University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class, unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlight the best programs for computer science in Virginia.
What is Computer Science?
There are many computer science colleges and degree programs to choose from in Virginia. Online students have plenty of options to find a program that fits their needs and interests all over the US and the state of Virginia itself.
Computer science is the study of computers and computational systems. In addition to theoretical and mathematical foundations, computer science includes knowledge in design, construction, testing, and maintenance of software, hardware, and networks.
A computer science professional in Virginia is someone who works in one of the following fields with computer hardware or software. They may design and develop software applications, create and maintain databases, or develop new ways to use existing technology. They may also work in management or support roles, helping to ensure that systems run smoothly and efficiently.
With the ever-growing reliance on technology in all aspects of life, computer science professionals are in high demand. Those with the skills and knowledge to build, maintain, and improve upon complex systems are essential to keeping our world running smoothly.
Featured Computer Science Programs
Top Ranked Campus & Online Computer Science Programs in Virginia
Washington and Lee University
Score: 87.73
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,525
- Out-of-State:$64,525
- Net Price: $24,733
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Retention Rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Total Enrollment: 2,243
- Undergrad Students: 1,867
- Graduate Students: 376
- Grads Salary: $90,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
University of Virginia
Score: 85.84
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,986
- Out-of-State:$58,014
- Net Price: $19,469
- Acceptance Rate: 19%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Total Enrollment: 26,082
- Undergrad Students: 17,444
- Graduate Students: 8,638
- Grads Salary: $84,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Virginia Military Institute
Score: 80.51
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,484
- Out-of-State:$51,186
- Net Price: $18,129
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 1,512
- Undergrad Students: 1,512
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Virginia Tech
Score: 80.15
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,478
- Out-of-State:$36,694
- Net Price: $19,301
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 38,170
- Undergrad Students: 30,434
- Graduate Students: 7,736
- Grads Salary: $83,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
William & Mary
Score: 79.54
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $25,040
- Out-of-State:$49,412
- Net Price: $25,688
- Acceptance Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 9,654
- Undergrad Students: 6,797
- Graduate Students: 2,857
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
University of Richmond
Score: 77.04
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,600
- Out-of-State:$62,600
- Net Price: $29,248
- Acceptance Rate: 24%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 3,876
- Undergrad Students: 3,145
- Graduate Students: 731
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
James Madison University
Score: 74.54
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,576
- Out-of-State:$30,790
- Net Price: $18,274
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- Total Enrollment: 22,224
- Undergrad Students: 20,346
- Graduate Students: 1,878
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
George Mason University
Score: 74.12
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,815
- Out-of-State:$39,397
- Net Price: $18,479
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 71%
- Total Enrollment: 39,049
- Undergrad Students: 27,014
- Graduate Students: 12,035
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
University of Mary Washington
Score: 70.49
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,559
- Out-of-State:$31,479
- Net Price: $21,863
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Total Enrollment: 3,757
- Undergrad Students: 3,493
- Graduate Students: 264
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Christopher Newport University
Score: 69.96
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,351
- Out-of-State:$30,988
- Net Price: $23,287
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- Total Enrollment: 4,559
- Undergrad Students: 4,449
- Graduate Students: 110
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Shenandoah University
Score: 69
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $36,028
- Out-of-State:$36,028
- Net Price: $26,143
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 4,260
- Undergrad Students: 2,461
- Graduate Students: 1,799
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Hampden-Sydney College
Score: 68.02
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $52,388
- Out-of-State:$52,388
- Net Price: $29,899
- Acceptance Rate: 40%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 846
- Undergrad Students: 846
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Randolph-Macon College
Score: 66.94
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $48,002
- Out-of-State:$48,002
- Net Price: $28,389
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Total Enrollment: 1,490
- Undergrad Students: 1,490
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Virginia Commonwealth University
Score: 66.59
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,458
- Out-of-State:$39,042
- Net Price: $21,294
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Total Enrollment: 28,082
- Undergrad Students: 20,958
- Graduate Students: 7,124
