Best Colleges in Virginia

Best Colleges in Virginia – Introduction

If you want to learn more about the best colleges in Virginia, you’ve come to the right place. There are many students who want to study at the best universities in Virginia. Aside from its rich culture and southern charm, Virginia has a strong history of investing in higher education. This means that not only does Virginia have stellar private colleges and many classic, large, public research universities, but a number of smaller public universities as well. 

The best colleges in Virginia are located all across the state: from Fairfax near D.C., to Norfolk, Fredericksburg, and Virginia Beach, to the state’s capital, Richmond. 

In this article, you’ll learn all about the best colleges in Virginia, including how many colleges there are in Virginia, HBCU in Virginia, and the public colleges in Virginia. We’ll also discuss the private colleges in Virginia, the best colleges in Virginia for business, and more. 

The best colleges in Virginia are also some of the best colleges in the US– so to learn more, read on! 

How many colleges does Virginia have?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there are 60 four-year institutions in Virginia. Among these are some of the best colleges in Virginia, which include many different types of colleges. 

For example, many of the best colleges in Virginia are public universities. These public universities offer numerous research opportunities and strong communities, as well as comparably low tuition (especially for in-state applicants).

If you’re looking to go to a private college in Virginia, you will also encounter many exciting options. Out of the best colleges in Virginia, there are two types of private colleges: liberal arts colleges and research universities. Liberal arts colleges feature a wider range of subjects and are more focused on a holistic understanding of learning. 

Conversely, research universities are likely to be larger, and they have more opportunities to pursue research, often in STEM fields. Later in this article, we’ll cover some of the best colleges in Virginia for business, the best colleges in Virginia for psychology, and finally, the best colleges in Virginia for environmental science. 

Colleges in Virginia Map

Before we look into the best colleges in Virginia, let’s get a general overview of all the colleges in Virginia. 

If you want to attend one of the best universities in Virginia but aren’t sure exactly what city you’d like to study in, worry not! On our colleges in Virginia map, you’ll find some of the best colleges in Virginia spread throughout the state. 

By looking at our colleges in Virginia map, you can see that the best colleges in Virginia are concentrated in different areas around the state: from Hampton Roads to Richmond to Charlottesville. Hampton Roads is the name for the collection of cities in the southeasternmost part of Virginia. Richmond is, of course, the capital of Virginia, and close by to Washington, D.C.

Though D.C. is its own district and not technically a city in Virginia, it is an exciting area with many career and extracurricular opportunities, and many VA schools are located close by. Finally, Charlottesville, home to the University of Virginia, is on our best college towns list. In fact, the UVA campus, combined with Thomas Jefferson’s home of Monticello, comprises a UNESCO world heritage site! 

Now that we’ve explored our colleges in Virginia map, let’s dive into the different types of colleges Virginia has to offer such as private colleges, public colleges, and HBCU schools.

How many public colleges are in Virginia?

If you want to attend one of the best universities in Virginia and are curious about your options in terms of public universities, here’s what you need to know about public colleges in Virginia.

There are 15 notable public universities in Virginia.

Take some time to explore the above list of schools. Check out their websites and do some research to see if these public colleges in Virginia may be good additions to your college list!

Other kinds of colleges in Virginia

Other than public universities and private 4-year institutions, there are other types of colleges in Virginia as well.

If you can’t commit to a 4-year program and want the flexibility of a shorter degree, you may want to look into a two-year college in Virginia. An institution like Richard Bland College in Prince George County, for example, would be a great way to begin your college journey and get a step up in your career. 

Another way to study in Virginia with more flexibility than a 4-year college is to attend a community college. There are many benefits to attending a community college, including lower tuition costs, more schedule flexibility, and transferable credits. Those credits can be useful if you want to move to a different institution later in your college experience. Virginia has many community colleges, including Northern Virginia Community College, Eastern Shore Community College, and Danville Community College. 

Finally, if you don’t end up attending one of the best universities in Virginia for undergrad, consider a graduate program! Many of the best colleges in Virginia offer graduate degrees, including James Madison University, UVA, and William and Mary. 

