VCU is uncommon – a major public research university that is made for people from all backgrounds who are motivated to do the work that leads to success. People driven to innovate and invent, to use their ingenuity and passion to achieve their goals. People who never stop being curious. That’s who we are at VCU.”
– Michael Rao, Ph.D., VCU President
2025 State of the University
VCU is not like the rest. In a world of the common, we are the UNCOMMON
We are VCU, an inclusive public research university and health care system where accessibility combines with excellence to produce exceptional educational and healing results.
Together, we are dedicated to serving the needs of students and patients.
We impact lives through focused global partnerships and commitment to our communities. We research solutions to societal challenges and ignite transformative innovation that matters to the people who need us most.
We prove every day that different works.
We are united by purpose, devoted to inclusion and driven by impact.
Diversity driving excellence
We champion diversity, equity and inclusion in all that we do and advance a conscientious drive to support a climate where excellence and success for all people are valued and differences are celebrated.
Research and innovation
We distinguish VCU as a vibrant public research university where researchers, educators, practitioners and entrepreneurs innovate together to improve lives and address societal challenges.
Student success
We ignite student success through curricular innovation, a holistic culture of care and an engaged and empowered workforce.
Thriving communities
We deliver on our commitment to solving social and health inequities in partnership with communities.
$465m
in sponsored research
28,594
students enrolled
11,153
employees (academic)