Best Online Colleges in Virginia
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Editor & Writer
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Editor & Writer
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The Commonwealth of Virginia is home to many top colleges and universities, some of which have massive student populations. The state also ranks as one of the best to begin your career. But as the world continues to shift to a greater digital presence, colleges must do the same to remain accessible to all students. That's where online programs come in.
Throughout this page, we spotlight the best online colleges in Virginia and dive into some of the most popular majors and fastest-growing careers. Continue reading to learn more about online colleges in Virginia and see what these schools can do for you.
The Best Online Colleges in Virginia
How We Rank Schools
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Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that's best for you.
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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University of Virginia-Main Campus
Charlottesville, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $488
Graduate | $599
Among the best online colleges in Virginia, University of Virginia offers online programs in a variety of fields. Learners can pursue degrees and certificates in areas like business, education, and health sciences. Online enrollees receive support from academic advisors, counselors, and technology staff.
Admission criteria vary by program. All prospective students submit an online application and provide transcripts and test scores. Some programs require admissions essays, recommendation letters, and writing samples.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Averett University-Non-Traditional Programs
Danville, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $480-$950
Graduate | $530-$695
Averett University's Graduate and Professional Studies division offers 100% online, accelerated degrees for working students. Enrollees can complete degrees mostly asynchronously with help from success coaches.
Online learners can pursue degrees in fields like applied science, business, and education. Other options include psychology and hybrid nursing programs. Applicants submit an online application and transcripts. Nursing programs may require state licensure or certification.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $330-$455
Graduate | $395-$1,200
Liberty University ranks among the best online colleges in Virginia. The school offers online bachelor's programs in fields like aviation, business, and education. Master's and doctoral programs include counseling, criminal justice, and healthcare.
Online enrollees can access resources like academic advising, enrollment assistance, and IT help. Prospective students complete an online application and provide transcripts. First-year students submit a high school self-certification form. Online learners can apply for financial aid.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $419
Undergrad, out of state | $983
Graduate, in state | $513
Graduate, out of state | $1,231
James Madison University offers fully and mostly online programs for undergraduates and graduate students. One of the best online colleges in Virginia, JMU offers programs in fields like accounting, nursing, and psychology. Online learners can access online library and career-planning services.
Undergraduate admission requires an online application and transcripts. Program requirements vary. Some programs require licensure, prior degrees, or other information.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $396
Undergrad, out of state | $1,374
Graduate, in state | $507-$1,000
Graduate, out of state | $693-$1,039
One of the best colleges in Virginia, George Mason University offers remote learning in hybrid and online formats. Classes run asynchronously and synchronously. Online learners can access an online writing lab and library resources.
Mason offers more than 50 online programs, including education, health, and social sciences. The school also offers over 100 graduate-level certificates. Degree-completion options include applied science and individualized study.
ROI Value Score: High
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $295-$450
Graduate | $250-$1,200
Regent University's online programs follow eight-week course schedules. Learners can access advisors, faculty mentors, and technical support. One of the best online colleges in Virginia, Regent offers online degrees at all levels. Students can pursue degrees in fields like business, healthcare, and information technology.
Most classes run asynchronously through Blackboard. However, some programs require on-campus residencies. Prospective students complete an online application and admissions questionnaire. They also provide transcripts and additional information depending on the program.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $417
Undergrad, out of state | $1,129
Graduate, in state | $569-$834
Virginia Commonwealth University offers online and hybrid degree options, a virtual student success center, online writing support, academic advising, and computer and technology discounts and assistance.
One of the best online colleges in Virginia, VCU offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Learners can pursue degrees in fields like engineering, nursing, and public affairs. Students can also pursue certificates in areas like disability leadership, educational leadership, and medical education. Admission requirements vary by program and degree level.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $360
Undergrad, out of state | $407
Graduate, in state | $551
Graduate, out of state | $595
ODU Online ranks among the best online colleges in Virginia. Learners can pursue bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in fields like business, education, and engineering. ODU also offers programs in health sciences and nursing and military-affiliated education.
Classes run asynchronously or synchronously, depending on the program. Some programs require hands-on experiential learning. Enrollees can access online academic support, technical support, and free software.
Prospective students apply online and can contact an enrollment coach for advisement.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Radford University-Carilion
Roanoke, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad, in state | $329-$333
Undergrad, out of state | $814
Graduate | $444-$454
Radford University offers online programs in business administration and nursing. Graduate admission for business administration and business analytics requires a bachelor's degree and 2.75 GPA. Bachelor's in business administration applicants need an associate degree or fewer than six hours remaining to complete general education requirements.
Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) students need an associate degree or diploma in nursing or an RN license and a 2.5 GPA. Graduate nursing programs require a BSN and 3.0 GPA.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Hampton University
Hampton, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit
Undergrad | $300
Graduate | $695
Among the best online colleges in Virginia, Hampton University offers associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The school also offers certificates and educational specialist credentials. Degree options include aviation management, counseling, and theology.
