In this article, we will compare two schools in the state of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and Randolph-Macon College (RMC). We will look at different aspects of each school, such as costs, tuition, admissions, academics, and more, to help potential students make an informed decision about their education.
VCU Overview
Virginia Commonwealth University is a public research university located in Richmond, Virginia. Established in 1838, VCU has grown to become one of the largest universities in the state, offering over 200 degree programs through its 13 schools and colleges. With a strong focus on research, VCU also provides students with opportunities to work with faculty on projects and participate in internships.
VCU Costs & Tuition
As a public university, VCU’s tuition costs are generally more affordable compared to private institutions. For the 2021-2022 academic year, in-state undergraduate tuition and fees at VCU are approximately $14,710, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $35,798. Room and board expenses are estimated at $11,730 for both in-state and out-of-state students.
VCU Admissions
VCU’s admissions process is considered moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of 87%. The middle 50% of students admitted have an SAT score range of 1080 to 1250. The university also considers factors such as high school GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays when reviewing applications.
VCU Degrees Offered
VCU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various fields of study. Some of the most popular majors at VCU include Business, Health Professions, Engineering, Visual and Performing Arts, and Social Sciences.
VCU Academics
With an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio, VCU provides its students with a supportive learning environment, allowing for personalized attention from faculty members. The university is also known for its strong research and creative scholarship, with numerous opportunities available for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in research projects.
VCU Diversity
VCU is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity on its campus. The student body is comprised of students from various ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, with 49% of students identifying as minorities. The university also offers several programs and resources to support underrepresented students, such as the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and the Division for Inclusive Excellence.
VCU Students
VCU has a large student population, with over 28,000 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs. The campus is known for its vibrant and diverse student body, with an active student life that includes clubs, organizations, and events.
VCU Campus
The VCU campus is located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, and features a mix of modern and historic buildings. The campus is divided into two main sections: the Monroe Park Campus, which houses most of the undergraduate programs, and the MCV Campus, home to the university’s health sciences programs. VCU also provides its students with various facilities, such as recreation centers, libraries, and dining options.
VCU Alumni
VCU boasts a strong alumni network, with graduates working in various industries and fields. Some notable alumni include actor Boris Kodjoe, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Sheryl WuDunn, and NBA player Larry Sanders.
VCU Rankings
According to the 2022 U.S. News & World Report, VCU ranks #147 in National Universities and #77 in Top Public Schools.
VCU Outcomes
VCU reports a six-year graduation rate of 67%, and 88% of graduates are employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. The university also offers ample resources for career development and networking opportunities.
Randolph-Macon Overview
Randolph-Macon College is a private liberal arts college located in Ashland, Virginia. Founded in 1830, RMC offers a small, close-knit community with a focus on personalized education and experiential learning opportunities. The college offers over 60 majors, minors, and pre-professional programs, allowing students to explore their interests and passions.
Randolph-Macon Costs & Tuition
Being a private institution, Randolph-Macon’s tuition costs are higher compared to public universities. For the 2021-2022 academic year, the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is approximately $54,190.
Randolph-Macon Admissions
Randolph-Macon has a selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 69%. The middle 50% of students admitted have an SAT score range of 1060 to 1250. The college also factors in high school GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays when evaluating applications.
Randolph-Macon Degrees Offered
RMC offers a variety of undergraduate degrees in the liberal arts and sciences, with popular majors including Business, Biology, Psychology, and Communications. Pre-professional programs are also available in fields such as pre-med, pre-law, and pre-engineering.
Randolph-Macon Academics
With a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Randolph-Macon provides a highly personalized educational experience, allowing students to develop close relationships with their professors and receive individualized attention. The college emphasizes experiential learning through internships, study abroad opportunities, and research projects.
Randolph-Macon Diversity
RMC is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The student body is comprised of students from various backgrounds, with approximately 29% identifying as minorities. The college also offers resources and support services for underrepresented students, such as the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the Center for Inclusivity.
Randolph-Macon Students
Randolph-Macon has a small student population, with approximately 1,500 students enrolled. The college offers a tight-knit community with active student involvement in clubs, organizations, and events.
Randolph-Macon Campus
The Randolph-Macon campus is situated on a beautiful 116-acre campus in Ashland, Virginia. The historic campus features a mix of modern and traditional architecture, with state-of-the-art facilities and resources for students, such as libraries, research labs, and recreation centers.
Randolph-Macon Alumni
Notable alumni from Randolph-Macon include journalist and author Martha Raddatz, former U.S. Congressman Robert Hurt, and NFL player Darryl Tapp.
Randolph-Macon Rankings
According to the 2022 U.S. News & World Report, Randolph-Macon ranks #117 in National Liberal Arts Colleges and #21 in Best Undergraduate Teaching.
Randolph-Macon Outcome
The six-year graduation rate at Randolph-Macon is 60%, and 93% of graduates are employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. The college offers career development resources and networking opportunities for students and alumni.
VCU vs Randolph-Macon Cost Comparison
When comparing the costs of VCU and Randolph-Macon, it’s important to consider that VCU is a public institution while Randolph-Macon is a private college. For the 2021-2022 academic year, in-state undergraduate tuition and fees at VCU are approximately $14,710, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $35,798. The total cost of attendance at Randolph-Macon, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is approximately $54,190.
While Randolph-Macon has a higher sticker price, it’s important to consider financial aid packages and scholarships that may be available to help offset costs. Ultimately, the cost difference will depend on individual circumstances, such as residency, financial aid eligibility, and living arrangements.
VCU vs Randolph-Macon Admissions Difficulty
Both VCU and Randolph-Macon have selective admissions processes, with VCU having an acceptance rate of 87% and Randolph-Macon having an acceptance rate of 69%. The middle 50% of students admitted to both schools have similar SAT score ranges, with VCU’s range being 1080 to 1250 and Randolph-Macon’s range being 1060 to 1250.
While both schools are selective, VCU appears to be slightly easier to gain admission to based on acceptance rates. However, both institutions consider factors such as high school GPA, extracurricular involvement, and essays, so it’s essential to focus on creating a well-rounded application for both schools.
VCU vs Randolph-Macon Academic Difficulty
VCU and Randolph-Macon both offer rigorous academic programs to challenge their students. VCU, as a research university, may provide more opportunities for research and collaboration, while Randolph-Macon’s small liberal arts college setting allows for more personalized attention and close relationships with professors. The academic difficulty will ultimately depend on the student’s chosen major and individual experience.
VCU vs Randolph-Macon Outcome Comparison
Both VCU and Randolph-Macon have strong outcomes for their graduates. VCU reports a six-year graduation rate of 67%, and 88% of graduates are employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. Randolph-Macon has a six-year graduation rate of 60%, and 93% of graduates are employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.
While the graduation rate is slightly higher at VCU, the employment and further education rates are similar for both schools. Both institutions offer resources and support for career development and networking, ensuring students have the tools necessary to succeed after graduation.
