 | Catalogue of the University of Virginia |  |
A STATEMENT
OF THE
COURSE OF INSTRUCTION, EXPENSES, &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, with respect 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.
Before a student matriculates, he is furnished with a copy of
the laws, which he is required to read. On matriculating, he
signs a written declaration, that he will conform to those laws,
and, if he be a resident student, that he has deposited with the
Patron all the funds in his possession.
COURSE OF INSTRUCTION.
The session commences on the 1st of October, and continues
without interruption until the 29th of June.
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.
SCHOOLS.
I.—ANCIENT LANGUAGES.
PROFESSOR HARRISON.
ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR, REV. JOHN A. BROADUS, A. M.
In this school are taught the Latin and Greek Languages; the
Greek and Roman History, Geography, and Literature; and the
Hebrew Language. The instruction is given partly by lectures
and examinations, and partly by comments on portions of the
text-books appointed to be read by the students.
In Latin there are two classes, a Junior and a Senior, and so in
Greek.
The text-books used in the several classes are chiefly the following:
1. In the Junior Latin Class: Zumpt's Latin Grammar, the
Professor's Exposition of some of the laws of the Latin Language,
Krebs' Guide, Virgil, Horace, Cicero's Orations and his Epistolæ
ad Diversos, Terence, and Cæsar's Commentaries; the last chiefly
with a view to the written exercises.
2. In the Senior Latin Class: Zumpt's Latin Grammar, the
Professor's Exposition, Krebs' Guide, Horace, Juvenal, Livy and
Tacitus.
3. In the Junior Greek Class: Kühner's Elementary Greek
Grammar, Xenophon's Anabasis, an oration of Demosthenes,
Herodotus, and a play of Euripides or Æschylus. The Greek-English
Lexicon of Liddell and Scott is that preferred.
4. In the Senior Greek Class: Kühner's Larger Greek Grammar,
Euripides, Sophocles, Thucydides, and Homer.
5. For the Roman History, studied in the Senior Latin Class,
Arnold's History of Rome is used as a text-book. Niebuhr's
History of Rome, and the History of Rome published by the Society
for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, and the maps of
ancient Italy published by the Society for the Diffusion of Useful
Knowledge, or Findlay's Ancient Atlas, are recommended.
6. For the Ancient History of Greece, studied in the Senior
Greek Class, the History of Greece published by the Society for
the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, or Thirlwall's, or Grote's
History of Greece, and the maps published by the Society for the
Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, or Findlay's Ancient Atlas, are
recommended.
It is expected of the students of Latin and Greek, that they will
read in their rooms such authors and parts of authors, prescribed
by the Professor, as cannot be read in the lecture-room;—e. g.
Cicero's Epistles to Atticus, his Orations (selected), and Treatise
De Republica, Sallust, Virgil, Terence, Plautus, Æschylus, Soph
cles, Euripides, Aristophanes, Demosthenes, Æschines, Thucydides,
Plato, &c.
As an essential part of the plan of instruction, the students of
each class are required to furnish written exercises; these consist
in the conversion of Latin or Greek into English, and of English
into Latin or Greek. The exercises are examined by the Professor
and the errors marked; they are then returned to the students,
and the corrections stated and explained in the presence of the
class. For these exercises the text-books are, in the Junior and
Senior Latin Classes, Krebs' Guide; in the Junior Greek Class,
Kühner's Elementary Greek Grammar.
7. Hebrew: The text-books are Biblia Hebraica, Nordheimer's
or Gesenius' Hebrew Grammar, and Gesenii Lexicon Manuale
Hebr. et Chald., or Sauerwein's edition of Rehkopf's Lex.
Hebr. Chald.
In the written translations required as a test of the qualifications
of candidates for degrees, the passages used are selected by the
committee of examination, not from the portions of authors which
have been read and explained in the lecture-room, but at will
from the classic writers generally.
II.—MODERN LANGUAGES.
PROFESSOR SCHELE DE VERE.
ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR, DR. ERNEST VOLGER.
The subjects taught in this school are:
1. The French, Italian, Spanish and German Languages, and
the English in its Anglo-Saxon form.
2. The Literature of these Languages and the history of each
idiom.
3. The History and Geography of Europe, from the fall of the
Roman Empire to the present day.
Instruction, also, is given in Comparative Philology and the
principles of the Science of Language. The influence of the
history of nations on their language and literature is explained
and exemplified by extracts from their respective authors, and
constant attention given to the connection between Philology and
Ethnology.
There are three classes in French and two in German, one for
beginners, the others for more advanced students; and the same
Opportunity is also given, in private, to practice speaking the languages.
The method of instruction is by lectures, examinations,
written exercises, and comments on the text-books as read in the
lecture-room; the principal classic authors in each language being
used for this purpose,
Two degrees in this school are required for the degree of A. M.
III.—MATHEMATICS.
PROFESSOR COURTENAY.
ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR, FRANCIS H. SMITH.
In this school there are four classes.
Of these, the Junior commences with the theory of Arithmetic,
the student being supposed to have rendered himself practically
familiar with its various rules before entering the University. The
elements of Algebra are then taught, and after the first difficulties
are mastered, the subjects of Algebra and Synthetic Geometry are
pursued simultaneously.
In the second or Intermediate Class, the course of Algebra,
commenced in the preceding class, is completed, and there are
taught successively the theory of Plane and Spherical Trigonometry,
with the application of the former to the measurement of
heights and distances, and of the latter to Nautical Astronomy,
the theory and practice of Land Surveying and Leveling, Navigation,
and Descriptive Geometry, with its applications to Spherical
Projections, Shadows, and Perspective.
The Senior Class begins with the subject of Analytical Geometry,
and subsequently studies the Differential Calculus, concluding
the course of Pure Mathematics with the Integral Calculus.
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, Lacroix' or
Davies' Arithmetic, Davies' Bourdon's Algebra, and Legendre's
Geometry and Trigonometry, Davies' Surveying and
Descriptive Geometry. For the Senior Class, Davies' Analytical
Geometry, Young's Differential Calculus, and Young's 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 elect, and if prepared to enter
an advanced class, may often find it highly advantageous to review
his previous studies by an attendance on a lower class also.
IV.—NATURAL PHILOSOPHY.
PROFESSOR WILLIAM B. ROGERS.
There are three classes in this school: the Junior and Senior
classes of Natural Philosophy, and the class of Geology and Mineralogy.
The following is the plan of the course:
JUNIOR CLASS.
1. Rational Mechanics,—including Statics and Dynamics, or
the General Laws of Equilibrium and Motion.
2. Mechanics of Solids.—Molecular Structure of Solids, Limits
of Elasticity, Strength of Materials, Distribution of Pressure,
Laws of Friction, Elements of Machinery, &c.
3. Mechanics of Liquids.—Molecular Structure of Liquids,
Laws of their Equilibrium and Pressure, Flotation, Methods for
Sp. Gravity, Discharge of Water through Pipes and Canals, Resistance
of Liquids.
4. Mechanics of Airs.—Molecular Structure, Compressibility
and Elasticity of Airs, the Barometer and its uses, Air Pump,
Water Pump, Syphon and other Pneumatic and Hydropneumatic
Engines, Resistance of the Air, Laws of Endosmose and Capillarity.
5. Mechanism of Undulations.—Waves of Oscillation and of
Translation in Water, Waves of Compression and Rarefaction in
Solids, Liquids and Airs; Sound-waves, their Propagation and
Reflexion; Musical Sound, Interference, Harmonics, Structure of
the Ear.
6. Optics.—Propagation, Reflexion, Refraction of Light, Chromatics,
Theories of Emission and Undulation; Polarization and
Double Refraction; Optical Instruments; the Eye, Stereoscope,
Vision.
