Top 3 UX Design Programs in Virginia
Liberty University
84 UX Design graduates annually, 78% graduation rate
Marymount University
5 UX Design graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
Radford University
29 UX Design graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
- 1.Virginia Tech offers the top-ranked UX design program with strong industry connections and a
- 2.George Mason University provides excellent value with in-state tuition at $12,564 and comprehensive design curriculum
- 3.UX designers in Virginia earn median salaries of $85,200, above the national average of $77,200
- 4.All Virginia UX programs emphasize hands-on portfolio development and industry collaboration
Complete Virginia UX Design Program Rankings
| Rank | Program | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Liberty University | — | $15,015 | 78% | 69.1 |
| 2 | Marymount University | — | $37,400 | 99% | 53.6 |
| 3 | Radford University | — | $8,401 | — | 50.4 |
| 4 | Bridgewater College | — | $40,300 | — | 44.2 |
Top 5 UX Design Programs in Virginia: Side-by-Side
| School | Liberty | Marymount | Virginia Commonwealth | Radford | Bridgewater College |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $15,015 | $37,400 | $12,850 | $8,401 | $40,300 |
| Graduation Rate | 78% | 99% | 92% | N/A% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 84 | 5 | 9 | 29 | 13 |
| Acceptance Rate | 99% | 81% | 93% | 91% | 91% |
| Type | Private | Private | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 72.6/100 | 53.6/100 | 52.1/100 | 50.4/100 | 44.2/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in UX Design in Virginia
Virginia offers 4 bachelor's-level ux design programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Liberty University, Marymount University, Radford University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $88,270 in the Virginia market.
A bachelor's in ux design typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best UX Design Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 UX Design Bachelor's Programs in Virginia
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Liberty | $15,015 | 78% | 84 | 72.6 |
| #2 Marymount | $37,400 | 99% | 5 | 53.6 |
| #3 Radford | $8,401 | N/A% | 29 | 50.4 |
Top UX Design Schools for Master's Degrees in Virginia
For graduate study, Virginia offers 2 master's-level ux design programs. Leading institutions include Liberty University, Virginia Commonwealth University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Virginia reaching $163,930 or more.
Top 3 UX Design Master's Programs in Virginia
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Liberty | $15,015 | 78% | 61 | 67.6 |
| #2 Virginia Commonwealth | $12,850 | 92% | 9 | 52.1 |
Most Affordable UX Design Colleges in Virginia
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable ux design programs in Virginia are at Radford University ($8,401/year), Virginia Commonwealth University ($12,850/year), Liberty University ($15,015/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Virginia's competitive tech salaries.
At Radford University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $33,604 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $88,270, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.6 years.
Most Affordable UX Design Programs in Virginia (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Radford | $8,401 | $33,604 | 0.6 years | Public |
| #2 Virginia Commonwealth | $12,850 | $51,400 | 1 years | Public |
| #3 Liberty | $15,015 | $60,060 | 1.1 years | Private |
Top UX Design Programs in Virginia
Virginia's UX design education landscape offers strong programs that combine traditional design principles with modern user experience methodologies. The state's proximity to the Washington DC tech corridor provides students with exceptional internship and career opportunities at companies like Amazon, Capital One, and numerous government contractors requiring UX expertise.
Virginia Tech leads the state with its Industrial Design program featuring a dedicated UX track. The program's reflects strong industry connections and a curriculum that emphasizes both technical skills and design thinking. Students work with real clients through the university's Design Thinking and Research Lab, gaining practical experience before graduation.
George Mason University's Computer Game Design program provides unique value for students interested in interactive media and UX design. Located in Fairfax, the program benefits from proximity to DC-area tech companies and offers specialized courses in human-computer interaction. The program's focus on user research and usability testing prepares graduates for diverse UX roles across industries.
