 | Catalogue of the University of Virginia |  |
A STATEMENT
OF THE
Course of Instruction, Expense, &c.,
IN THE
UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA.
MATRICULATION.
To be admitted into the University, the student must be sixteen
years of age; but the Faculty are authorized to dispense
with this requisition in the case of application for admission by
two brothers, one of whom is under the age of sixteen.
If the applicant for admission has been a student at any other
incorporated seminary, he cannot be received but on producing a
certificate from such seminary, or other evidence satisfactory to
the Faculty, testifying to his general good conduct.
Every student is free to attend the schools of his choice, and
no other than he chooses; with the condition that he shall attend
at least three professors, unless he has the written authority of
his parent or guardian, or the Faculty shall, for good cause shown,
allow him to attend less than three. Should he be twenty-one
years of age, or more, he is exempt from this condition.
COURSE OF INSTRUCTION.
The session commences on the 1st of October, and continues
without interruption until the 4th of July.
The mode of instruction is by lectures and text-books, accompanied
by daily and stated examinations.
In each school there are three regular lectures a week, besides
many others suited to the several subjects into which the school
is divided.
Literary and Scientific Schools:
I.—LATIN.
PROFESSOR COLEMAN.
The subjects of instruction are the Latin Language and the
Roman History and Literature. It is endeavored to make the
practical study of the language more thorough and more profitable,
by connecting it with the scientific investigation of the doctrines
of the grammar and of the etymology. The latter involves
a regard to comparative etymology.
To the Roman History and Literature, with the related subjects,
so much attention is given as is found to be compatible
with the duty, more urgent as yet, of meeting the actual wants
of students in regard to the practical knowledge of the language,
and to a just theory of it. They occupy, however, as heretofore
they have done, one-third of the time allotted to the Senior
Class.
Text Books.—In the Junior Class: Madvig's and Zumpt's
Latin Grammars, Prof. Harrison's Exposition, Arnold's Latin
Prose Composition, Virgil, Horace, Terence, Cæsar's Commentarii,
Cicero's Orations, and his Epistolæ ad Diversos (Familiares),
Freund's Lexicon, abridged by Andrews, and Riddle's English
Latin Lexicon.
In the Senior Class: the same Grammars and Lexicons, Prof.
Harrison's Exposition, Horace, Juvenal, Livy, Tacitus, Cicero's
Epistolæ ad Diversos (Familiares). Other authors, and parts of
authors, are recommended to be read privately by the student,
both for exercise in the language, and for the acquisition of the
only knowledge of the literature that is comparatively of much
profit; e. g. Cicero de Officiis, de Republica, &c., Terence, Plautus,
Lucretius.
In the Roman History and Literature, Arnold's History of
Rome, Niebuhr's Roman History, the History of Rome published
by U. Kn. Soc., Long's Ancient Atlas, Smith's Dictionary of
Greek and Roman Antiquities (2d ed.), and Browne's History of
Roman Literature, are recommended.
The students of both classes are required to furnish written
exercises, chiefly translations from English into Latin.
In the examination of candidates for degrees, the passages
given for the written translations are selected, not from the portions
of authors which have been read and explained in the
lecture-room, but from the classic writers at will.
II.—GREEK.
PROFESSOR GILDERSLEEVE.
The subjects taught in this school, are:
1. The Greek language.
2. Greek literature.
3. History of Greece.
The method of instruction comprises lectures (systematic and
exegetical), examinations and written exercises.
This school is divided into two classes—Junior and Senior.
The classic authors read in the Senior Class, are principally:
Thucydides, Sophocles, Euripides and Plato; in the Junior
Class: Lysias, Xenophon, Herodotus, Homer and Demosthenes.
A private course of parallel and preparatory reading is also prescribed
for each class.
Works of reference.—For the lectures on the structure and
syntax of the language, Kühner's Grammar.
For the lectures on the History of Greece (Senior Class),
Thirlwall's and Grote's History of Greece.
The written exercises and the comments on the corrections
constitute a prominent feature in the plan of instruction.
In connection with this school, a Post-graduate Department
has been formed, in which graduates and more advanced students
have opportunity to extend their acquaintance with Greek Literature,
under the personal direction of the Professor. This course
embraces such of the higher Greek classics, as are unsuited
either by form or by subject for the general plan of instruction;
e. g. Æschylus, Aristophanes, Aristotle, Hesiod, Pindar, Theocritus.
4. The Hebrew language.
Text Books.—Biblia Hebraica, Rödiger's Gesenius' Hebrew
Grammar, and Gesenius' Lexicon Manuale Hebraicum et Chaldaicum.
III.—MODERN LANGUAGES.
PROFESSOR SCHELE DE VERE.
ASSISTANT INSTRUCTORS:
A. VON FISHERZ, G. LANZA.
The subjects taught in this school, are:
1. The French, Italian, Spanish and German Languages.
2. The Literature of these Languages, and the history of
each idiom, embracing the general principles of the formation
and growth of languages, and of Comparative Grammar and
Philology.
3. The Anglo-Saxon Language, and, in connexion with it, the
History and Laws of the English Language.
Graduation in French and German will hereafter be required
for the degree of A. M.
