University of Lynchburg
Lynchburg, United States
University of Lynchburg
Lynchburg, United States
Founded
1903
Institution Type
Private
Total Students
2,300+
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
Discover the University of Lynchburg: History & Overview
Discover the University of Lynchburg: History & Overview
The University of Lynchburg is a private university affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Lynchburg, Virginia. Founded in 1903 by Dr. Josephus Hopwood as Virginia Christian College, the institution has grown from a small coeducational college into a comprehensive university offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
Situated on a 264-acre campus approximately 180 miles southwest of Washington, D.C., the university emphasizes personalized education with small class sizes and close faculty-student engagement. The university also operates the Claytor Nature Study Center, a 470-acre environmental research facility located about 40 minutes from the main campus.
The University of Lynchburg is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and is recognized as one of the Colleges That Change Lives. With over 60 clubs and organizations and 24 intercollegiate athletic programs, the university provides a vibrant and supportive learning community for its students.
Key Milestones
- 1903: Founded as Virginia Christian College by Dr. Josephus Hopwood in Lynchburg, Virginia.
- 1919: Renamed to Lynchburg College to reflect its expanding constituency beyond Virginia.
- 2014: Women's soccer program won the university's first NCAA Division III national championship.
- 2018: Officially changed its name from Lynchburg College to the University of Lynchburg.
Academic Structure & Programs
Academic Structure & Programs
The University of Lynchburg offers a diverse range of academic programs organized across several schools and departments, spanning the arts, sciences, business, education, and health professions. All classes are taught by professors with no teaching assistants, ensuring personalized instruction and mentorship.
College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences forms the liberal arts core of the university, offering programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences with an emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Biology and Biomedical Science
- Psychology
- English and Communication Studies
School of Business
The School of Business provides undergraduate and graduate programs focused on practical business skills and leadership, with accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
- Business Administration
- Accounting
- Management and Financial Economics
School of Education
The School of Education prepares students for careers in teaching and educational leadership, offering initial licensure programs and graduate studies aligned with current educational standards.
- Elementary and Secondary Education
- Special Education
- School Counseling (Graduate)
School of Health Sciences and Human Performance
This school offers highly regarded programs in nursing, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, and athletic training, preparing students for rewarding careers in healthcare.
- Nursing (BSN)
- Master of Physician Assistant Medicine
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
School of Visual and Performing Arts
Programs in music, art, theatre, and communication balance theory with hands-on creative experience, supporting artistic expression alongside professional development.
- Studio Art and Graphic Design
- Theatre
- Music
Graduate Studies
The university offers 18 graduate-level programs including master's and doctoral degrees in fields such as education, health sciences, and business, with Direct Admit Pathway Programs connecting undergraduates to graduate school.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Education (MEd)
- Doctor of Medical Science
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PlatformCommon Application accepted
- High School GPARequired; competitive applicants typically hold a 3.0+ GPA
- SAT/ACT ScoresTest-optional; mid-50% SAT range 980-1240 for submitted scores
- Letters of RecommendationConsidered but not required
- Application FeeUSD 30 (fee waivers available)
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRequired from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPAVaries by program; typically 3.0 or higher
- Standardized TestsGRE/GMAT may be required depending on program
- PA Program ApplicationApply through CASPA
- DPT Program ApplicationApply through PTCAS
Binding early decision for first-year applicants who have identified Lynchburg as their top choice.
Final deadline for first-year undergraduate applications for fall enrollment.
Deadline for transfer students seeking fall semester admission with a minimum of 24 transferable credits.
Deadline for transfer students seeking spring semester admission.
Tuition, Fees & Scholarships
Tuition, Fees & Scholarships
As a private institution, the University of Lynchburg charges the same tuition rate for all students regardless of state residency. The university is committed to affordability, with 100% of undergraduates receiving some form of grant or scholarship aid.
| Cost Category | Undergraduate (Annual) | Graduate (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 38,150 | USD 10,860 |
| Room & Board | USD 12,750 | N/A (varies) |
| Books & Supplies | USD 1,000 | USD 1,000 |
