Virginia’s Best Colleges & Universities

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U.S. News & World Report, a highly respected and influential publication, annually releases its rankings of American colleges and universities based on a variety of factors such as academic reputation, student outcomes, faculty resources, financial resources, and student selectivity. The rankings have become a popular tool for prospective students and their families to compare and evaluate different institutions. While the rankings are not without criticism, they have nonetheless become a significant factor in the higher education landscape, influencing admissions decisions, funding allocations, and institutional prestige. Below are the top 10 colleges and universities in Virginia according to U.S. News.

1. University of Virginia

#25 Overall

As a public research university founded by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia has consistently ranked among the best public universities in the country. With a strong commitment to undergraduate education, UVA offers a wide range of programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities.

2. College of William and Mary

#41 Overall

Located in historic Williamsburg, the College of William and Mary is a public liberal arts college that has a reputation for academic excellence. The school is known for its strong programs in history, government, and law, and it has produced many prominent leaders in those fields.

3. Virginia Tech

#62 Overall

As one of the largest public universities in Virginia, Virginia Tech offers a wide range of programs in engineering, business, agriculture, and more. The school is particularly well-known for its research in fields like cybersecurity, biomedicine, and sustainability.

4. George Mason University

#137 Overall

Located in Fairfax, Virginia, George Mason University is a public research university that offers a wide range of programs in business, engineering, law, and more. The school is particularly well-known for its programs in economics and computer science, and it is home to the Antonin Scalia Law School.

5. James Madison University

#151 Overall

Located in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, James Madison University is a public university that offers a wide range of programs in the arts, sciences, and education. The school is particularly known for its programs in education and health sciences.

6. Virginia Commonwealth University

#166 Overall

As the largest public university in Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University offers a wide range of programs in the arts, sciences, and health sciences. The school is particularly well-known for its programs in art, design, and healthcare.

7. Hampton University

#219 Overall (tie)

Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a historically black university located in Hampton, Virginia. The school offers a wide range of programs in the arts, sciences, and health sciences, and it is particularly known for its programs in nursing and pharmacy.

8. University of Lynchburg

#219 Overall (tie)

Founded in 1903, the University of Lynchburg is a private liberal arts college located in Lynchburg, Virginia. The school offers a wide range of programs in the arts, sciences, and education, and it is particularly known for its programs in healthcare, including nursing, athletic training, and physician assistant studies.

9. Marymount University

#299 Overall (tie)

Located in Arlington, Virginia, Marymount University is a private Catholic university that offers a wide range of programs in the arts, sciences, and business. The school is particularly known for its programs in nursing and health sciences, and it has a strong commitment to service and social justice.

10. Old Dominion University

#299 Overall (tie)

Located in Norfolk, Virginia, Old Dominion University is a public research university that offers a wide range of programs in engineering, business, education, and more. The school is particularly known for its programs in maritime and transportation studies, and it has a strong commitment to community engagement and economic development.
FAQ: Virginia Colleges and Universities

Frequently Asked Questions

Virginia Colleges and Universities

What are some types of colleges and universities in Virginia?

Virginia has a diverse selection of colleges and universities, ranging from public and private institutions to research universities, liberal arts colleges, historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), and military colleges. These institutions offer a wide range of programs and degrees, from associate's degrees to doctoral degrees.

What is the cost of attending college in Virginia?

The cost of attending college in Virginia varies depending on the type of institution and the student's residency status. According to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, the average in-state tuition and fees for public four-year institutions in Virginia was $14,206 for the 2020-2021 academic year. The average tuition and fees for private nonprofit four-year institutions in Virginia was $44,654 for the same academic year.

What are some popular degree programs at Virginia colleges and universities?

Virginia colleges and universities offer a wide variety of degree programs, with some of the most popular including business, engineering, computer science, nursing, education, and the arts and humanities. Many schools also have specialized programs in fields such as law, medicine, and the performing arts.

What is the student population like at Virginia colleges and universities?

Virginia colleges and universities have diverse student populations, with students from all over the country and the world. Some schools, such as Virginia Military Institute, have a more selective admissions process, while others, such as Virginia Commonwealth University, have a more open admissions policy. Student life varies greatly depending on the school, with some schools offering a more traditional campus experience and others catering to nontraditional or commuter students.

What are some notable accomplishments of Virginia colleges and universities?

Virginia colleges and universities have made many notable contributions to academia, research, and society at large. For example, the University of Virginia was founded by Thomas Jefferson and is often cited as one of the original "Public Ivies." Virginia Tech has a highly regarded engineering program and is home to the Hume Center for National Security and Technology. Hampton University is an HBCU that has produced many notable alumni, including Booker T. Washington and Oprah Winfrey. These are just a few examples of the many accomplishments of Virginia colleges and universities.

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Jamelia Todd

Jamelia Todd

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