The Top 10 Best Colleges in Chesapeake for Tech Enthusiasts in 2025

Chesapeake, Virginia, has transformed into an exciting tech education destination in 2025, offering both urban opportunities and suburban comfort. The city's impressive 94.5% high school graduation rate creates a strong foundation for higher education.

What makes Chesapeake stand out is its blend of traditional colleges and innovative bootcamp options - from quick 4-week programs in Web Development starting at $458 to comprehensive 22-week Full Stack courses at $2,604.

The tech scene here is growing fast, backed by eight nearby universities and various coding bootcamps offering flexible learning paths.

Students can choose between in-person classes at local institutions or remote learning options that fit their schedule.

The city's commitment to tech education shows in its investment in modern facilities and industry partnerships. Programs range from cybersecurity and web development to data science, with many offering early bird pricing and payment plans.

This guide breaks down the top 10 colleges where aspiring tech professionals can get their start, considering factors like program quality, industry connections, and career support services.

Looking for the perfect tech college in Chesapeake? Our research shows impressive growth trends, with technology degree completions increasing by 27% since 2019.

We evaluated each school based on real factors that matter to students today. The selection process prioritized colleges offering diverse programs in software development, cybersecurity, and engineering, with a special focus on hands-on learning opportunities.

The data revealed standout institutions like Tidewater Community College and Old Dominion University, which excel in providing industry-relevant training.

What makes these schools special? They've got strong partnerships with tech giants like Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud, plus state-of-the-art facilities where students can actually practice what they learn.

The Virginia Modeling and Analysis Simulation Center at ODU is just one example of the cutting-edge resources available.

Career readiness is huge - no one wants to graduate without job prospects.

That's why we looked at schools with solid industry connections and internship programs. Virginia's Career and Technical Education programs show that over 670,000 students participate in technical courses, proving there's serious demand for these skills.

When choosing schools, we focused on factors like graduation rates, employment outcomes, faculty expertise, and program accreditation. The goal? Finding colleges that actually prepare students for real tech careers, not just hand out degrees.

DeVry University's tech programs are seriously impressive, offering a mix of hands-on technology degrees and certificates that prepare students for real-world challenges.

The curriculum includes everything from cybersecurity and software development to database management and IT networking. The Tech Core program is specifically designed for today's Internet of Things (IoT) economy.

Students can choose from multiple study paths, including certificates, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. The technology courses focus on practical skills like troubleshooting in online tech labs, coding, and network management.

Plus, classes start January 6, 2025, with both online and hybrid options available. The school's commitment to career preparation is solid - they offer diverse career paths in fields like software development, cybersecurity, and engineering technology.

Students get access to 24/7 tutoring support and can work with the latest tech tools through virtual labs. The program even includes certification exam reimbursement and a complimentary laptop for tech students.

What makes it even better is that the courses are regularly updated to keep pace with industry changes, ensuring students learn the most current skills employers want.

With flexible scheduling options and career services that help with job placement, DeVry makes it possible to balance education with other commitments while building a strong foundation for a tech career.

As a student looking to merge healthcare with modern tech, I can tell you that Sentara College of Health Sciences is seriously impressive.

The college's programs consistently achieve outstanding results, with a 99% BSN license rate and 98% retention rate in 2022-23, showing they really know how to prepare students for success.

What caught my attention is their hands-on approach - we're talking about 900 clinical hours for BSN students and specialized training in state-of-the-art simulation labs.

The certificate programs are perfect for quick entry into healthcare tech, with options in patient care technology and medical assisting that can be completed in just 16 weeks.

What's really exciting is that their degree programs stay current with healthcare innovations, including the Master of Science in Nursing and specialized tracks in cardiovascular technology.

The college maintains partnerships with over 100 healthcare facilities, giving students real clinical experience while learning. Plus, their hybrid learning model combines online coursework with in-person skills labs, making it super flexible for students who need to balance work and study.

Whether you're aiming for nursing, surgical technology, or specialized certifications, Sentara's programs are designed to put you right at the forefront of healthcare technology.

The college's commitment to staying current with healthcare tech trends means graduates are ready to jump into the field with confidence and relevant skills.

Located at 1150 Greenbrier Parkway, Centura College's Chesapeake Campus offers a dynamic learning environment across its 27,000-square-foot facility.

As someone interested in tech and healthcare, I'm impressed by their blend of traditional education with cutting-edge technology. The campus features eleven lecture classrooms, three medical assisting labs that simulate real clinical environments, and a specialized Limited-Scope Radiologic Technology laboratory.

