Virginia State University
Petersburg, United States • Founded 1882
Updated Oct 2026 · Source: vsu.edu
Overview
Founded in 1882, the Virginia State University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of Petersburg (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Virginia.
Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Virginia State University (VSU) is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Virginia State University (VSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 141-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 90-99% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
VSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Geographic and contact information for Virginia State University is listed below.
Academic Details
Below are the institutional metrics for Virginia State University: scale, staffing, and accreditation.
Academic Structures
Below is how Virginia State University is organised academically — the schools, faculties, and units.
Unit 11 items
- College of Agriculture
- College of Education
- College of Engineering and Technology
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences
- College of Natural and Health Sciences
- Reginald F. Lewis College of Business
- School of Agriculture
- School of Business
- School of Engineering, Science and Technology
- School of Graduate Studies, Research and Outreach
- School of Liberal Arts and Education
Programs Offered
Search and filter Virginia State University's available programmes by degree level.
67 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 35 programmes
Showing 10 of 35.
Master's Degree 18 programmes
Showing 10 of 18.
Doctorate 2 programmes
Certificate 5 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 7 programmes
How to apply to Virginia State University
A five-step path through the application process at Virginia State University.
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1
Browse the programme catalogue
Use the programme finder to browse Virginia State University's 67 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.
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2
Check eligibility for your chosen programme
Programme-level requirements at Virginia State University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
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3
Get your documents ready
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
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4
Apply through the official channel
Virginia State University processes applications through www.vsu.edu. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
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5
Reach out and track your application
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (804) 524 5000. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Virginia State University
Quick answers to common questions about Virginia State University.
When did Virginia State University open?
Virginia State University traces its founding to 1882 (approximately 144 years ago).
In which city is Virginia State University?
Virginia State University is based in Petersburg, United States.
What is Virginia State University's control type?
It is a public higher-education institution.
How many students study at Virginia State University?
Virginia State University has approximately 5,074 students.
How many faculties does Virginia State University have?
Virginia State University is organised into 11 academic units across its disciplines.
Who recognises Virginia State University?
Yes, Virginia State University is recognised by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
What is Virginia State University's official website?
Virginia State University's official website is www.vsu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Research output among the United States's top universities sets the publication-and-citation upper bound. Comparing Virginia State University's research output to this benchmark gives a fair institutional read.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
These universities are also members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Faculties at nearby universities
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