Overview
Southwest Virginia Community College was established in 1968 as part of the Virginia Community College System to provide accessible higher education to residents of the coalfield region of southwest Virginia. Located in Richlands, Virginia, the college has grown to serve the educational and workforce training needs of Tazewell, Buchanan, Russell, and surrounding counties. It is best known for its strong technical and health science programs, including nursing, mining technology, and industrial trades that support the regional economy.
At a Glance
| Type | Community College |
| Location | Richlands, Virginia |
| Founded | 1968 |
| Total students | 2,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | Open Admission |
| Graduation rate | 35% |
| Average starting salary | $36,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $4,900 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $11,600 |
| Room & board | N/A |
| Average financial aid | $5,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 70% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | N/A |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Mining Technology
- Industrial Technology
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.