2024 Best Colleges for Physics in Virginia

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  2,388 reviews

Alum: It feels like a lifetime ago that I was in Cville (class of 2010), but wanted to include my thoughts if helpful! I was an out-of-state athlete and was between UVA and and Princeton when deciding on colleges. As a now 35-year-old professional I can honestly say I have ZERO regrets on my decision because I feel that UVA checked the box for literally everything I could ask for in an ideal college experience - academics, history, social life, opportunities for involvement…and in terms of athletics feel that it is often overlooked the incredible amount of National Championships that we have won over the years (special shout out to Women’s Swimming!). I also felt that the size of the student body was a perfect balance of always having the opportunity to be meeting new people while also consistently running into familiar faces around grounds. Having been in the workforce for 12+ years now I can assure you a UVA degree is incredibly well respected and will take you far. Go Hoos!... Read 2,388 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $20,401

• SAT range 1380-1500

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  465 reviews

Other: My kid just started at Washington and Lee (W&L) and it has been an eye-opening experience seeing how special the place really is. We’ve been taken aback at the quality of the school, particularly its incredibly attentive academics, small class size, balanced life-style, and diversifying social scene. The school is fairly balanced politically. Those wishing to express either conservative or liberal views can do so in peace. Don't underestimate W&L - our kid turned-down other schools for it! 1st for learning opportunities, learning facilities, and career preparation (Wall Street Journal) 1st for best professors (Niche) 1st for allowing free speech on campus (Foundation for Individual Rights & Expression) 2nd for highest career net present value at $1.58M (Georgetown University) Overall Rank 8th (Washington Monthly and College Rapter) 9th (Wall Street Journal ) 10th (Forbes) 11th (Niche) 12th (College Consensus) And the current acceptance rate is actually 17%, (Niche is incorrect).... Read 465 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $26,063

• SAT range 1410-1530

• Blacksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,115 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Virginia Tech has been outstanding! I finished high school one semester early and earned credit for one semester's worth of college through my local community college. My coursework has been tough but I have persevered with the help of my professors. In addition, the campus is beautiful and the students are friendly. I have enjoyed the campus gym, attended career fairs, played intramural sports, gone on a retreat out of state and even participated in a Business Club Pitch Contest that was way outside of my comfort zone. Failure is not an option- I will succeed! I am from Southeast Newport News, where I've seen too many people make decisions that negatively impact their lives. The housing crisis for upperclassmen needs to change. I would love for more on campus housing to be available for upperclassmen. If upperclassmen are not able to secure housing in Living and Learning communities, the only other option is to live off campus.... Read 4,115 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $20,109

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Williamsburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,596 reviews

Alum: Graduated in 2011, was the best college experience I could have hoped for! Made lifelong friends and discovered passion for history. I interned at Colonial Williamsburg and had some amazing public history courses where we traveled to historic sites and discussed primary sourced (and ate bbq!). Such a perfect campus size, it felt larger than other liberal arts schools but still super safe. I walked home alone at 3 am often. Was not part of the party scene, but was super social and my freshman dorm was where I made most of my friends. If I had one thing the criticize it would be support in finding a job post-graduation (this may have changed in the 10+ yrs since graduation). You have to be proactive about using the career center. They have a brand new online social community that I joined as an alumni and I think this will be a huge help to recent grads.... Read 1,596 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $18,399

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Hampden-sydney, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  164 reviews

Alum: I loved my time at Hampden-Sydney College. As a full time student I had the time to participate in Division III athletics and work a part time job, all while creating friendships with my brothers, some of which have lasted after graduation. Hampden Sydney is a school that not only challenges you in your academic learning, but also challenges you to evaluate your views of the world and think critically. Hampden-Sydney's motto is to "create good men and good citizens", and it certainly lives up to said mantra. The only things I would criticize would be the infamously horrible food from Thompson Hospitality in the commons, which is jokingly referred to as "the Moans" (use your imagination to figure out why), and the quality of some of the older dorms. However, I wouldn't trade my 4 years at HSC for the world.... Read 164 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $28,679