Students can access comprehensive medical training programs that incorporate the latest healthcare technologies, preparing them for modern medical facilities.

What makes this campus stand out is its commitment to hands-on experience.

The facility includes a large computer lab, an Online Learning Center, and a Learning Resource Center that's available to both current students and alumni. The medical assistant program, which can be completed in 12 months, offers practical experience through externships and prepares students for industry certification exams.

The campus also provides career-focused education in business and skilled trades, with flexible day and night classes to accommodate different schedules.

The support system here is impressive, especially for students like Robert Taylor who are just starting their careers.

The Career Services center helps with job placement, and the school maintains strong connections with major employers like Sentara Healthcare, LabCorp, and Duke Health.

What really caught my attention is their accelerated approach to education - they've designed their programs to help students achieve their career goals in minimum time while ensuring they're fully prepared for the workforce.

Plus, the campus is certified by multiple professional organizations and participates in the Department of Veterans Affairs Yellow Ribbon Program, making it accessible to military personnel transitioning to civilian careers.

Right here in Hampton Roads, Old Dominion University's Frank Batten College of Engineering and Technology is crushing it with their tech programs.

What makes ODU super exciting is how they blend traditional engineering with cutting-edge tech. The college offers everything from Civil and Electrical Engineering to Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology, all designed to get students ready for real-world challenges.

Their hands-on approach is seriously next-level, with students working in state-of-the-art labs and getting practical experience from day one.

What's really cool about ODU is their focus on the future of tech.

Their graduate programs are specifically designed around the unique assets of Hampton Roads, like NASA Langley Research Center, Jefferson Labs, and major military facilities.

Students get to work with actual industry tech, not just textbook examples. The engineering programs are ABET accredited, which basically means they're legit and recognized nationwide.

Old Dominion University's emphasis on emerging technologies ensures students are ready for the future of tech.

One of the most impressive things about ODU is their commitment to staying current.

The Engineering Technology Department is constantly updating their programs to include emerging technologies like digital twin, IoT, and artificial intelligence.

Students get their hands on real projects in the Smart Manufacturing Laboratory, and the senior design projects let you work on actual industry challenges. Whether you're into robotics, mechatronics, or system design, ODU's got the resources and connections to help you make it happen.

Plus, with their location near major tech companies and military installations, internship and job opportunities are literally right around the corner.

Norfolk State University (NSU) stands out as a leader in tech education, especially with its innovative approach to combining healthcare and technology.

The university's commitment to diversity shines through its comprehensive STEM programs and $5 million investment in health informatics education. Students can choose from multiple tech-focused pathways, including cybersecurity, software engineering, and computer engineering tracks.

The LGBTQIA+ Initiative and other diversity programs create an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive in tech education.

NSU's dedication to academic excellence is evident through their strategic partnerships with industry leaders and their focus on practical, hands-on learning experiences.

What makes NSU particularly special is their forward-thinking strategic plan, which emphasizes student success and innovative teaching methods through 2025.

The Computer Science department maintains small class sizes, ensuring students receive personalized attention while working with cutting-edge technology.

With state-of-the-art facilities and a curriculum that adapts to industry trends, NSU prepares students for real-world tech careers while fostering a strong sense of community.

The university's commitment to diversity and inclusion extends beyond the classroom through mentorship programs, tech workshops, and industry networking events.

Whether you're interested in artificial intelligence, data science, or cybersecurity, NSU provides the resources and support needed to succeed in the tech industry.

Regent University in Virginia Beach stands at the forefront of tech education while maintaining its core mission as a center of Christian thought and action.

The university's commitment to excellence shines through its innovative approach to technology education, offering cutting-edge programs in computer science, cybersecurity, and information systems.

What makes Regent unique is how it integrates emerging technologies with ethical considerations, preparing students to tackle real-world challenges through a values-based lens.

The university's tech programs are designed with flexibility in mind, featuring both online and on-campus options that adapt to different learning styles and schedules.

As of 2025, students can choose from an extensive selection of undergraduate and graduate degrees, with a robust online platform that utilizes cutting-edge learning tools to deliver an engaging educational experience.

The faculty brings real-world expertise to the classroom, maintaining a healthy 19:1 student-to-teacher ratio that ensures personalized attention and mentorship.

