2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in Virginia

• Charlottesville, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  2,378 reviews

Alum: Overall, great education with some mishaps due to COVID and online learning. Positive atmosphere, very inclusive. I would like to see a change in how the grading system is designed - a-lot of my classes (mostly STEM) allowed students to fail and then curved everyones grades and I would rather the material be taught correctly and more comprehensively and have no curve needed at all. Loved the liberal arts classes I got to take! Lots of engaging discussions. The grounds around campus are absolutely beautiful and very well kept. There are tons of amazing places to study and relax.... Read 2,378 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 21%

• Net price $20,401

• SAT range 1380-1500

• Williamsburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,588 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 1,588 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 37%

• Net price $18,399

• SAT range 1360-1520

• Blacksburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,097 reviews

Junior: Virginia Tech is a wonderful academic institution. Where most schools excel in either academics or the college experience, VT is strong in both areas. The surrounding area is also very involved with Virginia Tech. While I have been at multiple colleges, I have returned to VT to finish my bachelor's and complete my master's degree! Take one visit and you will understand why everyone is so proud to be a Hokie. Be sure to also check out the dining halls. Virginia Techs' dining halls are incredible with the friendliest staff you could imagine! The culture at Virginia Tech is Work hard play hard! Students are self-motivated and are always willing to lend a helping hand. Come Friday night, the campus turns into the ultimate social hub. Most classmates of mine only left campus during the holiday breaks, as VT has everything you could want or need while on campus!... Read 4,097 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $20,109

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Winchester, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  880 reviews

Graduate Student: I received my Masters in Education and a Graduate Certificate from SU. I had a wonderful experience; my professors were knowledgeable, helpful, and very personable. My classes were focused, and really helped me make strides in my professional competency. Personally, I have made many lifelong friends at SU, and there are always tons of activities for student life. I can’t wait to start my Doctorate in Pharmacy Studies at Shenandoah!... Read 880 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $29,077

• SAT range 1000-1200

• Roanoke, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  548 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Hollins was exactly what I dreamed it would be. I had always wanted a more quaint, peaceful college experience, and HU encapsulates that to the highest degree. I loved the small class sizes, relationship-building with classmates, and intentionality from all staff. I loved that I am not a test score or a number, but a person seen for my interests, personality, and passions. I loved the classes I took, and I was also provided many great opportunities, like being able to work in the president's office, speak on panels, and become an RA. It is a safe, beautiful campus full of nature and the strength of the women who came before. There are also lots of little lounges hidden around campus, which I love! The things I would change would be the quality of the food and housing. With how much is paid, the lack of variety/quality in food and the housing on campus without AC in August doesn't feel fair, especially as students are required to have a meal plan and live on campus.... Read 548 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $23,825

• SAT range 1050-1260

• Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  4,668 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 4,668 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $19,656

• SAT range 1070-1300

• Harrisonburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,179 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 3,179 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $18,528

• SAT range 1140-1310

• Fairfax, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  4,941 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 4,941 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $18,841

• SAT range 1140-1350

• Virginia Beach, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,008 reviews

Sophomore: Regent University exceeded my expectations with the content in the online biblical courses that was so insightful, and detailed surrounding the time that the Bible was actually written. I enjoyed the interactions with professors and my classmates. Overall Regent has the best online experience as navigating blackboard was easy, and communication tools were very effective! My professors usually responded the same day or the next day with answers to my questions. I absolutely loved the online courses at Regent. Also, my counselor often checked in to see how I was doing, to let me know if there was something they needed, and to let me know when I could choose more classes, unusually nice of them. Lastly, next semester I will be taking courses on campus in which I am looking forward to engaging. Regent University was a great choice of schools, and I am humbled by the experience thus far. I know that the campus will provide rich memories for my collegiate experience.... Read 1,008 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 41%

• Net price $16,579

• SAT range 960-1230

• Emory, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  257 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 257 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $19,797

• SAT range 960-1150

• 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

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  8,024 reviews

Freshman: My experience with Liberty University has been blissful, interacting with passionate residential staff who are sincere with the Father, supportive admissions officers over the phone, a direct and transparent website, and resources responding to many essential questions that undergraduates like me would have. If you are a true believer and lover of Jesus Christ in keeping His word and the Holy Spirit dwells in you, this is the college to attend, especially if you're in Virginia! I am an admitted online LU student, but I plan on attending residentially in the future because of the "LU Tour." The campus is gorgeous! Everything about Liberty University leaves a luscious impression. However, above that, I feel the peace of the Holy Spirit throughout. I recommend the LU 100%; you won't be disappointed.... Read 8,024 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $27,891

• SAT range 1040-1250

• Radford, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,646 reviews

Senior: This university has a beautiful campus and solid programs that strive to teach and promote curiousity and success. Overall, my experience at Radford has been positive and one that will help influence my life and career decisions. However, there are specific changes that I would reccomend for the future: the housing process, safety on campus, and being heard by the people in charge. The housing process has a few too many hoops to jump through and getting a desirable placement is almost impossible. Furthermore, issues with roommates or suitemates are never handled correctly as a result of RA and RD incompetence. On campus, safety is felt throughout, but a lack of information in unsafe situations leaves everyone with too many questions than answers. The people in positions of power in this campus do a great deal to be accessable, but do not take the suggestions or complaints given to heart. Not enough to instill a feeling of satisfaction in those who have genuine problems.... Read 1,646 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $16,835

