Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia — 2026 Rankings
Compare the top artificial intelligence colleges in Virginia. 23 accredited artificial intelligence schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value—from Northern Virginia Community College to William & Mary.
#1 ProgramWilliam & Mary
Avg Salary$126,100
Tuition From$5,550/yr
Job Growth+22%
Key Takeaways
Best artificial intelligence degree programs: William & Mary, Washington and Lee, Christopher Newport
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Are Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia Worth It?
Yes. The best artificial intelligence degree programs in Virginia deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $126,100 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $19,574/year.
Best Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs in Virginia, 2026
18
Programs
$126,100
Median Salary
$22,816/yr
Avg Tuition
87%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Virginia ranks among the nation's top destinations for artificial intelligence education, with 18 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 8 public and 9 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are William & Mary, Washington and Lee, Christopher Newport, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Virginia artificial intelligence programs earn a median salary of $107,185—9% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Arlington, Reston, Richmond metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $5,540 to $63,315 annually, with an average of $22,816/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 87%, with the highest reaching 99%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Virginia's leading technology employers. For students seeking artificial intelligence degrees in Virginia, these top-ranked artificial intelligence schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
All Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Degree Programs in Virginia (18 total)
Rank
School
Location
Tuition
Grad Rate
Score
Website
#6
George Mason UniversityCAE
Public · $420/credit
Fairfax, VA
$10,095
80%
49.4
#7
Virginia State University
Public · $405/credit
Petersburg, VA
$5,540
75%
56.9
#8
Regent University
Private · $630/credit
Virginia Beach, VA
$18,986
64%
51.0
#9
Radford UniversityCAE
Public · $349/credit
Radford, VA
$8,401
—
42.5
#10
University of Virginia's College at Wise
Public · $258/credit
Wise, VA
$6,040
91%
46.7
#11
Shenandoah University
Private · $1020/credit
Winchester, VA
$34,614
91%
47.8
#12
Marymount UniversityCAE
Private · $1230/credit
Arlington, VA
$37,400
99%
47.7
#13
Liberty University
Private · $382/credit
Lynchburg, VA
$15,015
78%
47.8
#14
Longwood University
Public · $297/credit
Farmville, VA
$8,660
—
40.6
#15
Roanoke College
Private · $578/credit
Salem, VA
$34,820
—
41.1
#16
Bridgewater College
Private · $1355/credit
Bridgewater, VA
$40,300
—
38.6
#17
University of Management and Technology
For-Profit · $390/credit
Arlington, VA
$9,360
—
41.8
#18
Eastern Mennonite University
Private · $1479/credit
Harrisonburg, VA
$41,410
—
35.0
Best Artificial Intelligence Master's Programs in Virginia, 2026
2
Programs
$126,100
Median Salary
$10,278/yr
Avg Tuition
77%
Avg Grad Rate
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Virginia offers 2 master's degree programs in artificial intelligence, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—Liberty, Virginia State—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Virginia earn a median salary of $126,100, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Arlington, Reston, Richmond creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $10,278/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Virginia's artificial intelligence schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Advance your career with a Artificial Intelligence master's degree
Best Artificial Intelligence Associate's Programs in Virginia, 2026
5
Programs
$126,100
Median Salary
$4,986/yr
Avg Tuition
Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology
Program Landscape
Virginia offers 5 accredited associate's degree programs in artificial intelligence, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Northern Virginia Communi..., Tidewater Community College, Brightpoint Community Col..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Virginia offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $4,986/yr—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $69,355 in Virginia.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Virginia's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Arlington, Reston, Richmond areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among artificial intelligence schools in Virginia, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their artificial intelligence degrees in Virginia.
Start your Artificial Intelligence career with an associate's degree
Complete Artificial Intelligence Degree Program Rankings in Virginia
Best Associate's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
### Program Landscape
Virginia offers **5 accredited** associate's degree programs in artificial intelligence, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Northern Virginia Communi...**, **Tidewater Community College**, **Brightpoint Community Col...**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
### Costs & Value
Community colleges in Virginia offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$4,986/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$69,355** in Virginia.
### Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Virginia's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Arlington, Reston, Richmond areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among artificial intelligence schools in Virginia, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their artificial intelligence degrees in Virginia.
#1. Northern Virginia Community College
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #1 associate's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Annandale, VA has annual tuition of $5,550 ($185/credit). Ranking score: 66.8. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-2Y.
