Colleges in Virginia: Top 25 Universities to Explore
Discover 25 top colleges in Virginia with addresses, contact info, tuition ranges, and tips to guide your college search for both public and private universities.
Introduction: Navigating Higher Education in Virginia
Virginia offers a diverse range of colleges and universities, from large research institutions to small liberal arts colleges. Whether you’re pursuing STEM, business, liberal arts, or specialized programs, the state has schools that match every interest and career goal. This guide highlights 25 universities across Virginia, providing essential details like tuition, contact info, and unique features to help students make informed decisions for their higher education journey.
1. University of Virginia
Website: virginia.edu
Address: Charlottesville, VA 22904
Phone: +1 (434) 924-0311
Email: admissions@virginia.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $19,000–$60,000
UVA is a public research university known for strong programs in business, law, and the liberal arts. Its historic campus and vibrant community attract students seeking a mix of academics, leadership, and service opportunities.
💡 Tip: Highlight leadership and service experiences in your application.
FAQ: Is UVA more suitable for in-state students? In-state tuition is lower, but out-of-state students can also thrive with access to top programs and resources.
2. Virginia Tech
Website: vt.edu
Address: Blacksburg, VA 24061
Phone: +1 (540) 231-6000
Email: admissions@vt.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $20,000–$55,000
Virginia Tech is known for engineering, technology, and business programs. Research opportunities and a large, active campus community provide students with a hands-on, immersive learning experience.
⚠️ Warning: Some programs are highly competitive; ensure your application demonstrates relevant experience.
FAQ: Does Virginia Tech offer scholarships for out-of-state students? Yes, merit-based scholarships are competitive but available.
3. George Mason University
Website: gmu.edu
Address: Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: +1 (703) 993-1000
Email: admissions@gmu.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $18,000–$36,000
GMU is known for economics, law, and public policy programs. Its proximity to Washington, D.C., offers students internships, government experience, and cultural opportunities.
💡 Tip: Use D.C. internships to gain real-world experience.
FAQ: How large is GMU’s student body? Approximately 37,000 students create a vibrant, diverse campus.
4. James Madison University
Website: jmu.edu
Address: Harrisonburg, VA 22807
Phone: +1 (540) 568-6211
Email: admissions@jmu.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $22,000–$40,000
JMU offers strong programs in business, health sciences, and the arts. A supportive community, research opportunities, and leadership development make it attractive for students seeking engagement inside and outside the classroom.
💡 Tip: Join student organizations to enhance your college experience.
FAQ: Is JMU more residential or commuter-based? Highly residential, with most students living on campus.
5. College of William & Mary
Website: wm.edu
Address: Williamsburg, VA 23187
Phone: +1 (757) 221-4223
Email: ugrad.admiss@wm.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $25,000–$60,000
One of the nation’s oldest universities, William & Mary excels in law, government, and liberal arts programs. The historic campus and rigorous academics appeal to students focused on leadership and public service.
⚠️ Warning: Admissions are competitive; emphasize leadership and community involvement.
FAQ: Does William & Mary offer honors programs? Yes, honors programs and research opportunities are available.
6. Virginia Commonwealth University
Website: vcu.edu
Address: Richmond, VA 23284
Phone: +1 (804) 828-0100
Email: admissions@vcu.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $25,000–$45,000
VCU is renowned for arts, health sciences, and business programs. Located in Richmond, students have access to urban internships, cultural events, and research opportunities.
💡 Tip: Take advantage of VCU’s nationally recognized arts programs.
FAQ: Does VCU have strong pre-med tracks? Yes, with access to hospitals and research opportunities.
7. Liberty University
Website: liberty.edu
Address: Lynchburg, VA 24515
Phone: +1 (434) 582-2000
Email: admissions@liberty.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $20,000–$45,000
Liberty is a private Christian university with programs in business, education, and law. A robust online degree system supports flexible learning.
⚠️ Warning: Campus culture is faith-oriented; students should be ready for values-based community expectations.
FAQ: Can non-Christian students attend? Yes, but the curriculum reflects Christian values.