Are there Ivy League Universities in Virginia?

Though you can attend one of the best colleges in Virginia, if you have your heart set on studying in Virginia, then you cannot attend an Ivy League School. There are no Ivy League universities in VA. All Ivy League schools are located in the Northeast. 

However, while Virginia doesn’t have any Ivies, that doesn’t mean that it lacks academically rigorous and prestigious universities! “Public Ivies” are public schools that are said to give students the Ivy experience but as part of a public university setting. The Public Ivies provide students with rigorous academic experiences, along with fulfilling extracurricular opportunities. In fact, they can be considered some of the best colleges in the US!

Some of the best colleges in Virginia are Public Ivies: UVA and William and Mary. U.S. News and World Report states that the University of Virginia ranking is #25 nationally. Additionally, the William and Mary ranking is #41. 

List of HBCU in Virginia

If you’d like to attend an HBCU in Virginia, you’re in luck!

Virginia has 5 HBCUs, also known as Historically Black Colleges and Universities. HBCUs are an integral part of the American educational system, founded before Black students were widely accepted at all universities in the United States.

Many are prestigious academic institutions and feature a college experience that prioritizes learning for all, regardless of race or ethnicity. According to this landmark study, attending an HBCU in Virginia also promotes economic growth, which ultimately creates more jobs and more vibrant communities.

The 5 HBCU Schools in Virginia

1. Hampton University

Your first option for attending an HBCU in Virginia is Hampton University. Hampton University is ranked #219 out of all the universities in the U.S. by U.S. News.

Hampton University has an 80% acceptance rate. Hampton is a private institution that enrolls 3,500 students—the perfect midsize college for always having someone to wave to as you cross campus, but not always running into the same few people. 

2. Norfolk State University

If you want to be #SpartanStrong, head to Norfolk State University. Norfolk State University is the second-ranked HBCU in Virginia and is ranked #63 out of southern universities by U.S. News. 

With an 89% acceptance rate, Norfolk will be a “safety” school for most applicants. Norfolk is a public university located in an urban setting, and it’s in the southeast Hampton Roads region of Virginia. It is a D1 NCAA school, featuring athletics like Basketball, Baseball, and Tennis. 

3. Virginia State University

Founded in 1882, Virginia State University is the second oldest HBCU in Virginia. Virginia State has a 96% acceptance rate, and at its mid-size student enrollment of around 3,000, students benefit from the research opportunities of a larger school while still experiencing the community feel of a small school. It has 31 undergraduate degree programs and features subjects like business, education, engineering, and the humanities. 

4. Virginia Union University

Another historical HBCU in Virginia, Virginia Union University was founded in 1865. VUU is a faith-based university that welcomes students who want to connect to their spiritual growth and transformation. Located in the capital city of Richmond, Virginia, Virginia Union is ranked between #156-#201 in National Liberal Arts Colleges by U.S. News. 

Virginia Union has a 71% acceptance rate. The most popular majors, also according to U.S. News, are criminal justice and corrections, biology, psychology, and marketing. Virginia Union also features The Center for the Study of HBCUs, which aims to “become the country’s preeminent institute for the advancement of scholarship on Black colleges in the United States and beyond.”

5. Virginia University of Lynchburg

Another HBCU in Virginia with a grounding in faith, Virginia University of Lynchburg is located in the city of Lynchburg, VA. The Virginia University of Lynchburg requires a GPA of 2.0 for both high school graduates and transfer students from other institutions. With a 97% acceptance rate, this is a great safety school for any college list. 

If you want to attend one of the HBCU schools located in Virginia, you have many great options that will be academically and socially enriching. To learn more about other types of prestigious colleges in Virginia, read on.

Top Twenty Best Colleges in Virginia

The best universities in Virginia are diverse and varied: from large public universities to smaller liberal arts colleges, from urban to rural, any student can find what they’re looking for in a Virginia college. They are also some of the best colleges in the U.S. 