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Eastern Mennonite University
Score: 66.4
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $41,860
- Out-of-State:$41,860
- Net Price: $23,783
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 1,334
- Undergrad Students: 892
- Graduate Students: 442
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Averett University
Score: 65.91
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $38,550
- Out-of-State:$38,550
- Net Price: $23,781
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 1,363
- Undergrad Students: 1,140
- Graduate Students: 223
- Grads Salary: $86,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Old Dominion University
Score: 65.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,262
- Out-of-State:$32,662
- Net Price: $16,098
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Total Enrollment: 23,107
- Undergrad Students: 18,375
- Graduate Students: 4,732
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
The University of Virginia's College at Wise
Score: 64.64
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,656
- Out-of-State:$32,540
- Net Price: $9,923
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Total Enrollment: 1,704
- Undergrad Students: 1,704
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Longwood University
Score: 64.09
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,200
- Out-of-State:$27,410
- Net Price: $21,772
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 4,358
- Undergrad Students: 3,154
- Graduate Students: 1,204
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Radford University
Score: 64.01
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,286
- Out-of-State:$25,185
- Net Price: $17,105
- Acceptance Rate: 93%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
- Total Enrollment: 7,718
- Undergrad Students: 6,008
- Graduate Students: 1,710
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
University of Lynchburg
Score: 63.51
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $35,540
- Out-of-State:$35,540
- Net Price: $23,256
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Total Enrollment: 2,394
- Undergrad Students: 1,589
- Graduate Students: 805
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Regent University
Score: 62.37
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,686
- Out-of-State:$20,686
- Net Price: $17,341
- Acceptance Rate: 32%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 10,337
- Undergrad Students: 4,541
- Graduate Students: 5,796
- Grads Salary: $63,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Bridgewater College
Score: 62.34
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $41,350
- Out-of-State:$41,350
- Net Price: $19,332
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 58%
- Total Enrollment: 1,421
- Undergrad Students: 1,385
- Graduate Students: 36
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Virginia State University
Score: 62.04
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,755
- Out-of-State:$22,006
- Net Price: $15,773
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Total Enrollment: 4,648
- Undergrad Students: 4,300
- Graduate Students: 348
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Roanoke College
Score: 61.95
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $36,774
- Out-of-State:$36,774
- Net Price: $29,169
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Graduation Rate: 71%
- Total Enrollment: 1,826
- Undergrad Students: 1,826
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Online Computer Science Education in Virginia
Some online computer science programs focus on specific areas such as programming languages, artificial intelligence, or database management. Other programs offer a more general curriculum. Students should always consider their career goals when choosing a program.
Most online computer science programs require students to complete core courses in topics such as mathematics, computer programming, and software engineering. Elective courses allow students to explore specialized areas of interest. Many programs also include internships or research opportunities.
Graduates of computer science programs can pursue careers in fields such as software development, systems administration, or information technology. With further education and training, they may also become computer scientists or engineers. To get more in depth degree information on computer science, see online degrees in computer science.
Online Associate Degree in Computer Science (AS)
An online associate degree in computer science is a great way to start your career in the field. This type of degree will give you the basic knowledge and skills you need to begin working at the entry level in the field. With an associate degree, you can expect to find entry-level positions in various organizations, though you may need to earn a bachelor’s degree or gain a significant amount of experience in order to earn promotions in the field.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in computer science, an associate degree is a great place to start. With this type of degree, you will learn the basics of programming, software development, and systems administration. An associate degree will also allow you to pursue further education and training if you so choose.
Online Bachelors Degree in Computer Science (BS)
An online bachelor's degree in computer science is a four-year undergraduate degree that prepare students for careers in computer programming, software engineering, and other related fields, as well as promotions in those fields.
Computer science online programs typically include coursework in mathematics and statistics, as well as computer science theory and applications. Many programs also include opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships or co-operative education programs.