#2. Tidewater Community College
Hakia ranks Tidewater Community College as the #2 associate's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Norfolk, VA has annual tuition of $4,818 ($161/credit). Ranking score: 50.0. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-2Y.
#3. Brightpoint Community College
Hakia ranks Brightpoint Community College as the #3 associate's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Chester, VA has annual tuition of $4,788 ($160/credit). Ranking score: 44.4.
#4. Piedmont Virginia Community College
Hakia ranks Piedmont Virginia Community College as the #4 associate's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Charlottesville, VA has annual tuition of $4,788 ($160/credit). Ranking score: 40.9.
#5. Columbia College
Hakia ranks Columbia College as the #5 associate's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This for-profit institution in Vienna, VA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 45.7.
Online Associate's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
### Online Program Options
Virginia's community colleges offer 4 online associate's artificial intelligence programs, providing flexible pathways for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities. Top-ranked online programs include **Northern Virginia Communi...**, **Tidewater Community College**, **Brightpoint Community Col...**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Virginia employers.
### Costs & Employer Recognition
Online associate's programs average **$5,052/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Virginia-based employers including Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Arlington, Reston, Richmond job market actively recruits graduates from online programs.
### Program Format
These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **60 credit hours** in 2 years while working full-time.
### Technology & Flexibility
Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online artificial intelligence degrees in Virginia, these accredited artificial intelligence schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.
Northern Virginia Community College - Annandale, VA - Tuition: $5,550/year
Tidewater Community College - Norfolk, VA - Tuition: $4,818/year
Brightpoint Community College - Chester, VA - Tuition: $4,788/year
Columbia College - Vienna, VA - Tuition: $0/year
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
### Program Landscape
Virginia ranks among the nation's top destinations for artificial intelligence education, with **18 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **8 public** and **9 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **William & Mary**, **Washington and Lee**, **Christopher Newport**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
### Career Outcomes
Graduates from Virginia artificial intelligence programs earn a median salary of **$107,185**—9% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Arlington, Reston, Richmond metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen.
### Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from **$5,540** to **$63,315** annually, with an average of **$22,816/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **87%**, with the highest reaching **99%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Virginia's leading technology employers. For students seeking artificial intelligence degrees in Virginia, these top-ranked artificial intelligence schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
#1. William & Mary
Hakia ranks William & Mary as the #1 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Williamsburg, VA has annual tuition of $18,253 ($608/credit) and a 94% graduation rate. Ranking score: 77.0.
Hakia ranks Washington and Lee University as the #2 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This private institution in Lexington, VA has annual tuition of $63,315 ($2110/credit) and a 94% graduation rate. Ranking score: 66.1.
#3. Christopher Newport University
Hakia ranks Christopher Newport University as the #3 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Newport News, VA has annual tuition of $10,001 ($678/credit). Ranking score: 49.7.
#4. Averett University
Hakia ranks Averett University as the #4 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This private institution in Danville, VA has annual tuition of $38,400 ($1600/credit) and a 99% graduation rate. Ranking score: 56.9.
#5. Virginia Military Institute
Hakia ranks Virginia Military Institute as the #5 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Lexington, VA has annual tuition of $10,076 and a 95% graduation rate. Ranking score: 52.8.
#6. George Mason University
Hakia ranks George Mason University as the #6 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Fairfax, VA has annual tuition of $10,095 ($420/credit) and a 80% graduation rate. Ranking score: 49.4. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE, CAE-R.
#7. Virginia State University
Hakia ranks Virginia State University as the #7 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Petersburg, VA has annual tuition of $5,540 ($405/credit) and a 75% graduation rate. Ranking score: 56.9.
#8. Regent University
Hakia ranks Regent University as the #8 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This private institution in Virginia Beach, VA has annual tuition of $18,986 ($630/credit) and a 64% graduation rate. Ranking score: 51.0.
#9. Radford University
Hakia ranks Radford University as the #9 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Radford, VA has annual tuition of $8,401 ($349/credit). Ranking score: 42.5. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.
#10. University of Virginia's College at Wise
Hakia ranks University of Virginia's College at Wise as the #10 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Wise, VA has annual tuition of $6,040 ($258/credit) and a 91% graduation rate. Ranking score: 46.7.