| Other Expenses | USD 2,000 | USD 2,000 |
| Total | USD 53,900 (Undergraduate Total) | USD 13,860 (Graduate Tuition & Fees) |
Merit-Based Scholarships
The University of Lynchburg awards merit-based scholarships to incoming students based on academic achievement, leadership, and extracurricular involvement. These awards are renewable for up to four years.
- Eligibility: Based on GPA, test scores (if submitted), and application review
- Average Award: Contact the university for current scholarship amounts
- Renewable: Yes, with satisfactory academic progress
Need-Based Financial Aid
Fifty-five percent of first-year students receive need-based financial aid. Students must submit the FAFSA to be considered for federal and institutional need-based grants and loans.
- Average Need-Based Grant: Approximately USD 22,640 for first-year students
- FAFSA Required: Yes
- Average Net Price: Approximately USD 22,104 for federal loan recipients
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
The University of Lynchburg occupies a scenic 264-acre campus in the foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. The campus features a blend of historic and modern facilities designed to support academic excellence, student life, and athletic achievement.
One of the original campus buildings, Hopwood Hall serves as a central academic and administrative hub.
The 72,000-square-foot student center houses student activities, leadership programs, a health and wellness center, and community service offices.
The campus features modern athletic facilities supporting 24 intercollegiate sports programs competing in NCAA Division III.
Housing & Dining
Residential Life
Most students live on campus in a variety of housing options. The university offers traditional residence halls, living-and-learning communities, townhouses, apartments, and university-owned neighborhood houses.
- Traditional residence halls for first-year students
- Townhouses and apartments for upperclassmen
- University-owned houses near campus
Dining Services
Students living in traditional residence halls are required to have an unlimited meal plan. Multiple dining venues across campus offer diverse food options to suit various dietary needs.
- Unlimited meal plan for residential students
- Multiple on-campus dining locations
- Dietary accommodations available upon request
Student Life at University of Lynchburg
Student Life at University of Lynchburg
Student life at the University of Lynchburg is vibrant and community-oriented. With over 60 clubs and organizations and a strong tradition of community service, students have ample opportunities to get involved, develop leadership skills, and build lasting friendships.
Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
Life in Lynchburg, Virginia
Lynchburg is a charming mid-sized city of approximately 80,000 residents located in central Virginia. Situated about 180 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. and two hours west of Richmond, the city offers a blend of historic character, natural beauty, and a growing cultural scene.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The campus sits in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing easy access to hiking, scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and outdoor recreation.
James River
The James River runs through Lynchburg, offering opportunities for kayaking, tubing, fishing, and riverside trails.
Historic Downtown
Downtown Lynchburg features local restaurants, shops, galleries, and a vibrant arts community with regular cultural events.
Transportation Access
Lynchburg Regional Airport is located minutes from campus, offering flights via American Airlines. The city is accessible via US Routes 29 and 460.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Where Lynchburg Graduates Work
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
The university provides guidance on F-1 visa applications, Optional Practical Training (OPT), and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for eligible international students.
International students receive support through orientation programs, cultural events, and dedicated resources for navigating life in the United States.
Career Services offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, interview preparation, and access to an online job portal with internship and employment listings.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Lynchburg Rankings
University of Lynchburg Rankings
The University of Lynchburg is recognized in several national rankings for its commitment to teaching, student outcomes, and social mobility. As a smaller private institution, it is primarily featured in U.S. national rankings rather than global ranking systems.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report | #306 |
| Undergraduate Nursing | U.S. News & World Report | #345 |
| Colleges That Change Lives | CTCL | Member Institution |
| Virginia Colleges | CollegeTuitionCompare | #28 |
Features
Personalized education at a small‑town setting; strong undergraduate and graduate programs; high faculty accessibility (10:1 ratio); residential campus; active service/community, strong student engagement

Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.

Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.

Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
Lynchburg, Virginia, United States
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