For students seeking comprehensive design education with UX specialization, Virginia Commonwealth University's Graphic Design program offers strong foundation courses plus electives in user experience design. The program's location in Richmond provides access to a growing startup ecosystem and established agencies specializing in digital design.
How Virginia UX Programs Compare
Virginia's UX design programs vary significantly in approach and specialization. Public universities like Virginia Tech and George Mason University offer excellent value with lower tuition costs and strong state funding for technology programs. Private institutions like Liberty University provide smaller class sizes but at higher tuition rates.
The state's programs generally fall into three categories: traditional design programs with UX tracks, computer science programs with HCI focus, and specialized interactive media programs. Each approach has distinct advantages depending on career goals. Students interested in technical UX roles benefit from programs with strong computer science components, while those focused on visual design prefer traditional art school approaches.
Virginia's location advantages extend beyond the DC tech corridor. The state's growing startup ecosystem in cities like Richmond and Norfolk provides additional internship and job opportunities. Many programs maintain partnerships with local agencies and startups, offering students diverse project experiences and networking opportunities.
Admission Requirements for Virginia UX Programs
Admission requirements for UX design programs in Virginia vary by institution and program level. Most bachelor's programs require a high school diploma with a minimum 3.0 GPA, though competitive programs like Virginia Tech's Industrial Design track prefer applicants with 3.5 or higher GPAs and strong portfolios demonstrating creative ability.
Portfolio requirements typically include 10-15 pieces showcasing diverse creative skills. While UX-specific work is not required for undergraduate admission, programs value evidence of problem-solving ability, visual communication skills, and technical aptitude. Many successful applicants include web design, graphic design, or digital art projects.
- High school transcript with minimum 3.0 GPA (3.5+ for top programs)
- Creative portfolio with 10-15 diverse pieces
- Personal statement explaining interest in UX design
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or employers
- SAT/ACT scores (varies by institution)
- FAFSA completion for financial aid consideration
Graduate program admissions require a bachelor's degree, though not necessarily in design. Programs welcome applicants from computer science, psychology, business, and other fields. Career changers entering UX design often find Virginia's programs accommodating with prerequisite courses and portfolio development support.
UX Design Curriculum in Virginia Programs
Virginia UX design programs emphasize both theoretical foundations and practical application. Core coursework typically covers design principles, user research methodologies, prototyping techniques, and usability testing. Programs integrate technology training in industry-standard tools like Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, and prototyping platforms.
First-year courses establish design fundamentals through drawing, color theory, and basic digital design skills. Students learn design thinking methodologies and begin working with user research techniques. Many programs introduce programming basics to help designers communicate effectively with development teams.
- Design Fundamentals and Visual Communication
- User Research Methods and Data Analysis
- Information Architecture and Wireframing
- Interaction Design and Prototyping
- Usability Testing and User Psychology
- Frontend Development Basics (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
- Design Systems and Component Libraries
- Professional Portfolio Development
Advanced coursework varies by program focus. Virginia Tech's Industrial Design track emphasizes physical product design alongside digital interfaces. George Mason's program incorporates game design principles applicable to interactive media. Students in all programs complete capstone projects working with real clients, building professional portfolios before graduation.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $15,015 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 78% (IPEDS 2023)
- • UX Design Graduates: 84 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 99%
- • Ranking Score: 72.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 78% graduation rate
- 84 ux design graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 72.6 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (78%), program size (84 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (99% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Liberty University offers a 100% online Master of Arts in Human-Centered Design with flexible 8-week courses and no set login times, allowing students to transfer up to 50% of degree credits while studying under professors with years of experience in user experience design and product design.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credit hours
Marymount University
Arlington, VA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $37,400 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • UX Design Graduates: 5 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 81%
- • Ranking Score: 53.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 5 ux design graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 53.6 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (5 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (81% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,850 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • UX Design Graduates: 9 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 93%
