Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University is a public university in Richmond, VA ranked #501 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B+, enrolling about 20,797 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 93.1%. Students most often pursue Computer and Information Sciences and Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering.
Academically, students benefit from a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, 85.6% first-year retention, and 65.4% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $19,452, about $2,454 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -39.4%, roughly 124.7 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $47,161. That's about $3,473 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Virginia Commonwealth University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Virginia Commonwealth University graduates 65.4% of students within six years and keeps 85.6% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Virginia Commonwealth University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $16,458 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,240 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $16,119 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $6,150 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $34,346 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 29.7% of Virginia Commonwealth University students receive Pell Grants — slightly below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $12,830 to $28,474 depending on family income. Use Virginia Commonwealth University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $20,633/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $28,474/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $47,161
- 10-Year Median Earnings $47,161
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $17,021
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 56.7%
- Employment Rate 87.6%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Virginia Commonwealth University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Virginia Commonwealth University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Virginia Commonwealth University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Virginia Commonwealth University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Virginia Commonwealth University graduates earn $47,161 median, the -39.4% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 530-650
- SAT Math 500-620
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 22-30
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 20,797
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 85.6%
- Graduation Rate 65.4%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 17:1
How to Get Into Virginia Commonwealth University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Virginia Commonwealth University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 93.1%, Virginia Commonwealth University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 93.1% acceptance rate, Virginia Commonwealth University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1030 and 1270 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Virginia Commonwealth University undergraduates. Psychology, General, Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, and Business/Commerce, General draw the most students.
- Psychology, General 8.8%
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 7.6%
- Business/Commerce, General 7.0%
- Biology, General 6.9%
- Design and Applied Arts 5.5%
- Communication and Media Studies 4.5%
See more majors
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 4.3%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 4.3%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer and Information Sciences, General $117,373
- 2. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $99,480
- 3. Chemical Engineering $91,990
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Mechanical Engineering $87,500
- 5. Information Science/Studies $86,853
- 6. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $86,488
- 7. Computer Engineering $82,964
- 8. Business/Managerial Economics $81,935
- 9. Biomedical/Medical Engineering $76,242
- 10. Dental Support Services and Allied Professions $75,427
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences (Master's Degree) $287,357
- 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $214,278
- 3. Dentistry (First Professional Degree) $171,547
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Medicine (First Professional Degree) $166,894
- 5. Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degree) $139,694
- 6. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $127,587
- 7. Information Science/Studies (Master's Degree) $125,277
- 8. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $124,642
- 9. Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degree) $123,969
- 10. Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree) $120,156
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer and Information Sciences, General grads earn $117,373—56% more than Dental Support Services and Allied Professions ($75,427). Graduate: Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences programs lead with $287,357 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Virginia Commonwealth University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 449 graduates)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Bachelor's Degree, 388 graduates)
- Business/Commerce, General (Bachelor's Degree, 354 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 352 graduates)
- Design and Applied Arts (Bachelor's Degree, 278 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (49 programs)â–¼
- Psychology, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Business/Commerce, General
- Biology, General
- Design and Applied Arts
- Communication and Media Studies
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Political Science and Government
- Information Science/Studies
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other
- Social Work
- Marketing
- Mechanical Engineering
- English Language and Literature, General
- Chemistry
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Sociology
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Biological and Physical Sciences
- Security Science and Technology
- History
- Area Studies
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Music
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemical Engineering
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Computer Engineering
- Anthropology
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Crafts/Craft Design, Folk Art and Artisanry
- Philosophy
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Dance
- Dental Support Services and Allied Professions
- Real Estate
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies
Online Master's Degrees (51 programs)â–¼
- Business/Commerce, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Education, General
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Public Administration
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Psychology, General
- Security Science and Technology
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Mathematics
- Public Health
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Accounting and Related Services
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Design and Applied Arts
- Biology, General
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- English Language and Literature, General
- Engineering, General
- Information Science/Studies
- History
- Communication and Media Studies
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Physics
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Chemistry
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Music
- Genetics
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Economics
- Taxation
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
Online Doctoral Degrees (34 programs)â–¼
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Education, General
- Chemistry
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Engineering, General
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Engineering, Other
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Biology, General
- Natural Sciences
- Genetics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Public Administration
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Public Health
- Psychology, General
- Business/Commerce, General
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Nanotechnology
- Mathematics and Statistics, Other
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Chemical Engineering
- Social Work
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Physics
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Special Education and Teaching
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (40 programs)â–¼
- Biology, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Geography and Cartography
- Public Administration
- Natural Sciences
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Special Education and Teaching
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Social Sciences, Other
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Public Health
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Information Science/Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Statistics
- Physics
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Sustainability Studies
- Real Estate
- Graphic Communications
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Transportation and Materials Moving, Other
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Sociology
- International Business
- Human Resources Management and Services
- History
- Historic Preservation and Conservation
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Educational/Instructional Media Design
- Education, General
- Business/Commerce, General
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Genetics
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (7 programs)â–¼
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Business/Commerce, General
- Sustainability Studies
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- International Business
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
Online First Professional Degrees (3 programs)â–¼
- Medicine
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Dentistry
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 20,797
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 36.4%
- Female Students 63.6%
- Caucasian 40.6%
- Asian 14.2%
- Hispanic 11.7%
- Black 21.6%
- Pell Grant Recipients 29.7%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Virginia Commonwealth University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Virginia Commonwealth University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Virginia Commonwealth University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Virginia Commonwealth University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Virginia Commonwealth University has a diverse student body, with 40.6% identifying as White. Women make up 63.6% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Virginia Commonwealth University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Virginia Commonwealth University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Virginia Commonwealth University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #501 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $19,452 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $47,161 median earnings. The 65.4% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 85.6% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Virginia Commonwealth University's Strengths
Ranked #501 with a B+ grade, Virginia Commonwealth University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Virginia Commonwealth University excel at providing affordable education ($19,452 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: Virginia Commonwealth University's 85.6% retention and 65.4% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($47,161 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Virginia Commonwealth University and $19,452 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 65.4% six-year graduation rate sits 2.9 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 85.6% first-year retention is 8.8 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -39.4% return on investment is 124.7 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $47,161 run about 8% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $19,452 is roughly $2,334 higher than the national median of $17,118.
Helpfulness for Students
- 17:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 85.6% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 87.6% employment rate within three years sits 19.4 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $19,452 is about $2,334 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 29.7% trails the national share by 9.1 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
EDsmart rates Virginia Commonwealth University—a public university in Richmond, VA—at B+ overall. It stands at #501 among 6272 schools Grades by category break down as Completion B+, Support B, Career Outcomes B, and Affordability B-.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 85.6% retention and 65.4% six-year graduation. The reported ROI is -39.4%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $19,452 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $34,346.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $14,894 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $17,021 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 29.7% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $47,161 at the median. This is roughly 8% above typical U.S. college outcomes.
Employment outcomes report about 87.6% of alumni working within three years.
Plan around an ROI of about -39.4% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
93.1% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Virginia Commonwealth University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address Richmond, VA 23284-2512
- Website www.vcu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$2.41B
- Transfer Enrollment Rate20.3%