• SAT range 950-1150

• Lynchburg, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  707 reviews

Sophomore: I am in love with the small campus atmosphere, individual attention from professors who care about you as a person, and the ease to get involved in the campus community. There is genuinely a place for everyone and so much support so long as you reach out for it!... Read 707 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $27,305

• SAT range 970-1170

• Buena Vista, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  414 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a freshman at Southern Virginia university, and the experience so far has been incredible. Each of the staff/faculty members work so hard every day to make sure that us students have a wonderful experience. I have learned so much just in this first month of school, and the professors never hesitate to help. Everyone here is connected in some way, and it makes everything easier to get involved in activities, make friends, and be successful with academics!... Read 414 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $22,951

• SAT range 980-1200

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  4,601 reviews

Alum: My overall experience at Old Dominion University was a very positive one. First, the my courses were interesting and focused on being applicable outside of the classroom. Second, the professors are both knowledgeable and helpful. They want to see you succeed and will help however they can. Third, the school promotes fantastic diversity. It acts as a safe environment for people from all backgrounds to express their personal beliefs and encourages dialogue between students. Fourth, the school has just finished a new football stadium. Athletics at ODU are a great time and while they might not be as big as some other universities, it acts as a real point of unification for students, alumni, faculty, and the local community. Finally, the student life at the school is whatever you want to make of it. If you want to be apart of Greek Life, there are tons of options for you. If you want to be involved in the local community or student affairs there is that too!... Read 4,601 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $17,254

• SAT range 1020-1220

• Annandale, VA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  2,916 reviews

Freshman: Overall, my experience with NOVA has been positive. I appreciated the range of courses and programs offered, which allowed me to explore different areas of study and find my academic interests. The professors at NOVA were knowledgeable and approachable, always willing to provide guidance and support. There were ample resources available for students, such as the library and computer labs. However, there are a few areas where I would like to see some changes. I believe NOVA could benefit from enhancing its career services and internship opportunities for students. While there were resources available, they could be more robust and better advertised to ensure students are aware of the various professional development opportunities. My overall experience with Northern Virginia Community College was positive. However, improvements in the class registration process and career services would enhance the overall experience at the college.... Read 2,916 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,627

• SAT range —

• Norfolk, VA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  1,576 reviews

Freshman: It has been a wonderful experience attending Tidewater Community College. The instructors are communicative, inspiring and passionate. I couldn't have asked for a better experience going into college after ten years of waiting! As long as you communicate well with the administration office, things will go smoothly regarding to enrollment. As a person that likes to get things done quickly, I was impressed how they managed to respond to my questions and concerns.... Read 1,576 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,292

• SAT range —

• Norfolk, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.51 out of 5  1,542 reviews

Freshman: Norfolk State is a public university that offers 31 bachelor’s degree programs to nearly 5,000 undergraduates in Virginia. All first-year students are required to attend the Spartan Seminar Series, which helps ease the transition to college learning through courses that delve into academic discipline-based concepts, critical thinking, and social science research methodologies. Other available resources include tutoring and supplemental instruction via the Student Success Center, a Writing Center, and the use of microcredential digital badges, which identify achievements in certain competencies and professional skills through activities and achievements. First-year students have the option to join... Read 1,542 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $12,264

• SAT range 860-1050

• University Of Richmond, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  764 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 764 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $28,881

• SAT range 1280-1460

• Hampton, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.25 out of 5  2,139 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 2,139 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $33,204

• SAT range 980-1120

• Locust Grove, VA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  548 reviews

Alum: Germanna helped me transition to college and plan my future where my high school couldn't. This institution has bountiful resources to help students apply, find scholarships, study, learn a vocational skill, and even offers part-time jobs that are flexible to the student's schedule. Various events and club activities are hosted every weekday with chances to earn financial aid or apply for a local job position. There is a large selection of classes on multiple campuses or online to choose from. The professors are very qualified and care about each student's outcome. This institution is a wealth of knowledge and resources to help anyone reach their goals.... Read 548 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,149

• SAT range —

• Chester, VA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  472 reviews

Junior: Brightpoint Community College is a Great school! They have so much to offer and have a lot of benefits, too. There are a lot of activities to join and to become a part of that are lots of fun! They offer transfer degrees and lots of awesome resources that are there for you when you need help!... Read 472 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,276

• SAT range —

• Lexington, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  464 reviews

Other: Washington and Lee University (W&L) is truly one of the premier liberal arts colleges in the U.S. Niche ranks W&L higher than the famous northeast liberal arts colleges! Most notably, Washington Monthly ranks W&L as the 4th best liberal arts college - AHEAD of even Swarthmore, Williams, Amherst, etc.! Why? The personal attention students receive at W&L is actually incredible. To that, the training students receive is among the best in the world, combining an emphasis on leadership and community with elite academics. From this, W&L's shockingly powerful and close-knit alumni network is also incredible. W&L infamous Greek scene is also coming into a new age. The school is diversifying its student population in a fair, inclusive manner, which is loosening the dominance of Greek life, while broadening its social scene. Take a look at the schools leadership team to understand how and why. They're modernizing, while preserving the positive aspects of W&L's distinct student life.... Read 464 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 19%

• Net price $26,063

• SAT range 1410-1530

• Salem, VA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  764 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 764 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $27,758

• SAT range 1080-1230