- • Ranking Score: 52.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 9 ux design graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 52.1 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (9 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (93% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
VCU's Kinetic Imaging BFA offers a highly flexible major covering video art, animation, sound design, and emerging media with both analog and digital techniques. Alumni work as video editors, animators, motion graphics artists, sound designers, and UI/UX designers, demonstrating the program's versatility in preparing students for diverse creative technology careers.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Art Foundation Program
Radford University
Radford, VA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,401 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • UX Design Graduates: 29 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 91%
- • Ranking Score: 50.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 29 ux design graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 50.4 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (29 graduates), state salary outcomes ($126,100), and selectivity (91% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
This NASAD-accredited program offers learning from industry professionals with over 80% job placement rate and graduates working at top companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Nike. The program will move into a new $100 million Artis Center for Adaptive Innovation and Creativity in fall 2024, providing state-of-the-art facilities.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: better than 80% rate
- Top Employers: Apple, Microsoft, Electronic Arts, Sony Playstation, Nike, Volvo, Carmax, Shopify, Amazon, Weebly, Reddit, Virginia Tech, Carilion, United Healthcare, Booz Allen Hamilton, Spectrum Brands, Savannah College of Art & Design, Roc Nation Sports, Minor League Baseball, Under Armour, Coursera, Blizzard Entertainment
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
UX Designer
SOC 15-1255Create user-centered designs for websites, mobile apps, and software interfaces. Research user needs and develop wireframes, prototypes, and design systems.
UI Designer
SOC 27-1024Focus on visual interface design, creating aesthetically pleasing and functional user interfaces for digital products.
UX Researcher
SOC 19-3099Conduct user research, usability testing, and data analysis to inform design decisions and improve user experiences.
Product Designer
SOC 15-1299Lead design strategy for digital products, collaborating with product managers and developers to create cohesive user experiences.
Interaction Designer
SOC 15-1255Design interactive elements and behaviors for digital interfaces, focusing on how users interact with products.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Virginia
UX Design Programs by Virginia Region
Northern Virginia
Central Virginia
Southwest Virginia
Tidewater
Financial Aid and Scholarship Options
Virginia offers numerous financial aid opportunities for UX design students. State residents benefit from the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant program, providing up to $3,400 annually for students attending eligible private colleges. Public university students access need-based aid through the Virginia Commonwealth Award program.
Design-specific scholarships include the Virginia Art Education Association awards and local agency scholarships for students pursuing digital design careers. Many programs offer assistantships and work-study positions in design labs, providing both financial support and practical experience.
Students should complete the FAFSA application by March 1 for priority consideration for state aid programs. Virginia's relatively low in-state tuition rates make public universities particularly affordable options for design education. Average student debt for Virginia design graduates is $24,800, below the national average.
- Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant: up to $3,400 annually
- Commonwealth Award: need-based aid for public university students
- Virginia Art Education Association scholarships
- Institutional merit scholarships averaging $2,800
- Work-study positions in university design labs
- Graduate assistantships covering tuition plus stipends
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 12 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
UX Design 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 ux design salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related UX Design Resources
Data Sources
Official data on Virginia higher education programs and outcomes
National employment and salary data for design occupations
Federal database of college costs, graduation rates, and employment outcomes
Source: Completed by graduation across Virginia UX programs
Next Steps to Apply
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements for your target schools. Most programs require portfolios, so start gathering creative work or begin creating pieces specifically for applications.
Visit Campuses and Attend Info Sessions
Schedule campus visits to see design facilities and meet faculty. Many programs offer portfolio review sessions and information sessions for prospective students.
Prepare Application Materials
Complete applications, gather transcripts, and request letters of recommendation. Work on personal statements explaining your interest in UX design and career goals.
Apply for Financial Aid
Submit FAFSA applications by March 1 for priority aid consideration. Research and apply for scholarships specific to design students and Virginia residents.
Build Your Design Skills
Start learning design tools and principles through online courses or tutorials. Create practice projects to strengthen your portfolio and demonstrate commitment to the field.
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.