IV.—MATHEMATICS.
PROFESSOR BLEDSOE.
ASSISTANT INSTRUCTORS:
JOHN M. STROTHER AND HOWE P. COCHRAN.
In this school there are four classes:
In the first, or Junior Class, the student commences with the
study of Algebra; as he is supposed to have rendered himself
familiar with the various rules of Arithmetic before he enters the
University. After the first difficulties of Algebra are mastered,
the subjects of Algebra and Geometry are alternately pursued,
until they are completed. Trigonometry and Surveying are also
taught to this class.
In the second, or Intermediate Class, the subjects taught are:
Nautical Astronomy, Navigation, Descriptive Geometry, with its
application to Spherical Projections, Shades, Shadows and Perspective,
and Analytical Geometry.
The Senior Class studies the Differential and Integral Calculus.
To this class, a course of lectures is delivered on the History
of Mathematics, and another course on the Philosophy of
Mathematics.
There is also a class of Mixed Mathematics, designed exclusively
for such of the more advanced students as may desire to
study the subjects taught therein.
The course embraces the mathematical investigation of the
general laws of equilibrium and motion, both of solids and fluids,
with a variety of applications, especially to Physical Astronomy.
The instruction in each class is conveyed partly by lectures,
and partly by the systematic study of approved text-books, the
student being assisted by full and frequent explanations from the
Professor, and being constantly subjected to rigid examinations.
The progress of the student in every class is also tested by his
being required to perform written exercises, in which the principles
acquired are applied to the solution of particular problems.
The text-books used are: For the Junior Class, Davies' Bourdon's
Algebra, Legendre's Geometry and Trigonometry. For
the Intermediate Class, Pierce's Trigonometry, Davies' Surveying,
Descriptive Geometry and Analytical Geometry. For the
Senior Class, Courtenay's Differential and Integral Calculus.
For the Class of Mixed Mathematics, Pratt's Mechanical Philosophy.
Any student entering the school has the privilege of attending
all or any of the classes, as he may select, and if prepared to
enter an advanced class, may often find it highly advantageous
to review his previous studies by attendance on a lower class also.
V.—NATURAL PHILOSOPHY.
PROFESSOR SMITH.
This school embraces three classes. Instruction is given in
each class by lectures and the study of text-books, accompanied
by daily examinations.
1. The Junior Class meets three times each week. The object
of the course of lectures to this class is to furnish the student
with a comprehensive view of Modern Physics, and to make him
familiar with its methods of investigation. With the design of
laying a thoroughly scientific basis for the course, a large space
is given, at the outset, to the discussion of the cardinal doctrines
of motion and force. These doctrines are established, and their
leading consequences traced without the use of technical or
mathematical language. Their application to the equilibrium
and motion of solids and fluids is fully presented. Under these
heads a great variety of topics is introduced, embracing, among
Pendulum and its uses, Figure of the Earth, Mean density of the
Earth, Laws of Gravitation, Construction and uses of Barometer,
Construction and action of Hydraulic, Pneumatic and Hydro-Pneumatic
Engines, &c.
The subject of Molecular Physics, for which the student is
now prepared, is next taken up and occupies the remainder of
the session. The structure of matter, and the laws of molecular
actions are explained in the light of experiment, and the atomic
hypotheses of Newton, Boscovich, Mossotti and others are examined.
The effects of the intermolecular forces are investigated,
as they present themselves in capillary phenomena and in the
osmose of liquids and gases. Their dynamical action in the phenomena
of wave motion, both superficial and internal, is traced,
Newton's rule for the wave velocity established, and the exceptions
explained. The Lectures then proceed to the subject of
sound, including its origin, mode of propagation, velocity in different
media, reflection, refraction and interference, and the theory
and sources of musical sounds. To this succeeds an extended
discussion of Light, both common and polarized; embracing the
propagation, reflection, single and double refraction, and interference
of each kind of Light, and a full examination of the
various theories of Light. The subject of Heat is then considered,
commencing with Radiant Heat, its velocity, reflection,
refraction, transmission and polarization: passing on to the physical
effects of Heat, in Expansion, Liquefaction and Vaporization
and including Thermometry and Calorimetry. In this connection,
the theory and action of the Steam Engine are presented.
Throughout this discussion, constant reference is had to the modern
Mechanical theory of Heat. The course of Lectures terminates
with the subject of Electricity, Franklinian and Voltaic,
connected with Magnetism, Dia-Magnetism, Electro-Magnetism
and Magneto-Electricity.
Throughout the course, the applications of the science to Meteorology,
Geology and Astronomy are noticed as they arise.
This department possesses a large collection of drawings, and
an ample cabinet of apparatus for the illustration of the lectures.
Among the instruments lately procured may be mentioned, Dubosc's
collection of apparatus for exhibiting optical phenomena
to a large assembly; Ruhmkorff's apparatus for Diamagnetic
tubes for stratified electric light.
Reference is made in this class to Rogers' Mechanical Philosophy
and to Lardner's Hand-books.
2. The Senior Class meets twice a week. Here certain portions
of the Junior course are more minutely discussed by the aid
of the lower Mathematics. This class studies, in addition, the
subject of Astronomy.