• SAT range 1080-1260

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  214 reviews

Junior: Virginia Military Institute offers a very unique college experience in that it provides a structured environment for anyone to be able to succeed. There is an incredible amount of leadership opportunities for everyone to be able to help the Corps function as a team. While the school can seem overwhelming at times due to strict standards and regulations, even that stress can be a positive learning experience as it teaches crucial lessons such as time management and communication skills. These skills will increase in your time at VMI. Initially, I was not a fan of the way things were run and how much my day was planned for me, but then I learned how to incorporate my own schedule with things that I wanted to do and achieve into the overarching schedule of VMI (which can seem al encompassing). Overall, VMI is a great place for anyone that is up for a challenge and is wishing to grow their leadership abilities.... Read 214 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $18,100

• SAT range 1080-1300

• University Of Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  766 reviews

Freshman: My experience at the University of Richmond has been one filled with incredibly understanding and motivating professors. Since my first semester I found that my mental health and well being in general has been put at the forefront and prioritized with accommodations regarding course work. There are a variety of activities, clubs, and sports that radiate inclusive and encouraging energy to any and all that join. There is constantly something to do on campus ranging from acapella performances , day of the dead celebrations, haunted houses, mechanical spider riding, just about anything! The resources on campus are also endless. There is a highly vocalized opportunity to engage in research alongside professors, and career services that help launch well prepared students into internships. Something that I would like to change around campus would perhaps be an upgrade in security. This meaning more patrol around the entrances of campus simply because it is so easy access to the public.... Read 766 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $28,881

• SAT range 1280-1460

• Salem, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  765 reviews

Senior: Don't get me wrong, Roanoke has its downfalls— many of the residential halls drastically need to be redone, and communication between offices is lacking. HOWEVER, going to college here is the best decision I could've made. Most of the professors and staff members are excellent. They love what they do and genuinely care about the students. The classes are definitely challenging but are obtainable with hard work. The people are great! I've met so many people from so many different walks of life at this school. Greek life is a huge part of campus and you can usually find an event happening Wednesday to Sunday each week, but no one cares if you're a member or not. This school is great for getting out of your comfort zone, getting to meet new people, and learning lots. I feel throughly prepared for life after graduation.... Read 765 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $27,758

• SAT range 1080-1230

• Emory, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  258 reviews

Sophomore: I love E&H! It's set in a beautiful mountain location, in close driving distance from anything a college student could need (Walmart and Starbucks) and offers a close-knit community where I feel safe and connected.... Read 258 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $19,797

• SAT range 960-1150

• Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  4,688 reviews

Sophomore: Virginia Commonwealth University has been an adventure as a campus and university to learn under. The main aspects that differentiate VCU from most other universities in Virginia are the urban landscape, art forward movement, and the progressiveness of the university itself. I like the arty feel of the campus and university and I feel much more comfortable in this urban setting rather than the rural campuses like UVA. The campus can be accessed easily and is also very walkable. The main issues are the traffic and homeless people, but I don't find it much as a problem if you plan ahead, are generally cognizant, and kind. The programs and classes are exciting and not too unbearable. Though, I am a bit biased because my major is in psychology and I was not able to take most of the General Education classes due to my pre-existing credits. The professors are also generally great. A select few are unlikable to all and there are many instructors that cater to different learning styles.... Read 4,688 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $19,656

• SAT range 1070-1300

• Fairfax, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  4,961 reviews

Freshman: As a freshman at George Mason University, I am impressed with the vibrant academic atmosphere and welcoming community. The faculty here is dedicated and passionate, always encouraging critical thinking and growth. The diverse student body fosters an inclusive environment, allowing for enriching discussions and broadening my perspectives. The campus facilities are top-notch, providing excellent resources for both studying and extracurricular activities. The blend of rigorous academics and a supportive network of peers makes this university an ideal place to thrive and succeed. I am excited for the endless opportunities and the promising future that GMU promises!... Read 4,961 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $18,841

• SAT range 1140-1350

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  4,620 reviews

Junior: So far everything has been great! I love how they offer so much for the students to keep them busy with groups and extra activities, volunteer opportunities, programs to help with leadership growth, there is something for everyone! The events are fun and engaging as well! Not to mention the SWAG! Diversity and inclusion must have been invented here! Plenty of dining variety on campus and nearby as well. Safe campus environment, small urban city with plenty of historical local landmarks nearby. I love all my classes! I only wish that the catalog would not show classes that are not available!... Read 4,620 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $17,254

