Virginia Commonwealth University
- Academics

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Virginia Commonwealth University - Academics - Academics - College ProwlerCollege Prowler3.08

Academics

Quick Stats

Student-Faculty Ratio 18:1
Full-Time Student Population 24,268
Part-Time Student Population 8,582
Full-Time Instructional Faculty 1,096
Part-Time Instructional Faculty 1,097
Total FT Faculty 2,121
Faculty with Terminal Degree 74%
Average Faculty Salary $72,815
Full-Time Retention Rate 85%
Part-Time Retention Rate 55%
Transfer-Out Rate 22%
Graduation Rate 50%
Programs/Majors Offered 117
Average Course Load 13–16 credits
Academic/Career Counseling? Yes
Remedial Services? No
Class Sizes
  • Fewer than 20 Students: 44%
  • 20 to 49 Students: 45%
  • 50 or More Students: 11%

Student Author OverviewWhat's This?

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.

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Virginia Commonwealth Student ReviewsWhat's This?

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Academics at Virginia Commonwealth University

tkeyah11

Occupational Therapy '14

5.0
A+

Great Deal of Variety

VCU has a wide range of majors and programs that are offered at the university. They have something for everyone!

May 27, 2012

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Academics at Virginia Commonwealth University

xcrunner86

Sport and Fitness Management '12

4.2
A-

Online Sport Leadership

I'm in the Graduate program for Sport Leadership and I love it. I take live online classes, so I still learn from a professor, in real time and can ask questions, etc. I am very satisified with opportunties that have been offered to me while in the program, and am excited for the opportunities that exist post-graduation!

May 14, 2012

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Academics at Virginia Commonwealth University

bennettha

Engineering '14

4.6
A

Opportunity After Opportunity

There are a ton of job fairs, one a week if not two and sometimes more. The facilities are up to date and being improved each semester.

May 06, 2012

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User rating for Virginia Commonwealth University - Academics is 4.6 out of 5 based on 66 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 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.
Undergraduate Schools/Divisions
  • 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
Degrees Awarded
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Certificate
  • Doctorate - Professional practice
  • Doctorate - Research/scholarship
  • Master's degree
  • Post-bachelor's certificate
  • Post-master's certificate
Most Popular Majors
  • Business/Commerce, General: 3%
  • Mass Communication: 3%
  • Psychology: 3%
  • Social Work: 2%
Special Study Options
  • Distance learning opportunities
  • Study abroad
  • Teacher certification (below the postsecondary level)
  • Weekend/evening college
Best Places to Study
  • Cabell Library
  • Monroe Park
  • 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.

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Most Recent Student Author View all

Name
Carrie Lefler
Major
Communications

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