Top 3 Data Science Programs in Virginia 2025
William & Mary
162 Data Science graduates annually, 94% graduation rate
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
192 Data Science graduates annually, 95% graduation rate
University of Virginia-Main Campus
81 Data Science graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
- 1.Virginia has 25+ accredited data science and analytics bachelor's programs across public and private universities (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.Virginia Tech leads Virginia rankings with 86% graduation rate and comprehensive statistics and computer science integration
- 3.In-state students pay average $15,279 annual tuition—significantly below national average for quality programs
- 4.Virginia data scientists earn median $108,240 annually, boosted by DC metro proximity (BLS Virginia 2024)
- 5.Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Norfolk provide 15,000+ data analyst and scientist positions with federal contractors
Data Science Education Landscape in Virginia
Virginia offers diverse data science education options from prestigious public universities to specialized private colleges. The state's proximity to Washington DC creates unique opportunities for students interested in government analytics, defense contracting, and federal data initiatives.
Virginia's data science programs emphasize practical applications in healthcare analytics, cybersecurity, and government operations. For national program comparisons, review our best data science bachelor's programs ranking. Students considering career prospects should explore our data scientist salary guide for Virginia-specific compensation data.
The state's tech corridor in Northern Virginia hosts major federal contractors like Booz Allen Hamilton, CACI, and SAIC, creating substantial demand for data science graduates. Richmond and Virginia Beach also offer growing analytics sectors in healthcare and logistics.
Virginia Data Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | William & Mary | Williamsburg, VA | Public | $18,253 | 94% | — | 90.8 |
| 2 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA | Public | $12,698 | 95% | — | 88.9 |
| 3 | University of Virginia-Main Campus | Charlottesville, VA | Public | $18,823 | 96% | — | 80.5 |
| 4 | Washington and Lee University | Lexington, VA | Private | $63,315 | 94% | — | 68.7 |
| 5 | Averett University | Danville, VA | Private | $38,400 | 99% | — | 58.2 |
| 6 | George Mason University | Fairfax, VA | Public | $10,095 | 80% | — | 56.4 |
| 7 | Virginia Military Institute | Lexington, VA | Public | $10,076 | 95% | — | 55.3 |
| 8 | Regent University | Virginia Beach, VA | Private | $18,986 | 64% | — | 52.8 |
| 9 | Christopher Newport University | Newport News, VA | Public | $10,001 | — | — | 51.8 |
| 10 | Virginia State University | Petersburg, VA | Public | $5,540 | 75% | — | 51.4 |
| 11 | Shenandoah University | Winchester, VA | Private | $34,614 | 91% | — | 48.8 |
| 12 | University of Virginia's College at Wise | Wise, VA | Public | $6,040 | 91% | — | 48.3 |
| 13 | Marymount University | Arlington, VA | Private | $37,400 | 99% | — | 48.3 |
| 14 | Radford University | Radford, VA | Public | $8,401 | — | — | 45.7 |
| 15 | Roanoke College | Salem, VA | Private | $34,820 | — | — | 43.9 |
Showing 1–15 of 20
Top 5 Data Science Programs in Virginia: Side-by-Side
| School | UVA | William & Mary | Virginia Tech | George Mason | Washington and Lee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $18,823 | $18,253 | $12,698 | $10,095 | $63,315 |
| Graduation Rate | 96% | 94% | 95% | 80% | 94% |
| Annual Graduates | 199 | 162 | 192 | 326 | 20 |
| Acceptance Rate | 17% | 33% | 57% | 89% | 17% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 89.4/100 | 82.9/100 | 80.4/100 | 78.4/100 | 66.0/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Data Science in Virginia
Virginia offers 20 bachelor's-level data science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are William & Mary, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, University of Virginia-Main Campus. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $88,270 in the Virginia market.
A bachelor's in data science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Data Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Data Science Bachelor's Programs in Virginia
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 William & Mary | $18,253 | 94% | 162 | 82.9 |
| #2 Virginia Tech | $12,698 | 95% | 192 | 80.4 |
| #3 UVA | $18,823 | 96% | 81 | 84.5 |
Top Data Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Virginia
For graduate study, Virginia offers 6 master's-level data science programs. Leading institutions include University of Virginia-Main Campus, George Mason University, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Virginia reaching $163,930 or more.