• SAT range 1020-1220

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,190 reviews

Senior: James Madison University is a big school with a small school feel- wherever you are on campus there will be a new face but you'll probably see someone you know as well! The professors want to know you and help you accomplish your goals. The school is absolutely breathtaking and the people are super friendly. There are lots of different options to major in and the resources available at this school are phenomenal. This school does a wonderful job of preparing its students for post-grad life and has a great reputation for getting a job! The school spirit at JMU is really what drew me here in the first place. Current students and alumni are proud to be Dukes and they look out for each other when hiring. We also love our sports, our Marching Royal Dukes (MRDs), and supporting different events in and around the JMU/Harrisonburg community. Great outdoors and delicious eateries, breweries, wineries, and coffee shops nearby! Best school in the world! Go Dukes!... Read 3,190 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $18,528

• SAT range 1140-1310

• Bridgewater, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  459 reviews

Alum: Bridgewater College is a small liberal arts institution of higher education. It was founded as a teachers college in 1880. BC has changed a lot in the years since it was Spring Creek Normal School, but it has remained true to its roots as the first co educational institution in the state of Virginia. Bridgewater has a mostly residential campus with a small student body hovering around 1600. Bridgewater has small class sizes, and professors that are committed to the growth of the students. The smaller class sizes allow the professors and the students to get to know each other. Even though Bridgewater College is a small institution, they have a wide variety of activities for students. With many clubs and organizations, outdoor programs, intramural sports, and even research opportunities. Bridgewater competes at the NCAA Division 3 level, fielding 22 intercollegiate teams.... Read 459 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $19,592

• SAT range 1010-1250

• Farmville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,200 reviews

Freshman: The campus is beautiful and well maintained. While the school dates to 1839, the campus has a "new feel". Longwood's staff is welcoming and engaged. Admissions, Housing, Financial Aid, Advisors, and Deans as well as professors all made me feel welcome. I've enjoyed meeting other students and getting involved in clubs and on-campus organizations. I am part of the Cormier Honors College which provides additional perks and benefits, as well as positive academic challenges. Dorms are air-conditioned, but not always cool. Common areas are nice! Some dorms have thicker walls while others have thinner walls, but some have newer and some have older bathrooms, overall, everything in the dorms is in good shape. I wish there were more "freshly cooked" items in the dining hall. For example, I love the omelets made to order, but scrambled eggs aren't great. I love the "all you can eat" option and meal exchange program! I love that there are fun and memorable traditions!... Read 1,200 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $21,166

• SAT range 1030-1170

• Fredericksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.15 out of 5  1,301 reviews

Sophomore: The college has been a great experience as my beginner school, i have taken amazing courses that brought along even more amazing professors and experiences. The community that the school comes with stands strong with the reputation. They are a very connected school making sure that any student is involved. My journey is going very smooth with some hurdles, however, even with those hurdles i have great counselling and classmates that make sure i am always returning to the smooth sailing. As school to achieve my bachelors i am certain that the university was the right choice for me to achieve that goal!... Read 1,301 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $21,901

• SAT range 1130-1320

• Radford, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,649 reviews

Freshman: Overall I have loved my experience with Radford! Faculty and staff are wonderful and easy to get in contact with. The flexibility around my schedule is nice also! As long as you communicate with your professors, they have no problem working with you.... Read 1,649 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $16,835

• SAT range 950-1150

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,547 reviews

Senior: My overall experience at Norfolk State University (NSU) has been nothing short of amazing. My professors continually push me to my limits and make me think outside of the box. My sociology professors have helped me see the bigger picture by challenging my thought process, and my psychology professors have assisted me with learning to see people for more than what I see on the physical exterior of others. If there was one thing I would like to see change at the university, it would be more inclusiveness for nontraditional and commuter students.... Read 1,547 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $12,264

• SAT range 860-1050

• Hampton, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.25 out of 5  2,142 reviews

