Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)

Virginia Commonwealth University is a 4-year, public university in Richmond, Virginia. Students enrolled at VCU can choose from over 200 degree programs that span bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, continuing education, as well as online degree options.

Virginia Commonwealth University Veteran and Military Support Programs

Virginia Commonwealth University offers the following veteran and military support programs:

• Virginia Commonwealth is a GI Bill® approved school
• Has a Student Veterans of America chapter
• Does not offer credit for military experience
• Awards credit for the CLEP and DSST exams
• Approved for Tuition Assistance
• Virginia Commonwealth is a Yellow Ribbon school
• Virginia Commonwealth University is a MyCAA approved school.

About Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University is a public research university in Richmond, VA. They have two main campuses, the Monroe Park Campus, which is 169 acres, west of downtown Richmond, and the MCV Campus in the urban center. They also have a branch campus in Education City, Doha, Qatar, and satellite and research locations. 

They have 200 plus programs at the baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate level as well as professional and certificate courses. Some of their programs are unique to Virginia, such as the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness major. They have 29,417 students enrolled according to their website and are the largest employer in Richmond as well as having the number one hospital in Richmond. They are a Top 100 National Science Foundation University, and a Top 3 Virginia Research University. 

History of Virginia Commonwealth University 

Virginia Commonwealth University was created through the merger of Richmond Professional Institute and the Medical College of VA in 1968, however, the University considers 1838 as its founding date and that on its official seal and promotional materials. 

Back in 1838, the school started as the medical department of Hampden-Sydney College which became the Medical College of Virginia in 1854. 

Richmond Professional Institute’s roots go back to 1917 when it began as the Richmond School of Social Work and Public Health. In 1925, the school became the Richmond Division of the College of William and Mary. In 1939, it became the Richmond Professional Institute of the College of William and Mary, and in 1947, the MCV Foundation was incorporated. In 1962, RPI separated from William and Mary. 

In 1969, the university adopted the colors black and gold, in 1970, fraternities and sororities were added, and the same year the James Branch Cabell library was opened. In 1993, the School of Medicine and School of Basic Health Sciences were merged, and in 2008, VCU was designated a Tier 3 university.

Message from Virginia Commonwealth University

According to the 2012 US News & Report, VCU is classified as a Tier 1 University with an overall National University rank of No. 170 and holds a rank of No. 94 among all public colleges and universities in the country.