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, a public research university and health care system where opportunity 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 our communities and driven by impact.
Opportunity drives excellence
We champion uncommon excellence in all that we do and advance a conscientious drive to support a climate where excellence and success for all individuals are valued and differences are equally respected.
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 addressing social and health challenges in partnership with communities.
$500m+
in sponsored research
28,831
students enrolled
26,000+
employees (VCU and VCU Health)