Higher Education in Virginia

In 2017, Virginia was as the best state for higher education. It has one of the highest average graduation rates and returns on investment (the investment’s gains compare favorably to its cost). The average graduation rate is 70%, and the 20-year return on investment for graduates is $442,660.

Virginia’s higher education institutions are considered to be very efficient. One crucial indicator of efficiency is the average amount that an institution spends to produce an undergraduate degree. Compared to other peer institutions, Virginia’s higher education institutions spend at or below the average cost per degree. They perform great compared to the low state support the institutions receive. In 2015, they ranked 44th in state support.

Located just 15 minutes away from Arlington, and the Maryland border, our campus is in Falls Church, Virginia. It offers, among others, accessible classroom education and an opportunity to easily access and explore nature and history.

Benefits of Studying in Virginia

There are many things to consider when choosing a college: academic programs, reputation, job placement, and location. Our Virginia campus provides an ideal setting for students looking to make the most out of their college experience, both in and out of the classroom. Here are just a few advantages of choosing a university in Northern Virginia:

1. Washington, D.C. Is Just a Bridge Away

Home to many businesses, non-profits, and, of course, political organizations, Washington boasts countless opportunities for students of all educational backgrounds, from internships to valuable networking opportunities. Students can also take advantage of D.C.’s cultural heritage and exciting nightlife. Our Virginia campus offers easy access to our nation’s capital, which is approximately 15 miles away.

2. The Serenity of Northern Virginia

Despite being so close to Washington, our Virginia campus is located in Vienna’s quiet, bucolic town. Away from the city’s hustle, our location provides the perfect setting to focus on one’s studies while enjoying all the natural beauty of Northern Virginia.

3. History

Northern Virginia is a hub of American history. The region is host to many historic Civil War battlefields, such as the First and Second Battles of Bull Run in Manassas. A short drive away from our campus is one of our nation’s most important and solemn sites, Arlington National Cemetery. Proximity to D.C. also means easy access to some of the most important sites, monuments, and documents of the United States. Being surrounded by so much history, you can’t help but feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself.

4. Low Unemployment Rate

The state of Virginia continues to have one of the lowest unemployment rates in the States. In 2019, was 2.8%. However, just like the COVID-19 pandemic affected other countries’ economies, it also affected Virginia’s, consequently to 10.6%. Considering other states that were heavily affected by the lockdowns and the rates were above 20%, we can say that Virginia and some other states were “luckier” in this aspect.

5. Low Tax Rates

Virginia has some of the lowest sales and income tax rates. The current in Virginia is 4.3%. Depending on which municipality you’re residing, it can go as high as 7%.

6. Quality Healthcare

Virginia isn’t only home to some of the best universities in the country, it also has some of the best hospitals. The top three ranking hospitals in the state are also nationally ranked for at least one specialty: the University of Virginia Medical Center is known for nephrology, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital for cardiology, and Inova Fairfax gynecology. With this level of professionalism, you won’t have to worry about anything, you’ll be taken good care of if you get sick.

These are just a few reasons why you should consider studying in Northern Virginia. This region has so much to offer. All it’s missing is you. Please contact us to find out more about our programs and to take the first step toward a bright future in NoVA whether you’re already a resident or want to move here.

Contact With Faculty

One of the top reasons that traditional campus life can benefit a student’s college life is having contact with the professors and instructors who are teaching them. With online learning, email is the only option. On campus, students can set up face-to-face meetings with their professors to discuss the class, their performance or a project.

Not All Majors Can be Taught Online

If a student is considering a major in nursing, agriculture, biology, music or theater, online classes can only get them so far. While it is easy to take some required classes online in these majors, the classes that include labs, clinical practice or performances cannot be done without a traditional campus class. Having a traditional campus learning environment for these majors will provide access to equipment and materials they would normally not have access to with an online class.

Access to Libraries and Research Materials

The campus library is always a busy place for students to study, collaborate and do research for papers and projects. Without easy access to research materials held by the university and everything that the library has to offer, a student cannot always reach their full potential with in-depth study in a particular field.

