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Best Value Civil Engineering Colleges in Virginia

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

Virginia's civil engineering programs show remarkable cost efficiency, with Old Dominion University delivering strong $63,005 median earnings at just $14,170 net cost. The state's proximity to major defense contractors like Northrop Grumman creates abundant infrastructure opportunities. While University of Virginia graduates earn the highest at $68,666, its 18.66% acceptance rate makes it highly selective. Most programs maintain graduation rates above 80%, reflecting solid academic support across Virginia's engineering schools.
5
Programs
$14,170 – $23,790
Net Price Range
$61,546
Avg. Program Earnings
75.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Civil Engineering Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,170 $63,005 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
2 $18,287 $64,281 $13,815 69.3% 90.0%
3 $22,881 $68,666 $20,986 95.3% 18.7%
4 $23,790 $62,508 $15,478 86.3% 57.0%
5 $18,849 $49,270 $20,484 81.8% 71.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide gap between Old Dominion's low cost and strong earnings?

Old Dominion University offers strong value with $14,170 net cost while graduates earn $63,005 median salary. The Norfolk location provides access to naval shipyards and coastal engineering projects. Despite a 44.40% graduation rate, completers find solid career prospects in Virginia's defense and infrastructure sectors.

How does Virginia Tech compare to UVA for civil engineering value?

Virginia Tech charges $23,790 net cost with graduates earning $62,508, while UVA costs slightly less at $22,881 but delivers higher $68,666 earnings. Virginia Tech accepts 56.98% of applicants compared to UVA's selective 18.66% rate. Both schools maintain strong graduation rates above 85%.

Does Virginia Military Institute offer good value despite lower earnings?

VMI graduates earn $49,270, the lowest among these programs, but the school provides unique leadership training valued by government contractors. Net cost of $18,849 remains reasonable for the specialized education. The 81.80% graduation rate reflects the academy's structured academic environment.

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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.