Best Online Colleges In Virginia

Take a look at the 14 best online colleges in Virginia, what they offer, and how they serve their distance education students.
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Updated January 27, 2023

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Long renowned for its history of excellent educational institutions, Virginia is a great choice for the student looking for a solid online program.

Virginia’s tradition of great education passes naturally to the state’s wonderful selection of 100% online programs of study. Many prestigious schools including George Mason, James Madison, and even Virginia Tech all boast a variety of online programs, from the entirely online to hybrid programs, with credit applying to both undergraduate and graduate degrees.

On the whole, Virginia is ranked fourth in graduation rates in the nation, with 49.1% of Virginia students completing their degrees within 4 years, according to 2013 data. In 2012, CollegeMeasures.org issued a report that found that after graduation, 36% of those who held bachelor's degrees were in full-time employment, with another 13% pursuing higher degree programs in other Virginia schools. The same report went on to say that students who graduate with a bachelor's degree earn 67% more on average than comparable professionals in the state who are only high school graduates.

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What Are the Best Online Colleges in Virginia?

Our Methodology:

In the following section, you will find our rankings of what we believe to be the best four-year online programs in Virginia. Our profiles take a look at the way these schools approach their online programs, and explore how they serve their distance education students. As you review these best online schools in Virginia, consider what they have to offer, the programs of study that they specialize in, and whether one of them may be the perfect school for you to get your online degree from.

Our ranking system is based upon three standard factors: institutional excellence, student satisfaction, and return on investment, otherwise known as student success.

The first of these, institutional excellence is measured across a variety of data points, including the school’s graduation rate, the school reputation, entering test scores of students, student-faculty ratios, and the size of endowment.

Second, student satisfaction considers the weight of reviews from actual students from across a variety of publications and websites.

Finally, return on investment is considered by measuring tuition costs, financial aid availability, average debt after graduation, and expected salaries after graduation. This data comes from the National Center of Education Statistics at their IPEDS database, and also from sources including Payscale, US News & World Report, and actual college websites.

Best Online Colleges in Virginia

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Best Online Colleges In Virginia

University of Virginia

  • Charlottesville, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a premier distance learning education should consider the University of Virginia. The public institution supports 25 degree programs from its main campus in Charlottesville, attracting 2,601 distance learners across the globe.

Undergraduates can choose from two online bachelor's programs, with graduate students benefiting from eight online master's program tracks. Upon enrolling, students connect with classmates, faculty, and staff through a virtual classroom setting. Distance learners benefit from well-rounded curricula, completing foundational and advanced classes, and pursue experiential learning opportunities such as internships. The college connects students with institutional resources geared toward student success, such as career services and academic advising.

Before applying, prospective students should schedule an appointment with the admissions office to discuss application materials and degree requirements. Eligible enrollees can receive internal and external funding to defray the costs of education. Out of all students, 57% are awarded aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,970
Out-of-state
$47,833
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,578
Out-of-state
$27,770
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
24%
Students Enrolled
25,012
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Colleges In Virginia

James Madison University

  • Harrisonburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

James Madison University offers a premier online education, guaranteeing flexibility for students from all walks of life. Students can choose from nine remote degree programs when beginning their study.

Undergraduates can enroll in one of two bachelor's degree programs, with graduate students benefiting from three online master's degree programs. Students connect with faculty, peers, and staff through a virtual learning environment, where they receive support and guidance. While enrolled, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and pursue experiential learning opportunities. While enrolled, students can connect with career services, academic advising, and other learning resources to receive guidance during their studies.

Prospective students can meet with the Office of Admissions to discuss admission requirements and other application materials. Enrollees can meet with the financial aid office to explore scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid packages. Approximately 62% of all enrollees receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,250
Out-of-state
$23,564
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,848
Out-of-state
$27,888
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
21,820
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
8% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Colleges In Virginia

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

  • Blacksburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University offers a premier online education, guaranteeing flexibility for students from all walks of life. Students can choose from 20 remote degree programs when beginning their studies.

A leader in online education, the college offers nine online master's programs. Students connect with faculty and staff through a virtual classroom environment, while learning alongside classmates and attending remote lectures. While enrolled, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through coursework, internships, and other learning opportunities. A leader in student success, the college connects students with academic advising, career services, and other success-oriented resources.

Students interested in applying should meet with the admissions office to discuss application materials and admission requirements. Eligible students can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid. About 65% of all incoming students are awarded financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,420
Out-of-state
$29,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,701
Out-of-state
$27,614
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
36,383
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Colleges In Virginia

Hampton University

  • Hampton, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Virginia, Hampton University supports a variety of online degree programs. Students can choose from 20 remote degree programs when beginning their study.

