Best Value Information Science/Studies Colleges in Virginia

James Madison University stands out among Virginia's Information Science programs with graduates earning $72,290 annually while maintaining an 80.90% graduation rate. The $21,816 net price represents strong value in a state where federal contractors like Booz Allen Hamilton and Northrop Grumman actively recruit information science professionals. Virginia's 11 programs span from Radford's budget-friendly $16,640 net cost to premium options exceeding $30,000. Public universities dominate the affordable tier, with most charging under $22,000 net price. The state's proximity to Washington DC creates steady demand for data analysts and information systems specialists across government agencies and defense contractors.

Programs

$16,640 – $33,417

Net Price Range

$49,958

Avg. Program Earnings

52.3%

Avg. Graduation Rate

11 Information Science/Studies Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	Program Earnings	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	James Madison University Harrisonburg, Virginia	$21,816	$72,290	$13,576	80.9%	78.3%
2	Radford University Radford, Virginia	$16,640	$48,041	$12,286	49.6%	93.3%
3	Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, Virginia	$19,452	$53,671	$16,458	65.4%	91.0%
4	Christopher Newport University Newport News, Virginia	$22,197	$56,641	$16,351	75.1%	85.4%
5	South University-Virginia Beach Virginia Beach, Virginia	$24,372	$44,418	$18,238	13.6%
6	South University-Richmond Glen Allen, Virginia	$26,205	$44,418	$18,238	20.7%
7	Averett University Danville, Virginia	$23,262	$30,228	$38,550	43.6%	76.0%
8	Regent University Virginia Beach, Virginia	$18,749		$20,686	54.1%	32.3%
9	Ferrum College Ferrum, Virginia	$22,085		$38,320	28.9%	84.3%
10	Hampton University Hampton, Virginia	$32,145		$29,162	55.7%	74.5%
11	University of Richmond University of Richmond, Virginia	$33,417		$62,600	87.8%	24.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide earnings gap between Virginia Information Science programs?

James Madison graduates earn $72,290 compared to Averett University's $30,228, reflecting differences in program focus and employer connections. Schools near DC metro area typically produce higher-earning graduates due to federal contracting opportunities.

How do public and private program costs compare for Information Science in Virginia?

Public universities average $20,000 net price while private schools range from $18,749 at Regent University to $33,417 at University of Richmond. In-state students at public schools pay significantly less, with James Madison charging just $13,576 for residents.

Is the low graduation rate at for-profit schools concerning for Information Science students?

South University locations show graduation rates of 13.60% and 20.70% with $45,268 average debt loads. These figures suggest students should carefully evaluate program completion likelihood before enrolling.

Where do Virginia Information Science graduates find the best job opportunities?

The DC metro region offers the highest concentration of positions with federal agencies, defense contractors like Northrop Grumman, and consulting firms. Healthcare systems like Inova also hire information specialists for data management roles.

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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.