7. Thermotics.—Temperature, Expansion, Thermometers,
Latent and Specific Heat, Motion of Heat, Melloni's Laws, Tension
of Vapour, &c.
8. Magnetism, Electricity, Electro-Magnetism, with their
principal applications.
SENIOR CLASS.
1. The subjects of Rational Mechanics, the Mechanics of
Solids, Liquids and Airs, and Optics, with the construction of
Optical Instruments, are here treated of more thoroughly than in
the Junior Class, in a series of Geometrical and Algebraic Theorems.
2. Practical Statics, including the principles of the Arch,
Roofs, &c.
3. Practical Dynamics, Machinery and Motive Powers, Theory
and Construction of the Steam Engine.
4. Astronomy—Descriptive and Theoretical.
CLASS OF GEOLOGY AND MINERALOGY.
In this class, besides the leading features of general Geology,
especial attention is given to the structure and mineral products of
our own country. The great mineral zones are described by reference
to maps and sections, the order of stratification pointed
out, the nature of the materials shown by specimens, and the
relations of all these features to the agriculture and other resources
of the country particularly dwelt upon. In this connection the
formation of soils is discussed, and their analysis, together with
that of ores, limestones, marls, &c. , particularly taught.
Text-Books.—Elements of Mech. Philosophy, by W. B.
Rogers, Müller's Physics, Jackson's Optics. Reference is made
to Herschell's Outlines of Astronomy, Peschel's Physics, Norton's
Astronomy, Dana's Mineralogy, Lyell's or Ansted's Geology, and
Agassiz' and Gould's Zoology.
V.—CHEMISTRY AND MATERIA MEDICA.
PROFESSOR J. LAWRENCE SMITH.
CHEMISTRY.
This subject, included in the medical as well as the general
academic course, and forming a department of the School of
Chemistry and Materia Medica, may be studied separately, or in
conjunction with the latter.
The lectures, which are delivered twice a week through the
session, embrace a course of theoretical chemistry, with an aecount
of its varied applications; more special attention being given
The apparatus connected with this department is calculated for
a full experimental demonstration of the different topics embraced
in this course.
The general plan adopted in the course of these lectures is, to
begin with an account of some of the most important non-metallic
elements and their compounds; this is followed by the theoretical
portions of Chemistry, connected with chemical combination, &c.
The chemistry of the remaining non-metallic elements is completed,
and then follows an account of those forces connected
with the chemical force in the production of chemical phenomena,
namely, heat and electricity under its various forms.
The next part of the course is on the metals and their compounds—the
conclusion of the course embraces all the considerations
involved in organic chemistry, principally those relating to
Agriculture and Physiology.
The text-books recommended are, Rogers' Turner, and Silliman's
last edition.
MATERIA MEDICA.
The course of Materia Medica embraces:
1. General Therapeutics, or an account of the effects of the
various classes of remedies on the organism, and their modus operandi,
as far as understood.
2. Special Therapeutics, or the application of these agents to
individual diseases, as suggested by experience or the theory of
the particular disease.
3. A detailed account of the medicinal agents, in their commercial
history, physical properties, chemical habitudes, pharmaceutical
preparations, doses, and the medical applications.
The means of illustration in Materia Medica are unusually
ample, embracing a very full series of specimens of medicines in
their various states, and an extensive suit of colored drawings of
medical plants, on an enlarged scale. Text-Book—Dunglison's
Therapeutics and Materia Medica.
The lectures on Chemistry are delivered twice a week; those
on Materia Medica once a week, throughout the course.
VI.—MEDICINE.
PROFESSOR HOWARD.
In this school are taught Medical Jurisprudence, Obstetrics, the
Principles and the Practice of Medicine. To allow the medical
student time to attain proficiency in Anatomy and Physiology,
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
or 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
chiefly in the application of the principles of medical science to
the elucidation and administration of the laws, and the legal decisions
in cases of insanity, every variety of mental impairment,
crime, &c. , &c. Text-Books—the Professor's Outlines, and
Beck or Taylor.
OBSTETRICS.