If you are interested in learning more about traditional campus life and how it can benefit a student’s academic achievement, contact us for more information

Here are 5 fun things to do in Northern Virginia.

Mount Vernon Estate

The home to our country’s first president, Mount Vernon is located along the shores of the Ě˝»¨ľ«Ńˇriver and provides scenic vistas coupled with history. Visit the main mansion, the gardens, and the newly built museum to learn how George Washington and his family lived and worked.

Great Falls Park

The massive 800 acre park located alongside the Ě˝»¨ľ«Ńˇis a majestic and beautiful example of our nation’s National Parks System. In addition to a breathtaking view, enjoy things like hiking, rock-climbing, picnicking, horseback riding, and more.

Claude Moore Colonial Farm

Interested in being transported back in time? Then you have to visit this 18th century example of a working farm. Through self-guided tours, you can experience the daily happenings of a real, working pre-Revolutionary War tenant farm, which even includes actors in period costumes.

King’s Dominion Themed Park

For over 40 years King’s Dominion Themed Amusement Park has been entertaining visitors from all over the world. Check out a live show, enjoy some fun in the sun with their water park, and for the thrill seekers, hit the roller coasters for a screaming good time.

Arlington National Cemetery

Visit the 612 acre nation cemetery to gain a deep understanding of sacrifice. Located just across the Potomac, the cemetery is one of the nation’s most visited attractions and is something that every American should see at least once in their life. View the graves of presidents and great leaders, watch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and visit Arlington House, the former home of General Robert E. Lee.

However, traffic can always be an issue, buses could be running late and the Metro might be packed.

So why is someone attending a branch of a college or university in Northern Virginia instead of driving to The District?

According to an article in , students are restricted by geography and many attend school within a few hours drive of home.

“Many of these students are fundamentally place-bound: limited in their opportunities by financial constraints, family responsibilities, personal characteristics, lifestyle choices, or combinations of these factors,” the publication said.

Those in  have a choice of eight colleges and universities while those in Fairfax County also have their choice of multiple institutions.

Coupled with the Washington area’s traffic congestion, staying in Northern Virginia can be an attractive option.

According to a story from , the average travel time around the area is approximately 35 minutes. This is second only to New York City. The story stated that nearly 73 percent of people who work in The District come from other states.

While traffic on the roads can get bad, those who stay in Northern Virginia for school might be able to commute by bicycle, especially if a trail is near.

A report from the , said bicycle commuting in Washington, D.C. increased from 1.2 to 3.1 percent since 2000.

With campuses in Northern Virginia, prospective attendees that are restricted by other demands can still further their education.

For more information, contact us.

 is in McLean in Fairfax County and is where the Ě˝»¨ľ«ŃˇRiver falls over a series of steep rocks. The park also features hiking trails. According to , “Other outdoor activities include the river trail that follows the cliff tops, giving hikers beautiful views of the Potomac, and is considered the park’s most challenging trails.”

For those that have a love of airplanes, the is located is Chantilly and features exhibits that comprise general, military and commercial aviation.

 is the final resting place for many of our nation’s military and features the grave site of former president John F. Kennedy and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a tribute to the country’s missing service members. The cemetery is on the Metro’s blue line.

If you want to see wineries and can’t get to California, getting off the Beltway and traveling down Route 7 to Loudoun County is all it takes.

According to the , there are 40 wineries in the county that make their own wine in buildings ranging from renovated dairy barns to Mediterranean-style estates.

Also in Loudoun, the Town of Leesburg features a historical downtown area with shops and restaurants. Outside the downtown area, there is also an outlet store.

The Washington area features many trails and the can be accessed in Fairfax County and goes all the way to Purcellville, in western Loudoun.

For any more questions, feel free to contact us.

But before you start the drive into the Capital, consider the rich history of Fairfax County. You may be surprised to learn what’s close and convenient. In Northern Virginia, everything you need is practically right out your door.