8. Old Dominion University
Website: odu.edu
Address: Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone: +1 (757) 683-3000
Email: admissions@odu.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $22,000–$40,000
ODU is known for engineering, business, and marine science programs. Coastal location supports research in oceanography, environmental studies, and military partnerships.
💡 Tip: Engage with ODU’s research labs for hands-on experience.
FAQ: Is ODU suitable for international students? Yes, with a growing international student community.
9. Radford University
Website: radford.edu
Address: Radford, VA 24142
Phone: +1 (540) 831-5000
Email: admissions@radford.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $20,000–$35,000
Radford offers nursing, education, and business programs. Small class sizes and a close-knit community enhance learning and engagement.
⚠️ Warning: Campus is primarily residential; off-campus housing options may be limited.
FAQ: What is the student-to-faculty ratio? Approximately 17:1 for personalized attention.
10. University of Mary Washington
Website: umw.edu
Address: Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Phone: +1 (540) 654-2000
Email: admissions@umw.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $22,000–$40,000
UMW focuses on liberal arts programs, particularly history, political science, and education. Small class sizes allow for personalized instruction and mentorship.
💡 Tip: Take advantage of study abroad programs for global exposure.
FAQ: Does UMW have research opportunities for undergraduates? Yes, research is strongly encouraged.
11. Norfolk State University
Website: nsu.edu
Address: Norfolk, VA 23504
Phone: +1 (757) 823-8600
Email: admissions@nsu.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $15,000–$30,000
Norfolk State University, a historically Black university, offers strong programs in business, education, and STEM fields. Students benefit from leadership initiatives and cultural enrichment programs.
💡 Tip: Apply for NSU’s scholarships aimed at first-generation college students.
FAQ: How active is student life at NSU? There are over 70 student organizations, including academic, cultural, and service groups.
12. Washington and Lee University
Website: wlu.edu
Address: Lexington, VA 24450
Phone: +1 (540) 458-8710
Email: admissions@wlu.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $50,000–$70,000
Washington and Lee is a private liberal arts college known for law, politics, and economics programs. Its small student body fosters close faculty-student relationships and rigorous academics.
⚠️ Warning: Highly selective admissions; demonstrate strong academics and leadership experience.
FAQ: Does W&L provide financial aid? Yes, it meets 100% of demonstrated need for admitted students.
13. Hampton University
Website: hamptonu.edu
Address: Hampton, VA 23668
Phone: +1 (757) 727-5000
Email: admissions@hamptonu.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $30,000–$50,000
Hampton University is a historically Black university with prominent programs in pharmacy, business, and engineering. Students gain hands-on experience through research and internships.
💡 Tip: Explore STEM summer programs for practical experience.
FAQ: Are study abroad opportunities available? Yes, Hampton offers several international exchange programs.
14. Marymount University
Website: marymount.edu
Address: Arlington, VA 22207
Phone: +1 (703) 284-1500
Email: admissions@marymount.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $30,000–$50,000
Marymount is a private Catholic university near Washington, D.C., known for business, nursing, and education programs. Students can access internships and cultural experiences in the capital.
💡 Tip: Use D.C.-based internships to enhance career readiness.
FAQ: Are there online programs at Marymount? Yes, several flexible online and hybrid options exist.
15. Virginia Wesleyan University
Website: vwu.edu
Address: Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Phone: +1 (757) 455-3208
Email: admissions@vwu.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $25,000–$40,000
Virginia Wesleyan is a small liberal arts university emphasizing community engagement and experiential learning, with programs in business, health sciences, and social sciences.
⚠️ Warning: Smaller campus; resources may be more limited than larger universities.
FAQ: What is the average class size? About 15–20 students for personalized attention.
16. Sweet Briar College
Website: sbc.edu
Address: Sweet Briar, VA 24595
Phone: +1 (434) 381-6142
Email: admissions@sbc.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $30,000–$50,000
Sweet Briar is a women’s liberal arts college with programs in humanities, sciences, and equestrian studies. Small classes foster mentoring relationships and leadership development.