The lectures on this branch comprehend an account of all
labors, natural, preternatural and instrumental; the professional
assistance to be afforded in each, the treatment of a female before,
during, and after delivery, and the diseases of infancy. The
lectures are amply illustrated by specimens and plates; and all
manual evolutions, and the application of instruments, are demonstrated
on the improved phantom 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;
also Etiology, Nosology, Semeiology, Diagnosis, and Prognosis.
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 Therapeutics, 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 attention
is given to Physical Diagnosis. Pathological Anatomy 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.
VII.—COMPARATIVE ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY AND
SURGERY.
PROFESSOR CABELL.
The heading indicates the subjects taught in this school, and
the order in which they are discussed.
In the first part of the course, the Professor presents a general
outline of the Animal Kingdom, by demonstrating such of the
leading facts of Comparative Anatomy as may serve to indicate
the natural affinities between the different members of the animal
series, and to furnish a basis for a natural Zoological classification.
In the second division of the course, which is mainly devoted
to the study of Human Physiology, the peculiarities of structure
of inferior animals are again noticed, with reference, especially,
to the varieties of the same organ in different animals, in order to
exhibit the simplest conditions of structure essential to its office,
and to indicate the uses of the superadded parts in the more complicated
forms.
The third portion of the course is exclusively devoted to the
study of the Principles and Practice of Surgery.
Text-Books—Carpenter's General and Comparative Physiology,
which contains a "General View of the Animal Kingdom;"
Kirkes' and Paget's Human Physiology, Druitt's Modern Surgery.
VIII.—LECTURESHIP OF ANATOMY.
DR. JOHN S. DAVIS.
In this department are taught Special and Surgical Anatomy,
and general Pathological Anatomy; the former, both by lectures
and demonstrations.
The lectures are illustrated by fresh subjects, by wet and dry
anatomical preparations, and by the splendid colored plates of
Bourgery and Jacob, and of Carswell and Cruveilhier.
The private dissections of the students occupy the afternoon,
and are conducted under the constant guidance of the Lecturer.
Text-Books, any one of the following:—Goddard's Wilson's
Anatomy, Horner's Special Anatomy and Histology, Pancoast's
Wistar's Anatomy, Pattison's Cruveilhier's Anatomy, Leidy's
Sharpey and Quain's Anatomy.
MEDICAL SCHOOL.
From the foregoing announcement it will be seen that by the
organization of the University, provision is made for teaching all
the branches of Medical Science. The Medical Department thus
organized presents several peculiar features as compared with most
other Medical Schools in the United States, such as—
1. The Length of the Session, which is the same as that of
the Academic Department, nine months. This arrangement enables
four Professors to perform all the duties which are elsewhere
assigned to six or seven. The students attend but two lectures a
day, and thus have ample time for reading in connection with the
lectures, and for pursuing Anatomical dissections.
2. System of Daily Examinations.—Immediately before each
lecture, the students are subjected to a rigid oral examination on
the subjects of the preceding lecture, or on portions of an approved
text-book.
3. Order of Studies.—The length of the session puts it in the
power of the professors to pursue a philosophical order of studies,
the elementary and fundamental branches being fully treated before
the attention of the students is directed to their practical applications.
Such an arrangement is impracticable in the city
schools, where the necessity of compressing the whole course into
the short space of four or four and a half months, requires that all
the different branches of Medical Science should be carried on
simultaneously.
4. Conditions of Graduation.—A consecutive course of nine
months being more than equivalent to two courses in the city
schools in respect to the time actually employed in giving instruction,
and the advantageous distribution of the subjects of study,
the students are permitted to take their diploma at the end of one
session, if they prove themselves worthy. The examination is,
however, exceedingly rigid, and none but the perseveringly diligent
need hope to attain the honor.
5. Peculiar advantages for "first course students."—The
foregoing statements render it obvious that those students who desire
to take their diploma at a city school will yet find an advantage
in attending the first course in an institution organized on the
plan of the University, by which they avoid the expense of employing
a private instructor, whose other avocations may, and
commonly do disqualify him for the proper discharge of his duties
as a teacher.
