Indiana's oldest public college (1801), now a comprehensive residential university with strong career-focused programs.
Vincennes University is organized into six colleges offering diverse majors focused on careers in teaching and industry. The institution transitioned from a two-year college (rechartered 1889) to a baccalaureate institution in 2005, now offering associate, bachelor's, and certificate programs. Notable academic facilities include the Updike Hall of Science Engineering and Mathematics, Shircliff Humanities Building, and Shake Learning Resource Center. VU maintains accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission and offers specialized accreditation in nursing, health information management, funeral service education, and emergency medical services.
The main campus is a residential community on the banks of the Wabash River in Vincennes, Indiana. Residential halls include Clark, Ebner, Godare, Morris, Vanderburgh, and Vigo halls. Student facilities encompass the Jefferson Student Union (opened 2017), Donald G. Bell Student Recreation Center, Tecumseh Dining Center, Red Skelton Performing Arts Center, and an Aquatic Center. VU operates television station WVUT (PBS affiliate, channel 22) and radio stations WVUB (91.1 MHz) and WFML (96.7 MHz). The university maintains a vibrant athletics program competing in NJCAA Division II.
VU welcomes first-time freshmen, transfer students, early college students, adult learners, military education participants, and international students. The university emphasizes accessibility and inclusion. Admissions staff are available Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–4:30 pm EST (812-888-4313 or vuadmit@vinu.edu). VU offers online and distance education options alongside on-campus programs. The institution is authorized as a postsecondary educational institution by the State of Indiana.
Vincennes University is one of the oldest universities north of the Ohio River and west of the Allegheny Mountains. Founded in 1801 as Jefferson Academy by territorial governor William Henry Harrison (later U.S. President), it is one of only three colleges founded by U.S. presidents. The institution held its first classes in 1811 and was chartered as Vincennes University in 1806. It remained Indiana's sole public university until Indiana University's establishment in 1820. VU's legacy spans over two centuries of inclusion, accessibility, and academic excellence.