#11. Shenandoah University
Hakia ranks Shenandoah University as the #11 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This private institution in Winchester, VA has annual tuition of $34,614 ($1020/credit) and a 91% graduation rate. Ranking score: 47.8.
#12. Marymount University
Hakia ranks Marymount University as the #12 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This private institution in Arlington, VA has annual tuition of $37,400 ($1230/credit) and a 99% graduation rate. Ranking score: 47.7. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE.
#13. Liberty University
Hakia ranks Liberty University as the #13 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This private institution in Lynchburg, VA has annual tuition of $15,015 ($382/credit) and a 78% graduation rate. Ranking score: 47.8.
#14. Longwood University
Hakia ranks Longwood University as the #14 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Farmville, VA has annual tuition of $8,660 ($297/credit). Ranking score: 40.6.
#15. Roanoke College
Hakia ranks Roanoke College as the #15 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This private institution in Salem, VA has annual tuition of $34,820 ($578/credit). Ranking score: 41.1.
#16. Bridgewater College
Hakia ranks Bridgewater College as the #16 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This private institution in Bridgewater, VA has annual tuition of $40,300 ($1355/credit). Ranking score: 38.6.
#17. University of Management and Technology
Hakia ranks University of Management and Technology as the #17 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This for-profit institution in Arlington, VA has annual tuition of $9,360 ($390/credit). Ranking score: 41.8.
#18. Eastern Mennonite University
Hakia ranks Eastern Mennonite University as the #18 bachelor's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This private institution in Harrisonburg, VA has annual tuition of $41,410 ($1479/credit). Ranking score: 35.0.
Online Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
### Online Program Options
5 Virginia institutions offer bachelor's artificial intelligence degrees with online or hybrid options, enabling students to earn accredited degrees while maintaining professional or personal commitments. Top-ranked online programs include **Liberty**, **Regent**, **Bridgewater College**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Virginia employers.
### Costs & Employer Recognition
Online bachelor's programs average **$25,014/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Virginia-based employers including Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Arlington, Reston, Richmond job market actively recruits graduates from online programs.
### Program Format
These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **120 credit hours** in 4 years while working full-time.
### Technology & Flexibility
Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online artificial intelligence degrees in Virginia, these accredited artificial intelligence schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.
Liberty University - Lynchburg, VA - Tuition: $15,015/year
Regent University - Virginia Beach, VA - Tuition: $18,986/year
Bridgewater College - Bridgewater, VA - Tuition: $40,300/year
Eastern Mennonite University - Harrisonburg, VA - Tuition: $41,410/year
University of Management and Technology - Arlington, VA - Tuition: $9,360/year
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
### Program Landscape
Virginia offers **2** master's degree programs in artificial intelligence, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**Liberty**, **Virginia State**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
### Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Virginia earn a median salary of **$126,100**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Arlington, Reston, Richmond creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen actively recruiting from these programs.
### Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$10,278/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
### Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Virginia's artificial intelligence schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
#1. Liberty University
Hakia ranks Liberty University as the #1 master's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This private institution in Lynchburg, VA has annual tuition of $15,015 ($382/credit) and a 78% graduation rate. Ranking score: 45.8.
#2. Virginia State University
Hakia ranks Virginia State University as the #2 master's in artificial intelligence degree program in Virginia. This public institution in Petersburg, VA has annual tuition of $5,540 ($405/credit) and a 75% graduation rate. Ranking score: 45.3.
Online Master's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
### Online Program Options
Working professionals can advance their careers through 1 online master's artificial intelligence programs from Virginia universities, designed for flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. Top-ranked online programs include **Liberty**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Virginia employers.
### Costs & Employer Recognition
Online master's programs average **$15,015/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Virginia-based employers including Amazon AWS, Microsoft, Booz Allen value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Arlington, Reston, Richmond job market actively recruits graduates from online programs.
### Program Format
These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **30-36 credit hours** in 18-24 months while working full-time.
### Technology & Flexibility
Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online artificial intelligence degrees in Virginia, these accredited artificial intelligence schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.
