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Best Value Chemistry Colleges in Virginia

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

William & Mary stands out among Virginia's chemistry programs with graduates earning $38,289 annually despite a 91% graduation rate that reflects the school's academic rigor. The state's chemistry programs show remarkable cost variation, from University of Virginia's College at Wise at $11,180 net price to Shenandoah University at $30,055. Virginia's proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors creates strong demand for chemistry graduates, particularly at companies like Northrop Grumman where analytical skills translate directly to materials science and environmental testing roles. Public universities dominate the value equation, with Virginia Tech offering solid earning potential at $33,993 while maintaining reasonable debt levels at $22,875. The state's 15 chemistry programs span from highly selective institutions like UVA with an 18.66% acceptance rate to more accessible options like Norfolk State at 89.50%, creating pathways for students across different academic profiles.
36
Programs
$11,180 – $33,417
Net Price Range
$34,022
Avg. Program Earnings
61.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

36 Chemistry Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $16,640 $37,568 $12,286 49.6% 93.3%
2 $18,287 $32,925 $13,815 69.3% 90.0%
3 $22,529 $38,289 $25,040 91.0% 33.5%
4 $19,452 $32,772 $16,458 65.4% 91.0%
5 $22,881 $32,925 $20,986 95.3% 18.7%
6 $23,790 $33,993 $15,478 86.3% 57.0%
7 $22,197 $29,685 $16,351 75.1% 85.4%
8 $19,580 $14,880 41.3% 80.6%
9 $14,553 $9,755 40.7% 89.7%
10 $18,849 $20,484 81.8% 71.1%
11 $20,583 $36,960 49.1% 81.4%
12 $12,973 $9,910 32.7% 89.5%
13 $11,180 $11,656 49.8% 75.6%
14 $23,383 $25,110 48.1% 75.8%
15 $30,055 $36,028 70.5% 80.4%
16 $27,786 $36,774 65.9% 79.8%
17 $33,417 $62,600 87.8% 24.4%
18 $18,436 $29,010 51.5% 95.0%
19 $27,759 $48,002 74.6% 85.5%
20 $23,911 $64,525 94.9% 17.0%
21 $14,170 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
22 $23,262 $38,550 43.6% 76.0%
23 $21,108 $14,559 67.4% 85.8%
24 $17,833 $33,157 55.7%
25 $20,187 $35,540 61.6% 95.9%
26 $20,814 $15,200 61.6% 87.8%
27 $29,552 $21,222 63.5% 99.3%
28 $21,816 $13,576 80.9% 78.3%
29 $22,263 $42,260 69.7% 72.4%
30 $32,145 $29,162 55.7% 74.5%
31 $24,668 $52,388 65.3% 39.8%
32 $22,085 $38,320 28.9% 84.3%
33 $23,615 $41,860 47.1% 99.5%
34 $20,591 $35,280 53.8% 96.9%
35 $20,173 $41,350 49.4% 90.4%
36 $22,198 $29,696 27.1% 63.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes William & Mary the highest-earning chemistry program in Virginia?

William & Mary chemistry graduates earn $38,289 annually, the highest in the state, while maintaining a 91% graduation rate. The program benefits from small class sizes and research opportunities that prepare students for competitive positions in government labs and pharmaceutical companies. The school's strong alumni network in the DC area helps graduates secure positions at federal agencies where chemistry expertise commands premium salaries.

How do Virginia's public chemistry programs compare on affordability?

Public chemistry programs in Virginia range from $9,755 at Virginia State University to $25,040 at William & Mary for in-state students. University of Virginia's College at Wise offers the lowest net price at $11,180, making it accessible for students prioritizing affordability. Most public programs keep student debt below $23,000, with William & Mary showing the lowest debt burden at $18,033 despite higher sticker prices.

Does Virginia Tech provide good value for chemistry students?

Virginia Tech chemistry graduates earn $33,993 annually with a strong 86.3% graduation rate, ranking among the top programs for career outcomes. The net price of $23,790 reflects solid value considering the school's research facilities and industry connections in materials science and engineering. Student debt averages $22,875, reasonable given the earning potential and the program's reputation among Virginia employers.

Where do Virginia chemistry graduates typically find employment?

Virginia's proximity to federal agencies creates opportunities at the EPA, FDA, and Department of Defense where chemistry graduates work in environmental testing and materials analysis. Defense contractors like Northrop Grumman and Booz Allen hire chemistry majors for research and development roles. The state's growing biotechnology sector, particularly around the DC metro area, also provides career paths in pharmaceutical research and quality control.

Is George Mason University a good value for chemistry studies?

George Mason offers chemistry programs at $18,287 net price with graduates earning $32,925 annually, providing solid return on investment. The university's 69.3% graduation rate and 90% acceptance rate make it accessible while maintaining academic standards. The Fairfax location provides internship opportunities with government contractors and biotech companies, helping students build professional networks before graduation.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.