Distance learners can choose from 11 online bachelor's programs and three online master's programs. After enrolling, students join a supportive online learning community where they connect with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Learners can individualize their studies through course electives, degree minors, and experiential learning opportunities like internships. Enrollees can receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

To learn more about Hampton University's degree requirements, interested applicants can meet with the admissions office. Depending on eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards to offset the costs of study. The institution notes that 96% of incoming students receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,950
Out-of-state
$24,950
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,475
Out-of-state
$12,475
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
4,293
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
11% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Colleges In Virginia

George Mason University

  • Fairfax, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

George Mason University, located in Fairfax, Virginia, provides online degree options for distance learners worldwide. The school supports 32 online degree programs, reaching 12,614 online students near and far.

Undergraduates can choose from three online bachelor's programs, with graduate students benefiting from 14 online master's program tracks. Distance learners join a supportive online learning community, connecting with fellow classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Distance learners gain knowledge in and outside of the classroom, through coursework, research projects, and internships. A leader in student success, the college connects students with academic advising, career services, and other success-oriented resources.

Prospective students can discuss admission requirements and degree eligibility with the Office of Admissions. The college makes internal and external funding opportunities available to students, with 74% of all enrollees receiving aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,060
Out-of-state
$32,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,144
Out-of-state
$33,456
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
37,863
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online Colleges In Virginia

University of Lynchburg

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Lynchburg provides flexible online study options for learners from all walks of life. Distance learners can connect with 698 online students across four online degree programs.

A leader in online education, the college offers two online master's programs. Degree-seekers benefit from a supportive online learning community, where they connect with fellow distance learners and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Students receive a well-rounded education by completing industry-relevant coursework, with the option to pursue internships, faculty-led research projects, and other experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees can receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

Prospective students should meet with the admissions office to discuss admission requirements. Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. Of all enrollees, 100% receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,720
Out-of-state
$39,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,906
Out-of-state
$10,906
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
2,956
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
24% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Colleges In Virginia

Longwood University

  • Farmville, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Longwood University, located in Farmville, Virginia, guarantees flexibility through its online degree programs. The college boasts a top-ranking online degree program and reaches 362 distance learners worldwide.

A leader in online education, the college offers a high-quality online master's program. Upon enrolling, students connect with faculty, colleagues, and staff through a virtual classroom environment. While enrolled, students complete industry-relevant coursework, with the option to pursue internships, research projects, and other learning opportunities in preparation for their future career. Enrollees can receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

Interested applicants can meet with the Office of Admissions to discuss admission requirements and degree eligibility. The college makes internal and external funding opportunities available to students, with 90% of all enrollees receiving aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,940
Out-of-state
$23,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,480
Out-of-state
$17,910
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
4,468
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
8% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Colleges In Virginia

Marymount University

  • Arlington, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Arlington, Marymount University provides top-ranked online degree programs to 632 distance learners.

After enrolling, students join a supportive online learning community where they connect with classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Distance learners gain knowledge in and outside of the classroom, through coursework, research projects, and internships. Students can also benefit from personal and professional development by connecting with academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Before applying, prospective students should schedule an appointment with the admissions office to discuss application materials and degree requirements. Based on eligibility, students can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid. About 98% of all incoming enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,100
Out-of-state
$32,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,900
Out-of-state
$18,900
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
3,363
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
19% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Colleges In Virginia

Virginia Commonwealth University

  • Richmond, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Virginia Commonwealth University, located in Richmond, guarantees flexibility through its online degree programs. Distance learners can choose from 29 online degree programs and join its 9,276-person online learning community.

Of the school's online programs, three are bachelor's programs and 16 are master's programs. Students learn alongside fellow distance learners in a virtual classroom environment, where they connect with faculty and staff. Learners can individualize their studies through course electives, degree minors, and experiential learning opportunities like internships. Throughout their studies, degree-seekers can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

Prospective students can connect with the admissions office, or speak with their program of choice directly, to learn more about the application process. Based on eligibility, students can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid. An average of 81% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid during their studies.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,177
Out-of-state
$32,825
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,701
Out-of-state
$26,039
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
29,757
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Online Colleges In Virginia

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance learners seeking a flexible online education should consider Liberty University. The private college provides learning opportunities to 78,511 distance learners across 161 online degree programs.

At present, the school provides 30 online bachelor's programs and 67 online master's programs. Distance learners join a supportive online learning community, connecting with fellow classmates and faculty through a virtual classroom setting. Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, with the option to modify classes and select major electives, minors, and degree concentrations. Students also receive guidance from academic advising, career services, and other resources.

Prospective students should meet with the admissions office to discuss admission requirements. To offset the costs of a degree, students can inquire about funding opportunities through the Office of Financial Aid. Of all enrollees, 99% receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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