Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
Graduate school may be a critical step in your higher education, whether you are interested in expanding your knowledge, learning a specialization, or earning advanced credentials required by your profession. The best graduate schools in Virginia offer advanced degrees, such as master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.
10 Best Grad Schools in Virginia
- University of Virginia
- George Mason University
- Virginia Tech
- William & Mary
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- Old Dominion University
- Liberty University
- James Madison University
- Hampton University
- Radford University
- University of Virginia
- George Mason University
- William & Mary
- Virginia Tech
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- Old Dominion University
- Hampton University
- Liberty University
- James Madison University
- Virginia State University
- Liberty University 99%
- University of Lynchburg 96%
- Old Dominion University 95%
- Radford University 93%
- Virginia Commonwealth University 91%
- Virginia State University 90%
- George Mason University 90%
- Norfolk State University 89%
- Marymount University 81%
- Shenandoah University 80%
- Regent University 21 to 1
- Liberty University 18 to 1
- Norfolk State University 18 to 1
- Virginia Tech 17 to 1
- James Madison University 17 to 1
- Virginia Commonwealth University 16 to 1
- Old Dominion University 16 to 1
- George Mason University 16 to 1
- University of Virginia 15 to 1
- Marymount University 13 to 1
- Marymount University $37,600
- Shenandoah University $35,170
- University of Lynchburg $34,500
- Hampton University $29,162
- Liberty University $22,511
- Regent University $19,680
- University of Virginia $18,059
- William & Mary $17,434
- Virginia Commonwealth University $12,472
- Virginia Tech $12,104
- Shenandoah University $22,680
- Marymount University $21,420
- University of Virginia $18,382
- Regent University $16,028
- Virginia Tech $14,521
- George Mason University $13,426
- Hampton University $13,099
- Virginia Commonwealth University $12,618
- James Madison University $11,520
- Old Dominion University $10,519
- University of Lynchburg
- Shenandoah University
- Marymount University
- Norfolk State University
- Regent University
- Virginia State University
- Radford University
- Hampton University
- James Madison University
- Liberty University
- University of Lynchburg
- Shenandoah University
- Marymount University
- Norfolk State University
- Regent University
- Radford University
- Virginia State University
- James Madison University
- Liberty University
- Hampton University
- University of Virginia 19%
- Regent University 32%
- William & Mary 33%
- Virginia Tech 57%
- Hampton University 74%
- James Madison University 78%
- Shenandoah University 80%
- Marymount University 81%
- Norfolk State University 89%
- George Mason University 90%
- University of Lynchburg 10 to 1
- Shenandoah University 11 to 1
- Virginia State University 12 to 1
- William & Mary 12 to 1
- Radford University 12 to 1
- Marymount University 13 to 1
- Hampton University 13 to 1
- University of Virginia 15 to 1
- Virginia Commonwealth University 16 to 1
- Old Dominion University 16 to 1
- Virginia State University $5,540
- Norfolk State University $5,752
- Old Dominion University $7,239
- James Madison University $7,684
- Radford University $8,156
- George Mason University $9,795
- Virginia Tech $12,104
- Virginia Commonwealth University $12,472
- William & Mary $17,434
- University of Virginia $18,059
- Liberty University $7,893
- Virginia State University $8,375
- Norfolk State University $8,820
- Radford University $9,182
- University of Lynchburg $10,485
- William & Mary $10,516
- Old Dominion University $10,519
- James Madison University $11,520
- Virginia Commonwealth University $12,618
- Hampton University $13,099
Colleges and Universities in Virginia
Liberty University, a private Christian school in Lynchburg, is the largest school in Virginia, serving over 60,000 students. The largest public university, Virginia Tech, has a student population of about half that but offers many in-person degree programs as well as eight master’s programs and 19 certificate programs online. Students who attend Virginia Tech can pursue fields like engineering, criminal justice, education, and business.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
The majority of Virginia’s universities and colleges could be considered small schools, serving populations of less than 5,000 students. Included on this list are public schools, like Christopher Newport University in Newport News, and private schools, like Hampton University, a historically black university in Hampton. Though most of its higher education institutes charge tuition fees above the national average, Virginia offers several loan forgiveness programs for qualifying attorneys and medical, dental, behavioral health, and pharmaceutical professionals.
Virginia is perhaps most famous for its rich history - but the state is also home to many unique museums and famous landmarks. For example, those who love the classics can visit the Edgar Allen Poe Museum in Richmond. Those who harbor romantic dreams of espionage and intrigue might visit the CIA Museum in McLean. And, if you like your attractions random, you could check out Virginia’s 300-yard-long natural tunnel or its 29-ton spinning granite ball. While you’re here, you might consider attending one of the 78 colleges located in the state.
Learn more about Virginia’s higher education opportunities by checking out the state’s many colleges and universities.
What are Virginia’s Colleges & Universities?