Text Books in Astronomy.—Herschel, Norton, Loomis.
MINERALOGY AND GEOLOGY.
3. These subjects are assigned to a separate class, which the
members of the other classes in the school may attend at their
option. In this class, the lectures commence with General Mineralogy,
which is treated with especial reference to Geology, to
which it is designed to be an introduction. In the lectures on
Geology, the specific identity of ancient and modern Geological
causes is pointed out, the present action of these causes, whether
atmospheric, aqueous or igneous considered, and their effects in
the past history of our planet examined. The illustrations are
drawn, as far as possible, from the Geological structure of our
own country in general and Virginia in particular.
The students have an opportunity of familiarizing themselves
with the minerals, rocks and fossils exhibited in the lectures.
Text Books.—Dana, Lyell, Jukes.
VI.—CHEMISTRY.
PROFESSOR MAUPIN.
ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR: DAVID K. TUTTLE.
The course of lectures in this school commences with an
exposition of the phenomena and laws of Heat, Light and Electricity,
to the extent rendered necessary by their relations to
Chemistry.
The subject of Inorganic Chemistry is then taken up. The
nomenclature and chemical symbols and notation are explained,
and the history of the non-metallic elements and their combinations
with each other very fully presented. Then follows a discussion
of the general principles of Chemical Philosophy, including
the Laws of Combination, the Atomic Theory and Theory of
Volumes, and Simple and Current Affinity.
The consideration of the Metals comes next in order. After
preliminary notices of their general properties, the constitution
and classification of Salts, &c., they are taken up individually and
very fully considered, together with their compounds with the
non-metallic elements, and their saline combinations.
The concluding part of the course is devoted to Organic Chemistry,
embracing the consideration of organic Analysis; the Neutral
Principles and their transformations by the action of ferments
and other agencies; the Doctrine of Compound Radicals; the
various series in which such radicals have been traced; the Vegetable
Acids; the Alkaloids, &c.
The processes for detecting Poisons, and the means of counteracting
their effects are presented in their proper connections:
and throughout the course the applications of the facts and principles
of the science to Medicine, Agriculture and the Arts, are
duly noticed.
Books recommended.—Fowne's Chemistry, as a text-book;
Graham's Elements; Regnault's Elements, and Abel & Bloxam's
Hand-book of Chemistry for reference.
DEPARTMENT OF PRACTICAL CHEMISTRY.
In this department, under the charge of Dr. Tuttle, is given
a systematic course of instruction in Qualitative and Quantitative
Analysis; in the prosecution of which Mineral Assays, Metallurgy,
Analysis of Mineral Waters, Soils and Fertilizers, and
Examination for Poisons, Pharmaceutical Preparations and the
various determinations required in the practice of Medicine, receive
a due share of attention.
The Laboratory is kept open, and the Instructor gives his
personal attention to the students therein, from 9 o'clock, A. M.,
to 5 o'clock, P. M., for five days in the week throughout the
session.
Text Books.—Will's Outlines of Chemical Analysis, Fresenius'
Quantitative Analysis, Wöhler's Hand-book of Inorganic
Analysis.
VII.—MORAL PHILOSOPHY.
PROFESSOR McGUFFEY.
There are two classes in this school.
The Senior Class studies Mental and Moral Philosophy, the
second.
Books requisite for the Senior Class:
Mental Philosophy—Cousin, Reed and Hamilton.
Moral Philosophy—Stewart, Jouffroy, Butler and Alexander.
Logic—Whately and Mill.
Belles-Lettres—Campbell, Kames.
The Junior Class studies Political Economy.
Books requisite for the Junior Class:
Political Economy—Say and J. S. Mill.
Four lectures each week are given to the Senior Class, and
two to the Junior.
VIII.—HISTORY AND GENERAL LITERATURE.
PROFESSOR HOLMES.
This School is divided into two distinct Classes, one of History,
the other of Literature. To the former, two lectures in
the week are devoted; to the latter, one; but exercises in literary
composition are required from the members of the class.
Either study may be pursued separately. A diploma will be
granted for proficiency in both branches; a certificate of distinction
for proficiency in one.
HISTORY.
In the Historical Class the successions, revolutions and various
aspects of the principal nations of the world, are considered in
such a manner as to afford a general view of the gradual and
ever enlarging progress of political and social organizations, from
the rude types of savage life to the complicated forms of modern
freedom. Institutions and laws are discussed as the natural
manifestations of the different phases of society; and an attempt
is made to discover and elucidate the conditions of historical advancement,
and to reduce the changes of nations and governments
to the operation of regular principles.
In the absence of appropriate text books, the following will be
employed for study and reference:
Schmitz's Manual of Ancient History; Smith's History of
Greece; Schmitz's History of Rome; Gibbon abridged by
Smith; Guizot's History of Civilization; Hume's History of
England, abridged.
For reference: Long's Ancient Atlas; Appleton's Atlas;
Blair's Chronology, Bohn's edition.
LITERATURE.
