Averett University | Danville

Averett University is a distinguished private university located in Danville, Virginia, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1859 as Union Female College. Over the years, it evolved to Averett College and achieved university status in 2001, reflecting its expanded academic scope and commitment to comprehensive higher education. The university maintains a strong affiliation with the Baptist General Association of Virginia, emphasizing a foundation rooted in community values and personal development.

Academic Programs

Averett University offers a broad and diverse portfolio of academic programs designed to meet the needs of traditional and non-traditional students. It features over 30 undergraduate degree programs spanning liberal arts, sciences, professional studies, and specialized fields. Popular majors include Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Nursing, Education, and Physical Education. The university is particularly notable for unique offerings such as Aeronautics and Equestrian Studies, which cater to niche interests and professional career paths.

Graduate education at Averett includes several master's programs such as the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Education (M.Ed.). The school also offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, designed for students seeking to enter the nursing profession efficiently, reflecting the university’s responsiveness to workforce demands in healthcare and business.

Campus and Facilities

The university’s main campus occupies approximately 19 acres in Danville, blending historic architecture with modern facilities. To support athletic programs and student recreation, Averett has a North Campus Athletic Center covering about 70 acres, equipped with extensive sports fields and fitness resources.

Specialized facilities include the Averett Flight Center at Danville Regional Airport, dedicated to the aviation program, which provides students with practical flight training and aeronautical education. Additionally, the university operates a 100-acre Equestrian Center located in Pelham, North Carolina, offering state-of-the-art resources for students enrolled in equestrian studies, including riding arenas, stables, and training programs.

Student Body and Admissions

Averett University enrolls over 1,800 students drawn from more than 26 states and 24 countries, creating a diverse and vibrant campus community. The student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 12:1 ensures that students receive personalized attention and mentoring from experienced faculty members, fostering a supportive learning environment.

The university maintains an acceptance rate near 76%, balancing accessibility with academic standards. Its admissions process focuses on holistic review, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities.

Rankings and Reputation

Averett University holds a reputable standing within regional university rankings. According to U.S. News & World Report, it is ranked #62 among Regional Universities in the Southern United States. The university also earns accolades for value, ranked #28 in Best Value Schools, and social mobility, placed #31 among Top Performers, recognizing its role in advancing students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

Athletics

Averett’s athletic teams, known as the Cougars, participate in NCAA Division III sports within the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). The university fields 23 varsity teams across men's and women's sports, including football, basketball, soccer, and track and field. Facilities such as Frank R. Campbell Stadium and the Cougars Den support athletic competition and community engagement.

Adult and Online Education

Recognizing the evolving needs of adult learners and working professionals, Averett offers flexible education options through its Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS) program. This initiative provides degree completion and graduate courses at multiple locations across Virginia, allowing students to balance education with career and family commitments. The university’s commitment to lifelong learning is reflected in these adaptable pathways designed for convenience and career advancement.

In summary, Averett University combines a rich historical tradition with modern academic offerings and specialized facilities to provide a comprehensive education experience. Its commitment to accessible education, personalized instruction, and community engagement makes it a prominent institution in Virginia’s higher education landscape, serving a diverse student population with a wide range of academic and professional goals.