IX.—MORAL PHILOSOPHY.
PROFESSOR M'GUFFEY.
There are three classes in this school:
The Junior Class studies Rhetoric, Belles-Lettres, and Philosophical
Criticism.
Text-Books—Blair's Lectures, Campbell's Philosophy of
Rhetoric, Whately's Rhetoric, Kame's Elements of Criticism,
Cousin's Philosophy of the Beautiful, Milton and Shakspeare.
The Intermediate Class studies Political Economy, Statistics,
and the Philosophy of Social Relations, or "Ethics of Society."
Text-Books—On Political Economy: Say and J. S. Mill; on
the Progress of Society: Guizot, Grimké and De Tocqueville.
The Senior Class studies Mental Philosophy, Logic (inductive
and deductive), together with Theoretical and Practical Ethics.
Text-Books—On Mental Philosophy: Locke, Reid and Cousin;
on Logic: Mill and Whately; on Ethics: Stewart, Butler and
Jouffroy.
The lectures are carried on concurrently during the session, two
a week to each class.
The examinations are on the Professor's Lectures and the textbooks
above enumerated.
X.—SCHOOL OF LAW.
PROFESSOR JOHN B. MINOR.
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR, JAMES P. HOLCOMBE.
The Board of Visiters, anxious to enlarge the sphere of legal
instruction therein, have appointed an Adjunct Professor of Law,
to whom is assigned the duty of teaching more extensively than
has hitherto been practicable, the subjects of Equity, and of Commercial
Law.
The object will be 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,) will be
given as heretofore, 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 shewn 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,
from their inception, through all their stages; to draw wills, conveyances
and other assurances; and in short to perform most of
the functions of a practising lawyer.
A course of lectures upon the civil law, and a detailed exposition
of the most important leading cases in Law, and in Equity,
will constitute, it is believed, a valuable addition to the system of
instruction heretofore pursued in this school.
The school is divided into three classes, viz: the Junior class,
embracing such studies as are at once essential to the professional
student, and form a highly useful branch of general education;—
the Intermediate class, which is occupied exclusively with the
theory and practice of law, as a profession, being adapted to the
occasions of those who have not time or inclination to push their
elementary attainments beyond the most absolute necessity;—and
the Senior class, in which efforts are made to impart a professional
cultivation as liberal as the growing wants of the country shall
demand, or allow.
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.
The course of study in the several classes is as follows:
Junior Class: Vattel's International Law, Lectures on Government,
Federalist, Madison's Report 1799, Blackstone's Commentaries.
Intermediate Class: Stephen on Pleading, Barton's Suit in
Equity, Lomax' Digest, Smith's Mercantile Law, Greenleaf's
Evidence, Holcombe's Equity.
Senior Class: Story's Equity, Chitty on Contracts, Mitford's
Equity Pleadings, Lomax on Executors, &c. , Byles on Bills and
Notes, White and Tudor's Leading Cases, Smith's Leading
Cases, Lectures on Civil Law.
The student is recommended to be provided with the following
books for reference, viz: Gordon's Digest of Laws of U. States,
and Virginia Code of 1849.
All the books required can be procured at the book stores near
the University, on reasonable terms.
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 examinations 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 textbook
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 writiug 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
compared, 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 values of these exercises
marked at the time.
The students are then arranged into four divisions, according to
the merit of their examination, as determined by the following
method: The numerical values attached to all the questions are
added together, and also the values of the answers given by each
student. If this 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 one-half,
and as much as a fourth, in the third; 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 in public, 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 mentioned in the published account of the proceedings which
terminate the course.
These public examinations, though less thorough than the examinations
for graduation, are sufficiently comprehensive and
to secure a place in the first division.
III.—EXAMINATIONS 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 for 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 test 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 Bach
elor of Arts; and fourth, that of Master of Arts of the University
of Virginia.
