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Virginia's most affordable Biological and Physical Sciences programs reveal a striking cost divide, with the University of Virginia's College at Wise charging just $11,180 compared to Averett University's $23,262. This gap reflects the state's mix of public and private options serving students entering fields that connect to Virginia's federal research facilities and defense contractors like Northrop Grumman. Virginia Commonwealth University graduates earn $32,245 annually, while acceptance rates across these five programs range from a selective 32% at Regent University to an accessible 91% at VCU.
5
Programs
$11,180 – $23,262
Net Price Range
$32,245
Avg. Program Earnings
52.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Biological and Physical Sciences Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,180 $11,656 49.8% 75.6%
2 $18,749 $20,686 54.1% 32.3%
3 $19,452 $16,458 65.4% 91.0%
4 $20,583 $36,960 49.1% 81.4%
5 $23,262 $38,550 43.6% 76.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes UVA-Wise the most affordable option for Biological and Physical Sciences in Virginia?

UVA-Wise offers the lowest net cost at $11,180 annually, nearly half the price of other programs on this list. The university maintains a 75% acceptance rate while serving students in Virginia's Appalachian region with science programs that prepare graduates for regional healthcare and environmental careers.

How do graduation rates compare between the most expensive and cheapest programs?

Averett University, the most expensive option at $23,262, has the lowest graduation rate at 43.6%. Meanwhile, Virginia Commonwealth University graduates 65.4% of students despite charging only $19,452, suggesting better value for degree completion.

Does the VTAG grant significantly reduce costs at Virginia's private colleges?

Virginia's Tuition Assistance Grant helps offset private college costs, with Regent University showing a substantial gap between its $20,686 published tuition and $18,749 net cost. This state aid makes private options more competitive with public universities for Virginia residents.

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