Radford University is a comprehensive public institution of more than 11,000 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Radford University was founded by the Virginia General Assembly in the spring of 1910. The State Normal and Industrial School for Women at Radford grew out of a late 19th-century effort to expand Virginia’s public school system and prepare a sufficient number of teachers. 

The Radford University of today offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed inside and outside of the classroom. The University offers 76 degree programs in 47 disciplines and five certificates at the undergraduate level; 27 master’s programs in 22 disciplines and six doctoral programs at the graduate level; 14 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master’s certificate. A Division I member of the NCAA and Big South Athletic Conference, Radford University competes in 16 men’s and women’s varsity athletics. With over 300 clubs and organizations, Radford University offers many opportunities for student engagement, leadership development and community service.

Points of Pride

Providing Quality Educational Opportunities for Students Across the Commonwealth of Virginia and Beyond

  • More than 11,000 students from 46 states and 66 foreign countries
  • 76 degree programs in 47 disciplines and five certificates at the undergraduate level; 27 master’s programs in22 disciplines and six doctoral programs at the graduate level; 14 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master’s certificate
  • Student to faculty ratio: 15:1
  • Average freshman class size: 28 students

Leading in Education, STEM-H and Nursing

  • 23 education and teaching programs
  • 49 STEM-H programs
  • Competitive undergraduate and graduate nursing programs to prepare students for the modern medical environment
  • School of Nursing ranked among best in the Commonwealth of Virginia

Impacting the State and Regional Economy

  • $1.2 billion total impact generated by Radford University throughout the Commonwealth
  • Every $1 in state support = $22 statewide return on investment
  • 8,400 jobs in the Commonwealth supported by Radford University, including 1,835 employees
  • “Best Colleges and Universities in the Southeast” – The Princeton Review, 2004-2021
  • “Best Regional Universities” in the South – U.S. News & World Report, 2013-2021
  • “Top Public Schools” – South - #14 – U.S. News & World Report, 2021