Top 20 best colleges in Virginia according to the U.S. News and World Report

1. University of Virginia

Number one out of the top 20 best universities in Virginia, the national UVA ranking is #25 according to U.S. News. As #1 on our list of the best colleges in Virginia, The University of Virginia is an academically rigorous and exciting university. Not only is the college location of UVA, Charlottesville, on our “best college towns” list, but UVA’s campus is beautiful in its own right: flowering trees and historic buildings litter the pantheon-inspired campus. 

Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, UVA is not only an “iconic public institution of higher education,” but as an NCAA participant, a dominant athletic presence as well. UVA is also one of two Public Ivies in Virginia. If UVA is your dream school, check out our resource on how to write the best UVA essays. 

2. William and Mary

Not far behind UVA, another one of the best colleges in Virginia is William and Mary. As one of the prestigious public colleges in Virginia, The William and Mary ranking is #41 out of all national universities, and the school is aptly located in Williamstown, Virginia. 

Founded in 1693 by King William III and Queen Mary II of England, William and Mary is the second oldest college in the U.S. The average student admitted to William and Mary has an SAT score between 1360-1520, so make sure to focus on your testing strategies if you want to be a strong applicant! To learn more about the best colleges for business, check out this guide. 

3. Virginia Tech

The Virginia Tech ranking is #62 out of all national universities, and VA Tech is another of the best colleges in Virginia with a strong history. Founded in 1872, VA Tech is much larger than the previous universities we’ve mentioned. VA Tech has an undergraduate student body of 20,000, and strives to create “boundless impact.” 

VA Tech is very research-focused, so if you’re looking for a STEM-centric education in Virginia, VA Tech might be a good fit for you. Like William and Mary and UVA, Virginia Tech is one of many public colleges in Virginia, which means that the tuition is lower for in-state applicants. So, if you’re stressed about how to pay for college, consider attending an in-state public college like VA Tech. This can be a way to get a prestigious education at a relatively low price. 

4. George Mason University

If you’re looking to attend one of the best universities in Virginia in order to launch your dreams of working in the United States Capitol, consider George Mason University: a suburban school near D.C. The George Mason University Ranking is #137 in the nation, and Mason has 10 colleges and schools that cover many different academic areas. Mason’s college location has a lot of impact on its overall ethos and extracurricular opportunities, with its D.C. proximity allowing you to “become a game-changer, a policymaker, [or] an entrepreneur.” 

5. James Madison University

James Madison University is next on the list of best colleges in Virginia. Located equidistant between D.C. and Richmond, JMU is another example of one of the strong public colleges in Virginia. The James Madison University ranking is #151, and JMU’s acceptance rate is around 81%, making it selective but less selective than schools like UVA or William and Mary. 

If you’re looking to balance out your college list with a “target” school, then JMU could be a good option. Some of the most popular majors at JMU include Community Health Services and Counseling and Communications.

6. Virginia Commonwealth University

As #6 on our list of the best colleges in Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University was founded in 1838. VCU is a public school with a large undergraduate enrollment of 21,394 located in Richmond, VA. When they’re not studying for their popular majors like business or performing arts, cheering on the VCU Rams is a common activity for VCU students. 

7. Hampton University

If you want to attend one of the best universities in Virginia and also attend an HBCU in Virginia, Hampton University might be the right choice for you. Founded in 1868 and located in Hampton, Hampton is ranked one of the top HBCUs in the country and is ranked #219 nationally. 

If you attend Hampton, you’ll be attending one of the best colleges in Virginia that boasts graduates such as Alberta Williams King, the mother of Martin Luther King Jr., and Booker T. Washington, an influential African American educator and the founder of Tuskegee University. 

8. University of Lynchburg

The University of Lynchburg is a small school with an enrollment under 2,000. The University of Lynchburg has an acceptance rate of 97%, making it less selective. Since it is a less selective school, it might be a good “safety” for students who want to study at one of the best colleges in Virginia. The University of Lynchburg features many interesting specialized majors such as actuarial science, exercise physiology, and intelligence studies. 

9. Marymount University

Coming in at #9 of the best colleges in Virginia and #299 nationally, Marymount University is a private Catholic school in Arlington (near Washington, D.C.). Majors such as criminal justice benefit from the school’s proximity to U.S. investigative agencies like the FBI and DIA. Marymount also features 22 NCAA Division III athletic teams. 