💡 Tip: Take advantage of one-on-one faculty mentoring.
FAQ: Are athletics offered? Yes, NCAA Division III sports and intramural programs are available.
17. Shenandoah University
Website: su.edu
Address: Winchester, VA 22601
Phone: +1 (540) 665-4581
Email: admissions@su.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $25,000–$45,000
Shenandoah is known for health professions, pharmacy, and music programs. Students gain hands-on experience in labs, clinics, and performances.
💡 Tip: Participate in internships to strengthen your practical skills.
FAQ: Does Shenandoah offer graduate programs? Yes, in multiple disciplines including health and music.
18. Randolph College
Website: randolphcollege.edu
Address: Lynchburg, VA 24503
Phone: +1 (434) 947-8100
Email: admissions@randolphcollege.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $30,000–$50,000
Randolph College is a liberal arts institution for women, emphasizing critical thinking, research, and leadership development.
⚠️ Warning: Limited student population means fewer major options.
FAQ: Are there study abroad programs? Yes, multiple international opportunities are available.
19. Bridgewater College
Website: bridgewater.edu
Address: Bridgewater, VA 22812
Phone: +1 (540) 828-8000
Email: admissions@bridgewater.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $25,000–$45,000
Bridgewater College focuses on liberal arts education, business, and health programs. Students benefit from leadership opportunities and personalized instruction.
💡 Tip: Engage in community service to strengthen your college experience.
FAQ: What is the average class size? About 15–20 students per class.
20. Emory & Henry College
Website: ehc.edu
Address: Emory, VA 24327
Phone: +1 (276) 944-4121
Email: admissions@ehc.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $25,000–$45,000
A liberal arts college with experiential learning, leadership, and service-focused programs in business, education, and sciences.
⚡ Tip: Participate in community-based learning for real-world experience.
FAQ: Are scholarships available? Yes, both merit and need-based scholarships are offered.
21. Ferrum College
Website: ferrum.edu
Address: Ferrum, VA 24088
Phone: +1 (540) 365-2121
Email: admissions@ferrum.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $20,000–$40,000
Ferrum College provides programs in education, nursing, and business with small class sizes and hands-on learning.
💡 Tip: Utilize internships and service projects to enhance your experience.
FAQ: Does Ferrum offer on-campus housing? Yes, residential life is encouraged.
22. Bluefield University
Website: bluefield.edu
Address: Bluefield, VA 24605
Phone: +1 (276) 326-4200
Email: admissions@bluefield.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $20,000–$40,000
Bluefield University offers programs in business, education, and nursing with a small-campus, supportive environment.
⚡ Tip: Seek faculty mentoring for career guidance.
FAQ: Is Bluefield faith-based? Yes, affiliated with the Presbyterian Church.
23. Averett University
Website: averett.edu
Address: Danville, VA 24541
Phone: +1 (434) 791-5600
Email: admissions@averett.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $20,000–$40,000
Averett provides programs in liberal arts and professional fields, including business, nursing, and education.
💡 Tip: Participate in service-learning projects to build experience.
FAQ: Are online programs available? Yes, Averett offers online and hybrid programs.
24. Eastern Mennonite University
Website: emu.edu
Address: Harrisonburg, VA 22802
Phone: +1 (540) 432-4000
Email: admissions@emu.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $25,000–$45,000
EMU emphasizes peacebuilding, business, and the arts with a strong focus on social justice and service.
⚡ Tip: Engage in international service-learning programs for real-world skills.
FAQ: Is EMU primarily residential? Yes, most students live on campus.
25. Regent University
Website: regent.edu
Address: Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Phone: +1 (757) 352-4000
Email: admissions@regent.edu
Tuition Fee Range: $25,000–$45,000
Regent University is a private Christian university with strong programs in law, business, and communications. Students have access to internships and D.C.-based opportunities.
⚡ Tip: Leverage Washington, D.C., internships for law and policy careers.
FAQ: Can non-Christian students attend? Yes, but curriculum and culture are influenced by Christian values.