Graduates of computer science programs may find employment in a variety of industries including information technology, business, government, and education. With experience, computer scientists may advance to positions such as systems analysts, software developers, or information technology managers. Workers in these fields may never need any additional education unless they want to ascend into higher-levels of management. Even low-level management positions may be obtained with a bachelor’s degree and experience.
Online Masters Degree in Computer Science (MS)
A master’s degree in computer science is a great way to further your career in this rapidly-growing field. With a master’s degree, you can specialize in a particular area of computer science, such as artificial intelligence or software engineering. You’ll also be able to command a higher salary and have more job opportunities open to you.
If you’re interested in pursuing a master’s degree in computer science, you should first make sure you have the necessary undergraduate credits. Most programs require at least 30+ credits of undergraduate coursework in computer science, although some may require more. Once you have the requisite credits, you can begin looking into specific programs.
There are many different types of master’s programs in computer science, so it’s important to find one that matches your interests and goals. This is especially true because this is the perfect level at which to begin specializing if you haven’t already.Online PhD Degree in Computer Science (PhD)
An individual with a PhD in computer science will be able to pursue a variety of careers in the field of computer science. With this advanced degree, individuals will be able to work as research scientists, software developers, and computer and information systems managers, as well as having the opportunity to gain tenure-track positions in academia.
Those with a PhD in computer science will have the ability to conduct original research in artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, cryptography, and more. They will also be able to develop new algorithms, prove theorems, and create models to solve complex problems. Additionally, they will be able to teach at the college level and contribute their knowledge to the advancement of computer science.
Online Computer Science Certifications
There are many computer science certifications that can help bolster a resume and expand career options. Some popular certifications include those offered by Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA.
Microsoft offers several different certification tracks, including Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), and Azure Administrator Associate. MCSA is the entry-level certification, and is a prerequisite for the MCSE certification. The Azure Administrator Associate certification is focused on cloud computing using Microsoft Azure.
Cisco offers two main types of certifications: entry-level Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and professional-level Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE). The CCNA certification covers a broad range of networking topics, while the CCIE focuses on more specific areas such as advanced routing and switching or network security.
Find Online Computer Science Schools
Become a Computer Scientist in Virginia
If you want to become a computer science professional in Virginia, here are some steps to take.
-
Step 1: Obtain a bachelor's degree in computer science from an accredited institution
Computer science is the study of computers and their applications. Students in this field learn about hardware, software, databases, networking, and more. They also learn how to design and develop new computer systems and applications. While it used to be normal for those without degrees to make it into the field through self-taught skills, it is becoming less and less common these days. There are a huge number of programs focused on teaching the skills to succeed in this field, and more employers than ever are putting weight on their employees gaining the appropriate education for the field.
-
Step 2: Complete an internship or two during your studies
Many students choose to do internships with local technology companies or government agencies. This is a great way to get real-world experience and learn about different aspects of the field.
-
Step 3: Have strong problem-solving skills
Problem-solving skills are important for computer science students. They need to be able to identify and solve problems that they encounter in their studies. There are many resources available to help students develop these skills, including most courses focused on the field. The best way to learn is by practicing on real-world problems or gaining experience in the field through internships or entry-level jobs. Most computer science programs will offer internships and entry-level jobs as a way for students to gain experience in the field.
-
Step 4: Network with other professionals in the field
With the ever-changing landscape of technology, it's more important than ever for computer science professionals to network with each other and stay up to date on the latest developments. There are a number of ways to do this including attending industry conferences, participating in online forums and discussion groups, and connecting with other professionals on social media. No matter what method you choose, networking is a great way to keep your skills sharp, learn about new trends and developments, and make valuable connections that can help you further your career.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Computer Science?
A bachelor's degree in computer science can open up a number of career paths. Many computer science graduates go on to work in the tech industry, either in software development or hardware engineering. Other popular career options include becoming a computer systems analyst or working in information security (cyber security).
Those with a bachelor's degree in computer science may also choose to pursue further education and earn a master's or doctorate degree in the field. Computer science graduates who wish to enter the workforce immediately may find that their skills are in high demand as there is currently a shortage of qualified workers in the field.