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Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia

5 schools in Virginia. See our methodology.

Hampton University stands apart among Virginia's five HBCUs with its $32,145 net price and 55.7% graduation rate, reflecting its position as the most selective institution at 74.5% acceptance. The state's HBCU market spans from Norfolk State's 5,495 enrollment to Virginia University of Lynchburg's intimate 170 students. Net costs range dramatically from Norfolk State's $12,973 to Hampton's premium pricing, yet all five institutions prepare graduates for Virginia's federal contracting sector. Northrop Grumman, Booz Allen Hamilton, and other defense contractors actively recruit from these campuses, where alumni earn between $28,396 and $59,159 annually. Virginia's VTAG grant program supports students at private HBCUs like Hampton and Virginia Union, helping offset higher costs. Petersburg's Virginia State University offers strong value at $14,553 with 89.7% acceptance, while Norfolk State provides the state's most affordable HBCU education. These institutions collectively serve over 14,000 students across major Virginia cities from Norfolk to Lynchburg.
5
Schools
$19,487
Avg. Net Price
$43,208
Avg. Earnings
39.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) in Virginia

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Median Earnings
1 3,254 $32,145 55.7% $59,159
2 4,787 $14,553 40.7% $45,543
3 170 $18,184 26.1% $28,396
4 1,153 $19,580 41.3% $38,275
5 5,495 $12,973 32.7% $44,666

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Hampton University different from other Virginia HBCUs?

Hampton charges $32,145 annually but delivers a 55.7% graduation rate, nearly 15 points higher than the state average. With 74.5% acceptance, it's Virginia's most selective HBCU, attracting 3,254 students who earn $59,159 median salary after graduation.

How much do Virginia HBCU graduates typically earn?

Earnings vary significantly by institution, from $28,396 at Virginia University of Lynchburg to $59,159 at Hampton University. Norfolk State and Virginia State graduates earn around $44,000-$45,000 annually, reflecting strong employment in Virginia's government and healthcare sectors.

Is financial aid available at Virginia's private HBCUs?

Virginia's VTAG grant program specifically supports students attending private colleges, including Hampton University and Virginia Union University. This state funding helps offset higher net costs, with Hampton students paying $32,145 despite its private status.

Does enrollment size affect academic outcomes at Virginia HBCUs?

Norfolk State enrolls 5,495 students with a 32.7% graduation rate, while tiny Virginia University of Lynchburg serves just 170 students but achieves only 26.1%. Hampton's mid-size 3,254 enrollment correlates with the highest 55.7% graduation rate.

Where do Virginia HBCU graduates find employment opportunities?

Virginia's defense industry employs many graduates, with Northrop Grumman and Booz Allen Hamilton recruiting from these campuses. Inova Health System also hires extensively, particularly from nursing and healthcare programs at Norfolk State and Virginia State.

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.