Liberty University - Lynchburg, VA - Tuition: $15,015/year
Artificial Intelligence Degree Costs & Tuition in Virginia
Metric
Value
Average in-state tuition
$19,574/year
Average out-of-state tuition
$48,935/year
Community college tuition
$4,894/year
4-year savings for residents
$117,444
2+2 transfer pathway savings
$29,360
Source: IPEDS 2023
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Artificial Intelligence Students in Virginia
State Aid Programs
Virginia offers substantial financial aid for students pursuing artificial intelligence education, including state programs, federal aid, and institutional scholarships. The Virginia G3 program provides tuition-free community college education for qualifying Virginia residents pursuing high-demand careers, creating accessible pathways to foundational AI coursework (Virginia G3).
Key Programs & Amounts
This initiative removes financial barriers for students beginning their computing and AI journey. The Two-Year College Transfer Grant provides up to $3,000 annually for students who complete associate degrees and transfer to four-year institutions, with additional incentives for STEM majors (VCCS Grants).
Institutional Scholarships
Federal financial aid through FAFSA covers Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study opportunities. Graduate assistantships and fellowships support master's and doctoral students in AI research programs. Employer tuition assistance is prevalent in Northern Virginia, where federal agencies and defense contractors support employee education in AI and machine learning.
Industry scholarships from technology companies including Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and NVIDIA support AI students. The Department of Defense offers scholarship programs for students pursuing AI research relevant to national security. Students should explore all available funding sources and apply early for competitive scholarships.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator — Virginia
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree in Virginia. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree
$
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+1116%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$2,064,777
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$110,345
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,100,185
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Washington, DC)$160,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return5.6%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Artificial Intelligence Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Virginia metro areas
Hakia.com
View data table
Category
value
Arlington
$139K
Reston
$132K
Richmond
$126K
Norfolk
$120K
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
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Top Employers Hiring Artificial Intelligence Graduates in Virginia
Find artificial intelligence jobs in Virginia. These major employers across Virginia metro areas are actively hiring artificial intelligence degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Northern Virginia
VA
Northern Virginia is home to Amazon HQ2, major data center infrastructure, and the largest concentration of defense contractors.
Transfer Pathways for Artificial Intelligence Degrees in Virginia
State Transfer System
Virginia's transfer system provides pathways for students pursuing artificial intelligence education at four-year universities. Virginia's Community Colleges offer guaranteed admission agreements enabling students to complete associate degrees before transferring to bachelor's programs at public universities (VCCS Transfer).
How Transfers Work
Students interested in AI should focus on mathematics, computer science, and programming prerequisites during community college. Northern Virginia Community College maintains articulation agreements helping transfer to George Mason University, Virginia Tech, and other institutions with AI programs (NVCC Articulation).
Transfer Planning Tips
Essential prerequisites include calculus, linear algebra, statistics, data structures, and programming in Python or Java. The Transfer Virginia Portal helps students navigate course equivalencies and program requirements across Virginia institutions. Transfer grant programs provide up to $3,000 annually for qualifying students who complete associate degrees with 3.0 GPA and transfer to participating institutions, with additional incentives for STEM fields including computer science.
Students should work closely with advisors at both sending and receiving institutions to ensure appropriate course selection. Beginning transfer planning early in the community college experience ensures efficient credit transfer and timely degree completion in AI-focused programs.
Why Pursue an Artificial Intelligence Degree in Virginia?
Industry & Workforce
Virginia has positioned itself at the forefront of artificial intelligence education, leveraging its proximity to federal agencies and defense contractors leading AI development initiatives. The Northern Virginia technology corridor hosts major employers investing heavily in AI research and development, including defense contractors, intelligence agencies, and technology companies.
Salary Outlook
The Brookings Institution identifies the Washington D.C. metro area, which includes Northern Virginia, among the nation's Star Hub metropolitan areas for AI readiness and technology development (Brookings AI Economy). This concentration of AI activity creates exceptional opportunities for students pursuing artificial intelligence education.
Regional Tech Hubs
Virginia universities offer AI-focused programs within computer science, data science, and engineering departments, preparing students for careers in machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth in software development and data science roles that increasingly require AI competencies (BLS Technology Outlook).
Virginia's unique position serving both government and private sector employers means graduates can pursue classified AI research in national security applications or commercial AI development at technology companies. The convergence of federal investment, academic excellence, and private sector innovation makes Virginia one of the premier destinations for artificial intelligence education and careers.
15%
Artificial Intelligence Job Growth in Virginia
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth for artificial intelligence occupations in Virginia through 2024-2034. The median salary stands at $126,100 with 23 accredited programs statewide.