10. Old Dominion University

Ties with Marymount at #299 in U.S. News’ National Best Colleges rankings, Old Dominion University is located in Norfolk and is urban, rather than suburban. It has 18,000 undergraduates compared to Marymount’s 2,200. Old Dominion is also part of the Division I Athletic Conference, compared to Marymount’s D3. ODU boasts nearly 100 undergraduate programs, and its college setting is located right on the waterfront.

11. Regent University

Looks like the #299 ranking is actually a 3-way tie – Regent University is also tied with Old Dominion and Marymount! Regent University is a private institution in Virginia Beach founded in 1978. U.S. News ranks Regent #56 in terms of social mobility. Regent is a Christian institution, and 15% of Regent majors study psychology—so if you’re caught between Jesus and Jung, Regent might be a great choice! 

12. Shenandoah University

Did we say 3-way tie? We meant 4-way. Shenandoah University is also ranked #299 (but it’s the last one, we promise). With an urban college setting in Winchester, VA, and a medium-small enrollment of 2,416, Shenandoah has an acceptance rate of 74%. Shenandoah boasts that it “blends professional career experiences with liberal learning in the performing arts, business, education, natural sciences and the humanities, nursing, healthcare, pharmacy, personalized medicine and more.” 

13. Washington and Lee University

Washington and Lee University is a private college founded in 1749, located in historic Lexington, VA. The school is named after George Washington, who gave a large donation to the school, and Robert E. Lee, who served as its president. It is a small liberal arts college and is ranked #11 out of liberal arts colleges. 

14. University of Richmond

Number 14 on our list of the best colleges in Virginia and #18 in liberal arts colleges, the University of Richmond is located in Virginia’s capital Richmond. Its Robins School of Business ranks in the top 20, and the U of Richmond mascot is the spider! At Richmond, you can receive internship funding, study abroad, and pursue multiple unrelated majors at the same time. 

15. Virginia Military Institute

If you want to attend one of the best colleges in Virginia that is also the oldest state-supported military college, look no further than The Virginia Military Institute. All students are part of Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) and live in barracks rather than dorms. The most popular majors include international relations and civil engineering.

16. Hampden-Sydney College

Aptly named for its location in Hampden-Sydney, VA, Hampden-Sydney College is a private college with 50+ majors and minors for students to choose from. It is quite a small institution, with an undergrad population of just 851 students. Hampden-Sydney is a male-only institution: if you’ve always wished you could join an enormous fraternity that encompassed your entire collegiate experience, at H-SC you will “find a real brotherhood: friends and mentors who will walk with you on your journey toward not only a successful career, but also a meaningful life.”

17. Hollins University

Ranked by U.S. News as #102 in Best Liberal Arts Colleges, and #17 on our list of best colleges in Virginia is Hollins University. Hollins was founded in 1842 as a women’s institution, and it is still 100% women. Hollins features 29 degrees, with 17 concentrations and 30 minors for you to customize your academic experience. 

18. Randolph-Macon College

Randolph-Macon College is ranked #18 on our list of best colleges in Virginia, and unlike most other colleges, applying to R-MC is completely free. It is a suburban college of 1500 students founded in 1830. Randolph-Macon admissions is selective, with an acceptance rate of 84%. Randolph-Macon’s website boasts that it has the 15th-best career services in the nation according to the Princeton Review, and it is also home to over 100 student organizations.

19. Roanoke College

Next on our list is Roanoke College, which is one of the private colleges in Virginia and is located in Salem. It has a student body of 1800, and a suburban setting. Roanoke features interesting academic options like creative core-curriculum classes and enables you to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

20. Randolph College

The last on our list of best colleges in Virginia, Randolph College is located in Lynchburg and sits on a picturesque 100-acre campus. According to Randolph’s website, the campus combines the best of exciting, cutting-edge facilities with historic brick buildings. Randolph offers 30 majors and 43 minors, and pre-professional programs like engineering, nursing, law, medicine, and veterinary studies. 

