Best Universities in Virginia for Prospective Students?

I'm starting to think about my college applications and am considering schools in Virginia. I'd love some recommendations on the best universities there, particularly ones with strong humanities programs.

In Virginia, several universities excel in humanities and are renowned for their robust programs. Here are a few to consider:

First, the University of Virginia (UVA) in Charlottesville is a public Ivy-League-equivalent university that offers excellent programs across many fields, including the humanities. The Department of English, History, and Philosophy are particularly well-regarded, with highly experienced faculty.

Another top choice would be the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, the second-oldest college in the U.S., which offers a range of humanities programs. It's known for its close-knit community and emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities.

Virginia Tech, despite its reputation as a STEM school, also has some strong humanities programs, such as Creative Writing and Philosophy.

Also, George Mason University has a well-regarded humanities department with a variety of unique humanities programs, such as Art History, Global Affairs, and Folklore Studies. It's particularly known for having a strong focus on global and international studies.

Finally, James Madison University in Harrisonburg has great programs in English, History, and Philosophy.

While these are all strong choices, you should consider factors beyond academic programs: size, location, student culture, extracurricular offerings, and the feel of the campus. I recommend visiting these universities if possible to get a sense of what each campus is like and to explore if they feel like the right fit for you.