The University of Richmond is a highly selective private liberal arts university in Virginia, known for its Robins School of Business and Jepson School of Leadership Studies, the nation's first school of leadership studies. Richmond's picturesque collegiate Gothic campus sits on 350 acres of rolling hills near the James River. The university combines a liberal arts education with strong professional preparation in business, law, and the sciences.
Mascot: Spider
Notable Alumni
Lil Dicky (rapper and comedian)•Grant Shaud (actor, Murphy Brown)•Bruce Hornsby (Grammy-winning pianist)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
Richmond's unique lodge system replaces traditional frat houses — university-owned lodges serve as social hubs rather than residences, keeping Greek life integrated into campus. About 39% of students are affiliated, but the lodge system intentionally deemphasizes Greek exclusivity. Weekend social life is active and accessible, with the culture skewing preppy and well-resourced.
Widely regarded as one of America's most beautiful campuses, the Collegiate Gothic buildings are set around a pristine lake surrounded by 350 acres of rolling, wooded Virginia landscape designed by landscape architects.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
The University of Richmond campus has relatively low crime rates, with most incidents being disciplinary actions or minor property crimes. The LiveSafe app provides 24/7 reporting.
The University of Richmond area is one of the safest neighborhoods in the Richmond metro, located in the affluent west end.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Mon-Fri during academic year, select Saturdays
Duration: ~60-75 minutes (info session + student-led campus tour)
Register online through the campus visit portal. Lunch with a Student available select Thursdays and Fridays (1 hour). Academic Information Sessions on select Fridays. Group tours: contact grouptours@richmond.edu.
Book a TourSelf-guided driving and walking tour with audio recordings at each stop, departing from and ending at the Queally Center for Admission. Select between driving or walking route on the tour map. Virtual reality tour also available.
Tour ResourcesLate September through November for gorgeous Virginia fall foliage on the wooded campus, or April through May for spring blooms. The campus is at its most beautiful in autumn. Avoid winter break and exam periods. Weekdays during the semester give the most authentic feel.
Visitor lots require registration with Parking Services — display visitor pass on rearview mirror (Mon-Fri 7:30am-5pm). Use 410 Westhampton Way as GPS address, or look up the specific building you're visiting. From Richmond International Airport (RIC): 12 miles, ~20 min via I-64 West to I-95 North to I-195 South, exit Cary St, follow to River Rd, right onto UR Drive at the University of Richmond sign.
Location
Similar Colleges
Find the right college for you
Explore 161 colleges by degree, filter by acceptance rate, SAT range, and more.
Explore Colleges