Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Virginia 2025
William & Mary
95 Computer Science graduates annually, 94% graduation rate
Washington and Lee University
20 Computer Science graduates annually, 94% graduation rate
Averett University
5 Computer Science graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
- 1.Virginia has 40+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs with UVA and Virginia Tech leading state rankings
- 2.University of Virginia ranks #1 in Virginia with 94% graduation rate and top-tier career placement in tech
- 3.Virginia Tech offers exceptional value at $14,068 in-state tuition with strong cybersecurity and engineering focus
- 4.Virginia software developers earn median $128,900 annually, boosted by proximity to D.C. metro tech corridor (BLS Virginia 2024)
- 5.Northern Virginia tech hub provides 180,000+ technology jobs with major employers like Amazon, Microsoft, and government contractors
Computer Science Education in Virginia
Virginia offers a strong selection of computer science programs across its public university system and private colleges. The state's proximity to Washington D.C. creates unique opportunities for students interested in government technology, cybersecurity, and defense contracting, while Northern Virginia's tech corridor provides abundant internship and career opportunities.
The University of Virginia and Virginia Tech lead the state in computer science education, both offering ABET-accredited programs with strong industry connections. For students considering alternatives, our best computer science bachelor's programs nationally provides broader comparison options. Cost-conscious students should review our most affordable CS programs guide for budget-friendly alternatives.
Virginia's tech landscape is dominated by the D.C. metro area, which houses major tech companies, government contractors, and cybersecurity firms. Students interested in career prospects should examine our software engineer salary guide and cybersecurity analyst salary data for Virginia-specific compensation information.
Virginia Computer Science Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | William & Mary | Williamsburg, VA | Public | $18,253 | 94% | — | 88.4 |
| 2 | Washington and Lee University | Lexington, VA | Private | $63,315 | 94% | — | 73 |
| 3 | Averett University | Danville, VA | Private | $38,400 | 99% | — | 60.4 |
| 4 | Virginia Military Institute | Lexington, VA | Public | $10,076 | 95% | — | 59.4 |
| 5 | Christopher Newport University | Newport News, VA | Public | $10,001 | — | — | 59.3 |
| 6 | George Mason University | Fairfax, VA | Public | $10,095 | 80% | — | 57.1 |
| 7 | Virginia State University | Petersburg, VA | Public | $5,540 | 75% | — | 56.4 |
| 8 | Regent University | Virginia Beach, VA | Private | $18,986 | 64% | — | 55.7 |
| 9 | Radford University | Radford, VA | Public | $8,401 | — | — | 51.1 |
| 10 | University of Virginia's College at Wise | Wise, VA | Public | $6,040 | 91% | — | 51.1 |
| 11 | Shenandoah University | Winchester, VA | Private | $34,614 | 91% | — | 50.5 |
| 12 | Marymount University | Arlington, VA | Private | $37,400 | 99% | — | 49.2 |
| 13 | Roanoke College | Salem, VA | Private | $34,820 | — | — | 46.9 |
| 14 | Longwood University | Farmville, VA | Public | $8,660 | — | — | 46.8 |
| 15 | Bridgewater College | Bridgewater, VA | Private | $40,300 | — | — | 44.2 |
| 16 | University of Management and Technology | Arlington, VA | For-Profit | $9,360 | — | — | 43.3 |
| 17 | Eastern Mennonite University | Harrisonburg, VA | Private | $41,410 | — | — | 39.1 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Virginia: Side-by-Side
| School | Virginia Tech | UVA | William & Mary | George Mason | James Madison |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $12,698 | $18,823 | $18,253 | $10,095 | $7,914 |
| Graduation Rate | 95% | 96% | 94% | 80% | 95% |
| Annual Graduates | 526 | 297 | 95 | 251 | 123 |
| Acceptance Rate | 57% | 17% | 33% | 89% | 76% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 88.9/100 | 88.3/100 | 72.6/100 | 67.0/100 | 65.9/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Virginia
Virginia offers 33 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, University of Virginia-Main Campus, George Mason University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $88,270 in the Virginia market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Virginia
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Virginia Tech | $12,698 | 95% | 526 | 88.9 |
| #2 UVA | $18,823 | 96% | 297 | 88.3 |
| #3 George Mason | $10,095 | 80% | 380 | 72.8 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Virginia
For graduate study, Virginia offers 12 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, University of Virginia-Main Campus, George Mason University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Virginia reaching $163,930 or more.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Virginia
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Virginia Tech | $12,698 | 95% | 307 | 88.9 |
| #2 UVA | $18,823 | 96% | 80 | 79.4 |
| #3 George Mason | $10,095 | 80% | 251 | 67.0 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Virginia
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Virginia are at Virginia State University ($5,540/year), Norfolk State University ($5,926/year), University of Virginia's College at Wise ($6,040/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Virginia's competitive tech salaries.
At Virginia State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $22,160 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $88,270, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.4 years.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Virginia (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Virginia State | $5,540 | $22,160 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #2 Norfolk State | $5,926 | $23,704 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 U of Virginia's College... | $6,040 | $24,160 | 0.5 years | Public |
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,698 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 526 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 57%
- • Ranking Score: 88.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 526 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 88.9 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (526 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (57% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Virginia Tech's Computer Science program offers multiple degree options including Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy, with specialized tracks in Data-Centric Computing and Secure Computing. The program includes a comprehensive 123-credit curriculum with required capstone experience and bridge experience components.
