Academics
Virginia University of Lynchburg is a strong Christian institution that combines rigorous academics with spiritual guidance. The school aims to produce Christian leaders who are ready to contend with a complex and global society. Professors here are devoted to pursuing knowledge and passing along that same dedication to their students. VUL provides a mix of courses across the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. For starters, the school offers a certificate in ministry as well as an associate degree in Liberal Arts. Undergraduates can also earn a bachelor’s in a variety of specialties including Religious Studies, General Business Administration, and Criminal Justice. Additionally, students interested in pursuing advanced degrees can study for a master’s in Divinity, Criminal Justice, or Organizational Management, along with doctorates in Health Care Management or Ministry. The university works hard to ensure its students will be successful no matter their course of study. The Summer Fast Track Program, which allows students to earn up to 10 credit hours, is designed to provide newly admitted first-year and transfer students with the skills they need to succeed. Furthermore, academic counseling—one-on-one meetings with a faculty advisors—is available to any student who desires or needs it. Students who need additional support can reach out through the peer tutoring program, which will carefully match them with a high-GPA junior or senior who can help. Undergrads can also turn to the university’s Writing Center should they want to hone those particular skills.
Career
At Virginia University of Lynchburg, student life tends to be anchored by the Student Government Association (SGA). It’s the leading organization on campus and sanctions all other student groups. The SGA is also responsible for events throughout the academic year. Additionally, it serves as the voice of the student body and works diligently to spark school spirit, though they’re admittedly aided in this by the unifying athletics program. The Dragons, the school’s football team, is a big draw, especially for those not already participating in other sports like basketball or track and field. The surrounding area of Lynchburg helps to support the campus’s offerings, adding its own well-maintained cultural institutions, including the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra, the Renaissance Theater, The Maier Museum of Art, and Opera on the James. Outdoor enthusiasts will be happy to learn that they can easily access the James River Heritage Trail and Crabtree Falls for some lovely hiking or enjoy a dip in Smith Mountain Lake, the largest lake in Virginia. Aspiring historians will also find much to appreciate, as the area is home to storied locations like the Appomattox Courthouse, where the Confederate Army surrendered to the Union, and Poplar Forest, Thomas Jefferson’s getaway.
Culture
VUL has been training and producing leaders for 130 years. The proof is in their distinguished alumni, which includes noted historian Lawrence Carter, poet and teacher Anne Spencer, and politician and pastor W. Henry Maxwell. Today’s students have plenty of opportunity to fill the shoes of their predecessors, and they’re supported every step of the way by the robust Career Development Skills Center, which sponsors networking events, panels, and webinars throughout the academic year. Students may also drop in and receive advice on resume writing and job interviews. Additionally, VUL helps connect undergrads to prestigious internships specifically designed for individuals attending HBCUs. These internships are with esteemed organizations and institutions such as the United States Department of Education, the Naval Research Laboratory, and the Nate Parker Foundation-HBCU Storytellers Internship.
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