This approach has led to impressive results, with over 80% of graduates securing positions in their chosen fields. The university's career services department actively connects students with industry opportunities, while the strong alumni network provides valuable networking possibilities.

Whether you're interested in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or software development, Regent's program combines technical expertise with ethical leadership principles, creating well-rounded professionals ready for the challenges of tomorrow's tech landscape.

Virginia Wesleyan University stands out in 2025 for its innovative approach to combining technology and environmental studies. The university's Sustainability Management program offers a fresh take on business education, merging core business skills with sustainable practices at $399 per credit hour.

Students can dive into practical experiences through the Environmental Studies program, which includes hands-on field work, internships, and research opportunities in areas like habitat management and public policy.

What makes VWU really interesting is their tech-focused workshops, including CompTIA certifications and data analysis training, which complement their environmental curriculum perfectly.

The university's commitment to preparing students for real-world challenges is clear in their course offerings, which cover everything from environmental biology to geographic information systems.

Students get to work on actual sustainability projects, use cutting-edge tech for environmental monitoring, and participate in unique study experiences like exploring climate change impacts in Alaska.

They can complete their degree in as little as 12-24 months, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to jump into the growing field of environmental technology.

The program's blend of business savvy and environmental consciousness creates graduates who are ready to tackle today's sustainability challenges using modern tech solutions.

Tidewater Community College (TCC) stands out as a smart choice for tech education in Chesapeake, delivering real value with its affordable tuition rates of $195.25 per credit hour for Virginia residents in 2024.

This makes TCC's programs significantly more budget-friendly than four-year universities, with a full 15-credit semester costing around $2,451. The college keeps expanding its tech programs while maintaining strong connections with local industry partners, creating direct pathways to employment for graduates.

TCC's annual tuition of $5,714 for state residents includes access to cutting-edge facilities and industry-standard software.

The college just updated its programs for 2024-2025, offering specialized tech tracks that sync perfectly with what employers are looking for right now. Plus, TCC maintains tuition rates at about one-third of what you'd pay at Virginia's public universities, while still delivering quality education.

Students get hands-on experience through partnerships with local tech companies, internships, and practical projects that build real skills employers want.

With flexible class schedules, both online and on-campus options, and support services designed for student success, TCC makes it totally possible to earn a tech degree while balancing other life commitments.

ECPI University Virginia Beach is changing the game for tech education with their fast-track approach to learning. Their five-week terms pack in serious content - students attend class five hours daily, four days a week, taking two courses per term.

You can earn a bachelor's degree in just 2.5 years through their year-round schedule. Plus, their technology programs cover everything from cloud computing to cybersecurity, with tons of hands-on experience in their tech labs.

What sets ECPI apart is how they've structured their programs to match what tech companies actually need.

The school works directly with nearly 4,000 companies for hiring their grads, which is pretty impressive. Their learning approach is super practical - you're not just memorizing stuff, you're actually doing real-world projects and getting hands-on experience with the latest tech.

They've got this amazing support system too, with free tutoring and a Writing and Math Assistance Center that's always there when you need help.

The whole experience is designed to get you job-ready fast.

Every five weeks feels like hitting a milestone, and you're constantly building on what you've learned. They've got career services that hook you up with resume writing help, interview prep, and connections to tech companies.

If you're looking to jump into tech quickly and want a school that'll back you up with real support and industry connections, ECPI Virginia Beach seems like the perfect fit.

It's definitely worth checking out if you want to speed through your degree without sacrificing quality.

Choosing the right tech education in Chesapeake isn't just about picking a school - it's about finding your perfect launch pad into the tech world. Sentara College of Health Sciences stands out with its practical approach to healthtech education, scoring an impressive 3.9/5 from students who praise its solid theoretical and hands-on training.

Meanwhile, Old Dominion University ranks #296 nationally, offering killer programs in computer science and cybersecurity with affordable in-state tuition at $12,750.

The tech scene here is seriously growing - check out Sentara Healthcare's innovative research programs that are pushing boundaries in healthtech.

With a projected 15% growth in tech jobs through 2031, getting your education here means you're positioning yourself right where the action is. Tech companies are actively recruiting from local colleges, and many schools offer flexible learning options to help you balance study with life.

The best part? These institutions aren't just teaching coding - they're building complete tech professionals ready for real-world challenges. Whether you're into software development, cybersecurity, or healthtech, Chesapeake's educational ecosystem has got your back with modern facilities, industry connections, and hands-on experience opportunities.