What does VCU stand for? Meaning, history behind name of university that is home to Rams basketball program

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Many college basketball fans are familiar with the VCU Rams, but may not know what the acronym VCU stands for or the history behind the university. VCU stands for Virginia Commonwealth University, a public institution chartered by the state of Virginia. The school was founded in 1968 after merging with the Richmond Professional Institute, but its roots trace back to 1838 when it was originally known as the Medical College of Hampden-Sydney.

Why it matters

VCU has become a popular underdog pick in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, making its first Final Four appearance in 2011 under coach Shaka Smart. Understanding the meaning and history behind the VCU name provides important context for the university's basketball program and its place in the broader landscape of college sports.

The details

VCU is located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, the state capital, with a campus just south of the Carver neighborhood. The university currently has over 29,000 students enrolled and more than 230,000 alumni. The term "commonwealth" in the university's name signifies that it is a public institution chartered by the state of Virginia, one of only four states considered commonwealths in the United States.

• VCU was founded in 1838 as the Medical College of Hampden-Sydney.
• In 1968, VCU was formed by the merger of the Richmond Professional Institute and the Medical College of Virginia.
• As of 2020, VCU has an enrollment of 29,288 students.