- 11 Research Universities
- 32 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 16 Graduate Schools
- 15 Public Colleges & Universities
- 28 Private Colleges & Universities
- 17 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 31 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 21 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 26 Community Colleges
- 15 Online Colleges
Virginia’s Best Overall
There are 16 doctorate-granting graduate schools in Virginia. Our ranking of the best graduate schools in the Virginia is composed of both private and public schools. To be included, schools must be fully accredited non-profit institutions, and must offer doctoral degrees and a broad array of graduate degrees.
Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2023
- #4 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #5 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #8 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #9 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024
Other Rankings
- #10 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024
- #25 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #1 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #12 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #21 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
- #21 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #24 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #24 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #1 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
- #1 Best Online Master's in Special Education
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
- #8 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
- #10 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
- #12 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
Tuition + fees
$21K
Acceptance
19%
Graduation
95%
Student body
29K
Median SAT/ACT
1470/33
Career Outlook for degree at University of Virginia
Cost of Degree: $21,425Expenses: $17,790Starting Salary: $79,400Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Virginia known for?
University of Virginia’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #12 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #14 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #1 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
- #2 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
- #4 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
- #5 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
- #5 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
71%
Student body
47K
Median SAT/ACT
1245/28
Career Outlook for degree at George Mason University
Cost of Degree: $13,401Expenses: $17,902Starting Salary: $63,900Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is George Mason University known for?
George Mason University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Law
- Computer Science
- Sociology
- Business
- Philosophy
- Earth Sciences
- History
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #2 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #4 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Information Technology
- #5 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
57%
Graduation
86%
Student body
39K
Median SAT/ACT
1335/29
Career Outlook for degree at Virginia Tech
Cost of Degree: $14,666Expenses: $17,688Starting Salary: $67,100Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Virginia Tech known for?
Virginia Tech’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Earth Sciences
- Political Science
- Biology
- Medical
- Mathematics
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
- #14 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #18 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
Tuition + fees
$24K
Acceptance
33%
Graduation
91%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1447/33
Career Outlook for degree at William & Mary
Cost of Degree: $23,970Expenses: $17,148Starting Salary: $74,500Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is William & Mary known for?
William & Mary’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2024 #5 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2024 #5 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best RN to BSN Online
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #5 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #7 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #13 Best Online Master's in Special Education
- #14 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #17 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
65%
Student body
31K
Median SAT/ACT
1160/26
Career Outlook for degree at Virginia Commonwealth University
Cost of Degree: $15,642Expenses: $19,239Starting Salary: $49,700Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Virginia Commonwealth University known for?
Virginia Commonwealth University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2024 #8 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
- #2 Top 10 Most Affordable English PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
- #3 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Accounting Programs
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration
- #3 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #4 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Electrical and Computer Engineering Degree Programs for 2024
- #6 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Computer Science
- #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #7 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
- #7 Best Online Master's in English
- #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #9 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
- #9 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
- #10 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
- #10 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
- #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
- #13 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
- #19 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
- #23 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #24 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #25 Best Online Master's in Special Education
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
48%
Student body
27K
Median SAT/ACT
1170/24
Career Outlook for degree at Old Dominion University
Cost of Degree: $11,220Expenses: $17,780Starting Salary: $48,700Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Old Dominion University known for?
Old Dominion University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Sociology
- Earth Sciences
- Criminal Justice
- Business
- Education
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #6 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #8 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #3 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #7 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
- #9 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #19 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #21 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
- #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
- #1 Best Online Associate in Economics
- #1 Best Online Associate in Philosophy
- #1 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #1 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Degree Programs
- #1 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates)
- #1 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2024
- #1 Best Online Associate in Education
- #1 Best Online Associate in Mathematics
- #1 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Nursing (BSN) Programs
- #2 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs
- #2 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education
- #2 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #2 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
- #2 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
- #3 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of English
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
- #3 Best Online Degrees for a Career in Teaching Ranked 2024
- #3 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
- #3 Best Online Associate in Paralegal Studies
- #3 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #3 Best Online Master's in Theology
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Healthcare Administration Masters
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
- #3 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates)
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
- #4 Best Online Associate in Accounting
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Illinois
- #4 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
- #4 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #4 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
- #4 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #4 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Information Technology PhD Programs
- #4 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
- #4 Best Online Associate in Psychology
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #5 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates)
- #5 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
- #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
- #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Information Technology
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
- #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2024
- #6 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs
- #6 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs
- #7 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
- #7 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
- #7 Online Colleges That Start Anytime and the Benefits of a Self-Paced Education
- #8 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
- #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
- #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
- #8 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Best Online Associate's in Physics
- #9 Best Online Master's in Biology
- #9 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #11 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #11 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
- #11 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
- #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #12 Best Online Master's in Project Management
- #12 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
- #12 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
- #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2024
- #13 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2024
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #14 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
- #15 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees
- #16 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice
- #17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
- #17 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
- #18 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
- #18 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #18 Best Online Master’s in Finance
- #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
- #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #23 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #25 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
- #25 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
- #6 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #6 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
- #6 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$23K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
66%
Student body
131K
Career Outlook for degree at Liberty University
Cost of Degree: $16,203Expenses: $19,987Starting Salary: $41,400Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Liberty University known for?