1. :  Located on Washington Dulles International Airport property, this is the “twin” of the in Washington DC. Housed in two giant hangars, you can see the space shuttle Discovery, a Concorde, and a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird. An IMAX Theater offers films on space and aircraft. The 194-foot Observation Tower gives you a 360 degree view of the airport and surrounding area. Admission is free; parking is $15.

2.  American history owes a great deal to Fairfax County. Three important sites played important roles, and are worth a visit:    1)  offers a chance to learn about The Father of Our Country, and how wealthy farmers lived in the 18th century. The mansion, grounds, and outbuildings are open to visitors. You may be surprised to know that Washington was in the whiskey business! In fact, it was one of the most profitable ventures at Mount Vernon. Admission is $17 for adults, ages 12 and over.    2)  was built in 1794 by Richard Bland Lee. Mr. Lee was Northern Virginia’s first Congressman…and Robert E. Lee’s uncle. On the National Register for Historic Places, Sully Plantation still has its original outbuildings, along with representative slave quar ter and gardens. Guided tours highlight the early 19th century life of the Richard Bland Lee family, tenant farmers and enslaved African Americans. Admission is $7 for adults.    3) , although not in Fairfax County, is an easy 21 mile drive from Vienna, VA. The site of the Confederate victory in the Civil War’s first serious battle on July 21, 1861, the 5,000 acre site has been maintained by the National Park Service. An interesting note: The battle had been expected. Because a swift Union victory was anticipated, politicians and citizens from Washington DC went to the scene with picnics, unaware of the ghastly battle they would be witnessing. Admission is $3 per day for adults over 16.

3. After your fill of history, how about a return to modern times? in Fairfax, VA, with two levels, is Northern Virginia’s largest enclosed shopping mall. With over 200 stores, restaurants, and specialty shops, it’s easy to spend time in a relaxing way. A short drive away is , with over 60 more fine stores and dining options!

4. When you’re ready to get outdoors again, head to  for a day of recreation. Click to see all the activities in the park, from hiking to fishing to climbing. Located on the Ě˝»¨ľ«ŃˇRiver, Gorgeous views of the three falls are short 2-10 minute walks from the Visitor Center. The Patowmack Canal, one of the first canals in the nation, is also here.

5.  Northern Virginia offers a beautiful setting for entertainment at the in Vienna, VA. offers over 90 spectacular outdoor performances from late May to early September. Year-round, at , the schedule is packed with artists from all over the world, spanning the full range of cultural interests. As America’s National Park for the Performing Arts, Wolf Trap is committed to providing entertainment and art for all audiences.

Are you interested in learning more about life and education in Northern Virginia?  Please contact us, and we will tell you more!

1. Proximity to Washington, D.C.

Home to many businesses, non-profits, and, of course, political organizations, Washington boasts countless opportunities for students of all educational backgrounds, from internships to valuable networking opportunities. Students can also take advantage of D.C.’s cultural heritage and exciting nightlife. Our Virginia campus offers easy access to our nation’s capital, which is approximately 15 miles away.

2. Serenity of Northern Virginia

Despite being so close to Washington, our Virginia campus is actually located in the quiet, bucolic town of Vienna. Away from the hustle of the city, our location provides the perfect setting to focus on one’s studies, while enjoying all the natural beauty of Northern Virginia.

3. History

Northern Virginia is a hub of American history. The region is host to many historic Civil War battlefields, such as the site of the First and Second Battles of Bull Run in Manassas. A short drive away from our campus is one of our nation’s most important and solemn sites, Arlington National Cemetery. Proximity to D.C. also means easy access to some of the most important sites, monuments, and documents of the United States. Being surrounded by so much history, you can’t help but feel like you’re part of something bigger and greater than yourself.

These are just a few reasons why you should consider studying in Northern Virginia. This region has so much to offer. All it’s missing is you. Please contact us to find out more about our programs and to take the first step toward a brighter future.

Hence, there are now two options of learning which are proving to work just fine, whether alone or blended. However, no method works the same for everyone. The same theory applies when choosing a plan that best suits you when absorbing knowledge. So let’s dig a little bit deeper into online learning vs traditional learning, and the perks of both of these educational methodologies. After, maybe you can decide which one to choose to contribute towards building your career.