Freshman: I enjoyed Hampton! One of the things I liked about Hampton would be the scenery, it is a beautiful clean campus. Another thing I liked about Hampton would be how efficient the staff was, they are very quick with their work and almost always have an answer to which they deliver in a clear concise manner. I also liked the social scene as there were always activities and clubs I could participate in no matter the time. With all the things I did like there are things I would like to change. One of the things I would like to change would be the lunchroom food, the food is not the best and they did have good food Fall semester of 2022. Another thing I would like to see change would be the cleanliness of the dorms, more so the dorm I stayed in which was Harkness Hall. The dorm is not unsanitary however there are times when it comes close to reaching that point. Other than the two things I would like to see change I did enjoy my time at Hampton and do plan on going back for my Sophomore year.... Read 2,142 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $33,204

• SAT range 980-1120

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  708 reviews

Alum: University of Lynchburg is a lovely small to mid-size college with beautiful scenery and exceptional staff members, professors, and programs. I was able to connect more personally with my professors than I would have if I attended a larger college. One of the issues I had as a commuter student was an overall lack of connection to other students and peers. Although the school held various commuter student events, it was hard to make friends as I was not seeing others as frequently. I felt a general sense of loneliness and isolation, and ended up graduating without making any deep or meaningful connections. Although it was due to my own personal circumstances and faults, I wish the school would have done a better job of reaching out to students who felt alone or were struggling with other issues. I feel a lot of my mental health struggles went unnoticed by professors. A monthly wellness check would have been a good program to implement.... Read 708 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $27,305

• SAT range 970-1170

• Ashland, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  522 reviews

Sophomore: There are so many wonderful things about RMC, the small school feel, friendly students, many different clubs and activities on campus, and access to professors and research opportunities. Ashland is a safe town and you can walk for food or just to check out the holiday decorations or small shops nearby. I gave four stars instead of five for two reason. One that is consistently mentioned here is the food. I hope that when the contract is up with the current company, the college changes many things about dining. There is a lack of lower priced options in dining plans for on campus students, some have cars and prefer to only eat on campus about half the time. Second, there were times last year I felt overwhelmed by work. I was working sometimes almost constantly, there was no work-life balance. I think/hope the message was received by admin and because I think this year is a lot better. Overall, a great school, great financial aid, you’ll be glad if you decide to come here!... Read 522 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $26,794

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.31 out of 5  540 reviews

Junior: Virginia Union University (VUU) is known for its rich history, academic excellence, and commitment to empowering its diverse student body. From my research, I've found that students often appreciate the vibrant campus community at VUU. The university fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where students can connect with peers, engage in extracurricular activities, and develop lasting friendships. The dedicated faculty at VUU is often praised for their commitment to student success. Professors provide personalized attention, mentorship, and guidance, fostering a conducive learning environment. Students appreciate the smaller class sizes, which allow for more meaningful interactions with faculty members and opportunities for collaborative learning. There are often areas for improvement in any educational institution. Some students may express the desire for enhanced campus facilities or increased resources for specific programs.... Read 540 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $16,068

• SAT range 760-940

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  254 reviews

Junior: When I first got to Randolph I didn’t think I would be as social as I am now. My first visit I was very nervous and didn’t think I would fit but it comes to find out that I was wrong. Everyone was so nice to me and that made me want to open up and explore what the college experience is all about ! There’s so many helpful teachers and mentors on campus and i’m really grateful for that!... Read 254 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $23,166

• SAT range 910-1140

• Sweet Briar, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  410 reviews

Freshman: Sweet Briar is one of the schools that you like or hate it. It's a small school where everybody knows everybody. Maybe not even for the better. There will always be people you don't like at school. And I'm not going to say that Sweet Briar doesn't have that, but if you're looking for a small school or to get to know people, this is the best place. I have a severe learning disability, and being able to have small classes and be able to talk to my professors. One-on-one helps. The accommodations department is beneficial. And the ESA committee is getting better. I really wouldn't be happier at any other school. I wish the food were better. And don't live in meta-glass if you can help it! but I love this place Holla Holla! Pink and Green forever!... Read 410 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $22,711

• SAT range 1020-1260