Virginia Commonwealth University - AcademicsCollege Prowler3.08
Comparable Schools'
Academics Grades:
Quick Stats
Faculty with Terminal Degree
74 %
Student-Faculty Ratio
18:1
Average Course Load
13–16 credits
College Prowler Take
There are common misconceptions about Virginia Commonwealth University, including that it is easy to get into, that it is only an arts school, and that it is not known outside of the Richmond area. These assumptions cannot be further from the truth. While VCU is known for having one of the largest and most comprehensive art schools in the country, there are several other departments that are continually growing and receiving national recognition. The School of Social Work has been established for more than 85 years and is ranked among the nation’s top social work schools. The School of Business has a wide variety of programs with a liberal arts base. The VCU School of Nursing allows students to learn within the Richmond community by integrating them with community leaders to provide education, counseling, outreach, and support services—all essential components to promoting healthy lifestyles.
At first it can be overwhelming to attend classes at VCU since most required gen-eds are large lecture hall classes. Classes may seem impersonal due to size. However, there are several classes that are small enough for teachers to learn names and notice when a student is missing. Generally English writing and foreign language classes are the smaller classes that a freshman would be required to take. Once a student is in their desired degree program, it
is much more common to have smaller classes and establish relationships with professors.
Students Speak Out
Love your school more than free food? Hate your school more than term papers?
Somewhere in between? Show the world what YOU think of YOUR school:
Anonymous says:  |
Classes and teachers here can be...
Classes and teachers here can be really crazy and out there. If you can, find someone who’s had a class you’re registering for and get some feedback. Then it won’t be so shocking when you get a teacher who is nuts. |
Anonymous says:  |
Most teachers are nice and always...
Most teachers are nice and always willing to help you, but some don’t know how to teach and aren’t easy to relate to. These are the teachers that can be difficult to talk to. |
Anonymous says:  |
Some teachers are awesome, and...
Some teachers are awesome, and some really suck. |
Anonymous says:  |
Switching majors here can be a...
Switching majors here can be a pain. Don’t declare until you’re sure of what you want. Otherwise, you could end up losing a lot of credits and a lot of time. |
Anonymous says:  |
Teachers here are really down to...
Teachers here are really down to earth and, for the most part, have good relationships with their students. |
Facts
AP Test Score Requirements
Scores of 3, 4, and 5 will be awarded between 3 and 10 credits
IB Test Score Requirements
Higher level 4–7 and standard level 5–7 will be awarded credit.
Degrees Awarded
- Bachelor’s
- Certificate
- Doctoral
- First professional
- Master’s
- Post-bachelor’s certificate
- Post-master’s certificate
Most Popular Majors
- Business/marketing - 14 %
- Health sciences - 10 %
- Psychology - 11 %
- Security/protective services - 8 %
- Visual and performing arts - 15 %
Special Study Options
- Accelerated program
- Cooperative education program
- Distance learning
- Double major
- Dual enrollment
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- Exchange student program
- Liberal arts/career
- Student-designed major
- Teacher certification program
Class Sizes
- 50 or More Students - 11 %
- Fewer than 20 Students - 44 %
Undergraduate Schools
- College of Humanities and Sciences
- Honors College
- School of Allied Health Professions
- School of Business
- School of Dentistry
- School of Education
- School of Engineering
- School of Nursing
- School of Social Work
- School of the Arts
Best Places to Study
- University Student Commons
Did You Know?
VCU was the first research university in the nation to have a program in homeland security and emergency preparedness.
Write for Us!

College Prowler is actively seeking talented students to be "Contributing Authors," and assist with updating
the College Prowler guide to their school. This is a great opportunity for a student to gain internship experience, be a part of a nationally
recognized company, gain tremendous exposure, utilize new media techniques, and share advice with high school students about what life is
really like at your college. Read more >