Top 3 Data Science Master's Programs in Virginia
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UVA | $18,823 | 96% | 199 | 89.4 |
| #2 George Mason | $10,095 | 80% | 326 | 78.4 |
| #3 Virginia Tech | $12,698 | 95% | 7 | 54.8 |
Most Affordable Data Science Colleges in Virginia
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable data science programs in Virginia are at Virginia State University ($5,540/year), University of Virginia's College at Wise ($6,040/year), Old Dominion University ($7,590/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 Data 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 U of Virginia's College... | $6,040 | $24,160 | 0.5 years | Public |
| #3 Old Dominion | $7,590 | $30,360 | 0.6 years | Public |
University of Virginia-Main Campus
Charlottesville, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $18,823 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 199 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 17%
- • Ranking Score: 89.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 199 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 89.4 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (199 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (17% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
William & Mary
Williamsburg, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $18,253 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 94% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 162 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 33%
- • Ranking Score: 82.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 94% graduation rate
- 162 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 82.9 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (94%), program size (162 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 Data Science program features an industry-managed curriculum through an Analytics Board of professionals and offers specialized tracks in Artificial Intelligence and Data Application. The program combines technical rigor with practical application, preparing students for careers in both public and private sectors with strong employer connections.
Program Details
- Credits: 36 credit hours for Data Science major, minimum of 120 credits required to fulfill all degree requirements
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $87,000 (for MSBA program)
- Job Placement: 83% Full-Time Employment Offer Rate (for MSBA program)
- Top Employers: Applied Materials, Bank of America, CapTech, Clearview Healthcare Partners, Deloitte, Dominion Energy, Freddie Mac, Goldman Sachs, Guidehouse, KPMG, Morgan Corp, PRA Group, Sage, Southern Company, Transact, Veris
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,698 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 192 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 57%
- • Ranking Score: 80.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 192 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 80.4 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (192 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 Statistics program offers both theoretical depth and practical application through specialized tracks in Statistical Data Science and Statistical Methods and Theory. The program provides comprehensive training from probability theory to advanced Bayesian statistics with hands-on experience in data analytics and machine learning.
Admission Prerequisites
- •MATH 1225
- •MATH 1226
- •STAT 3005
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,095 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 80% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 326 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 89%
- • Ranking Score: 78.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 80% graduation rate
- 326 data science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 78.4 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (80%), program size (326 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (89% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Students can complete their BAS plus an MS in Data Analytics Engineering in just 3 years at Mason through the Bachelor's-Accelerated Masters program. The program offers 14 different concentrations ranging from cyber analytics to financial engineering, providing flexibility for specialized career paths in data science and analytics.
Admission Prerequisites
- •calculus
- •statistics
- •computer programming
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.00
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credits (MS), 120-126 total (BAS)
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Amazon/AWS, Capital One, Deloitte, Microsoft, Google, NASA, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Washington and Lee University
Lexington, VA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $63,315 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 94% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Science Graduates: 20 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 17%
- • Ranking Score: 66.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 94% graduation rate
- 20 data science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 66.0 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (94%), program size (20 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (17% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex datasets to drive business decisions in government contracting, healthcare, and finance sectors
Business Intelligence Analyst
Create dashboards and reports for Virginia's government agencies and major corporations
Develop AI systems for defense contractors and healthcare organizations in Virginia
Protect data systems for government agencies and defense contractors throughout Virginia
Research Scientist
Conduct data-driven research in Virginia's universities and government research facilities
Virginia's University System for Data Science
Virginia's higher education system provides diverse pathways for data science education. The state's flagship universities lead in research and academic prestige, while regional institutions offer practical, career-focused programs at lower costs.
Virginia's Public Universities operate under coordinated state oversight, ensuring quality standards across institutions. Virginia Tech and UVA represent the state's premier research universities, while institutions like James Madison University and Christopher Newport University offer excellent undergraduate-focused programs.
Regional Public Universities including George Mason University in Northern Virginia provide direct access to the DC metro job market. Old Dominion University in Norfolk serves the Hampton Roads region's growing tech sector, particularly in maritime and logistics analytics.
Community College Pathways through the Virginia Community College System offer transfer agreements guaranteeing admission to four-year programs. Students can complete general education requirements at community colleges before transferring to universities for data science specialization, significantly reducing total education costs.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Virginia
Data Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Massachusetts
Washington
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to DC metro government and consulting opportunities
- Strong public university options at affordable in-state tuition rates
- Proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors hiring data scientists
- Healthcare analytics specialization through major medical centers
- Moderate cost of living compared to DC, Boston, or California
- Growing tech sector in Northern Virginia with Amazon HQ2 expansion
- Silicon Valley tech company exposure (consider California programs)
- Maximum program selection (California and New York offer more options)
- Lower overall costs including living expenses (consider North Carolina or Georgia)
- Stronger startup ecosystem access (consider Massachusetts or Texas)
- More diverse industry applications beyond government work
Virginia Data Science Programs FAQ
Based on 15 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Data 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 data science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Data Science Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing graduation rates, tuition costs, and enrollment data for all Title IV institutions
State-specific occupational employment and wage estimates for data science careers
State oversight body providing program approval and quality assurance data
Federal education statistics and program outcome tracking
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.