If you found this list a little overwhelming, don’t worry! There’s a lot that goes into choosing the best college for you, from doing initial research, to balancing your college list, to comparing financial aid packages once you’ve been accepted. However, we hope this breakdown of the top 20 best colleges in Virginia has helped you feel more confident in taking that first step!

Best small colleges in Virginia

There are many reasons to choose a small school: more 1-on-1 time with professors, a close-knit community, and a more involved student life. 

So, out of all of these colleges, you may be wondering ultimately, what’s the best college in Virginia? Well, let’s talk about it!

What’s the best college in Virginia?

According to U.S. News, the best college in Virginia is the University of Virginia, or UVA!

UVA is not only #1 on our list of the best colleges in Virginia, the overall University of Virginia ranking of #25 by U.S. News makes it one of the best colleges in the U.S.

At UVA, students spend their days lounging on the Greek architecture-inspired lawn. Not just fans of Greek architecture, approximately 35% of students at UVA participate in Greek life. Whether you want to conduct award-winning research, attend talks by famous comedians like Tina Fey, or cheer on a nationally-ranked sports team, UVA has opportunities for students from all walks of life. 

If UVA doesn’t sound like the best fit for you, there are fantastic colleges all across the country and all across Virginia—from William and Mary, to George Mason, to Virginia Tech, to James Madison. According to U.S. News, the Virginia Tech ranking is #62, the George Mason University ranking is #137, and the James Madison University ranking is #151.

Still think UVA is your dream school? If you’re wondering how to get into the University of Virginia, we have lots of resources to help you: from webinars to successful essay examples, CollegeAdvisor is here to help. Whether you’re a first-generation student or have been a Cavalier for generations, from research to acceptances, CollegeAdvisor can support you in your college journey.

What is the largest university in Virginia?

When looking at colleges in Virginia, you might wonder what school is the largest. According to U.S. News, Liberty University is the largest of all the colleges in Virginia. Liberty University is a private Christian school located in Lynchburg, VA with a total enrollment of over 130,000 students. In the Fall of 2021, approximately 48,135 of these students were undergraduates. Liberty University offers unique majors compared to other colleges in Virginia, such as the camp & outdoor adventure leadership major or the biblical studies major. 

The second largest out of the colleges in Virginia is Virginia Tech, which is home to over 37,000 students (80% of whom are undergraduates). As one of the best colleges in Virginia, Virginia Tech is a public college located in Blacksburg, Virginia. With Virginia Tech ranking #62 in National Universities, Virginia Tech is one of the best universities in Virginia. Compared to other colleges in Virginia, Virginia Tech provides a STEM-focused education. As you might guess from the high Virginia Tech ranking, this school is committed to innovation and experimentation. 

School size is an important consideration to keep in mind throughout your college search. Some students may feel more comfortable at a smaller school, while others prefer one of the larger colleges in Virginia. Smaller schools may provide more focused attention, while larger schools may offer more choices and varied student communities. 

When researching colleges in Virginia, think about what type of environment you would prefer. The best colleges in Virginia are all unique, so you’ll find a great school no matter the size. Factoring in school size, as well as college location and college setting, can help you decide which colleges in Virginia are best for you!

What is the hardest college to get into in Virginia?

Out of the colleges in Virginia, the University of Virginia is the most competitive with a 21% acceptance rate. As we mentioned already, U.S News has the University of Virginia ranking at #25 in National Universities and #3 in Top Public Schools. One of the best universities in Virginia, UVA is renowned for its many academic programs, including business, nursing, and engineering. UVA also boasts 25 NCAA Division 1 sports, making it one of the best colleges in Virginia for student-athletes. So, it’s no wonder that UVA is one of the best colleges in Virginia. 

Out of all the colleges in Virginia, the University of Virginia has the most selective admissions process. When researching colleges in Virginia, it’s clear UVA is one of the most popular options. And as one of the best colleges in Virginia, gaining admission to the University of Virginia is not easy.

With the University of Virginia ranking highly among both colleges in Virginia and nationwide, you’ll need a compelling application. Make sure your supplemental essays are stellar, your SAT score is strong, and your extracurricular activities are robust. Check out our guide on how to get into the University of Virginia for more helpful application tips.

