Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Overview

Nestled in the scenic landscape of Blacksburg, Virginia, Virginia Tech, also known as Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VPI), stands tall as a distinguished public land-grant research institution, holding its main campus in Blacksburg, Virginia. This renowned university boasts a rich academic heritage and a global footprint through its expansive educational facilities across six regions within the state, a pioneering research center in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and a dynamic study-abroad site in Riva San Vitale, Switzerland.

Academic Prowess and Research Endeavors

Virginia Tech proudly offers an extensive spectrum of 280 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, catering to the academic aspirations of a diverse student body totaling 37,000. Renowned for its commitment to scholarly pursuits, it holds the esteemed classification of "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity." As of 2016, it stands as the second-largest public university in Virginia by enrollment, exemplifying its unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence.

Celebrating Athletic Excellence and Stellar Alumni Achievements

The university's athletic teams, known as the Virginia Tech Hokies, proudly compete in Division I of the NCAA as esteemed members of the Atlantic Coast Conference. Virginia Tech's alumni roster glistens with achievement, boasting an impressive lineage of 2 Rhodes Scholars, 4 Marshall Scholars, 38 Goldwater Scholars, and 131 Fulbright Scholars. Among its distinguished alumni are 8 Medal of Honor recipients, 97 flag officers, governors of two U.S. states, 2 astronauts, and a notable billionaire. Notably, the university claims the honor of nurturing three Nobel laureates and two MacArthur Fellows among its esteemed faculty and alumni ranks.

Innovative Growth and Research Excellence

Virginia Tech has witnessed significant expansion across its institutions, experiencing both physical and population growth in the early decades of this century. Acquisitions such as the 326-acre Heth Farm adjacent to the campus in 2001 have bolstered the university's educational landscape, expanding the College Farm to a sprawling over 3,000 acres. The establishment of the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Research Institute in partnership with the Carilion Clinic and the state of Virginia stands as a testament to the university's commitment to pioneering healthcare education and research.

The university's commitment to scholarly advancement is evidenced by its substantial research expenditures exceeding $500 million in 2014, highlighting its dedication to fostering innovation and groundbreaking research initiatives.

Academic Offerings and Student Diversity

Virginia Tech's academic prowess extends across 116 bachelor's degree programs within nine undergraduate academic colleges, alongside 160 master's and doctoral degree programs through the esteemed Graduate School. Additionally, the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Research Institute, established in 2007, exemplifies a collaborative public-private partnership, providing a cutting-edge platform for medical education and research.

Diversity and Vibrant Campus Life

Virginia Tech thrives as a vibrant ecosystem for student engagement and holistic development, boasting an extensive array of over 700 student organizations. These organizations encapsulate a diverse range of interests, from pioneering tech ventures like Bolt at Virginia Tech to creative platforms like PRISM, a student-run ad agency. The university's commitment to providing an enriching on-campus experience is reflected in its vibrant residential community, with over 9,300 students choosing to reside on-campus.