What Is Brick and Mortar Education?

You can basically understand the context of brick-and-mortar education by its own name. Brick and mortar is the traditional way to attend college, with students coming to campus and attending class in physical classrooms.

Being still the most dominant form of pursuing an education, brick-and-mortar colleges allow students to interact with one another and discuss with teachers face-to-face. Probably this is what keeps this form of traditional learning still so much in demand, as students can communicate with others or ask questions personally to the lecturer. They feel more responsible regarding their exams, towards every deadline that comes their way, and commit to regular attendance.

However, this kind of college lifestyle does not suit the mindset of some other students. Attendance, location, lack of flexibility, and campus life are exactly the components that they find disturbing; therefore, they choose to withdraw. They know that them being late or absent is something that can be held against them later on in exams. Or maybe the schedule of lectures does not comply with their part-time job and makes their attendance in the class impossible. Overall, campus life sounds overwhelming, and little to no flexibility may as well feel like a threat to their willingness to learn. Luckily, technology made other options available to them.

What Is Online Learning?

Online learning is known as the education that takes place over the Internet. Often referred to as “eLearning”, or “distance learning” – online learning involves the umbrella term for any learning that takes place across distance and not in a traditional classroom.

Colleges nowadays use LMS (Learning Management Systems) such as Moodle, Blackboard, or similar software as a replacement for classes. Assignments are submitted online, discussions are in a forum format, and emailing professors is very prompt. This excellent learning methodology has many benefits, including convenience, greater flexibility, and greater accessibility. Lessons can be completed around your schedule without leaving home or relocating depending on the rain, snow, or sunshine.

Even the costs of an online degree are shorter are shorter as most online programs cost less than brick and mortar. That’s because room and board, parking, books, and attendance fees are not necessary. Still, you get the same benefits and level of knowledge as you would from traditional classrooms. For instance, our online degree programs here at Ě˝»¨ľ«ŃˇUniversity are designed and taught by industry professionals. We are dedicated to ensuring that the quality, relevance, and discipline of our online programs are the same as our on-ground programs. The online course presentations are updated regularly, taking into consideration the world’s constant academic evolution in online education.

Some of the cons of online programs may involve a lack of determination, low retention rates, and less social interaction. This is most likely the reason why fewer degree choices are offered online than through traditional learning. But if you have the willingness and commitment, you shouldn’t be discouraged.

Statistics on Online Classes vs. Traditional Classes

Fast Stats

Online and traditional learning institutions both have their advantages and disadvantages. However, one thing is for sure: online education is here to stay, and its demand is on the rise. These statistics on how online learning stacks up when compared to traditional learning were gathered in early 2014. Enrollment in online universities continues to increase year after year. But how do these programs compare to traditional, face-to-face education?

Advantages & Disadvantages of Online Learning

Advantages:

• Fewer expenses â€“ Perhaps the greatest perk of online learning is the low cost. Enrolling in an online program means you do not have to commute to class every day or even move to a different state to attend classes. By eliminating travel or moving expenses you automatically save a lot of money on food, books, and school supplies.
• Time-saving â€“ This is kind of a given considering the lack of commute. By simply turning on your computer and joining an online class you save yourself the time it would take to get ready and go to class physically.
• Using technology â€“ Attending online classes means you get to use technology more—thus automatically becoming more tech-savvy.
• More chances for interaction â€“ Although this might sound contradictory, online learning can be great for increasing interaction in a class. An online class creates an environment where even students who are usually shy in traditional classes can participate.

