Cheapest Physics Colleges in Virginia

Norfolk State University offers Virginia's most affordable Physics program at just $12,973 net cost, making quality scientific education accessible despite the school's 32.70% graduation rate. The state's Physics programs span from $12,973 to $24,668, with earnings potential reaching $47,260 at James Madison University. Virginia's proximity to NASA Langley Research Center and defense contractors like Northrop Grumman creates strong demand for Physics graduates in aerospace and defense applications. William & Mary stands out with a 91% graduation rate but selective 33.50% acceptance, while schools like Old Dominion maintain 95.14% acceptance rates. Public institutions dominate the affordable options, with Virginia Military Institute offering unique military-focused Physics training at $18,849. The state's federal government connections provide Physics graduates with research opportunities at facilities like Jefferson Lab, while private colleges benefit from VTAG grant assistance to reduce student costs.

Programs

$12,973 – $33,417

Net Price Range

$41,162

Avg. Program Earnings

65.7%

Avg. Graduation Rate

24 Physics 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	Old Dominion University Norfolk, Virginia	$14,170	$12,262	44.4%	95.1%
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	Randolph College Lynchburg, Virginia	$18,436	$29,010	51.5%	95.0%
6	Virginia Military Institute Lexington, Virginia	$18,849	$20,484	81.8%	71.1%
7	Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, Virginia	$19,452	$16,458	65.4%	91.0%
8	Virginia Union University Richmond, Virginia	$19,580	$14,880	41.3%	80.6%
9	Bridgewater College Bridgewater, Virginia	$20,173	$41,350	49.4%	90.4%
10	University of Lynchburg Lynchburg, Virginia	$20,187	$35,540	61.6%	95.9%
11	Emory & Henry University Emory, Virginia	$20,591	$35,280	53.8%	96.9%
12	Longwood University Farmville, Virginia	$20,814	$15,200	61.6%	87.8%
13	University of Mary Washington Fredericksburg, Virginia	$21,108	$14,559	67.4%	85.8%
14	James Madison University Harrisonburg, Virginia	$21,816	$13,576	80.9%	78.3%
15	William & Mary Williamsburg, Virginia	$22,529	$25,040	91.0%	33.5%
16	University of Virginia-Main Campus Charlottesville, Virginia	$22,881	$20,986	95.3%	18.7%
17	Sweet Briar College Sweet Briar, Virginia	$23,383	$25,110	48.1%	75.8%
18	Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg, Virginia	$23,790	$15,478	86.3%	57.0%
19	Washington and Lee University Lexington, Virginia	$23,911	$64,525	94.9%	17.0%
20	Hampden-Sydney College Hampden-Sydney, Virginia	$24,668	$52,388	65.3%	39.8%
21	Randolph-Macon College Ashland, Virginia	$27,759	$48,002	74.6%	85.5%
22	Roanoke College Salem, Virginia	$27,786	$36,774	65.9%	79.8%
23	Hampton University Hampton, Virginia	$32,145	$29,162	55.7%	74.5%
24	University of Richmond University of Richmond, Virginia	$33,417	$62,600	87.8%	24.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Norfolk State University's Physics program the cheapest option in Virginia?

Norfolk State University charges just $12,973 in net costs for Physics students, nearly $1,200 less than the second most affordable option at Old Dominion University. The school maintains an 89.50% acceptance rate, making admission highly accessible. However, students should consider the 32.70% graduation rate when evaluating this program. In-state students pay even less at $9,910 annually.

How do graduation rates vary among Virginia's affordable Physics programs?

Graduation rates range dramatically from Norfolk State's 32.70% to William & Mary's strong 91% completion rate. James Madison University achieves an 80.90% graduation rate while maintaining reasonable costs at $21,816 net price. Virginia Military Institute reaches 81.80% graduation rates through its structured military environment. Most schools in the $16,000-$20,000 range maintain graduation rates between 45-65%.

Does Virginia's defense industry create good job prospects for Physics graduates?

Virginia's proximity to defense contractors and federal facilities creates strong Physics career opportunities, with graduates earning up to $47,260 from James Madison University programs. The state hosts major employers like Northrop Grumman and defense research facilities that actively recruit Physics majors. Even lower-earning programs like Bridgewater College report $29,685 starting salaries. Government and defense positions often provide job security and advancement potential.

Is William & Mary worth the higher cost for Physics students?

William & Mary's $22,529 net cost represents the higher end of affordable Virginia Physics programs, but delivers a 91% graduation rate and highly selective 33.50% acceptance rate. Students graduate with manageable $21,000 debt levels on average. The school's academic reputation and alumni network may justify the premium over schools like Norfolk State at $12,973. Physics students gain access to research opportunities and graduate school preparation.

Where can Physics students find the best value combination of cost and outcomes?

James Madison University offers excellent value at $21,816 net cost with 80.90% graduation rates and $47,260 average earnings for graduates. George Mason University provides another strong option at $18,287 with 69.30% completion rates and $38,289 starting salaries. Virginia Commonwealth University balances $19,452 costs with 65.40% graduation rates and manageable $22,078 debt levels. These schools combine reasonable pricing with solid academic outcomes.

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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.