Overview
Research University with a Liberal Arts Foundation
Vanderbilt University opened its doors to approximately 200 students in the fall of 1875. Today this internationally-recognized, private research university serves almost 7,000 undergraduate students and nearly 6,000 graduate students. Situated on 330 acres in the middle of Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt is known for its excellent academic offerings and vibrant student life.
The university's academic philosophy is deeply rooted in providing students with a liberal arts foundation regardless of their chosen majors, encouraging students to further develop their intellectual capabilities and broaden their worldviews.
A Multitude of Degree Opportunities
Undergraduates are admitted to one of four schools -- College of Arts and Science, Blair School of Music, School of Engineering, and Peabody College of Education and Human Development -- but are encouraged to take courses from all four schools. In fact, 33 percent of all students choose double majors and 40 percent pursue minors.
The university's four schools offer approximately 70 majors, and students may design their own major. The most popular majors include human and organizational development, economics, history, mathematics, political science, English, Spanish, and biomedical engineering.
Each school also provides opportunities for specialization. For instance, Peabody College offers programs that lead to licensure in teaching. Blair School of Music offers a combined, five-year music/music education program that enables students to obtain a teaching license. The College of Arts and Science and the School of Engineering both offer 4 plus 1 programs that make it possible for students to earn master's degrees in 5 years.
Freshman Seminars
Vanderbilt boasts a 97 percent retention rate from freshman to sophomore year, in part, because it provides freshmen with strong academic support. For instance, first-year students of the College of Arts and Science are required to take freshman writing seminars. These seminars include no more than 16 students and cover a wide range of topics. In addition, the School of Engineering provides optional seminars that allow small groups of first-year students to work closely with a seasoned engineer.
Vanderbilt's Study Abroad Program
Coordinated by the Global Education Office, Vanderbilt's study abroad programs allow students to experience different cultures and improve language skills, and are often a fundamental part of undergraduate education. Students from all four schools have the opportunity to study abroad through one of over 70 direct-credit programs that are located on five continents.
Students may study abroad during "Maymester" (between second semester and summer session), summer session, a full semester, or a full academic year. Programs include language immersion, study at partner universities, or home stay experiences. A service component is also offered with many programs.
Financial Aid Programs
Vanderbilt is committed to meeting 100 percent of demonstrated financial need for students who are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens. Vanderbilt's need blind admissions process enables the university to admit talented students regardless of their financial circumstances. Also, its Expanded Aid Program for undergraduate students has eliminated need-based loans. Students' financial needs are met through a combination of grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
Balance in University Student Life
Vanderbilt's students are part of a community that aspires to a common set of values -- known as the Community Creed -- that includes scholarship, honesty, civility, accountability, caring, discovery, and celebration. Students are encouraged to follow these principles through academic pursuits, participation in student-led organizations, and service to the larger Nashville community.
Building upon the tenets of the Community Creed, Vanderbilt students pride themselves on maintaining an excellent balance among their academic and non-academic pursuits. With research, intern, and practicum experiences prevalent throughout campus, students take advantage of many unique and interesting non-classroom academic opportunities.
In addition, Vanderbilt students are known for their service ethos, with approximately 75 percent of all students participating in volunteer service through work within the local community, involvement with on-campus organizations, or travel abroad for service-related initiatives.
Vanderbilt students are highly involved in campus life. There are over 350 student-led organizations including performing arts groups, political organizations, religiously-based organizations, multicultural groups, and newspaper publishing groups. About 42 percent of students belong to one of 21 fraternities and 15 sororities. In addition, Vanderbilt's collegiate sports program includes 16 varsity sports teams, 37 club sports, and 40 intramural sports teams, so students can participate in and attend a variety of sporting events.
First-Year Experience and Housing
First-year Vanderbilt students join The Commons, a living and learning residential community comprised of 10 residence houses, The Commons Center (state-of-the-art dining, meeting space, cardio-health facility, and mini-market), and the Dean of The Commons house. A faculty Head of House lives in each of the 10 residence houses, with his or her family. The Commons continues Vanderbilt's tradition of providing for close interaction between faculty and students. First-year students participate in a myriad of programming events sponsored by The Commons, including seminars, social events, and gatherings at the home of the Dean of The Commons.
On-campus housing is guaranteed for all undergraduates. After living in The Commons, students have many housing choices including traditional dorm-style living, apartment and suite accommodations, high-rise living, and themed housing.
Nashville Cultural Life
Because of Nashville's many cultural, recreational, and entertainment outlets, student life extends far beyond the campus boundaries. Students frequent many restaurants and shopping boutiques within walking distance, and take advantage of the Frist Center for Visual Arts, the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, and the Sommet Center, all just minutes from campus. Professional sports, outdoor adventures, and live musical performances also provide plenty of interesting and fun activities for students.
