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Research

The College of Humanities and Sciences develops and advances nationally recognized student and faculty scholarship, research and creative initiatives committed to addressing challenges in our urban Richmond community and beyond.

We aim to become a leader in integrating meaningful engagement with real-world challenges that support the development of global citizens.

Student Research

We have many faculty who are internationally recognized experts in their fields. In the College of Humanities and Sciences, we prioritize student engagement and interaction with faculty. We don't just want you to help with research, we want you to lead.

The diversity of our research means students can obtain hands-on experience in many different areas in order to find their passion. Many CHS faculty conduct community engaged research, which allows students the opportunity to conduct research that has a meaningful, positive impact on VCU and our Richmond community.

Learn more about student research

Faculty Research

Our faculty conduct research on an extraordinarily diverse set of topics, ranging from the understanding of the histories of Native American people, to addressing inequality and disparities in education, to climate change and the development of alternative and efficient energy sources.

CHS faculty regularly win a variety of prestigious awards, fellowships and scholarships, including Woodrow Wilson fellowships and Fulbright scholarships. They also hold some of the largest grants at VCU, including center grants from the Centers for Disease Control to prevent youth violence and from the Federal Drug Administration and National Institutes of Health to understand the health consequences of e-cigarettes and the impact of policies put in place to regulate them.

Student and Faculty Research in the News

Micah White, who is working toward his Ph.D. in counseling psychology, said, “I always try to approach my research by thinking about practicality, future impact and why anyone should care.” (Thomas Kojcsich, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Jan. 30, 2025

How I found my research: Micah White examines the intersection of social media and African American identity

White, a VCU alum and counseling psychology Ph.D. student, is committed to conducting research that will make an impact beyond academia and benefit his community.

Daniel Morales, an assistant professor of history, examines the creation of transnational migratory networks across Mexico and the United States in the 20th century in his new book. (Photos contributed by Daniel Morales)

Jan. 23, 2025

VCU author investigates U.S.-Mexico migration in the early 20th century – and its enduring legacy

In his new book, history professor Daniel Morales examines how large-scale movement became rooted in both countries’ socioeconomic fabric.