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Cheapest History Colleges in Virginia

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

Virginia Military Institute stands out among Virginia's most affordable History programs, delivering the highest earnings at $45,094 despite ranking 10th in net cost at $18,849. This reflects the state's strong defense sector connections, where History graduates often transition into government and military contractor roles with companies like Northrop Grumman and Booz Allen Hamilton. The cost spread tells an interesting story: University of Virginia's College at Wise offers the lowest net price at $11,180, while private institutions like Mary Baldwin University charge $17,833 after aid. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with eight of the top ten spots. However, graduation rates vary significantly across price points, from Norfolk State's 32.7% to VMI's impressive 81.8%. Virginia's proximity to Washington D.C. creates unique opportunities for History majors in federal agencies, think tanks, and consulting firms that value analytical and research skills.
39
Programs
$11,180 – $33,417
Net Price Range
$30,141
Avg. Program Earnings
60.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

39 History Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,180 $11,656 49.8% 75.6%
2 $12,973 $9,910 32.7% 89.5%
3 $14,170 $12,262 44.4% 95.1%
4 $14,553 $9,755 40.7% 89.7%
5 $16,640 $12,286 49.6% 93.3%
6 $17,833 $33,157 55.7%
7 $18,287 $13,815 69.3% 90.0%
8 $18,436 $29,010 51.5% 95.0%
9 $18,749 $20,686 54.1% 32.3%
10 $18,849 $20,484 81.8% 71.1%
11 $19,452 $16,458 65.4% 91.0%
12 $19,580 $14,880 41.3% 80.6%
13 $20,173 $41,350 49.4% 90.4%
14 $20,187 $35,540 61.6% 95.9%
15 $20,583 $36,960 49.1% 81.4%
16 $20,591 $35,280 53.8% 96.9%
17 $20,814 $15,200 61.6% 87.8%
18 $21,108 $14,559 67.4% 85.8%
19 $21,816 $13,576 80.9% 78.3%
20 $22,085 $38,320 28.9% 84.3%
21 $22,197 $16,351 75.1% 85.4%
22 $22,198 $29,696 27.1% 63.0%
23 $22,263 $42,260 69.7% 72.4%
24 $22,529 $25,040 91.0% 33.5%
25 $22,881 $20,986 95.3% 18.7%
26 $23,262 $38,550 43.6% 76.0%
27 $23,383 $25,110 48.1% 75.8%
28 $23,615 $41,860 47.1% 99.5%
29 $23,790 $15,478 86.3% 57.0%
30 $23,911 $64,525 94.9% 17.0%
31 $24,014 $20,040 38.3% 99.5%
32 $24,668 $52,388 65.3% 39.8%
33 $25,153 $39,050 57.9% 81.4%
34 $27,759 $48,002 74.6% 85.5%
35 $27,786 $36,774 65.9% 79.8%
36 $29,552 $21,222 63.5% 99.3%
37 $30,055 $36,028 70.5% 80.4%
38 $32,145 $29,162 55.7% 74.5%
39 $33,417 $62,600 87.8% 24.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Virginia Military Institute worth the higher cost for History majors?

VMI graduates earn $45,094 annually, nearly double the program average and $24,954 more than UVA-Wise graduates despite paying $7,669 more in net costs. The institute maintains an 81.8% graduation rate, the highest among affordable Virginia programs. VMI's military structure and alumni network create direct pathways into defense contracting and federal positions where History backgrounds are valued.

How much can students save by choosing public over private History programs?

Public universities average $15,419 in net costs compared to $19,304 for private institutions among the most affordable options. University of Virginia's College at Wise costs $11,180 annually while Mary Baldwin University, the cheapest private option, costs $17,833. Students can save approximately $26,612 over four years by selecting public institutions, though private schools often provide smaller class sizes and personalized attention.

Does graduation rate correlate with program cost in Virginia History programs?

The data shows mixed results, with Virginia Military Institute achieving 81.8% graduation rates at $18,849 net cost while Norfolk State University graduates only 32.7% of students at $12,973. George Mason University offers strong value with 69.3% graduation rates and moderate costs of $18,287. Higher costs don't guarantee better outcomes, making careful program evaluation essential.

Where do Virginia History graduates find the best job opportunities?

Northern Virginia's proximity to Washington D.C. creates the strongest job market, with major employers like Booz Allen Hamilton and federal agencies seeking analytical skills. Richmond's state government offices and Virginia Beach's military installations also provide opportunities. History majors earn between $18,401 and $45,094 depending on their institution and career path, with government and consulting roles typically offering higher compensation.

What financial aid options help reduce History program costs in Virginia?

The VTAG grant specifically assists students at private Virginia colleges, reducing net costs significantly. In-state tuition at public universities ranges from $9,755 at Virginia State to $20,484 at VMI, making residency status important for affordability. Student debt averages $18,750 to $27,000 at reporting institutions, with George Mason University graduates carrying the lowest debt burden at $18,750.

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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.