Virginia State University

Academics

Virginia State offers its students a top-notch education in the fields of agriculture, engineering, family and consumer sciences, and the military sciences. Its land-grant status drives the university’s mission to be a leader in agricultural research and extend its knowledge and expertise beyond the school to help improve the quality of life in Virginia, the nation, and the world. Students come to Virginia State University for all purposes and at all points in their academic journey: there are 36 undergraduate degree programs, 17 graduate degree programs, 2 doctoral degree programs, and 8 certificate programs. Progressive students will find a lot of options beyond the traditional majors like political science and biology, thanks to modern programming in media management, hospitality management, and information logistics technology. Opportunities also abound for student research through prestigious sponsorships with NASA, the U.S. Department of Energy, the National Institutes of Health, and others; in turn, the school is able to provide the latest technological resources. Faculty members are recognized as leaders in their fields of study and prioritize creating personalized teaching environments, academic advisement, goal setting, and mentoring. All the groundwork is there for students to reap for a promising career.

Career

Among HBCU institutions, VSU offers big-school capabilities with a small-school feel. That closeness stems from the high percentage of students who live on campus (more than 95%), which fosters a great sense of community and belonging. Gathered together in the school’s stately red-brick buildings or overlooking the Appomattox River with expansive views of Petersburg, VSU students enjoy opportunities for an active and engaged life outside of the classroom. The wide wealth of programs, clubs, and organizations includes everything from The Virginia Statesman campus newspaper and intramural sports to religious, civic, and cultural pursuits, as well as several fraternities and sororities. On a less daily basis, students can also look forward to big annual events and gatherings, such as Homecoming, Spring Fling, the Tree Lighting Ceremony, and the Thanksgiving Dinner. For intercollegiate sports, the VSU Trojans compete in the NCAA Division II, wearing the orange and blue school colors. There are also a large variety of athletic teams to join, ranging from basketball to bowling. The wildly popular Trojan Explosion Marching Band, along with the Essence of Troy Dancers, Satin Divas Flag, the Troy Elegance Twirlers, and the 30-member Woo Woo cheering squad, are on hand to energize fans at most every sporting event. The squad also regularly engages in community service activities.

Culture

VSU University Career Services is dedicated to helping VSU students and alumni explore their options for the future. From their very first year, Career Services aims to provide students with the tools necessary for growth and success, from career advising, planning, and preparation all the way to the grad school admissions process. Career Services also maintains an online recruitment database called Handshake, where students can connect with employers regarding internship and job opportunities. Students are encouraged to explore internships throughout their time at VSU in order to explore different career paths, demonstrate their abilities to potential employers, build their portfolio, and network. Notable alumni include Al Stewart, the deputy secretary of labor under Joe Biden; Pamela E. Bridgewater, former U.S. ambassador to Ghana and current U.S. ambassador to Jamaica; and Lucy McBath, a U.S. congresswoman from Georgia.