Best Value Visual and Performing Arts Colleges in Virginia

Virginia State University offers the most affordable path into Visual and Performing Arts at just $9,755 in-state tuition, though graduates earn $21,964 annually. At the other end, George Mason University graduates command $37,980 in median earnings while paying $13,815 in-state. Virginia's proximity to Washington D.C. creates opportunities for arts graduates in federal cultural institutions like the Kennedy Center and Smithsonian museums. The 14 programs span from $11,180 to $32,145 in net costs, with graduation rates varying dramatically from 38% to 75% across institutions.

Programs

$11,180 – $32,145

Net Price Range

$26,731

Avg. Program Earnings

57.9%

Avg. Graduation Rate

14 Visual and Performing Arts, General Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	Program Earnings	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	George Mason University Fairfax, Virginia	$18,287	$37,980	$13,815	69.3%	90.0%
2	Virginia State University Petersburg, Virginia	$14,553	$21,964	$9,755	40.7%	89.7%
3	Longwood University Farmville, Virginia	$20,814	$28,598	$15,200	61.6%	87.8%
4	University of Mary Washington Fredericksburg, Virginia	$21,108	$22,578	$14,559	67.4%	85.8%
5	Christopher Newport University Newport News, Virginia	$22,197	$22,534	$16,351	75.1%	85.4%
6	Bridgewater College Bridgewater, Virginia	$20,173		$41,350	49.4%	90.4%
7	Emory & Henry University Emory, Virginia	$20,591		$35,280	53.8%	96.9%
8	Hampden-Sydney College Hampden-Sydney, Virginia	$24,668		$52,388	65.3%	39.8%
9	Hampton University Hampton, Virginia	$32,145		$29,162	55.7%	74.5%
10	Shenandoah University Winchester, Virginia	$30,055		$36,028	70.5%	80.4%
11	Southern Virginia University Buena Vista, Virginia	$24,014		$20,040	38.3%	99.5%
12	Sweet Briar College Sweet Briar, Virginia	$23,383		$25,110	48.1%	75.8%
13	University of Virginia's College at Wise Wise, Virginia	$11,180		$11,656	49.8%	75.6%
14	Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, Virginia	$19,452		$16,458	65.4%	91.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $16,016 earnings gap between the highest and lowest paying programs?

George Mason University graduates earn $37,980 compared to Virginia State University's $21,964, reflecting differences in program focus and geographic location. George Mason's proximity to Washington D.C. provides access to higher-paying federal arts positions and cultural organizations.

How do private college costs compare to public options for arts students?

Private colleges like Hampton University charge $32,145 net cost while public options range from $11,180 to $22,197. However, Virginia's VTAG grant program helps reduce private college expenses for qualifying students.

Is there a correlation between acceptance rates and program quality?

Hampden-Sydney College maintains the most selective admissions at 39.79% acceptance with a 65.30% graduation rate. Meanwhile, Southern Virginia University accepts 99.45% of applicants but graduates only 38.30% of students.

Where do Visual and Performing Arts graduates find employment in Virginia?

The state's proximity to federal employers creates opportunities at cultural institutions and defense contractors like Northrop Grumman that need creative professionals. Richmond and Northern Virginia offer the strongest job markets for arts graduates.

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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.