Cheapest Journalism Colleges in Virginia

Norfolk State University offers journalism students the lowest net price at $12,973, while University of Richmond graduates earn $43,426 annually despite a $33,417 net cost. Virginia's proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors like Northrop Grumman creates strong demand for journalists covering government and military affairs. The state's eight journalism programs show dramatic cost variation, with private schools ranging from $18,749 to $33,417 in net price.

Programs

$12,973 – $33,417

Net Price Range

$35,368

Avg. Program Earnings

60.2%

Avg. Graduation Rate

8 Journalism Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Norfolk State University Norfolk, Virginia	$12,973	$9,910	32.7%	89.5%
2	Radford University Radford, Virginia	$16,640	$12,286	49.6%	93.3%
3	Regent University Virginia Beach, Virginia	$18,749	$20,686	54.1%	32.3%
4	Averett University Danville, Virginia	$23,262	$38,550	43.6%	76.0%
5	Washington and Lee University Lexington, Virginia	$23,911	$64,525	94.9%	17.0%
6	Liberty University Lynchburg, Virginia	$29,552	$21,222	63.5%	99.3%
7	Hampton University Hampton, Virginia	$32,145	$29,162	55.7%	74.5%
8	University of Richmond University of Richmond, Virginia	$33,417	$62,600	87.8%	24.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge cost difference between Virginia journalism programs?

Public universities like Norfolk State ($12,973) and Radford ($16,640) cost significantly less than private institutions. However, Washington and Lee's $64,525 sticker price drops to just $23,911 net cost through financial aid, making it competitive with some private schools that offer less generous aid packages.

How do graduation rates compare across affordable Virginia journalism programs?

Norfolk State has the lowest net price but only a 32.70% graduation rate, while Washington and Lee achieves 94.90% graduation rates. Radford University offers a middle ground with 49.60% graduation rates at $16,640 net cost, suggesting students should weigh completion likelihood against upfront savings.

Does attending a more expensive journalism program guarantee higher earnings?

University of Richmond graduates earn $43,426 annually but pay $33,417 net, while Radford graduates earn $27,126 after paying just $16,640. The $16,300 earnings difference doesn't justify the $16,777 higher net cost, making Radford the better financial investment for many students.

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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.