Best Colleges in Virginia

Known as “Old Dominion” and “Mother of Presidents,” the Commonwealth of Virginia was one of the original thirteen colonies. This New England state experience cool winters and warm summers, but the Atlantic Ocean causes extreme climate variations. Colleges in Virginia are categorized by the State Council of Higher Education in Virginia, who keep a list of public and private institutions that are accredited and in good standing. The largest college in the state is Liberty University, which also ranks most selective along with Washington & Lee University. Livestock and livestock products are Virginia’s primary agriculture industry. Old Dominion is also supported by food and beverage manufacturing, mining, and fishing. Shenandoah National Park, Arlington National Cemetery, and Busch Gardens are top attractions in Virginia.

How Were the Top Schools in Virginia Chosen?

Appily determines “Best Colleges” based on publicly-available information from the US Department of Education. Several factors include, but are not limited to, data about admitted students’ academic calibers, students’ expected career outcomes after graduation, and colleges’ investments toward making their institution accessible to all students.

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Liberty University

Liberty University is a Christian institution located in Lynchburg, VA. The 7,000-acre campus hosts more than 550 programs of study within its 17 colleges and schools. LU's mission of creating "Champions for Christ" is encouarged through the...

“…

This campus is very large, 5,000 acres, and has many colleges and majors to offer. Not only will I excel in academia, but I will learn good time management, and real life knowledge.

” – Alicia from Camp Hill, PA
Radford University

Radford University is located on a 204-acre campus in Radford, VA, and features six unique colleges with 108 degree programs. RU provides an honors college with competitive housing, programming, and advising, as well as the Office of High Impact...

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Professors are willing and able to help students during his or her specificed office hours. The stronger your will to learn, the more you will gain from each course.

” – Taylor from Blacksburg, VA
University of Lynchburg

The University of Lynchburg is a private institution located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Lynchburg, Virginia. It is a affiliated with the Christian Church the Disciples of Christ and has a “selective” admissions process. Lynchburg is...

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All of my teachers have been great so far. The classes are small, which creates a better learning environment and more one-on-one time with teachers and other students. I learned the most in my two LCSR classes (English and History) because the...

” – Charles from Danville, VA
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Founded in 1859, Averett University is a private 4-year institution situated in Danville, Virginia. Averett University is affiliated with the Baptist General Association of Virginia but welcomes students of all faith, or non-faith, backgrounds. Top...

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the small classes offer a more personal level with the professors making easier to pay attention

” – Joey from Richmond, VA
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Randolph College is a private, 4-year institution established in Lynchburg, Virginia. Randolph campus features a number of facilities, including the Maier Museum of Art, which is home to many different events, internships, and programs throughout the...

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I have learned to write better, to be more tolerant of others, and how to study and take tests better. I also have learned to not procrastinate.

” – Hope from Madison Heights, VA
Longwood University

Founded in 1839, Longwood University is a 4-year public liberal arts college in central Virginia and one of the oldest universities in the United States. Longwood awards undergraduate degrees in over 100 academic fields of study and all students...

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I just finished my first semester and I learned a lot. At first it was a little over-whelming, but after a couple of weeks the work load got easier. The teachers expect a lot but they are there to help you during their office hours if you need help...

” – Kelly from Midlothian, VA
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The University of Virginia’s College at Wise is a public, 4-year institution established in Wise, Virginia. UVa-Wise’s forested campus is home to a number of scenic facilities, such as the C. Bascom Slemp Student Center, the Betty J. Gilliam...

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inclusiveness is very important to this college. there are opportunities, organizations, and clubs for literally any interest and if they don't already have one, anyone can start one. also, students are very important to the professors employed here...

” – Julie from Wise, VA
Marymount University

Founded by the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, Marymount University is a Roman Catholic institution in northern Virginia and the first Catholic college in the state. Marymount encompasses schools of Arts & Humanities, Business, and Sciences...

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At Marymount University, you will learn a lot, not only the needed necessities for your intended majors, but just all around information that is vitally important. Right now i am a freshman in the 2009/ 2010 school year, and I am a Fashion Design...

” – Tynisha from Lorton, VA
Virginia Union University

Founded in 1865, Virginia Union University is a private, historically black institution of higher education in Richmond, VA. VUU is affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA and the National Baptist Convention. The school offers a theology...

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Virginia Union University is a very small school. That's a plus when in the classroom because you work close with your professors. You get more out of your learning my classroom.

” – Cherrelle from Englewood, NJ
Virginia Wesleyan University

With campus just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Wesleyan University is a liberal arts institution in coastal Virginia affiliated with the United Methodist Church. VWU grants undergraduate degrees in 36 academic majors and 30 minors. In...

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Teachers are friendly and take the time to sit down and talk to you and help you out with whatever is troubling you!

” – Sheryll from Hampton, VA
Virginia Commonwealth University

Formed by the merger of the Medical College of Virginia and the Richmond Professional Institute, Virginia Commonwealth University is a 4-year public institution in Richmond. VCU is home to 20 colleges and is the state’s only university to offer...

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I currently a student at VCU returning for my sophomore year and I must say that I am excited to get back to Richmond, VA this fall. As an engineering student I can tell that the education that I am receiving from VCU presents me as well as others...

” – Jerrod from Centreville, VA
Mary Baldwin University

Mary Baldwin University is a private, coeducational college founded in 1842 and is associated with the Presbyterian Church. Though based in Staunton, Virginia, MBU offers online programs as well as regional advising centers throughout the state. A...

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The courses at Mary Baldwin can definitely be challenging. Of course some classes are harder than others and some professors are more helpful than others, but the small class size creates an environment where students can connect with their...

” – Alexis
Southern Virginia University

Originally founded as a school for women, Southern Virginia University is a 4-year coeducational liberal arts college. Although not officially affiliated with the Mormon Church, SVU integrates the values of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day...

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The teachers here are amazing. They love working with students and love teaching. They are always willing to meet and give you the extra help you need. Teachers know what they are teaching and want you to succeed in their classroom and in life.

” – Laura from Pasco, WA
Ferrum College

Ferrum College is a 4-year liberal arts college in rural southwestern Virginia affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Ferrum hosts schools of Arts & Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences granting bachelor’s degrees in 30 academic...

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Small campus where the teachers make you their priority. Help is always available for those who need it. Everyone on campus supports you from academics to sports.

” – Anneleisse from Castle Rock, CO
Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University is a 4-year public institution in Norfolk and a doctoral high research activity university. ODU hosts colleges of Arts & Letters, Business, Sciences, Education, Engineering, and Health Sciences as well as an Honors College...

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Old Dominion Professors are very professional and informative when it comes to detailed lectures & assignments.

” – Efrem from Chantilly, VA
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
Regent University

Regent University is a private, non denominational evangelical institution based on the coast of Virginia Beach, VA. It is a military-friendly university with a “selective” admissions process. Many students choose to study communications, biblical...

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With seven different schools, stretching from psychology and law to theater and cinema production (offered at both grad and undergrad levels), Regent University is the place to be if you are a blossoming Christian leader. The learning environment...

” – Lauren from Senoia, GA
Virginia State University

Virginia State University is an Historically Black College and University in central Virginia and the nation’s first fully state-supported university for African Americans. The VSU campus hosts colleges of Business, Education, Agriculture, Humanities...

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The professors that I have come in contact with so far at VSU, have all be amazing. The knowledge held within the school grounds is overwelming. I feel as though a little bit every day rubs off and sticks to me. I have learned so much being on...

” – Jasmine from Springfield, NJ
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Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing is a private, medical education institution established in Richmond, Virginia. Students attending Bon Secours Memorial have the option of enrolling in either the Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing...

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Bluefield College is a private, Christ-centered institution established in the state of Virginia. Each student is required to complete 10 chapel attendance credits per semester, with 80 necessary for graduation. The campus features a wide variety of...

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Bluefield College is the best school I have been to. This school is small but that the best part , the teacher get to know you and personal with you.

” – Sierra from Bluefield, VA
Virginia University of Lynchburg

The Virginia University of Lynchburg is a private, historically black institution founded in 1886. The campus is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and boasts a number of historic facilities for students to attend. Academics at VUL...