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Graduate Studies

The College of Humanities and Sciences offers a breadth of graduate degrees and certificates that originate from the sciences, social sciences and humanities disciplines.

Graduate programs in the College play a critical role in supporting VCU’s mission to advance our status as an urban public research university. Our programs directly or indirectly address society’s 21st century challenges with a focus on the development of knowledge through scientific investigations, scholarly contributions and creative works.

Graduate students have access to all the resources necessary for academic success, including technology and equipment, office and research space, and graduate assistantship support (contact specific program for information regarding stipend and tuition support).

Most importantly, our programs are committed to:

  • providing a supportive positive mentoring relationship between faculty and students
  • developing programs for graduate students that bridge graduate degrees to professional opportunities
  • enhancing an appreciation for the critical importance of the cross fertilization of ideas and interdisciplinary approaches

Our Grad Students in the News

The student team documenting the trees across VCU’s Monroe Park and MCV campuses include Margaret Pletcher, Declan O'Donnell, Daniella Asnicar and Kaleb Rezac. (Contributed image)

Oct. 2, 2025

How many trees are on VCU’s campuses?

Student interns with the Rice Rivers Center are counting trees, and the comprehensive inventory could highlight the environmental and financial impact of the urban forest.

Biology graduate student Kyleigh Johnson takes a sample at Swan Lake. (Thomas Kojcsich/Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Aug. 22, 2025

VCU research in action: Finding answers in the algae in Richmond’s lakes

Researchers wade into the fluorescent blooms of summer, which threaten human health and the region’s waterways.

The Blackbird team is exploring new ground with the launch of the Blackbird Literary Podcast, which offers a multidimensional experience designed to bring each page to life. (Contributed photo)

Aug. 13, 2025

Blackbird literary journal team launches multidimensional podcast

Through performative readings and music composition, the new format brings the written word to life.