Disadvantages:

• Isolation â€“ Though it might be great for more reserved students, online classes can create a feeling of isolation for those who thrive by physically interacting with their peers.
• Lack of discipline â€“ Remote learning can be counterproductive for students who lack self-discipline and require constant guidance from their teachers or peers.
• Requires training for instructors â€“ For an online class to go smoothly and carry out its purpose, the professor needs to be trained in how to use the technology required to teach. In addition, instructors need to discover ways to get the best out of their students without them being physically present.
• Technical difficulties â€“ Last but not least, in online learning there are more scenarios when something might go wrong due to technical problems such as loss of audio, video, or even overall connectivity.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Traditional Learning

Advantages:

• Increased interaction â€“ It goes without saying that professors can get more interaction from their students if they are physically present in the classroom as opposed to remote learning.
• Hands-on learning â€“ Traditional learning gives students a sense of security and control over their learning because they are present.
• Experience campus life â€“ A big part of learning in college is being able to interact with all the students on the campus. While this is possible online, traditional classes certainly offer more opportunities.
• Networking â€“ To add on the last advantage, more interaction with other students means you will be able to create a wider network that will help you in the future when you enter the workforce.

Disadvantages:

• Expensive â€“ Enrolling in a traditional program means you will have to spend more on commute or relocation, food, supplies, etc.
• No flexibility â€“ Unfortunately, if you are also working while studying, in-person classes offer virtually no flexibility in regards to attending classes.
• Time-consuming â€“ Having to physically attend classes will take more of your time than online classes. This includes getting ready and possibly commuting to class.

The enrollment rate in Online Learning

• The total number of students enrolled in online courses: 6,700,000
• Current number of accredited online universities: 275+
• Amount of college students who have enrolled in at least one online course: 30%
• Whether online or in a traditional institution, 67% of college instructors believe video, blogs, podcasts, and other online media are necessary teaching tools.

What are students studying?

Most Popular Bachelor’s Degrees for Traditional Learning

• Business
• Accounting
• Nursing
• Psychology
• Elementary Education

Most Popular Bachelor’s Degrees for Online Learning

• Psychology
• Business
• Elementary Education
• Nursing
• Health Administration

Student’s perception of online education

• 77% of educators believe that online learning is just as good as traditional learning, if not better.
• Nearly 70% of all students claim online instruction to be as good as or better than in a traditional classroom setting.
• 26% of online students claim to learn better online than in a classroom.

Why is online learning more effective?

Although online learning has some minor disadvantages, the need for online learning, especially during the pandemic, has led to major improvements. Online classes are certainly more inclusive because even those that aren’t that well-off financially, or have other commitments can attend online classes.

Online learners’ score on standardized tests

• The average score of classroom learners: 50th percentile
• The average score of online learners: 59th percentile
• There is a 5:1 ratio by which learners differ
• A 5:1 ratio by which learners differ means that the slowest student takes 5 times as long to learn as the fastest student.
• 90% of these learners will successfully reach higher levels, but only if given enough attention.
• Face-to-face instruction is the best approach to providing these levels of attention.
• Fortunately, 97% of online institutions’ courses offer student/faculty ratios of 25:1 or better.

Online learning vs traditional learning costs

• Online degrees cost as little as 80 times less than traditional degrees
• Total average cost of traditional degrees: $85,000
• Total average cost of online degrees: $30,000

Did all of these stats make you feel determined enough? If so, contact us for more information about our online and classroom-taught degree programs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which is better, online learning or traditional learning?

This is a highly debated topic. Both online and traditional learning have their advantages and disadvantages. Online learning offers flexibility, convenience, and accessibility, as students can learn from anywhere, anytime. It’s also often more affordable than traditional learning. 

On the other hand, traditional learning provides face-to-face interaction with instructors and other students, which enhances the learning experience. It also offers more structure and accountability. Ultimately, the choice between online and traditional learning depends on individual preferences and circumstances.

What are the advantages of online learning over traditional learning?

Online learning offers several advantages over traditional learning. The most significant advantage is flexibility, as students can learn from anywhere and anytime. 

Moreover, online learning is often more affordable than traditional learning, as there are no commuting or accommodation costs.

What is the difference between learning and online learning?

Essentially, online learning refers to using virtual classrooms and materials to teach students, while in-person learning involves attending physical classes at specific times.

Is online education more effective than traditional learning?

There is no definitive answer to whether online education is more effective than traditional learning, as it depends on various factors such as individual learning styles, the subject being taught, and the quality of instruction.