Unlike any university you’ve ever seen

At Virginia Commonwealth University, we’re not interested in outdated traditions. We’re too focused on what’s next. Our community is more than 300,000 strong — each Ram a unique mix of style, story and attitude. Ignited by the energy of the city, we’re ready to lead industries — or disrupt them. Here, artists and engineers, doctors and designers are coming together to reimagine the human experience and tackle the problems of tomorrow.

Together, we’re forging a future that is built by us.

8 things that make us #RamProud

Richmond

A dynamic urban center of culture and creativity — just like us.

Woman sitting in front of fountain

Research

The National Science Foundation ranks us among the top 50 public U.S. schools.

Man crouching down to examine nature specimen

Community engagement

It’s a major part of the VCU experience. Nearly 6,000 students participated in community/civically engaged learning courses in 2023-24.

Student volunteers gardening

23 in the top 50

U.S. News and World Report ranks 23 of our programs and graduate schools in their top 50.

Glass blowers at work in a VCU School of the Arts studio.

Belonging

Everyone is welcome here. We love that our students come from all different backgrounds and show up as they are. Their collective energy powers our progress.

Students wearing I Love VCU T-shirts

Health sciences

VCU is the only Virginia school to offer degrees in health professions, dentistry, medicine, nursing and pharmacy.

Woman in dental coat looking at laptop

#1 hospital

VCU Medical Center is the top hospital in the Richmond region and one of the best in Virginia.

Close-up of two medical professionals in masks and special glasses

Peppas

We have one of the most celebrated pep bands in the country.

VCU Peppas pep band

A creative culture fueled by unexpected collaborations

We’re a top 50 public research university and we’re home to one of the top-ranked public graduate arts schools. What does that mean for you? Research and innovation are our greatest strengths and they will be part of your VCU education, no matter what field you pursue.

So, bring us your curious minds and your boldest ideas — there’s nothing common happening here. 

Explore VCU Health

That’s our medical enterprise, where our experts teach and mentor future doctors and other health professionals, provide great care to patients and conduct trailblazing medical research.

As a VCU student, you’ll have the chance to pursue a health career, connect a health-related topic to your studies or even volunteer to make a patient’s day brighter.

Learn more about VCU Health.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1838
  • Location: Richmond, Va.
  • Students: 28,831
  • Alumni: 227,271
  • Faculty (full time): 2,441

More facts