In the Class of Literature, attention is confined to the study of
the English Language and its Literature. The origin, growth
and philological peculiarities of the language will be considered;
the various influences, domestic and external, by which it has
been brought to its present condition will be explained; the lives
of its most eminent authors will be studied in their historical
order and connection; and the critical examination and appreciation
of their principal productions will occupy the larger portion
of the time. In addition to this, the Class will be required
to practice literary composition.
Text books are more deficient in this branch of study than
even in History. The following will be used for the present:
Spalding's History of English Literature; Shaw's Outlines of
General Literature; Shakespeare; Aiken's British Poets.
Medical Schools:
IX.—MEDICINE.
PROFESSOR HOWARD.
In this school are taught the Principles and Practice of
Medicine, Obstetrics and Medical Jurisprudence. To allow the
medical student time to attain proficiency in Anatomy and
Physiology, Chemistry and Materia Medica, before he is required
to apply these branches in the study of the Principles and the
Practice of Medicine, the course is opened with Medical Jurisprudence,
which is followed by Obstetrics, and both are completed
before the Principles of the Practice of Medicine are entered upon.
MEDICAL JURISPRUDENCE.
The lectures on this branch show the aid which legislation and
the administration of the laws derive from medicine, and consist
the elucidation and administration of the laws, and the legal decisions
in cases of insanity, every variety of mental impairment,
crime, &c., &c.
Text Book.—Taylor's Medical Jurisprudence, last edition by
Hartshorn.
OBSTETRICS.
The lectures on this branch comprehend an account of all
labors, natural, preternatural and instrumental; the professional
assistance to be afforded in each, and the treatment of the female
before, during and after delivery. The lectures are amply illustrated
by specimens and plates; and all manual evolutions, and
the application of instruments, are demonstrated on the improved
phantome of Hebermehl. The students also practice manual and
instrumental delivery on the manikin.
Text Book.—The last edition of Meigs' Midwifery.
THE PRINCIPLES OF MEDICINE.
The Principles of Medicine, as taught in this school, comprise
General Pathology and a brief view of General Therapeutics.
The nature and division of causes are first considered, which introduces
the student to their effects—disease. Pathology proper
is next considered under the two forms: Functional and Structural
diseases. After the student thoroughly understands the
nature of the causes of diseases, their divisions, modes of operation,
and the resulting effects upon function and structure, a
general view is given of the influences that can be brought to
remove or counteract their effects. And the course on the Principles
is then concluded by the consideration of Nosology, Semeiology,
Diagnosis, Prognosis, and the Different Modes of Death.
Text Books.—Wood's General Pathology and General Therarapeutics,
in the last edition of his Practice.
PRACTICE OF MEDICINE, OR SPECIAL PATHOLOGY AND SPECIAL
THERAPEUTICS.
As the most natural and practically useful arrangement, all
local diseases are classified and treated of according to their
locality, or the organ or set of organs which they affect; whilst
general diseases are arranged altogether pathologically. Much
occupies a conspicuous place in the course, and is illustrated by
Carswell's large and splendid colored plates, and, when practicable,
by specimens.
Text Book.—Wood's Practice of Medicine, last edition.
X.—COMPARATIVE ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY AND
SURGERY.
PROFESSOR CABELL.
In this school three successive courses of lectures are delivered,
and in connection with the daily lectures, searching examinations
are given at each meeting of the class.
The first of these courses is devoted to a detailed exposition of
the facts and principles of Human Histology and Physiology,
with their applications to Hygeine, or the Art of Preserving
Health, and to the laws and treatment of disease.
Next in order, the Professor presents a general Outline of
the Animal Kingdom, by demonstrating such of the leading
facts of Comparative Anatomy as may suffice to indicate the
natural affinities of the different members of the Animal Series,
and to furnish a basis for a natural zoological classification,
according to the system recently expounded by Prof. Agassiz, in
his Essay on Classification. Further details, relating to the
peculiarities of structure exhibited by the inferior animals, are
presented in connection with the study of Comparative Physiology,
the different functions of life which had been regarded
with exclusive reference to the conditions under which they are
executed by man, being now considered with reference to the
varieties of mechanism characterizing other animals.
The third and last course of lectures includes a thorough exposition
of the principles of Surgery, viewed as a Science and as an
Art.
Text Books.—Carpenter's Elements of Physiology; Kirke's
Manual of Physiology; Gould and Agassiz's Comparative Physiology;
Druitt's Modern Surgery.
Books of Reference.—Draper's Physiology; Dalton's Physiology;
Carpenter's Human Physiology; Owen's Homologies of
the Vertebrate Skeleton; Agassiz's Essay on Classification;
Erichsen's Science and Art of Surgery; H. H. Smith's Surgery;
Gross' Surgery.
XI.—CHEMISTRY.
PROFESSOR MAUPIN.
Medical students attend the course of Lectures on Chemistry,
&c., mentioned under "VI. Chemistry."
A course of instruction in Pharmacy, designed for the benefit
of the students of Medicine, commences in March and continues
until the close of the session.
Text Book.—Parrish's Practical Pharmacy.
XII.—ANATOMY, MATERIA MEDICA AND BOTANY.
PROFESSOR DAVIS.
ANATOMY.
To this class are taught Special and Surgical Anatomy. The
lectures are illustrated by fresh subjects, by wet and dry preparations,
and by an extensive series of highly finished paintings.
