centric approach has led BS to receive an impressive overall review rating of 5.0 and a recommendation rate of 100%. This tells us that online students who choose to learn there have had excellent experiences. Moreover, BC stands out for ensuring that every single one of its students has access to financial aid, as indicated by the 100% rate of students receiving at least some financial support.
#19 Longwood University Longwood University Longwood University
- Salary Score: B-
- Median Earnings: $47,795
- Online Enrollment: 879 enrolled
- Location: Farmville
Longwood University () in Farmville, VA, is a four-year public institution that specifically features a range of online MBAs. These master's programs at all 100% online with flexible schedules that cater to working professionals. There are five online MBAs total, including tracks that cover business, data analytics, marketing, economics, and real estate.
Why we like them: The student-faculty ratio at LU is 13:1, which is ideal because it indicates smaller class sizes and the potential for more personalized attention from faculty, which can significantly enhance your online learning experience. The college also has a solid overall review rating of 3.56 and a recommendation rate of 79%, suggesting that the vast majority of students who attend LU are happy with their experience. While the graduation rate and retention rate do not meet our highest standards, LU's strengths in other areas definitely make up for it, making it a compelling choice for your online education.
#20 Norfolk State University Norfolk State University Norfolk State University
- Salary Score: B-
- Median Earnings: $46,784
- Online Enrollment: 682 enrolled
- Location: Norfolk
Norfolk State University () is a public HBCU offering online degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Some of the online undergraduate degree programs at NSU include information management, psychology, and health services management. NSU’s online programs are affordable and student-focused. Students have experienced teaching faculty and are exposed to diverse perspectives.
Why we like them: NSU is a military-friendly university with a Military Services and Veterans Affairs staff dedicated to helping military and veteran students receive educational benefits. These students can access tuition assistance, academic advising, counseling, career services, and additional student support services. Additionally, 95% of students at NSU receiving financial aid. This is crucial in making higher education accessible and less daunting financially. The average financial aid package of $12,164 also constitutes a significant offset against education costs.
#21 Mary Baldwin University Mary Baldwin University Mary Baldwin University
- Salary Score: N/A
- Median Earnings: $40,070
- Online Enrollment: 807 enrolled
- Location: Staunton
Mary Baldwin University () is a private, nonprofit university affiliated with the Presbyterian Church that offers online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate programs. Some of the online bachelor’s programs include business, healthcare administration, and nursing. The university offers seven-week courses that give you the flexibility to help you achieve your academic goals.
Why we like them: We understand that paying for college is important when seeking further education. Fortunately, MBU provides several opportunities to cut down on your tuition costs. At MBU, 100% of students receive some form of financial aid. Potential financial aid opportunities for online students include no or low-interest payment plans, loans, employer tuition assistance, and military benefits. This level of assistance ensures that you, irrespective of your financial background, can access quality education without the heavy burden of tuition fees.
#22 Virginia Wesleyan University Virginia Wesleyan University Virginia Wesleyan University
- Salary Score: N/A
- Median Earnings: $43,561
- Online Enrollment: 334 enrolled
- Location: Norfolk
Virginia Wesleyan University () is a private, nonprofit school located in Virginia Beach. It also has the designation of being a United Methodist institution as well as a Yellow Ribbon school. This online university hosts fully remote degrees at the associate, bachelor's, and master's levels. On VWU's site, they claim that "more than 90% of our alumni are working or in graduate school within 1 year of graduation." With a streamlined admissions process, you can begin earning your degree and graduate faster.
Why we like them: Imagine stepping into an environment where every student is supported through financial aid; VWU makes this a reality. With a dedication to providing assistance to all of its students, VWU ensures that financial barriers do not hinder your educational aspirations. Plus, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, you can expect more personalized attention and a learning environment that fosters interaction and connection. The infrastructure supporting student success is a key indicator of VWU's quality.
Higher Education in Virginia
Virginia offers a diverse array of college options, from universities such as the University of Virginia and William and Mary to a robust system of community and technical colleges.
According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (), Virginia state is home to 60 universities that confer bachelor's degrees. In terms of community colleges in Virginia, the state hosts a total of 63 institutions of higher learning that confer associate degrees.
Students in Virginia can choose from 15 public state universities and 45 private colleges, and 16 for-profit universities to earn their bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
There are five Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia. The Virginia University of Lynchburg, Hampton University, Norfolk State University, Virginia State University, and Virginia Union University all have roots in providing accessible education for Black college students.
Did you know that you can get an online degree from anywhere? Check out our online degree hub for some inspiration.
UUÖ±²¥s in Virginia
Students interested in earning their degree from an online college in Virginia have a wide array of programs to choose from, including business administration, criminal justice, information technology, cybersecurity, nursing, and social work.
Virginia's online colleges offer degrees at all levels, including associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates. Here's what to consider when choosing a program:
Degree Type: Determine the best fit based on your current education. High school graduates or those with a GED can pursue an associate degree (typically two years) or a bachelor's degree (usually four years). Some colleges offer accelerated options to complete degrees faster. Those with a bachelor's degree can opt for online master's or doctoral programs, which vary in length.
