VCU named to top 100 minority degree producers

By Lissette Linares

Virginia Commonwealth University was ranked among the top 100 minority degree producers for 1996-97, according to a study published in a recent edition of Black Issues in Higher Education.

The eighth annual study conducted by the African American higher education magazine placed VCU among the top 25 minority degree producers in the nation in six categories: African American Baccalaureate Degrees Conferred by Traditionally White Institutions; African American Journalism Degrees; Asian American Journalism Degrees; African American Baccalaureate Degrees in Computer and Information Science; African American Degrees in Physical Science; and Asian American Degrees in Physical Science.

About 23 percent of the students enrolled in VCU undergraduate programs Fall 1998 were African American. Asian/Pacific Islanders made up eight percent of the student population; Hispanics made up two percent; and American Indian/Alaskan and international students each comprised one percent.

Institutions appearing in Black Issues "Top Degree Producers" are ranked according to the total number of degrees awarded to minority students in all disciplines as well as in specific disciplines. Results from the study are compiled using data from the United States Department of Education. A student’s racial status is typically determined by a self-reported response and reported by an institution to the U.S. Department of Education.