Liberty University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Education
- Criminal Justice
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Law
- Social Work
- History
- Business
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2024 #10 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Cybersecurity
- #5 Most Affordable Online Master's of Speech Pathology Programs
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #16 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
- #17 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #18 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
81%
Student body
24K
Median SAT/ACT
1230/26
Career Outlook for degree at James Madison University
Cost of Degree: $13,092Expenses: $17,416Starting Salary: $63,300Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is James Madison University known for?
James Madison University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Earth Sciences
- Mathematics
- Criminal Justice
- Communications
- Political Science
- Computer Science
- History
- Physics
- Economics
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 HBCU Doctoral Programs Online #3 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #8 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #8 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
- #1 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #2 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
- #2 Best Online Associate in Business Management
- #2 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #3 Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs
- #4 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #5 Best HBCU Online Programs
- #5 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #6 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates
- #6 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #8 Best Online Associate in General Studies
- #8 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
- #9 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
- #10 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
- #12 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #16 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #19 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
- #25 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #5 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$29K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
46%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1030/22
Career Outlook for degree at Hampton University
Cost of Degree: $29,162Expenses: $16,886Starting Salary: $50,100Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Hampton University known for?
Hampton University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Education
- History
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Political Science
- Business
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2024 #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees
Other Rankings
- #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
- #5 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
- #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #15 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
54%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1060/21
Career Outlook for degree at Radford University
Cost of Degree: $11,916Expenses: $15,147Starting Salary: $48,000Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Radford University known for?
Radford University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Social Work
- Economics
- Communications
- Biology
- Earth Sciences
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 HBCU Doctoral Programs Online #15 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #19 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
38%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
930/15
Career Outlook for degree at Virginia State University
Cost of Degree: $9,654Expenses: $14,519Starting Salary: $38,400Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Virginia State University known for?
Virginia State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Engineering
- Education
- Mathematics
- Criminal Justice
- Political Science
- History
- Business
- Communications
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #13 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
- #2 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in the District Of Columbia
- #2 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
- #2 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
- #3 Best Online Associate in History Degrees
- #3 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #3 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Virginia 2024
- #3 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates)
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #4 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
- #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
- #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Counseling Degree Programs for 2024
- #5 Best Online Associate in Psychology
- #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
- #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
- #7 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology
- #7 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #7 Best Online Master's in Theology
- #7 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
- #8 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #8 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
- #8 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
- #8 Most Affordable Online PhDs in Psychology Ranked for 2024
- #9 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #9 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #10 Best Online Associate in General Studies
- #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's of Theology Degree Programs in 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #10 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
- #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity
- #12 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
- #14 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
- #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2024
- #16 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
- #19 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
- #21 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
- #23 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #24 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #24 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #10 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$20K
Acceptance
32%
Graduation
55%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1140/22
Career Outlook for degree at Regent University
Cost of Degree: $19,680Expenses: $11,182Starting Salary: $45,600Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Regent University known for?
Regent University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Law
- Political Science
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Nursing
- Business
- Philosophy
- Communications
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #13 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees
- #7 Best HBCU Online Programs
- #8 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Virginia
- #12 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #16 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #17 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
- #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
89%
Graduation
40%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
940/17
Career Outlook for degree at Norfolk State University
Cost of Degree: $9,622Expenses: $17,088Starting Salary: $38,800Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Norfolk State University known for?
Norfolk State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Criminal Justice
- Mathematics
- Nursing
- Physics
- Communications
- History
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024 #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024 #13 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
61%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at Marymount University
Cost of Degree: $36,800Expenses: $21,807Starting Salary: $57,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Marymount University known for?
Marymount University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Computer Science
- Medical
- Economics
- Political Science
- Mathematics
- Business
- Communications
- Engineering
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2024 #11 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs) #12 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
63%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Shenandoah University
Cost of Degree: $35,170Expenses: $15,330Starting Salary: $52,300Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Shenandoah University known for?
Shenandoah University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Medical
- Nursing
- History
- Communications
- Education
- Computer Science
- Business
- Literature
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
60%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1115/24
Career Outlook for degree at University of Lynchburg
Cost of Degree: $34,500Expenses: $16,110Starting Salary: $48,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Lynchburg known for?
University of Lynchburg’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Religious Studies
- Earth Sciences
- Education
- Economics
- Medical
- Social Work
- Psychology
- History
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
Virginia’s Best Grad School for Your Area of Interest
Resources for Prospective Grad Students
Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.
- University of Virginia
- George Mason University
- Virginia Tech
- William & Mary
- Virginia Commonwealth University
- Liberty University
- James Madison University
- Old Dominion University
- Hampton University
- Regent University
- Virginia State University
- Norfolk State University
- Marymount University
- Shenandoah University
- University of Lynchburg