We know the application process for the best colleges in Virginia can be intimidating. However, getting to know the school and finding the things you love about it is a great way to start. Additionally, to learn more about the University of Virginia, take a look at our panel with alumni and current students. As one of the best colleges in Virginia, UVA is a great option for students all over the country! 

What is the oldest college in Virginia?

While many colleges in Virginia have a rich history, the oldest is the College of William & Mary. Founded in 1693, William and Mary is not only one of the oldest colleges in Virginia. It’s also one of the oldest in the United States, second only to Harvard! With such a long history, William and Mary has long been considered one of the best colleges in Virginia.

Located in Williamsburg, the College of William and Mary was the first of many colleges in Virginia. In fact, William and Mary is not just considered one of the best colleges in Virginia. It’s also one of the Public Ivies, a collection of the most high-ranking public research universities in the country! And, as one of the Public Ivies, it’s no surprise that the William and Mary ranking in Top Public Schools is #13.

William and Mary is known for its excellent STEM research opportunities, as well as its robust internship program. With William and Mary ranking #41 in National Universities, it’s no wonder it’s one of the best universities in Virginia. Boasting an undergraduate enrollment of 6,543 (as of fall 2021), William and Mary is one of the smaller colleges in Virginia. As a top school, William and Mary is also one of the more competitive colleges in Virginia. For tips on applying to one of the best colleges in Virginia, check out our W&M application guide.

What is the cheapest college in Virginia?

When researching colleges in Virginia, considering the cost of attendance is another key factor. If you’re looking for affordability, Virginia Union University is the least expensive of all the colleges in Virginia. The yearly tuition is $10,530. Once you account for fees, meal plans, and housing expenses, the total cost of attendance comes out to around $27,250.

Remember, this is the cost before any financial aid is applied. Virginia Union University also has a number of scholarship opportunities available as well. Understanding the true cost of college is a critical step to deciding which colleges are right for you. For some students, VUU may be one of the best colleges in Virginia to consider based on cost alone. 

As we’ve mentioned, Virginia Union University is a Historically Black College (aka an HBCU) located in Richmond, Virginia. With a total undergraduate enrollment of 1,654, Virginia Union University provides a small, close-knit environment for students. Attending an HBCU in Virginia provides a unique experience for students from all backgrounds. When researching colleges in Virginia, consider if an HBCU is right for you. 

Eliminating financial barriers

Like many other colleges, certain HBCU schools can be cost-prohibitive for a lot of students. However, Virginia Union University is committed to reducing costs for students. By reducing their tuition, VUU hopes to eliminate financial barriers to entry as well as student debt after college. If you are interested in attending an HBCU in Virginia, consider applying to Virginia Union University. 

It’s important to note that for most schools, the reported cost of attendance is not actually paid by all students. So, be sure to explore the financial aid options provided by each of the colleges in Virginia. Look for different scholarships, grants, and loan programs. The best colleges in Virginia for you may be the ones that are most affordable! For more information on the financial aid process, watch our Financial Aid and Scholarships 101 webinar. 

Best Colleges in Virginia – By Major

When researching colleges in Virginia, it’s also important to consider what schools offer the major you’re interested in. When developing your college list, comparing specific programs can help you decide which college is best for you.

The best colleges in Virginia often offer a wide range of majors. In the following sections, we’ll examine the best colleges in Virginia for business majors, psychology majors, and environmental science majors. You’ll notice that the colleges on these lists are also among the best universities in Virginia. 

Business, psychology, and environmental science are some of the most popular majors for college students. Out of the colleges in Virginia, the following schools offer the best programs in these three areas of study. The best colleges in Virginia have many traits in common, including internship and research opportunities.

These colleges in Virginia may have competitive acceptance rates, so it’s best to be prepared if you plan to apply. If you fall in love with one of these schools, read our guide on getting into your dream school. Now, let’s jump into the best colleges in Virginia for business, psychology, or environmental science. 

