What You Should Know About Graduating From College in Virginia
Understanding the career opportunities available in the state where you wish to attend college can help you make an informed decision about where to study. Researching the largest industries in Virginia provides additional insight into the future job market. As of October 2021, the top five industries in Virginia are professional and business services; government; trade, transportation, and utilities; education and health services; and goods-producing.
The five fastest-growing careers for job seekers in Virginia with an undergraduate degree are information security analysts, medical and health services managers, coaches and scouts, actuaries, and logisticians.
When thinking about post-graduation opportunities, it’s also helpful to look at the biggest employers in the state. Companies on the list of the top 150 employers in Virginia include Virginia Commonwealth University, College of William & Mary, Huntington Ingalls, Heart & Vascular Institute, and Nestle.
What’s Next?
Consider the financial aid options available to you when researching schools in Virginia. This list of federal and state resources will provide you with information about scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and other aid opportunities available to you.
- State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). SCHEV provides a detailed overview of the higher education system in Virginia as well as a comprehensive list of all state financial aid programs.
- Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Over $120 billion is allocated to eligible students who wish to pursue higher education. Provided by the U.S. Department of Education, this aid is given in the form of grants, loans, and work-study programs. Determine your eligibility and apply for aid via the online FAFSA form.
- CareerOneStop. Learn more about available scholarships, grants, and fellowships on the CareerOneStop website. Use the filter options to narrow your search by degree level and state. All funding opportunities include the purpose of the scholarship, the award amount, and the submission deadline.