Program Format: Decide between fully online programs or hybrid formats, which combine online and in-person classes.
Class Structure: Understand the difference between synchronous and asynchronous classes. Synchronous classes require logging in at specific times for live sessions, while asynchronous classes allow for completing coursework on your own schedule.
Admissions Requirements: For associate or bachelor's programs, you generally need a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may have GPA or SAT/ACT requirements, though these are less common for online and adult learner programs.
Popular Online Degree Programs in Virginia
The most popular online degrees tend to be in high-demand fields, such as healthcare degrees, which help students gain licensure, or disciplines across highly versatile fields, such as business degrees and psychology programs. Online learners are often working adults pursuing a degree to advance their career in their current industry, making degrees such as education also popular.
Associate Degrees
The most popular associate degrees at Virginia colleges with online learners are liberal arts and sciences, general studies, and health professions. Many students earn their associate in liberal arts or general studies, then transfer to a four-year college to finish their bachelor's degree.
Associate degrees in health professions are popular for students who want to enter the healthcare industry in areas such as nursing, radiology and MRI technology, and dental hygiene.
Bachelor's Degrees
For bachelor's graduates, the most popular degrees are focused in business, healthcare, psychology, and social sciences. Students in business administration programs might earn their degree in anything from accounting and finance to marketing.
Online degrees in healthcare and nursing in Virginia are also highly popular, with many online graduates working as registered nurses. These programs require a hands-on component that students usually complete in a healthcare facility near them, and might include virtual labs or virtual reality training.
Master's Degrees
The most popular master's degree for online colleges in Virginia is a master's in education. Many teachers opt to earn their master's online so they can continue working in the classroom while in school. A master's degree might also lead to higher salaries for teachers.
Online MBA degrees are popular in Virginia, along with theology degrees and programs that lead to health professions.
Cost of UUÖ±²¥s in Virginia
Below is the data from the (NCES), which shows how colleges in Virginia stack up against the national average.
Comparison:
- Virginia's total cost is $5,308 higher than the national average.
- Virginia's tuition and fees are $5,075 higher than the national average.
- Room charges are slightly lower in Virginia by $117.
- Board charges in Virginia are higher by $350.
The NCES data also shows us that during the 2022-23 academic year, private four-year institutions in Virginia had a significantly lower total cost compared to the national average. The total cost for these institutions in Virginia was $36,434, which is $13,220 less than the national average of $49,654. Virginia's tuition and fees were also much lower, at $24,043 compared to the national average of $35,248. Additionally, room charges in Virginia were $6,514, which is $2,734 lower, and board charges were $5,878, $1,372 less than the national average.
For public two-year institutions, Virginia's tuition and fees were higher than the national average. In-state tuition and fees in Virginia were $5,220, which is $1,622 higher than the national average of $3,598. Out-of-state tuition and fees in Virginia were $11,511, $2,946 more than the national average of $8,565. Overall, Virginia's public 4-year and 2-year institutions are more expensive than the national average, while private 4-year institutions in Virginia are more affordable.
Financial Aid for Students in Virginia
Financial aid in Virginia encompasses a variety of programs designed to help students afford their education. The state offers need-based grants such as the and the , which provide financial assistance to undergraduate students attending public colleges and universities. Additionally, the offers aid to Virginia residents attending private, nonprofit colleges and universities in the state. There are also merit-based scholarships, like the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program, which supports the children and spouses of military personnel.
Virginia also provides resources for students seeking federal financial aid, including guidance on applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The state’s institutions often have their own financial aid offices that offer personalized support to students, helping them navigate available aid options and understand their eligibility for federal grants, work-study programs, and student loans. With these combined state and federal resources, Virginia aims to make higher education more accessible for its residents.
FAQs About UUÖ±²¥s in Virginia
How Many Colleges Are in Virginia?
Virginia has 107 colleges and universities that confer at least an associate degree or a bachelor's degree.
What Are the Best Colleges in Virginia?
The best colleges in Virginia offer strong educational programs and promising career outcomes for their graduates. Leading the list is the University of Virginia, ranked #1 with an A+ Salary Score, an enrollment of 1,038 online students, and median earnings of $107,104 among its graduates. Following closely behind is Eastern Virginia Medical School, which also holds an A+ Salary Score rating, with 225 online students and median earnings of $93,075, emphasizing its strong focus on medical education. Shenandoah University and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University are also top contenders, both receiving an A rating.
These institutions, along with Marymount University, Hampton University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and James Madison University, provide flexible online learning options, making higher education accessible to a broader range of students while ensuring strong financial outcomes.
How Many People Have a Bachelor's Degree in Virginia?
Between 2018 and 2022, of individuals aged 25 and older in Virginia had attained a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national U.S. average of 34.3%. This indicates that Virginia has a higher percentage of college-educated adults than the overall national average.
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