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Cheapest Computer and Information Sciences Colleges in Virginia

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Norfolk State University stands out with a remarkable net price of just $12,973 for Computer and Information Sciences programs, nearly $10,000 less than the next closest option. This significant cost advantage comes at a time when Virginia's tech sector continues expanding around defense contractors like Northrop Grumman and government agencies requiring cybersecurity expertise. The state's 20 programs show dramatic price variation, ranging up to $27,786 at the high end. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with Old Dominion University following at $14,170 net cost while delivering strong graduate earnings of $61,516. Private institutions like Regent University offer competitive rates at $18,749, though they generally command higher tuition. The geographic concentration around Norfolk and Richmond reflects Virginia's federal technology corridor, where computer science graduates find immediate opportunities in defense computing, healthcare IT, and government systems development.
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 In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,973 $9,910 32.7% 89.5%
2 $14,170 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
3 $14,553 $9,755 40.7% 89.7%
4 $18,287 $13,815 69.3% 90.0%
5 $18,749 $20,686 54.1% 32.3%
6 $18,849 $20,484 81.8% 71.1%
7 $19,452 $16,458 65.4% 91.0%
8 $19,580 $14,880 41.3% 80.6%
9 $20,187 $35,540 61.6% 95.9%
10 $20,215 $10,735 26.3%
11 $20,473 $18,484 44.7% 82.7%
12 $21,108 $14,559 67.4% 85.8%
13 $21,816 $13,576 80.9% 78.3%
14 $22,529 $25,040 91.0% 33.5%
15 $22,881 $20,986 95.3% 18.7%
16 $23,790 $15,478 86.3% 57.0%
17 $24,014 $20,040 38.3% 99.5%
18 $25,153 $39,050 57.9% 81.4%
19 $27,759 $48,002 74.6% 85.5%
20 $27,786 $36,774 65.9% 79.8%
21 $29,552 $21,222 63.5% 99.3%
22 $32,145 $29,162 55.7% 74.5%
23 $33,417 $62,600 87.8% 24.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Norfolk State University so much cheaper than other Virginia computer science programs?

Norfolk State University offers the lowest net price at $12,973, benefiting from strong state funding and lower operational costs. The in-state tuition of $9,910 keeps base costs manageable, while the 89.50% acceptance rate indicates accessible admission standards. Despite the low cost, the program maintains accreditation and serves the Hampton Roads tech corridor. The 32.70% graduation rate reflects the challenges many students face but also the opportunity for motivated students to access quality education affordably.

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

Public universities clearly dominate the affordable end, with Norfolk State, Old Dominion, and Virginia State occupying the three lowest price points between $12,973 and $14,553. George Mason University demonstrates strong value at $18,287 net cost while producing graduates earning $68,104 annually. Private schools like Regent University start at $18,749, nearly $6,000 more than the cheapest public option. However, some private institutions offer competitive financial aid packages that can narrow this gap.

Does attending a cheaper Virginia computer science program affect earning potential?

Earnings vary significantly across price points, with University of Virginia graduates earning $92,077 despite a moderate $22,881 net cost. Old Dominion University students earn $61,516 while paying just $14,170, demonstrating strong return on investment. Virginia Union University presents a concerning contrast, with graduates earning only $32,563 after paying $19,580 net cost. The data suggests that program reputation and location matter more than price alone for career outcomes.

Where do Virginia computer science graduates find the best job opportunities?

Virginia's proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors creates strong demand in the Norfolk, Richmond, and Northern Virginia corridors. Major employers like Northrop Grumman, Booz Allen Hamilton, and government agencies actively recruit computer science graduates for cybersecurity and systems development roles. The Hampton Roads area around Norfolk offers particular opportunities in naval computing and maritime technology. Healthcare systems like Inova Health also provide growing IT career paths throughout the state.

Is the graduation rate at cheaper Virginia computer science programs concerning?

Graduation rates at the most affordable programs do lag behind more expensive options, with Norfolk State at 32.70% and Virginia State at 40.70%. However, this partly reflects different student populations and support systems rather than program quality alone. Schools like James Madison University achieve 80.90% graduation rates while maintaining reasonable costs at $21,816 net price. Students should weigh the financial benefits of cheaper programs against the additional support and resources available at higher-cost institutions.

More Computer and Information Sciences, General Rankings

Best Value Computer and Information Sciences, General in Virginia Computer and Information Sciences, General Under $20,000 in Virginia

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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.