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook
Artificial Intelligence Job Market & Salary Data in Virginia
Employment Outlook
Virginia's artificial intelligence job market ranks among the strongest in the nation, driven by federal government AI initiatives and strong private sector technology investment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of software developers to grow 15 percent from 2024 to 2034, with AI-related roles experiencing even stronger demand, and a median annual wage of $133,080 for software developers nationally (BLS Software Developers).
Salaries by Metro
Virginia-specific salaries often exceed national averages due to security clearance premiums and federal contractor competition for AI talent. The Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Information and Technology employs AI specialists developing innovative IT solutions and leveraging modern software engineering practices (VA Digital Careers).
High-Growth Sectors
Defense contractors including Northrop Grumman, Booz Allen Hamilton, Leidos, and SAIC actively recruit AI researchers and engineers for national security applications. The Brookings Institution notes that AI activity is becoming more geographically distributed while Northern Virginia remains among the leading technology hubs (Brookings Research).
Technology companies including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, and Google maintain significant Northern Virginia operations. Career paths include machine learning engineer, AI research scientist, data scientist, robotics engineer, and AI product manager, with starting salaries exceeding $100,000 for qualified graduates.
How We Rank Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs
Based on 23 programs from IPEDS 2023
We analyzed 23 artificial intelligence degree programs in Virginia using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.
Ranking Factors
Program Completions35%
Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.
Graduation Rate25%
Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.
Selectivity20%
Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.
Career Outcomes20%
Regional salary data for artificial intelligence graduates. Virginia median salary of $126,100 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.
Ranking Categories
Best Programs
Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.
Online Programs
Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.
Most Affordable
Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.
Last Updated: February 22, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.
Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia — Detailed School Profiles
Best Associate's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
Northern Virginia Community College — Annandale, VA
Key Distinction: The program prepares students for industry-recognized data analytics exams such as CompTIA Data+, Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate and Google Data Analytics Certificate while staying on the leading edge of technology.
Hakia Insight: Northern Virginia Community College's emphasis on industry-recognized certifications (CompTIA Data+, Microsoft Certified, Google Data Analytics Certificate) means graduates can job-search before completing their degree, converting coursework into immediate earning power.
At the associate's level, northern Virginia Community College offers a Career Studies Certificate in Information Systems Technology: Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics designed to help data analytics specialists upgrade their digital skills. The program enables students to collect, analyze and make data accessible to decision-makers.
Programs Offered
Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
CompTIA (certification)
Microsoft (tech)
Google (tech)
Tidewater Community College — Norfolk, VA
Key Distinction: Tidewater Community College provides affordable Artificial Intelligence education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Tidewater's location in Norfolk positions graduates within Virginia's defense and maritime tech corridor, where AI skills command premium placement in federal contracting roles that community college pipelines rarely reach.
Tidewater Community College offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Norfolk, VA. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Brightpoint Community College — Chester, VA
Key Distinction: Brightpoint Community College provides affordable Artificial Intelligence education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Hakia Insight: Brightpoint's Chester campus sits equidistant between Richmond's fintech boom and Petersburg's revitalization tech initiatives, creating dual-market job placement advantages most rural community colleges can't offer.
Brightpoint Community College offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Chester, VA. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Piedmont Virginia Community College — Charlottesville, VA
Hakia Insight: Piedmont's direct pipeline into UVA's research ecosystem means associate's graduates can transition into research assistant roles at a top-tier institution—a rare credential boost that community college transcripts typically don't provide.
At the associate's level, piedmont's AI program serves the Charlottesville-area innovation ecosystem with strong ties to UVA's research community and growing tech companies in the region. You'll gain exposure to machine learning applications in healthcare and biotechnology—sectors booming in central Virginia. The college facilitates internship placements at research institutions and tech firms, giving you real experience before graduation. If you're serious about transferring to UVA or working in the region's life sciences and tech sectors, Piedmont's location and connections give you a significant advantage.
Programs Offered
Associate of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, on-campus
Associate of Applied Science in Artificial Intelligence — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
University of Virginia (transfer partnership)
Charlottesville Tech Scene (networking)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $42,000. Top Employers: UVA Health, Local startups, Government agencies.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
Python Institute PCAP
Google IT Support
Top Transfer Destinations
University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
College of William & Mary
University of Richmond
Entry-Level Career Paths
Data Analytics Technician
Healthcare Data Associate
Machine Learning Assistant
IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
CompTIA A+
Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer (foundational)
Columbia College — Vienna, VA
Key Distinction: Columbia College offers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Columbia College's Vienna location in Northern Virginia's Dulles corridor gives students proximity to Amazon, Microsoft, and defense contractors conducting active AI recruitment, an advantage hidden in most community college geographic profiles.