Students complete classes at their own pace through Blackboard. HU offers online access to library materials and career services. Undergraduate admission requires a high school or GED diploma, transcripts, and a 2.0 GPA. Admission for other degree levels and programs varies.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
How Much Is Online College in Virginia?
| Institution Type | Average Tuition & Required Fees |
|---|---|
| Public, Four-Year (In-state) | $13,931 |
| Public, Four-Year (Out-of-state) | $36,193 |
| Private, Four-Year | $23,220 |
Online college is typically more affordable than a traditional campus-based education. However, multiple factors impact the cost of online college in Virginia, and tuition rates vary dramatically from school to school.
This includes whether you enroll online or on-campus, attend a school in-state vs. out-of-state, or even prefer public to private college. All of which impact how much you pay for a degree.
In general, in-state students attending public colleges pay the least, while out-of-state students tend to pay the most. That said, many colleges, especially private colleges and universities, waive the out-of-state tuition rates for their online programs.
Top 5 Most Popular Bachelor's Degrees in Virginia
In this section, we spotlight five of the most popular bachelor's degrees according to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. Read on to see which majors top the list.
1. Psychology
Whether you're pursuing a career in counseling, social work, or research, a bachelor's in psychology can offer the skills needed to thrive. In Virginia, colleges and universities confer approximately 4,500 bachelor's degrees in psychology each year.
The best psychology programs can help you achieve your goals, and, additionally, standout psychology master's programs can help you enhance your earning potential and career options.
Median Salary (BLS, 2021): $53,000
2. Business Administration and Management
An online degree in business administration or business management can open the door to a long list of roles in areas like marketing, finance, and management. Due to the versatility of these degrees, business majors are especially popular — Virginia colleges confer nearly 4,000 bachelor's degrees in this field annually.
Median Salary (BLS, 2021): $69,000
3. Biology (Biological Sciences)
Wondering if you should major in biology? Approximately 2,630 Virginia-based students recently graduated with a biology degree, making this a popular option.
A degree in biology offers pathways to careers in research, environmental science, and countless healthcare roles. Specializations include microbiology, zoology, botany, marine biology, and pre-med studies.
Median Salary (BLS, 2021): $70,000
4. Nursing (Registered Nursing)
In Virginia, over 2,300 students recently graduated with a nursing degree. If you're interested in becoming a nurse, earning a bachelor's in nursing program (BSN) is a great starting point. If you're already a registered nurse, an RN-to-BSN is also a solid choice.
Nursing specializations can vary between programs, but popular options include nursing informatics, psychiatric nursing, and critical care nursing.
Median Salary (BLS, 2021): $65,000
5. Computer and Information Sciences
Given the many different fields of study in computer science, determining which type of computer science degree to pursue is often the most difficult choice. Fortunately, most careers in computer science offer higher-than-average salaries, making them popular options for undergraduates.
Recent data points to about 1,750 computer and information sciences degrees conferred, making it one of the most popular majors in the state. Specializations include game development, data science, cybersecurity, and software engineering.
Median Salary (BLS, 2021): $90,000
10 Fastest-Growing Jobs in Virginia That Require a Bachelor's Degree
The Commonwealth of Virginia not only offers a promising job market but also ranks as one of the best states to begin your career. So if you're interested in working in Virginia, pursuing an in-demand major can help you land one of these fast-growing careers.
The fastest-growing careers in Virginia cover a diverse set of professions, including logistics, financial management, aeronautics, and medical services management. Online programs can offer the flexibility needed to juggle responsibilities while also earning your degree.
Check out the fastest-growing careers in Virginia below.
Note: For this table, we only included occupations that require a bachelor's degree and had estimated employment numbers of at least 1,000 positions in 2021.
| Job | Projected Growth Rate | Median Annual Wage (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 32.5% | $104,830 |
| Logisticians | 29% | $77,520 |
| Actuaries | 28.8% | $113,990 |
| Operations Research Analysts | 26% | $85,720 |
| Interpreters and Translators | 25.1% | $53,640 |
| Athletic Trainers | 24% | $53,840 |
| Financial Examiners | 23.1% | $82,210 |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists | 22.9% | $68,230 |
| Financial Managers | 19.5% | $139,790 |
| Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers | 19% | $148,900 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Virginia
What is the easiest online college to get into in Virginia?
According to NCES data, Old Dominion University has an acceptance rate of 95%, making it the easiest public school to get into. Liberty University, with an admission rate of 99%, tops the list of easiest private schools to get into.
These schools offer an accessible academic pathway through expansive rosters of online programs. These flexible and affordable options allow you to complete course requirements while keeping up with personal and professional obligations.
Do I need to live in Virginia to attend an online college in Virginia?
No, you are not required to live in Virginia to attend an online college in the state. When reviewing potential schools, be sure to consider how your residency status impacts tuition rates, as these policies vary among schools.
What is the cheapest online college in Virginia?
The cheapest four-year public college in Virginia is Norfolk State University, which has an annual net price of $14,652. As for the cheapest private college, Regent University has an annual net price of $17,341 — far less than the average cost ($23,220) of all four-year private colleges in Virginia.
College is an investment of both time and money, and cost is often a significant factor when determining which school aligns with your needs. Generally, public colleges and universities tend to charge lower tuition rates than private schools.