Best Colleges in Virginia for Business

If you are interested in studying business, there are many different programs to consider. According to Niche, the best colleges in Virginia for business are:

• Washington and Lee University
• The College of William and Mary
• The University of Virginia

Best Colleges in Virginia for Psychology

If you’re exploring colleges in Virginia, it’s important to know which colleges offer the best psychology programs. According to Niche, the best colleges in Virginia for psychology are:

• The University of Virginia
• The College of William and Mary
• Washington and Lee University.

Best Colleges in Virginia for Environmental Science

Environmental science is quickly becoming a popular major among college students. According to Niche, the best colleges in Virginia for environmental science are:

• The University of Virginia
• Washington and Lee University
• The College of William and Mary

Choosing the best college in Virginia for you

With all this information on colleges in Virginia, how do you know which one is right for you? Students will often consider a wide range of factors when deciding a college, including:

• Location
• Size
• Affordability
• Academic programs

Ultimately, deciding which are the best colleges in Virginia is a personal choice. However, researching all your options with these criteria in mind can help narrow down the possibilities. 

College location and college setting are likely huge factors in your college search. Colleges in Virginia range from urban schools, to very rural schools. To get a sense of these different college environments, it can be helpful to look at a map.

A colleges in Virginia map can help you explore which colleges in Virginia are urban, suburban, and rural.  Some colleges in Virginia are close to major cities, like Richmond and Washington, D.C. For example, Virginia Commonwealth University is a large, public school in Richmond, VA. VCU offers an opportunity for students to live and learn in one of Virginia’s major cities.

Urban vs. rural campuses

George Mason University is one of several public colleges in Virginia, located in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. The George Mason University ranking in Top Public Schools is #64. GMU is one of the best colleges in Virginia for students looking for an urban setting. The George Mason University ranking also reflects its status as one of the most innovative schools in the country. GMU has many exciting opportunities for students to pursue during their time there. 

James Madison University is a great choice for students looking for a college in a smaller city. Located in Harrisonburg, VA, James Madison University has a great college town feel. With James Madison University ranking at #72 in the Top Public Schools, it’s a solid contender among public universities. The James Madison University ranking also reflects strong education and engineering programs like other top colleges in Virginia.

Public vs. private colleges

As outlined in this guide, there are many excellent public colleges in Virginia that provide affordable options for in-state students. Some of these colleges in Virginia, like the University of Virginia, are considered some of the best colleges in the US. Similarly, there are also excellent private colleges in Virginia, such as the University of Richmond. Private colleges in Virginia include single-sex institutions and HBCUs, providing a wide range of options for all students. 

For students interested in attending an HBCU in Virginia, there are several colleges in Virginia to consider, as listed above. For example, Virginia State University is a great choice for students looking for a suburban, affordable college. With all the colleges in Virginia, it may be helpful to narrow your search to a smaller pool, like the HBCUs. 

With the wide range of options, all the colleges in Virginia provide great choices for both in-state and out-of-state students. Whether you’re looking for a small or large school, or a school with excellent academics– the best colleges in Virginia will have what you need! 

Best Colleges in Virginia – Final Thoughts

We’ve covered a lot of information in this guide, and we know it can be really overwhelming! In general, we discussed all the different types of colleges in Virginia. We’ve explored the best colleges in Virginia, the different programs offered, and affordable colleges in Virginia for students. Many of the best universities in Virginia are public institutions, committed to college affordability. Overall, colleges in Virginia are great options for students looking for all different kinds of college experiences. 

Focus on schools that are right for you

However, out of all the colleges in Virginia, it’s up to you to decide which schools are right for you. Take a look at where schools fall in college rankings, but remember rankings aren’t the end-all be-all. The best colleges in Virginia offer many different areas of study and resources for students to explore. Among all the various colleges in Virginia, you really can’t go wrong.

Luckily, CollegeAdvisor has plenty of resources to help you navigate the college application process. For example, if you’re a first-generation student looking to apply to some of the best colleges in the US, we can help. We’re here to help you through it all, from building your college list to getting your first college acceptance letter. No matter what you’re looking for, CollegeAdvisor can help you find and get into the best colleges for you!

This guide to Best Colleges in Virginia was written by Jess Klein and Rachel Kahn. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.