Text Book.—Wilson's Anatomy.
MATERIA MEDICA.
The course on this subject embraces:
1. General Therapeutics, or an account of the effects of the
various classes of remedies on the organism, their modus operandi,
and their applications to the relief of disease.
2. A detailed account of medicinal agents, in their commercial
history, physical properties, chemical relations, pharmaceutical
preparations, and effects on the system both in health and in
disease.
The means of illustration in Materia Medica consist of a superb
cabinet of medicines, and a large collection of colored drawings
of medical plants.
Text Book.—Dunglison's Therapeutics and Materia Medica.
BOTANY.
The Natural History of the Vegetable Kingdom is taught in
this class. It, therefore, treats of the Anatomy and Physiology
of Plants—the principles of classification employed in arranging
and the characteristics of the various groups.
The applications of Botany to Materia Medica are constantly
kept in view, and incidental reference is had to the relations
which it sustains to Agriculture, Geology and Physical Geography.
XIII.—DEPARTMENT OF PRACTICAL ANATOMY.
Dr. B. W. ALLEN, DEMONSTRATOR.
This department is abundantly provided with fresh subjects for
the use of the members of the class; the afternoon is devoted to
the dissections; and they are conducted under the constant guidance
of the demonstrator.
Law School.
XIV.—COMMON AND STATUTE LAW.
PROFESSOR MINOR.
XV.—CIVIL, CONSTITUTIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL
LAW, Etc.
PROFESSOR HOLCOMBE.
The object in this school is to acquaint the student familiarly
and practically with the principles of his profession. With this
view, instruction (which is designed to be as thorough as possible)
is given partly through text-books and daily examinations upon
the subjects taught, partly by comments intended to supply what
is deficient and explain what is obscure in the text, and partly
also by independent lectures.
A Moot Court is instituted in connection with the school, upon
a plan which experience has shown to be well calculated to perfect
the student in the details of practice. Under the immediate
superintendence of the Professors, he is required to pronounce
opinions upon supposed cases; to devise and to institute remedies,
by suit or otherwise; to conduct suits at law and in chancery,
from their inception, through all their stages; to draw wills,
of the functions of a practising lawyer.
The school forms two Departments, each of which is divided
into two classes, and the course of study therein is as follows:
DEPARTMENT OF COMMON AND STATUTE LAW.
PROFESSOR MINOR.
Junior Class.—Blackstone's Commentaries, Chitty on Contracts.
Senior Class.—Stephen on Pleading, Lomax's Digest of the
Law of Real Property, Law of Executors, &c.
For Reference.—Virginia Code of 1849, Gordon's Digest of
United States Statutes.
DEPARTMENT OF EQUITY, MERCANTILE, INTERNATIONAL AND
CONSTITUTIONAL LAW, AND GOVERNMENT, ETC.
PROFESSOR HOLCOMBE.
Junior Class.—Lectures on Government, Federalist, Duer's
Outlines of the Constitution, Madison's Report 1799, Polson's
Law of Nations, Select Chapters of Vattel's Law of Nations.
Senior Class.—Smith's Mercantile Law, Greenleaf's Evidence,
Barton's Suit in Equity, Adams's Equity.
The degree of Bachelor of Laws is conferred upon those who,
upon examination, manifest a familiar acquaintance with the
subjects taught in all the classes; and to those who exhibit a
competent knowledge of International and Constitutional Law,
and of the science of Government, a certificate of proficiency is
awarded.
☞ All the books required can be procured at the book
stores near the University on reasonable terms.
LICENTIATES.
Any person of unexceptionable character and habits, and of
suitable capacity and attainments, may be licensed by the Faculty
to form a class for private instruction, upon the subjects
taught in any school of the University, in aid of and in conformity
to the public teachings of the Professor.
Licentiates are not authorized to receive pupils who are not
members of the school or schools for which they are licensed, nor
to give instruction upon subjects not embraced in the plan of
the same.
The employment of the licentiate is at the option of the student,
and his compensation a matter of private arrangement.
EXAMINATIONS.
These are of three kinds: first, the daily examinations, which
precede the lectures; second, the public examinations, two in
number, held the one about the middle of the session, the other
at its close; and third, the examination for graduation, held
towards the end of the session.
I.—DAILY EXAMINATIONS.
In the daily examinations the student is questioned, both upon
the subject of the preceding lecture and such portions of the
text-book as may have been designated by the Professor. His
preparation thus tested is noted at the time of examination, and
if the student shall exhibit material delinquency, the fact is communicated
to his parent or guardian in the printed circular which
is sent home at the close of every month.
II.—PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS.
The two public examinations, embracing respectively all the
subjects treated of in the first half, and all those treated of in
the second half of the session, are thus conducted:
The Professor of the school prepares, in writing, a series of
questions to be proposed to the class, and affixes to them numerical
values, according to his estimate of their relative difficulty.
On the assembling of the class for examination, these questions
are for the first time presented to them; and they are required
to answer in writing in a prescribed time, without communication
with one another or with other persons, and without any reference
to books. Their answers are subsequently carefully examined,
and a value attached to each, not exceeding that of the corresponding
question. In the schools of languages, subjects are also
selected for oral examination, and the value of these exercises
marked at the time.
