Virginia Colleges & Universities: College Degree Programs

Virginia was the home of the first successful American colony and the birthplace of eight former U.S. presidents (more than any other state). Today, Virginia continues to play an important role in national affairs due to its proximity to Washington, D.C.

The capital of Virginia, Richmond, is a city of 1.3 million and home to both a U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and a Federal Reserve Bank. The city also has offices of many of the most important financial organizations in the country. Virginia Beach is the most populous city in the state, known for its many beaches, hotels, and restaurants along the Virginia coastline.

Important industries in northern Virginia include information and software technology, communications, defense, and consulting for nearby government offices and related organizations. Many government organizations maintain headquarters in Virginia, including the following U.S. federal agencies:

• Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
• Department of Defense
• National Science Foundation
• US Patent and Trademark Office

Southern Virginia is more agricultural, with important soy, tobacco, and peanut exports. The region is also home to several important military bases. In 2004, the per capita income for residents of Virginia was $35,477, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Virginia's colleges and universities are important features of the state's economy, training capable workers to fill thousands of governmental and research positions. The American Electronics Association reports that Virginia has more technology jobs per capita than any other state. Degree-granting programs in Virginia provide excellent training in electronic technology, entrepreneurship, and business administration.

Sources:

• American Electronics Association
• US Census: Virginia
• State of Virginia
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics