Cheapest Computer Science Colleges in Virginia

The College at Wise stands out as Virginia's most affordable Computer Science option at just $11,180 net cost, while Washington and Lee graduates command the highest salaries at $91,744 annually. This $80,564 earnings gap reflects the state's dual nature: budget-conscious public universities serving rural communities alongside elite institutions feeding Northern Virginia's tech corridor. Virginia's proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors like Northrop Grumman creates strong demand for computing talent across all education levels. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with seven of the ten cheapest options being state schools. However, the data reveals surprising value plays, including William & Mary's $22,529 net cost despite its national reputation and 91% graduation rate. Students can access quality programs from the Appalachian foothills to the Hampton Roads region, positioning themselves for careers in cybersecurity, government contracting, and emerging tech sectors that drive Virginia's economy.

Programs

$11,180 – $32,145

Net Price Range

$71,200

Avg. Program Earnings

60.1%

Avg. Graduation Rate

18 Computer Science Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Virginia's College at Wise Wise, Virginia	$11,180	$11,656	49.8%	75.6%
2	Virginia State University Petersburg, Virginia	$14,553	$9,755	40.7%	89.7%
3	Radford University Radford, Virginia	$16,640	$12,286	49.6%	93.3%
4	George Mason University Fairfax, Virginia	$18,287	$13,815	69.3%	90.0%
5	Regent University Virginia Beach, Virginia	$18,749	$20,686	54.1%	32.3%
6	Virginia Military Institute Lexington, Virginia	$18,849	$20,484	81.8%	71.1%
7	Bridgewater College Bridgewater, Virginia	$20,173	$41,350	49.4%	90.4%
8	Longwood University Farmville, Virginia	$20,814	$15,200	61.6%	87.8%
9	Christopher Newport University Newport News, Virginia	$22,197	$16,351	75.1%	85.4%
10	William & Mary Williamsburg, Virginia	$22,529	$25,040	91.0%	33.5%
11	Averett University Danville, Virginia	$23,262	$38,550	43.6%	76.0%
12	Sweet Briar College Sweet Briar, Virginia	$23,383	$25,110	48.1%	75.8%
13	Eastern Mennonite University Harrisonburg, Virginia	$23,615	$41,860	47.1%	99.5%
14	Washington and Lee University Lexington, Virginia	$23,911	$64,525	94.9%	17.0%
15	Southern Virginia University Buena Vista, Virginia	$24,014	$20,040	38.3%	99.5%
16	Hampden-Sydney College Hampden-Sydney, Virginia	$24,668	$52,388	65.3%	39.8%
17	Roanoke College Salem, Virginia	$27,786	$36,774	65.9%	79.8%
18	Hampton University Hampton, Virginia	$32,145	$29,162	55.7%	74.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Virginia's most affordable Computer Science programs different from expensive ones?

The most affordable programs like UVA Wise ($11,180) and Virginia State ($14,553) focus on core programming skills and practical applications. Higher-cost options such as Washington and Lee ($23,911) emphasize theoretical foundations and research opportunities. Graduation rates vary significantly, from 38.3% at Southern Virginia University to 94.9% at Washington and Lee. However, even budget options like George Mason ($18,287) produce graduates earning $78,343, proving affordability doesn't limit career potential.

How do Virginia's public universities compare to private colleges for Computer Science value?

Public universities dominate Virginia's affordable Computer Science market, claiming seven of the top ten spots. In-state students at Virginia State pay just $9,755, while private colleges average over $30,000 annually. However, private institutions offer smaller class sizes and specialized tracks, with some like Regent University accepting only 32.34% of applicants. The VTAG grant helps bridge the gap for Virginia residents attending private colleges, making options like Sweet Briar ($23,383) more accessible.

Does location within Virginia affect Computer Science program costs and outcomes?

Northern Virginia programs like George Mason ($18,287) benefit from proximity to government contractors and tech companies, with graduates earning $78,343. Rural programs such as UVA Wise offer the lowest costs at $11,180 but have lower graduation rates at 49.8%. Hampton Roads institutions like Christopher Newport ($22,197) provide middle-ground options with access to shipbuilding and defense industries. The Virginia Military Institute combines military structure with technical training, producing graduates earning $64,493.

What career prospects do graduates from affordable Virginia Computer Science programs face?

Virginia's federal government presence creates strong demand for computing professionals across all education levels. Even graduates from budget programs like Radford ($16,640) earn $61,516 annually, reflecting the state's solid tech sector. Defense contractors like Northrop Grumman actively recruit from Virginia universities regardless of cost tier. The 18 programs produce graduates with debt ranging from $19,794 at William & Mary to $26,000 at VMI, all manageable given starting salaries between $59,901 and $91,744.

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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.