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Best Value Electrical Colleges in Virginia

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

Virginia's electrical engineering programs show a stark divide between accessible and selective options. Old Dominion University delivers strong value at $14,170 net cost with graduates earning $66,126, while UVA commands $22,881 but produces the highest earners at $74,576. The state's proximity to defense contractors like Northrop Grumman creates steady demand for electrical engineers, particularly in communications and defense systems that drive Virginia's technology sector.
9
Programs
$12,973 – $29,552
Net Price Range
$69,947
Avg. Program Earnings
68.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

9 Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,170 $66,126 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
2 $18,287 $66,756 $13,815 69.3% 90.0%
3 $19,452 $69,338 $16,458 65.4% 91.0%
4 $22,881 $74,576 $20,986 95.3% 18.7%
5 $23,790 $70,863 $15,478 86.3% 57.0%
6 $29,552 $72,022 $21,222 63.5% 99.3%
7 $22,197 $16,351 75.1% 85.4%
8 $12,973 $9,910 32.7% 89.5%
9 $18,849 $20,484 81.8% 71.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes UVA's electrical engineering program worth the higher cost?

UVA graduates earn $74,576 annually, about $8,000 more than most state programs, with an outstanding 95.3% graduation rate. The program's selectivity (18.66% acceptance rate) reflects rigorous academics that translate to higher starting salaries in Virginia's competitive tech market.

How do Virginia's public universities compare for electrical engineering value?

Old Dominion offers the lowest net cost at $14,170 but has a 44.4% graduation rate, while Virginia Tech costs $23,790 with an 86.3% graduation rate and $70,863 average earnings. George Mason provides middle ground at $18,287 with solid 69.3% graduation rates.

Does Liberty University justify its private school premium for engineering?

Liberty's $29,552 net cost produces graduates earning $72,022, making it competitive with state schools despite the higher price. The 99.29% acceptance rate offers accessibility, though the 63.5% graduation rate suggests academic rigor varies significantly from public alternatives.

More Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering Rankings

Cheapest Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering in Virginia Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering Under $20,000 in Virginia

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All Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering Programs Best Colleges in Virginia Best Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering in Virginia

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