Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2025

Badge for BEST IN VIRGINIA PUBLIC COLLEGES
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Public colleges and universities account for almost 75 percent of all undergraduate students in the U.S. The best public colleges in Virginia provide broad access to reputable degree programs, affordable tuition, and sprawling educational communities.

Key Takeaways

  • Public colleges in Virginia Tech offer top-tier research opportunities, with cutting-edge labs and resources in fields such as engineering, healthcare, and data science, giving students hands-on experience in conducting impactful research.
  • Many public colleges in Virginia are located near Washington, D.C., allowing students to take advantage of internships and networking opportunities in government, public policy, and international relations, particularly at institutions like George Mason University.
  • Virginia’s public colleges provide competitive in-state tuition rates and access to financial aid programs, scholarships, and work-study options, making high-quality education more affordable for Virginia residents.

10 Best Public Colleges in Virginia in 2025

  1. University of Virginia
  2. George Mason University
  3. Virginia Tech
  4. College of William & Mary
  5. Virginia Commonwealth University
  6. Virginia Military Institute
    +3
  7. Old Dominion University
    –1
  8. James Madison University
    –1
  9. Virginia State University
    +1
  10. Radford University
    –2

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the best public colleges in Virginia saw a fair amount of movement. Virginia Military Institute gained the most ranking positions as the school expanded its Cybersecurity and National Security Program, offering students cutting-edge training and resources in cyber defense and intelligence analysis, reflecting growing national security needs. VMI has also enhanced its physical fitness and leadership development facilities, adding new training equipment and leadership courses to further strengthen its cadet development program.

Additionally, the institute has upgraded its STEM facilities, particularly in engineering and applied science, providing students with access to advanced labs and research opportunities. These updates emphasize VMI’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and national service.

This list is composed entirely of public colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 15 public universities in Virginia. To be included in our list of the best public colleges in Virginia, shcools must receive direct funding from the state, be fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor’s degress.

Best Public Colleges in Virginia

  1. #1

    University of Virginia

    Charlottesville , VA
    #7 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #8 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #8 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #8 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025
    Other Rankings

    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: $22,323
    Expenses: $18,940
    Starting Salary: $79,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Virginia known for?

    University of Virginia’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  4. #4

    William & Mary

    Williamsburg , VA
    #14 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2025
    Other Rankings

    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: $25,041
    Expenses: $17,995
    Starting Salary: $74,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is William & Mary known for?

    William & Mary’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  6. #5

    Virginia Commonwealth University

    Richmond , VA
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2025 #5 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
    Other Rankings

    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: $16,233
    Expenses: $23,509
    Starting Salary: $49,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Virginia Commonwealth University known for?

    Virginia Commonwealth University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Virginia Commonwealth University’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Clinical Laboratory Science
    • Required Credits: 40
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Virginia Military Institute

    Lexington , VA
    #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Virginia 2025 #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    77%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1202/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Virginia Military Institute

    Cost of Degree: $20,484
    Expenses: $14,340
    Starting Salary: $65,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Virginia Military Institute known for?

    Virginia Military Institute’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  8. #7

    Old Dominion University

    Norfolk , VA
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2025 #8 Best Colleges in Virginia 2024
    Other Rankings

    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: $12,262
    Expenses: $19,392
    Starting Salary: $48,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Old Dominion University known for?

    Old Dominion University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Old Dominion University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Fashion Merchandising
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Real Estate
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Risk Management And Insurance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marketing Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems And Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Engineering Technology (Electrical Engineering Technology)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Embedded Systems Technology (Electrical Engineering Technology)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Technology Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybercrime
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Training Specialist (Occupational And Technical Studies)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Elementary Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS or BA in Geography
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Communication Systems Technology (Electrical Engineering Technology)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Professional Writing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Sciences-Health Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Dental Hygiene
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Medical Laboratory Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Civil Engineering Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in General Engineering Technology- Electromechanical Systems (Ids)
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Industrial Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Mechatronics Systems Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Met-Manufacturing Systems/Mechanical System Design
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Met-Nuclear Systems Concentration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  10. #9

    Virginia State University

    Petersburg , VA
    #6 Best Online HBCU Doctoral Programs 2025 #10 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #19 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2025
    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: $9,755
    Expenses: $17,906
    Starting Salary: $38,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Virginia State University known for?

    Virginia State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Virginia State University’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  12. #10

    Radford University

    Radford , VA
    #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2025 #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
    Other Rankings

    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: $12,286
    Expenses: $16,885
    Starting Salary: $48,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Radford University known for?

    Radford University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Radford University’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  13. #11

    University of Mary Washington

    Fredericksburg , VA
    #9 Best Small Colleges in Virginia 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2025 #6 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1255/27

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Mary Washington

    Cost of Degree: $14,559
    Expenses: $17,990
    Starting Salary: $56,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Mary Washington known for?

    University of Mary Washington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Mary Washington’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  14. #12

    Norfolk State University

    Norfolk , VA
    #13 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #14 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2025 #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees
    Other Rankings

    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: $9,910
    Expenses: $17,592
    Starting Salary: $38,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Norfolk State University known for?

    Norfolk State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Norfolk State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business
    Degree Concentrations
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • Management
    • Management Information Systems
    • Marketing
    • Management Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Tourism And Hospitality Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Services Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  15. #13

    Christopher Newport University

    Newport News , VA

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1195/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Christopher Newport University

    Cost of Degree: $16,351
    Expenses: $18,172
    Starting Salary: $52,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Christopher Newport University known for?

    Christopher Newport University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  16. #14

    Longwood University

    Farmville , VA
    #8 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia #14 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1115/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Longwood University

    Cost of Degree: $15,200
    Expenses: $19,931
    Starting Salary: $45,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Longwood University known for?

    Longwood University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Compare school
  18. #15

    University of Virginia's College at Wise

    Wise , VA
    #10 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    45%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1037/22

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Virginia's College at Wise

    Cost of Degree: $11,656
    Expenses: $16,745
    Starting Salary: $43,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Virginia's College at Wise known for?

    University of Virginia's College at Wise’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    University of Virginia's College at Wise’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
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Virginia’s Best Public College in Your Area of Interest

Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Commun­ications Computer Science Criminal Justice Earth Sciences Economics Education Engineering History Law Literature Mathematics Medical Nursing Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Work Sociology
2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 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.

  1. University of Virginia
  2. William & Mary
  3. Virginia Military Institute
  4. George Mason University
  5. Virginia Tech
  6. Virginia Commonwealth University
  7. Virginia State University
  8. Norfolk State University
  9. University of Mary Washington
  10. James Madison University
  11. Old Dominion University
  12. Radford University
  13. Christopher Newport University
  14. University of Virginia's College at Wise
  15. Longwood University

Check out our directory of public colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top public colleges in every state.

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