This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2024-2025 VCU Bulletin. We may add courses that expose our students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning. We may also add content to the general education program that focuses on racial literacy and a racial literacy graduation requirement, and may receive notification of additional program approvals after the launch. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs is a creative, interdisciplinary grouping of programs in the social sciences and professional arenas that provides students with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary for success in public service.

The Wilder School brings together faculty from multiple disciplines that share a common interest in public affairs. The faculty includes individuals with strong research and analytical skills and with substantive expertise in fields such as criminal justice, economics, homeland security, public administration, urban planning and community development. These faculty members are committed to producing cutting-edge research and public service that can bridge the gap between theory and practice and to providing high quality, innovative and nationally competitive degree programs for students.

To achieve this mission, the Wilder School actively fosters and promotes a wide range of endeavors, including the establishment of interdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate programs that develop close ties with other related university programs. The Wilder School is an intellectually exciting place committed to having a genuine impact on public policy and providing an intellectually stimulating education for future public affairs professionals who share in school’s commitment.