Columbia College offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Vienna, VA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
William & Mary — Williamsburg, VA
Key Distinction: The AI minor pairs William & Mary's historic liberal arts education with cutting-edge technology, emphasizing not just technical skills but also ethics, culture, and human impact perspectives that technical fields need.
Hakia Insight: William & Mary's AI minor, anchored by Dean Doug Schmidt's leadership in computing ethics, embeds responsibility frameworks into technical training—a combination that makes graduates competitive for both tech ethics roles and traditional AI positions that competitors require separate coursework to access.
At the bachelor's level, william & Mary offers a minor in Artificial Intelligence through the School of Computing, Data Sciences & Physics, emphasizing technical skills, ethical responsibility, and interdisciplinary applications. The program is designed to complement any major and provide students with the tools to apply AI in their respective fields.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Notable Faculty
Doug Schmidt — Dean of the School of Computing, Data Sciences & Physics
Location Advantages:
Washington and Lee University — Lexington, VA
Hakia Insight: Washington and Lee's faculty-sponsored research model in a 1,800-student liberal arts context creates genuine one-on-one mentorship opportunities in AI that larger CS programs reserve for graduate students.
At the bachelor's level, washington and Lee's computer science program offers outstanding computer science education in a liberal arts setting with opportunities to participate in faculty-sponsored research programs. The program has been built over three decades and offers courses in all major areas of computing with both B.A. and B.S. degree options.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Christopher Newport University — Newport News, VA
Hakia Insight: Christopher Newport's applied physics and computer science dual-degree flexibility lets AI students build credibility in both academic and industry tracks simultaneously—most programs force students to choose their identity by junior year.
The multidisciplinary MS in applied physics and computer science offers flexibility to prepare for either PhD programs or industry work, with research areas including AI and multi-agent systems. The program features a five-year bachelor's to master's option and a collaborative partnership with Virginia Tech for accelerated pathways.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Averett University — Danville, VA
Hakia Insight: Averett's smaller enrollment size means AI students access hands-on lab work and faculty mentorship from day one, avoiding the lecture-hall anonymity that gates research experience at larger institutions until senior year.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Virginia Military Institute — Lexington, VA
Hakia Insight: VMI's 137-credit CS program with Virginia Tech's accelerated pathway partnership creates an unusual dual-credentialing route where students can earn both a military-discipline education and fast-track into a premier research institution's graduate network.
At the bachelor's level, VMI offers a comprehensive 137-credit Computer Science program with AI specialization options and an accelerated pathway partnership with Virginia Tech, allowing students to begin graduate coursework in their senior year and complete a Master of Engineering degree in just one additional year.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
George Mason University — Fairfax, VA
Key Distinction: First Virginia public university to offer a stand-alone MS in Artificial Intelligence with four specialized focus areas and interdisciplinary expertise from multiple colleges
Hakia Insight: George Mason's new Fall 2025 MS in AI, anchored by Dr. Jana Kosecka's computer vision expertise and Dr. Zhengdao Wang's AI-cybersecurity intersection work, gives Virginia's public university system its first standalone AI graduate degree—placing CAIIEC-trained graduates ahead of the typical generalist CS master's pipeline.
At the bachelor's level, the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence at George Mason University is a cutting-edge graduate program launching in Fall 2025 that provides rigorous foundation in AI principles and methodologies. The program offers interdisciplinary education blending foundational theory with real-world application, preparing graduates to address complex challenges in industry and government.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Center for AI Innovation for Economic Competitiveness (CAIIEC)
Notable Faculty
Dr. Jana Kosecka — computer vision and machine learning
Dr. Zhengdao Wang — intersection of AI and cybersecurity
Dr. Anand Vidyashankar — generative AI, differential privacy, and statistical machine learning
Dr. Daniel Barbara — generative AI, differential privacy, and statistical machine learning
Dr. Vadim Sokolov — Bayesian statistics and deep learning
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.00.
