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Best Value Computer and Information Sciences Colleges in Virginia

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

Virginia's computer science programs reveal a striking earnings premium that sets graduates on paths to six-figure salaries. University of Virginia computer science graduates earn $92,077 annually while paying just $22,881 in net costs, creating an strong return on investment. Virginia Tech follows closely with graduates earning $88,678 despite the program's $23,790 net price. The state's proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors like Northrop Grumman and Booz Allen Hamilton creates abundant opportunities for computer science professionals. Public universities dominate the value equation, with Norfolk State University offering the lowest net cost at $12,973. However, the earnings gap between top and bottom performers spans nearly $60,000, from Virginia Union University's $32,563 to UVA's $92,077. James Madison University provides a middle ground with graduates earning $72,659 at a net cost of $21,816. Virginia's 20 programs serve different student populations, from Old Dominion's 95% acceptance rate to UVA's selective 19% admission rate.
23
Programs
$12,973 – $33,417
Net Price Range
$65,065
Avg. Program Earnings
62.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

23 Computer and Information Sciences, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,170 $61,516 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
2 $22,881 $92,077 $20,986 95.3% 18.7%
3 $23,790 $88,678 $15,478 86.3% 57.0%
4 $18,287 $68,104 $13,815 69.3% 90.0%
5 $19,452 $71,734 $16,458 65.4% 91.0%
6 $21,816 $72,659 $13,576 80.9% 78.3%
7 $21,108 $69,002 $14,559 67.4% 85.8%
8 $18,749 $51,972 $20,686 54.1% 32.3%
9 $29,552 $68,219 $21,222 63.5% 99.3%
10 $33,417 $74,157 $62,600 87.8% 24.4%
11 $20,473 $44,728 $18,484 44.7% 82.7%
12 $25,153 $50,439 $39,050 57.9% 81.4%
13 $19,580 $32,563 $14,880 41.3% 80.6%
14 $20,215 $10,735 26.3%
15 $12,973 $9,910 32.7% 89.5%
16 $20,187 $35,540 61.6% 95.9%
17 $27,759 $48,002 74.6% 85.5%
18 $27,786 $36,774 65.9% 79.8%
19 $24,014 $20,040 38.3% 99.5%
20 $32,145 $29,162 55.7% 74.5%
21 $22,529 $25,040 91.0% 33.5%
22 $18,849 $20,484 81.8% 71.1%
23 $14,553 $9,755 40.7% 89.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $60,000 earnings gap between Virginia computer science programs?

The earnings difference stems primarily from institutional reputation and regional connections. University of Virginia graduates earn $92,077 compared to Virginia Union University's $32,563, reflecting UVA's research focus and alumni networks in high-paying tech roles. Virginia Tech's $88,678 graduate earnings demonstrate how engineering-focused programs command premium salaries. Geographic factors also matter, with Northern Virginia schools like George Mason University ($68,104) benefiting from proximity to federal contractors and tech companies.

How do public universities compare to private options for computer science value?

Public universities deliver superior value across Virginia's computer science market. Virginia Tech offers the best combination with $88,678 graduate earnings at a $23,790 net cost for all students. Private University of Richmond charges $33,417 net but graduates earn $74,157, creating a less favorable cost-to-earnings ratio. Old Dominion University provides accessible education with 95% acceptance and graduates earning $61,516 at just $14,170 net cost.

Does Virginia's defense industry impact computer science graduate employment?

Virginia's defense sector creates substantial opportunities for computer science graduates, particularly in cybersecurity and systems development. The state hosts major contractors like Northrop Grumman and Booz Allen Hamilton, which recruit heavily from Virginia Tech and UVA programs. James Madison University graduates earning $72,659 often secure positions with government agencies requiring security clearances. This defense connection helps explain why Virginia computer science programs show strong earnings potential despite varying institutional profiles.

What graduation rates should students expect from Virginia computer science programs?

Graduation rates vary dramatically across Virginia's computer science programs, from 26% at American National University to 95% at University of Virginia. Virginia Tech maintains an 86% graduation rate while producing high-earning graduates. James Madison University achieves an 81% graduation rate, balancing accessibility with completion success. These rates often correlate with admission selectivity, as UVA's 19% acceptance rate contrasts sharply with Old Dominion's 95% acceptance.

Where do Virginia computer science students find the most affordable options?

Norfolk State University offers Virginia's most affordable computer science program at $12,973 net cost, though graduation rates remain low at 33%. Old Dominion University provides better value at $14,170 with a 44% graduation rate and graduates earning $61,516. In-state students benefit significantly, with Virginia Tech charging just $15,478 for residents compared to much higher out-of-state costs. George Mason University balances affordability at $18,287 net cost with solid graduate earnings of $68,104.

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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.