Overview
Virginia State University was founded in 1882 as the first fully state-supported four-year institution of higher learning for Black Americans in the United States. Located in Ettrick, Virginia, near Petersburg, VSU has a long-standing reputation for excellence in agriculture, engineering, and business education, and it operates as one of Virginia's two land-grant universities. Over its history, the university has produced generations of educators, scientists, and civic leaders, cementing its role as a pillar of the historically Black college and university (HBCU) community.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Ettrick, Virginia |
| Founded | 1882 |
| Total students | 4,300 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 89% |
| Graduation rate | 45% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $9,500 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $19,500 |
| Room & board | $11,000 |
| Average financial aid | $12,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 870-1030 |
| ACT range | 15-19 |
| Average GPA | 3.0 |
| Regular deadline | July 1 |
Top Programs
- Agriculture
- Business Administration
- Engineering Technology
- Biology
- Criminal Justice
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.