Requirements: BS in engineering or quantitative discipline
Virginia State University — Petersburg, VA
Hakia Insight: Virginia State's position as Virginia's land-grant HBCU means AI graduates access both federal research funding streams reserved for HBCUs and national diversity initiatives actively recruiting from the institution.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Regent University — Virginia Beach, VA
Key Distinction: Regent University offers comprehensive Artificial Intelligence programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Regent's Virginia Beach location embeds students within the naval AI and cyber defense ecosystem, where classified research partnerships and defense contractor recruiting create security clearance pathways unavailable at inland institutions.
Regent University offers Artificial Intelligence programs in Virginia Beach, VA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Radford University — Radford, VA
Key Distinction: Radford's AI program stands out for embedding industry capstone projects into core coursework, ensuring every student builds portfolio-ready projects before graduation.
Hakia Insight: Radford's requirement that every AI student ship portfolio-ready capstone projects before graduation—built into core coursework rather than electives—produces demonstrable work samples that give undergraduates hiring parity typically reserved for bootcamp graduates.
At the bachelor's level, radford's artificial intelligence program emphasizes practical application through a curriculum that integrates machine learning, neural networks, and data science with real-world problem-solving. The program distinguishes itself by embedding industry collaboration throughout coursework, partnering with regional technology companies to provide students capstone projects that address authentic business challenges. Faculty bring hands-on expertise in computer vision and natural language processing, ensuring students work with contemporary tools and methodologies. The applied focus means students graduate with portfolio projects—not just theoretical knowledge—giving them competitive advantage in hiring. Radford's location in southwestern Virginia provides unique proximity to growing tech clusters while maintaining strong ties to both Fortune 500 companies and emerging startups. Graduates commonly transition into roles as machine learning engineers, data scientists, and AI systems analysts, with many reporting immediate placement in technology roles or graduate programs.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Proximity to regional technology clustersAccess to Fortune 500 and startup partnerships
University of Virginia's College at Wise — Wise, VA
Hakia Insight: UVA College at Wise's smaller-market positioning in Southwest Virginia creates direct partnerships with emerging regional tech hubs and allows AI graduates to become talent anchors in underserved markets rather than competing in saturated coastal metros.
Programs Offered
Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, on-campus
Bachelor of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Virginia
Liberty University — Lynchburg, VA
Hakia Insight: Liberty's $75,000 median salary for AI master's graduates, paired with active partnerships in Microsoft, Lockheed Martin, and Amazon, reflects enterprise-scale training that regional state schools struggle to match—the salary premium reflects access to contractor roles that academic-focused programs don't cultivate.
At the master's level, liberty's artificial intelligence program reflects the institution's scale and resources, offering students exposure to enterprise-level infrastructure and tool chains used in production environments. The curriculum covers machine learning pipelines, deep learning architectures, and practical deployment considerations that distinguish it from more theoretically-focused programs. With Liberty's significant investment in technology infrastructure and online education platforms, the AI program leverages both in-person and hybrid delivery models, making advanced coursework accessible to students with varied scheduling needs. Faculty expertise spans multiple AI specializations, and students benefit from the breadth of electives available at a larger institution—from computer vision to reinforcement learning to NLP applications. The program maintains connections with employers in consulting, finance, and technology sectors who value Liberty graduates' ability to implement solutions at scale. Hands-on experience with cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) is integrated throughout the curriculum, preparing students for immediate productivity in industry roles. Capstone projects often involve real datasets and real business problems, some developed in partnership with external organizations. Liberty's career services and alumni network in technology sectors provide robust recruitment and mentorship channels for students. The program appeals to students seeking structured, resource-rich preparation for technical AI careers with clear pathways into established companies and technical teams.
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
Center for AI and Machine Learning
Liberty Research Institute
Industry Partners
Microsoft (technology)
Lockheed Martin (defense)
Amazon (cloud computing)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $75,000. Top Employers: Tech companies, Government contractors, Financial institutions.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0.
Accreditations and Certifications
Microsoft Azure AI
TensorFlow Developer
Virginia State University — Petersburg, VA
Hakia Insight: Virginia State University's master's program arrives at a critical moment for HBCUs entering AI education—positioning graduates to fill the persistent diversity gap in AI research and industry roles where Black technologists remain severely underrepresented.
Programs Offered
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, on-campus
Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence — 1-2 years, online