The students are then arranged into four divisions, according
method: The numerical values attached to all the questions are
added together, and also the values of the answers given by each
student. If the last number amounts to three-fourths of the
first, the student is ranked in the first division; if it be less than
three-fourths, and as much as one-half, in the second; if less
than a fourth, in the fourth division. The examinations are
conducted and the results ascertained by a committee, consisting
of the Professor of the school and two other Professors. The
standing of the student at these examinations is communicated
to his parent or guardian in the last circular of the session.
Those who attain the first division receive, at the close of the
session, a printed certificate of their distinction at one or both
of the examinations, as the case may be, and their names are
announced in the proceedings which terminate the course.
These public examinations are sufficiently comprehensive and
difficult to render it impossible for the student, without steady
diligence, to secure a place in the first division.
In some of the schools other examinations are substituted, in
accordance with the peculiar character of the studies pursued.
III.—EXAMINATION FOR GRADUATION.
These are partly oral and partly in writing, and are conducted
by the Professor of the school, in the presence of two other Professors,
forming with him the committee of examination of the
school. Here the student is subjected to searching interrogations
upon the details and niceties, as well as the leading principles of
the subject, and he is expected to be accurately versed in all the
topics treated of in the lectures and the correlative texts.
As a due acquaintance with our own language is made indispensable
to the attainment of even the inferior honors of the University all candidates
for degrees are subjected to an examination, in order to tent
their qualifications in this respect.
DEGREES.
I.—THE ACADEMICAL DEGREES
Are, first, that of Proficient in certain special departments of a
school; second, that of Graduate in a school; third, that of
University of Virginia.
The degree of Proficient, conferred in a certificate of profieiency,
applies only to those branches of some of the schools,
which, by the regulations, the student is allowed to attend separately.
These are Geology and Mineralogy, Medical Jurisprudence,
Physiology, Botany, Political Economy, National Law,
Constitutional Law and Government, and Anglo-Saxon.
The degree of Graduate in a school embraces, in the schools
of Ancient Languages, the Latin and Greek Languages; in the
school of Modern Languages, French and German; in that of
Mathematics, all the studies of the school, except the Mixed
Mathematics; in that of Natural Philosophy the same, omitting
Geology and Mineralogy; in that of Chemistry the same, omitting
Pharmacy; in that of Moral Philosophy the same, omitting
Political Economy. The degree of Graduate is also conferred
in each of the Modern Languages separately, and in the Mixed
Mathematics.
None are admitted to these degrees who fail to give satisfactory
evidence of their attainments at the public examinations
and the examinations for graduation.
II.—THE DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF ARTS OF THE UNIVERSITY
OF VIRGINIA.
This degree is conferred upon such students as have become
graduates in any two of the scientific schools, viz: Mathematics,
Natural Philosophy or Chemistry; and in any two of the literary
schools, viz: Ancient Languages (including Latin and Greek),
Modern Languages or Moral Philosophy; and have also obtained
distinctions at an intermediate and final examination of the
Junior Classes of the two remaining Academic schools. The
candidate for this degree must furthermore satisfy the Faculty
of his general literary acquirements, by furnishing an appropriate
essay, composed by himself, on some subject of literature
or science, which essay he may be required to read on the Public
Day.
III.—THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF ARTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF
VIRGINIA.
To merit this, the highest academical honor of the Institution,
the student must have already become a graduate in the following
schools:
Latin,
Greek,
Modern Languages,
Mathematics,
Natural Philosophy,
Chemistry,
Moral Philosophy.
He must, moreover, give proof of an accurate and comprehensive
acquaintance with his entire course of studies, by an
examination in the presence of the Faculty, on all the foregoing
subjects, at the close of his academical career; and, lastly, he
must prepare and submit to the Faculty an essay exhibiting a
due degree of literary ability; and this he may be required to
read on the Public Day.
IV.—THE PROFESSIONAL DEGREES
Are that of Doctor of Medicine, conferred on graduates in the
Medical Department, and that of Bachelor of Laws, on graduates
in the School of Law.
To merit the degree of Doctor of Medicine, the student must
prove by his examination that he has made satisfactory attainments
in Anatomy, Surgery, Human and Comparative Physiology,
Principles and Practice of Medicine, Obstetrics, Materia
Medica, Chemistry, Pharmacy, and Medical Jurisprudence.
To attain the degree of Bachelor of Laws, he must in the
same manner give evidence of a due acquaintance with the Law
of Nature and Nations, the Science of Government, Constitutional
Law, Municipal Law, including the Common and Statute
Law, the Principles of Equity and Commercial Law.
Honorary degrees are forbidden by the laws of the University.
THE PUBLIC DAY.
On the closing day of the session, which, unless that day be
Sunday, occurs on the 4th of July, the Visitors, Faculty, Officers
and Students, and the Society of Alumni, assemble in the Public
Hall, whither are also invited the friends of the students and the
public generally. On this occasion, the results of the examinations
are announced, the certificates and diplomas are awarded
to the successful candidates, and addresses are delivered by the
Bachelors and Masters of Arts.
