Virginia Tech vs Old Dominion University

Virginia Tech vs Old Dominion University

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

Virginia Tech and Old Dominion University are both Virginia-based public universities with varying research strengths and academic reputations. Virginia Tech is ranked 358th in the world according to the QS World University Rankings 2026, while Old Dominion University is unranked. The US News Global Rankings 2026 places Virginia Tech at 51st in the world, against Old Dominion at 296th. Old Dominion ranks in the 801–1000 range in THE World University Rankings 2026, while Virginia Tech is not ranked. Virginia Tech is particularly highly rated for its engineering, computer science, and architecture degrees, in addition to making significant research contributions in areas including agriculture and energy. Old Dominion University specializes in programs including engineering, education, business, and marine science, emphasizing regional development and applied research.

General Information

Virginia Tech is based in Blacksburg, Virginia, and is a comprehensive public research university, member of the elite Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), with approximately 37,000 students enrolled. It is well known for its STEM programs and rigorous research initiatives, providing a good balance between academics.

Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, is similarly a public research institution with an emphasis on applied research and local industry collaborations. It educates approximately 24,000 students and focuses on training in engineering, business, health sciences, and maritime studies in the service of regional industry and community development.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

Virginia Tech operates with a moderately selective admissions standard, boasting an acceptance rate of 57% that speaks to an even-handed practice of academic excellence and access. Strong academic performance, scores on standardized tests, and personal achievement are all sought by the university.

Old Dominion University is more accessible overall, with a very high acceptance rate of 91%, with more opportunities for a wider variety of students. Admissions there are aimed at getting higher education to in-state students and practical, career-focused degree students, with less stringent requirements than at Virginia Tech.

Research Impact & Facilities

Virginia Tech is research-focused, particularly in engineering, energy, agriculture, and computing, with backing by leading research laboratories, institutes, and collaborations with industry and government. It is renowned for innovation in research, significantly contributing to scientific and technological progress.

Old Dominion University is more applied in its research, especially in marine science, engineering, and public policy, with some of its most notable facilities being the Virginia Modeling, Analysis, and Simulation Center (VMASC). Its research contribution is more local, catering to industry and community requirements.

Cost & Financial Aid

Both institutions are public, with lower in-state tuition rates compared to the private schools. Virginia Tech tends to be more expensive than Old Dominion based on its research status and broader range of programs. Both institutions have a variety of scholarships, grants, and financial aid packages available to their students, with Virginia Tech having more merit-based aid that is competitive in line with its research focus.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

Virginia Tech graduates are particularly well-placed in engineering, technology, architecture, and business fields, and many go on to hold leadership positions in industry, government, and research organizations. Its co-op programs and research opportunities are strong components that aid in good job placement and advanced study opportunities.

Old Dominion University is geared toward the preparation of graduates for professional careers in business, engineering, education, and marine science. Graduates often go into local industries, government, and applied research careers. Though smaller than Virginia Tech's, its alumni network is also influential within local and regional markets.