Admission Prerequisites
- •4 units of English
- •3 units of math (includes algebra I, and algebra II)
- •2 units of laboratory science (chosen from biology, chemistry or physics)
- •2 units of social science (one must be history)
- •3 additional academic units
- •4 elective units
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 123 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Virginia-Main Campus
Charlottesville, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $18,823 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 297 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 17%
- • Ranking Score: 88.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 297 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 88.3 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (297 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (17% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UVA's Computer Science program emphasizes basic science, technical mastery, research opportunities and strong communication skills with creative problem solving. The program offers undergraduate research opportunities where students are valued lab members who co-author publications, present at national meetings, and fund their own research through competitive awards.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •APMA 1090 - Single Variable Calculus I
- •APMA 1110 - Single Variable Calculus II
- •APMA 2120 - Multivariable Calculus III
- •CHEM 1410/1411 - Introductory Chemistry I & Lab
- •CS 1110/1111/1112/1113 - Introduction to Programming
- •PHYS 1425/1429 - Introductory Physics I & Lab
- •PHYS 2415/2419 - Introductory Physics II & Lab
William & Mary
Williamsburg, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $18,253 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 94% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 95 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 33%
- • Ranking Score: 72.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 94% graduation rate
- 95 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 72.6 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (94%), program size (95 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (33% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
William & Mary's Computer Science program offers strong career placement with 92% of graduates employed or in graduate school within 6 months, ranking as a top 20 public school for career placement. The program provides excellent student support with the #5 ranking for student-to-career staff ratio nationally and guaranteed funding for Ph.D. students.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •Mathematics: two calculus courses and one linear algebra course
- •Computer Science: two introductory programming courses (CS1 and CS2)
- •discrete mathematics
- •data structures
- •algorithms
- •computer organization
Program Details
- Credits: 37 credits (if given 4 credits for CSCI 141) otherwise 36
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $61,377 for STEM Careers
- Job Placement: 92% employed or in graduate school within 6 months of graduation
- Top Employers: Accenture Federal Services, Bank of America, Booz Allen Hamilton, Capital One, Deloitte, Epic, Ernst & Young, JP Morgan Chase & Co., KPMG, PwC
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,095 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 80% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 251 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 89%
- • Ranking Score: 67.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 80% graduation rate
- 251 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.0 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (80%), program size (251 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (89% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The ABET-accredited BS in Computer Science program provides students with essential background in computer systems and software applications, with strong industry connections in the DC technology hub including elite companies and government contractors.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •CS 112 or CS 211
- •MATH 113 or MATH 114 or MATH 125
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.00
Program Details
- Credits: 120
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: AARP, Accenture, Amazon / AWS, Apple, BAE Systems, Capital One, Deloitte, Google, Microsoft, NASA, Northrop Grumman
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,914 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 123 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 76%
- • Ranking Score: 65.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 123 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 65.9 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (123 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (76% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
JMU Computer Science offers small classes capped at 30 students taught by full-time faculty, research opportunities with faculty collaboration, and is recognized as a top school in Virginia for women computer science graduates. The program provides hands-on learning in emerging areas like mobile computing, robotics, AI, and cybersecurity.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •One full year beyond Algebra II in a course for which Algebra II is the prerequisite
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop applications, websites, and software systems for tech companies and government contractors in Northern Virginia and Richmond.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational data and systems, particularly strong demand in government contracting and defense sectors around D.C.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets for insights in healthcare, government, and financial services sectors prevalent in Virginia.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1252Manage development and deployment pipelines for cloud-based applications, high demand in Northern Virginia tech companies.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1252Develop machine learning models and AI systems for government applications and emerging tech companies.
Virginia University Systems and CS Programs
Virginia's public university system provides multiple pathways for computer science education. The University of Virginia leads as the state's flagship institution, offering a prestigious CS program with excellent outcomes. Virginia Tech complements this with strong engineering-focused computer science education at exceptional value.
The Virginia State University system includes comprehensive universities like George Mason, which serves the Northern Virginia tech corridor, and regional universities like James Madison and Old Dominion that provide quality CS education across the state. Community colleges throughout Virginia offer transfer pathways through the Virginia Community College System, allowing students to complete prerequisites affordably before transferring to four-year programs.
Private institutions like Washington and Lee University and the University of Richmond offer small class sizes and personalized attention, though at significantly higher tuition costs. For students interested in specialized focuses, our cybersecurity programs in Virginia and artificial intelligence programs in Virginia provide targeted educational pathways.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Virginia
Compare CS Programs by State
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to D.C. metro tech opportunities and government contractors
- Strong public university options at reasonable in-state tuition rates
- Cybersecurity career focus with defense industry connections
- Moderate cost of living compared to other major tech hubs
- Proximity to both urban tech centers and college town environments
- Silicon Valley startup ecosystem and venture capital access
- Maximum salary potential in major tech hubs like Seattle or Bay Area
- Large-scale tech company headquarters (Amazon, Microsoft, Google)
- More diverse tech industry beyond government contracting
- Extensive public transportation infrastructure for internships
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia CS Programs
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific computer science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Computer Science Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, tuition costs, and enrollment data for all accredited institutions
State-specific salary data for computer science occupations
State-specific enrollment, graduation, and transfer data
Program accreditation status and requirements
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.