Building a Better World Since 1882, Virginia State University, founded in 1882, is one of Virginia's two land-grant institutions and is located 20 minutes south of Richmond in the village of Ettrick.
With a current student population of approximately 4,600, the University sits atop a rolling landscape overlooking the Appomattox River with Petersburg's expansive views. Our 231-acre campus boasts 11 residence halls, 18 academic buildings, and a 412-acre agriculture research facility.
Virginia State University, a public, comprehensive 1890 Land Grant institution and historically black college/university, is committed to preparing a diverse population of men and women through the advancement of academic programs and services that integrate instruction, research, extension, and outreach. The University endeavors to meet students' educational needs, graduating lifelong learners who are well equipped to serve their communities as informed citizens, globally competitive leaders, and highly effective, ethical professionals.
We invite you to Build a Better World with us as a part of the Virginia State University family. Come with us as we Build a Better World.
The University's mission is to promote and sustain academic programs that integrate instruction, research, and extension/public service in a design most responsive to individuals and groups' needs and endeavors within its scope of influence.
VSU will prepare you to be a 21st-century innovator, a future leader with the knowledge and insight necessary to change our world for the better. We offer more than 40 majors leading to a bachelor's degree—in agriculture, business, engineering, science, technology, and the liberal arts—every one of which prepares you to build a better world.
Big-school advantages include wide-ranging academic options, abundant research opportunities, and easy access to faculty members who are leaders and innovators in their field of study. Cutting-edge technological resources are another big-school benefit. On the small-school side, we offer personalized, student-focused teaching, academic advisement, and mentoring. Your professors will know you by name and take the time to discuss your academic and personal goals. The University College of Virginia State University is the leading academic and enhancement resource for students at VSU. The University also has several programs geared toward specific student populations.
Here, you will also learn about our Writing/ePortfolio Studio, which offers writing expertise and services to the entire VSU community, including all students, faculty, and staff. The studio, located in Harris Hall, provides one-on-one writing support by appointment and walk-ins (walk-ins are only served if available consultants do not have appointments). The studio also offers 24-hour online support, writing resources, and a free computer lab.
Virginia State University is proud to offer its students a wide variety of Special Programs. From opportunities for hands-on experience to an exciting selection of travel-abroad programs, students at VSU are never limited to the traditional classroom experience.
VSU students can extend their academic experience boundaries by participating in international study, service, intern, and field research programs practically anywhere! In addition to faculty-led programs, students may participate in accredited international schools or through exchange programs.
Continuing Education at VSU serves to bring the curriculum and research to the outside community through customized courses, certificate and degree programs, professional and research conferences, and educational events.
The VSU Honors Program provides outstanding learning opportunities that will challenge these young scholars to reach new academic excellence levels. The Program is designed to meet VSU's academically talented and highly motivated undergraduate students' unique educational needs. Exceptional opportunities are offered to acquire the skills and attitudes for intellectual growth, cultural enrichment, and leadership development.
Participants in the Honors Program have access to the Honors House, a meeting place for study/study circles, seminars, colloquia, tutorials, guest/faculty lecturers, and social activities. The two-story facility is equipped with a computer lab, reading/seminar room, multi-media study/meeting room, and lounge.
We appreciate your interest in our University and the research unit. We possess a pool of highly motivated and capable professors, scholars, researchers, graduate, and undergraduate students. We are proud to note that some of our researchers are world-renowned and conduct multiplicity of interdisciplinary and cutting-edge research in state-of-the-art facilities.
The Mission of the Office of Student Financial Aid Programs is to provide equitable financing options to prospective and current students through friendly customer service while serving as a responsible fiduciary agent for the federal and state government and the University and its benefactors.
There is life beyond the classroom at VSU. Your VSU is the place to explore all your interests— in sports, music, the arts, and other areas. We encourage you to branch out and dig deep, to discover new interests, and cultivate existing talents. You will find dozens of clubs and organizations that contribute to your growth as a well-rounded individual. Your VSU campus—with its spacious lawns and incredible resources—provides an ideal atmosphere for personal development. Our supportive, welcoming community makes it easy to meet new friends and enjoy a rewarding social life.
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