EXPENSES.
The expenses for the session of nine months are as follows:
1. Fees.—If one Professor be attended, $50; if two, each $30;
if more than two, each $25. Every student is required to attend
three schools, unless, for special reasons, leave be given to attend
but one or two.
In the School of Law, the fee for the Senior Class in either
Department is $80, with the privilege of attending all the classes
in both Departments. For the Junior Class in either Department,
the fee is $60, with the privilege of attending the Junior
Class in the other; but if the student attends only the Class of
Constitutional and International Law, and Government, the fee
is $25.
Medical students are charged $105 for a full course, viz: $25
for each of four tickets, and a fee of $5 for dissecting material.
For the Class of Anglo-Saxon in the School of Modern Languages,
of Geology and Mineralogy in the School of Natural
Philosophy, of Physiology in the School of Comparative Anatomy,
of Botany in the School of Anatomy and Botany, and of
Medical Jurisprudence in the School of Medicine, the fee is $15
only.
In the Department of Practical Chemistry, the fee varies
from $20 to $50, according to the number of days' instruction
per week. The student in this department is also subject to
charges for chemicals and apparatus, varying in amount, say
from $10 to $30.
2. Fee for Matriculation, and use of the Library and Public
gratuitous prescriptions at the Infirmary, and, if needed,
nursing (by professional nurses), lodging, board and medical
attendance by one of the Health Officers of the University, all
free of charge.
3. Deposit to cover contingent charges and assessments $10.
The residue of this deposit is credited to the student in the
final settlement of his accounts.
4. Board, &c.—At the hotels within the precincts the charge
for board is $130; for which sum, diet, bedding, room furniture,
and attendance are furnished. Room rent from $10 to $16.
Washing may be had for $1 to $1 50 per month.
Fuel and lights are furnished by the Patron at cost and five
per cent. commission, and cost for each of two students, in the
same dormitory, about $25 per session.
The matriculation fee, Professors' fees, contingent deposit and
one-third of the board are required to be paid in advance. The
second instalment of board is required to be paid on the 1st of
January, and the third and last on the 1st of April. A deposit
of $20 is also required in advance to cover charges for fuel and
lights.
No abatement in the fees for matriculation, tuition and room
rent is made on account of late entrance of the student; and no
portion of the same is refunded, on account of withdrawal
before the close of the session, unless the withdrawal be rendered
necessary by ill-health, and occur before the 1st of February.
KEEPING OF STUDENTS' FUNDS.
Every student resident within the precincts is expected, on matriculating,
to deposit with the Patron all the available funds
which he shall have in his possession, or under his control, in any
manner intended to defray his expenses while at the University,
or on his return thence to his residence. In like manner he
should deposit with the Patron all the funds received by him,
during the session, for the purpose aforesaid. Students residing
out of the precincts would do well to observe the same rule, as a
security against accidental loss and improvident expenditure.
The Patron will disburse the funds of students on general deposit,
upon their order, for all legitimate purposes.
PROHIBITION OF CREDIT.
An act of the Legislature prohibits merchants and others,
under severe penalties, from crediting students. The license to
contract debts, which the chairman is authorized to grant, is confined
(except where the parent or guardian otherwise, in writing,
requests) to cases of urgent necessity; and these, it is hoped,
parents and guardians will, as far as possible, prevent from
arising, by the timely supply of the requisite funds.
PRIVILEGED STUDENTS.
Ministers of the Gospel may attend any of the schools of the
University, without the payment of fees to the Professors. The
same privilege will be extended to any young man preparing for
the ministry on the following conditions:
(1.) He shall submit for the consideration of the Faculty an
application accompanied by testimonials relating to the fact of
his being a bona fide candidate for the ministry, to his good
standing in the Church of which he is a member, to his intellectual
capacity and his inability to meet the expenses of education
at the University without aid.
(2.) No Professor shall be required to form a new class or
assume any other additional labor for the exclusive benefit of
this class of students.
(3.) In order to entitle such a student to the privilege of gratuitous
instruction in any school of the University during a
second session, he must prove his ability to profit by such continued
instruction, by exhibiting such evidence of proficiency
during the first session as shall be satisfactory to the Professor
of the school.
The Faculty, at their discretion, may allow any man of undoubted
moral character, above the age of twenty-three years, to
attend lectures in any of the schools of the University, and to
reside out of the precincts, exempt from the rules and regulations
prescribed for the government of students, except only
that he shall pay the usual Professors' fees, and the usual compensation
for the use of the public rooms, and shall observe all
deportment. But the privilege so allowed may be withdrawn by
the Faculty at any time, when, in their opinion, it has been used
to the evil example of the students, or otherwise to the injury of
the Institution.
MONTHLY CIRCULAR.
At the end of every month, a circular letter is addressed by
the Chairman of the Faculty to the parent or guardian of each
student, in which are stated his absences from lectures and examinations,
and any other irregularity of which he may have been
guilty, together with such further information as to the student's
progress and conduct as it may be deemed proper to communicate.
