University of Virginia
- Academics

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University of Virginia - Academics - Academics - College ProwlerCollege Prowler4.24

Academics

Quick Stats

Student-Faculty Ratio 18:1
Full-Time Student Population 20,775
Part-Time Student Population 3,650
Full-Time Instructional Faculty 1,183
Part-Time Instructional Faculty 70
Total FT Faculty 2,125
Faculty with Terminal Degree 91%
Average Faculty Salary $106,606
Full-Time Retention Rate 96%
Part-Time Retention Rate 86%
Transfer-Out Rate 4%
Graduation Rate 93%
Programs/Majors Offered 81
Average Course Load 15 credits
Academic/Career Counseling? Yes
Remedial Services? No
Class Sizes
  • Fewer than 20 students: 50%
  • 20 to 49 Students: 36%
  • 50 or More Students: 14%

Student Author OverviewWhat's This?

Most students agree that the professors at UVA are outstanding, qualified, brilliant, and passionate men and women. As expected, there are occasional complaints about class structure, material, and size, as well as some unfortunate cases of disinterested teachers. The quality and interest level of classes and professors vary throughout the different schools and departments at UVA. For the most part, students find that classes and professors in the College of Arts and Sciences (particularly the English, drama, history, and psychology departments) are more liberal and interesting. Some of the more technical, scientific courses and schools (biology or engineering, for example) can be a necessary burden, even for students specializing in those fields.

Although it can be difficult getting to know a professor in a lecture setting, taking smaller seminars gives you a much better opportunity to get close to professors. How well you get to know your professors largely depends on the size of your major and the initiative you take with them. Older students are often very helpful with class and professor recommendations, so use them as a resource to achieve a more fulfilling academic experience. Though the best professors tend to only teach upperclassmen, be patient. Learn from your TA in the meantime—even though it may be disappointing and frustrating at times. Remember that TAs are more accessible, younger, and often more enthusiastic about the classes they’re working with; you can use this to your advantage and get more out of your learning experience. In general, as long as you are interested in developing a relationship with some of your teachers, whether they be TAs or professors, you will no doubt excel academically at Virginia.

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Virginia Student ReviewsWhat's This?

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Academics at University of Virginia

omd9kv

Civil Engineering '15

3.5
B

Hit or Miss

The Engineering School in general comes with a tough schedule and a heavy workload that requires many hours of dedication. However, that comes with any engineering school. I've only experienced the general engineering courses and have yet to do any of my specific major classes. The Professors in the first year are really hot or miss. Some classes will have a wonderful teacher who helps you explore the subject in interesting ways and learns your name. In others, the professor confuses himself and mummers into his microphone.

Apr 14, 2012

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Academics at University of Virginia

kdunne

Education '15

3.8
B+

Depends on the Professor

I've taken classes at the recommendation of other students because they've said it was interesting or easy or whatever else, but actually have found that it really depends from one semester to the next on who is teaching the class. The professors attitude, grading policy, and teaching style can really effect the outcome of the class.

Mar 24, 2012

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Academics at University of Virginia

nolie219

Philosophy Studies '15

N/A

Philosophy - Morality and Politics

The class is very interesting, the workload is not light, but extremely appropriate for the class. Also, the professor is very interactive.

Jan 24, 2012

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User rating for University of Virginia - Academics is 4.6 out of 5 based on 38 user reviews.

Student Survey Poll ResultsWhat's This?

Rate your school’s professors on the following topics

Rate your school’s academic environment on the following topics

Facts

Instructional Programs Occupational: No
Academic: Yes
Continuing Professional: Yes
Recreational/Avocational: Yes
Adult Basic Remedial: No
Secondary (High School): No
Special Credit Opportunities Advanced Placement (AP) Credits: Yes
Dual Credit: Yes
Life Experience Credits: No
AP Test Score Requirements Possible credit for scores of 4 or 5
IB Test Score Requirements Possible credit for scores of 6 or 7
Undergraduate Schools/Divisions
  • Architecture
  • Arts and Sciences
  • Commerce
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • Nursing
Degrees Awarded
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Doctorate - Professional practice
  • Doctorate - Research/scholarship
  • Master's degree
  • Post-master's certificate
Most Popular Majors
  • Business Administration and Management: 3%
  • Business/Commerce, General: 3%
  • Economics and Econometrics: 3%
  • Law: 3%
Special Study Options
  • Distance learning opportunities
  • Study abroad
  • Teacher certification (below the postsecondary level)
Best Places to Study
  • Alderman Library
  • Clark Library
  • Clemons Library
  • Coffee shops on the Corner
Did You Know?
  • The Rotunda was designed by Thomas Jefferson after the Pantheon in Rome and is meant to symbolize the enlightened human mind. Jefferson chose this site at the head of campus to be a library, whereas most other 19th century universities often chose a chapel as their central feature.
  • UVA has the highest graduation and retention rate of any public college or university

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Most Recent Student Author View all

Name
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Hometown
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Major
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