Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

“Ut Prosim (Latin)”("That I May Serve")

1872

Founded

Public land-grant research senior military university

Type

30,435

Total Students

$15K

Tuition (In-State)

$37K

Tuition (Out-State)

$24K

Avg Net Price

57%

Acceptance Rate

86%

Graduation Rate

6-year

92%

Retention Rate

Doctoral Universities

Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Virginia Tech: Where innovation serves the world through discovery, leadership, and a vibrant community.

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, widely known as Virginia Tech, stands as a premier public land-grant research institution with a proud senior military college tradition in Blacksburg, Virginia. Embodying its Latin motto "Ut Prosim" ("That I May Serve"), Virginia Tech is dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering leaders who contribute meaningfully to society.

Renowned as an "R1: Doctoral University" for its very high research spending—exceeding $500 million in 2014—the university offers an impressive 280 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Prospective students can expect a dynamic academic environment focused on discovery, practical application, and preparing for future challenges. The university's academic strengths span numerous fields, supported by a substantial $2.09 billion endowment.

Established in 1872 as the Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College, its history is marked by continuous evolution and a strong sense of community. The vibrant campus experience in Blacksburg is further enriched by its passionate Hokie spirit, showcased through NCAA Division I athletics as part of the Atlantic Coast Conference. With over 38,000 students, Virginia Tech fosters an engaging and supportive environment for personal and academic growth, underscored by its deep commitment to service, evident in the thriving Corps of Cadets.

Key Highlights

✦Founded in 1872, upholding a legacy of "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve) as a public land-grant research university.
✦Hosts over 38,000 students across 280 undergraduate and graduate degree programs (Fall 2023).
✦Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University" with very high research spending, exceeding $500 million in 2014.
✦Operates with a substantial $2.09 billion endowment (2025).
✦Main campus spans 2,600 acres in Blacksburg, Virginia, offering a comprehensive university experience.
✦Home to the Virginia Tech Hokies, competing in NCAA Division I FBS within the Atlantic Coast Conference.
✦Features a thriving Corps of Cadets, which reached 1,127 members by 2018, its largest since the mid-1960s.

Timeline

1872

Founded as Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College.

1896

Name changed to Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College and Polytechnic Institute.

1921

Admitted its first female civilian day students.

1944

Name officially changed to Virginia Polytechnic Institute (VPI).

1969

Display of the Confederate flag at athletic events ended.

1970

Renamed Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

1986

Acquired the 1,785-acre Kentland Farm for agricultural research and programs.

2007

Experienced a tragic mass shooting on campus.

2014

Surpassed $500 million in research expenditures.

2018

Corps of Cadets reached 1,127 members, its largest since the mid-1960s.

🏛️

154 Years

of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

🏥

Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Research Institute

Created through a strategic partnership with the Carilion Clinic, focusing on medical education and research.

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