The object of such report being, on the one hand, to incite the
student to steady diligence, by eliciting the commendation and
encouragement of his friends; and, on the other, to restrain
him from idleness and disorder, or to urge him to amendment by
their admonition and advice, the usefulness of these circulars
greatly depends upon the prompt and judicious attention they
receive from those to whom they are addressed. Parents and
guardians, therefore, cannot be too earnest in communicating such
advice or encouragement as the monthly report may suggest.
LIBRARY.
The Library of the University, originally selected and arranged
by Mr. Jefferson, has since been augmented by several
valuable donations; among them the legacy of Mr. Madison,
that of the late Christian Bohn, Esq., a generous and enlightened
citizen of Richmond, and a donation presented by an unknown
lady through the Rev. Dr. Alexander, of Princeton. Through
such additions, and the annual increase by purchase, the Library
now numbers upwards of 30,000 volumes.
Students are allowed the use of the books, under the usual
restrictions, and the Librarian is present in the Library, for
seven hours daily, to attend to their wants.
SOCIETY OF ALUMNI.
This association is composed of such former students of the
University as, having finally left the Institution, have on nomination
been elected members at the annual meetings. Its objects
are the promotion of letters and general education, as well as
the renewal from year to year of the pleasing associations of
academic life.
The Society holds its meetings at the close of the session.
An orator or an essayist is annually appointed by the Society
from among its members, and the oration or essay is delivered
in the Public Hall on the day preceding the Public Day.
LITERARY SOCIETIES.
There are two Literary Societies formed by the students of
the University, which meet weekly at their own public rooms
for the purpose of cultivating debate and composition, and hold
occasionally public exhibitions. They publish jointly a Monthly
Magazine, under the title of "The Virginia University Magazine."
RELIGIOUS EXERCISES.
Divine service is performed in the chapel every Sunday morning
and evening during the session, by the Chaplain of the University,
who is appointed in turn from the principal religious
denominations. Students also have the opportunity of attending,
at their choice, daily morning service in the chapel, and, on Sundays,
service at any of the churches in Charlottesville.
STATE STUDENTS.
To render education at the University available to meritorious
young men of limited means, provision has been made for the
admission of fifty students, (one from each senatorial district of
the State,) without payment of Matriculation and Tuition fees,
and rents.
The advantage is meant to be restricted to those who are not
themselves, and whose parents are not, in a situation to incur
the expenses of their education.
Their connection with the University is to continue two years,
but for extraordinary proficiency the term may be prolonged.
They stand, in all respects, except expense, on the same footing
as other students, enjoying the same privileges, and subject to
the same laws.
By way of remuneration to the State for the assistance thus
afforded, they are required to sign an engagement to teach in
some public or private school or academy within the limits of
Virginia, for two years after leaving the University.
☞ Persons interested will be pleased to observe the following
particulars:
1. The applicant is requested to state his age, which must be
over seventeen years, and to designate the several schools of the
University he may wish to enter, observing that the enactments
require him, if under the age of twenty-one years, to attend
three, unless, for good cause, the Faculty permit him to attend a
greater or less number.
2. In order to be admitted, the applicant must exhibit satisfactory
testimonials—1st. Of irreproachable moral character.
2d. Of capacity, as well by partial cultivation as original vigor
of mind, to profit by the instruction given at the University.
3d. If he desires to enter the school of Mathematics, or of Natural
Philosophy, that he possesses a familiar acquaintance with
all the branches of Numerical Arithmetic; and if he desires to
enter the school of Latin or Greek, that he is qualified to commence
the study of the higher Latin or Greek authors; and,
4th. That neither he nor his parents are in a situation to incur
the expense of his education without aid.
The following districts will be vacant at the close of the present
session, and the Faculty will proceed to fill them on the 5th of
July next. Applications, addressed to the Chairman of the
Faculty, must reach him before the 25th of June.
I. Accomac and Northampton.
II. City of Norfolk.
IV. Isle of Wight, Nansemond and Surry.
X. Mecklenburg and Charlotte.
XI. Pittsylvania.
XII. Halifax.
XIII. Henry, Patrick and Franklin.
XIV. Bedford.
XVI. City of Williamsburg, James City, Charles City, New
Kent, York, Elizabeth City and Warwick.XVII. Hanover and Henrico.
XVIII. City of Richmond.
XX. Richmond Co., Lancaster, Northumberland and Westmoreland.
XXI. King & Queen, King William and Essex.
XXIV. Fairfax and Alexandria.
XXV. Loudoun.
XXVIII. Albemarle.
XXX. Nelson, Amherst and Buckingham.
XXXI. Frederick, Clarke and Warren.
XXXV. Rockingham and Pendleton.
XL. Mercer, Monroe, Giles, Tazewell.
XLI. Smyth, Wythe and Washington.
XLIII. Kanawha, Putnam, Logan, Boone, Wyoming, Roane,
and Calhoun.XLIV. Greenbrier, Fayette, Nicholas, Pocahontas, Raleigh,
Braxton and Clay.XLV. Mason, Jackson, Cabell, Wayne and Wirt.
XLVII. Wetzel, Marshall, Marion and Tyler.
XLIX. Monongalia, Preston and Taylor.
L. Brooke, Hancock and Ohio.
DISTRICT.
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