VCU

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a public research university located in Richmond, Virginia. The university operates on two primary campuses in the city: the MCV Campus, which houses the medical and health sciences facilities, and the Monroe Park Campus, which hosts arts, sciences, and professional programs. VCU Health, the university’s affiliated academic medical center, provides patient care, teaching, and research for the region.

VCU traces its origins to the Medical College of Virginia (founded in 1838) and the Richmond Professional Institute. In 1968, these institutions merged to form Virginia Commonwealth University, consolidating in the greater Richmond metropolitan area.

The university comprises multiple schools and colleges offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across a broad range of disciplines, including the arts, sciences, business, education, engineering, and health sciences. The institution is known for components such as the VCU School of the Arts (VCUarts) and the health sciences faculties, as well as its urban research enterprise.

VCU is a major urban research university with substantial research activity, including biomedical and health-related research, cancer, neuroscience, public health, and energy and environmental science. It operates a sizable research portfolio and collaborates with local hospitals, industry, and community organizations.

Student life features a diverse student body and a range of cultural and professional opportunities on campus. The university's athletic teams compete as the VCU Rams; the mascot is Victor the Ram, and the school colors are blue and gold. The institution emphasizes community engagement and urban learning across its campuses.