Best Physics Schools in Virginia

Virginia has 5 colleges offering Physics programs tracked by the College Scorecard, producing 17 recent graduates. Graduates in Virginia earn $41,162 on average within two years — 6% below the national average of $43,621. Lower cost of living or industry mix may explain the gap.

School choice matters significantly: University of Virginia-Main Campus graduates earn $52,289 while Bridgewater College graduates earn $29,685 — a $22,604 gap. Research each program's curriculum, employer connections, and career services before deciding.

5
Schools in VA
$41,162
VA Avg. Earnings
$43,621
National Avg.
89
Schools Nationally

Public vs Private: Physics in Virginia

Public Schools (4)
$44,032
avg. 2yr earnings
Private Schools (1)
$29,685
avg. 2yr earnings

Public schools in Virginia produce comparable or higher early earnings for Physics graduates, often at lower cost — making them strong value options.

Physics Schools in Virginia, Ranked by Earnings

#1
U

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · Public

$52,289
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 16.9%
#2
J

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA · Public

$47,260
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 76.3%
#3
G

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · Public

$38,289
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 88.8%
#4
V

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · Public

$38,289
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 57.0%
#5
B

Bridgewater College

Bridgewater, VA · Private

$29,685
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $43,024
Graduates: 17
Acceptance: 90.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best school for Physics in Virginia?
University of Virginia-Main Campus ranks #1 for Physics in Virginia with median graduate earnings of $52,289 within two years of graduation. There are 5 schools offering Physics programs in the state.
How much do Physics graduates earn in Virginia?
Physics graduates in Virginia earn an average of $41,162 within two years of graduation. This is 6% below the national average of $43,621 for this major.
What is the hardest Physics school to get into in Virginia?
University of Virginia-Main Campus is the most selective Physics program in Virginia with an acceptance rate of 16.9%. The average acceptance rate across Physics programs in the state is 66.0%.
Should I attend a public or private school for Physics in Virginia?
In Virginia, private Physics programs produce average earnings of $29,685 vs $44,032 at public schools. However, public schools typically cost less — consider net price relative to earnings when calculating ROI. There are 4 public and 1 private options in the state.

Other Popular Majors in Virginia

All colleges in Virginia →

Physics in Other States

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Data updated June 2026. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.