The degree of Proficient, conferred in a certificate of proficiency,
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,
Political Economy, National Law, Constitutional Law
and Government, and Anglo-Saxon.
The degree of Graduate in a School embraces, in the school of
Ancient Languages, the Latin and Greek Languages; in that of
Modern Languages, any two of the languages taught in the school
except Anglo-Saxon; 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 Materia Medica; in that of Moral
Philosophy, the same, omitting Political Economy. The degree
of Graduate is also conferred in each of the 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 degreee is conferred upon such students as have become
graduates in any two of the scientific schools, viz: Mathematics,
schools, viz: Ancient Languages, Modern Languages or Moral
Philosophy, having also obtained distinction at an intermediate
and final examination of the Junior Class of the two remaining
academic schools. The candidates for this degree have moreover
to satisfy the Faculty of their general literary acquirements by furnishing
an appropriate essay, composed by themselves, on some
subject of literature and science, which they may be required to
read ou 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:
ANCIENT LANGUAGES,
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
on all these subjects, in the presence of the whole Faculty,
at the close of his academical career. And lastly, he must prepare
and submit to the Faculty an essay or an oration, exhibiting
a due degree of literary ability; and this, if so directed, he is required
to read or deliver 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 examinations, that he has made satisfactory attainments
in Anatomy, Surgery, Human and Comparative Physiology,
Principles and Practice of Medicine, Obstetrics, Materia Medica,
Chemistry, 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 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 29th of June, the Visiters, Faculty, Officers
and Students, and the Society of Alumni, assemble in th
Rotunda, whither are also invited the friends of the students, and
the public generally. On this occasion the certificates and diplmas
are awarded to the successful candidates, the results of the
examinations are announced, and addresses are delivered by one
or more of 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. In the school of Law, the fee for
the Intermediate Class is $60, and for the Senior Class $75.
Every student is required to attend three schools, unless, for special
reasons, leave is given to attend but one or two.
For the class of Anglo-Saxon in the school of Modern Lan
guages, of Geology and Mineralogy in the school of Natural Philosophy,
of Physiology in the school of Anatomy, of Medical
Jurisprudence in the school of Medicine, or of National Law,
Government, and Constitutional Law, in the school of Law, the
fee is $15 only.
2. Board and Lodgings.—Board in any of the University-hotels
or boarding-houses, licensed by the Faculty, $110; for
which sum diet, bedding, room-furniture and attendance are furnished.
Washing may be had for $8-10 for the session. Rent
of an entire dormitory $16; if occupied by two students $8.
Only nine dormitories can, by regulation, be occupied by a single
student. Fuel and candles are furnished by the Proctor at cost
and five per cent. commission, and cost, for each of two students
in the same dormitory, about $15.
3. Matriculation fee, and use of Library and public rooms, $15.
The expenses of the students resident in the University are
limited as follows:
1. For board, the use of the dormitory, matriculation, and
tuition fees, the sums before stated.
2. For clothing during the session, an amount not exceeding
one hundred dollars.
3. For pocket-money during the session, a sum not exceeding
forty-five dollars.
4. For books and stationery, whatever the parent or guardian
may think fit to allow.
5. For medicine and medical attendance, whatever may be
necessary.
These are in no case to be exceeded; unless under special circumstances
the Faculty shall allow it.
PROHIBITION OF CREDIT.
The act of the Legislature prohibiting merchants and others,
under severe penalties, from crediting students, is strictly enforced.
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 the parents and guardians will, as far as possible, prevent
from arising, by the timely supply of the requisite funds.
HOTELS OR BOARDING-HOUSES.
Hotels or boarding-houses are provided in the precincts of the
University for the accommodation of students, and no student is
permitted to board or lodge out of the precincts, unless in the family
of his parent or guardian, or of some particular friend, approved
by the Faculty. Except that students above the age of twenty-one
years may reside out of the precincts, in such private boarding-hou
es as the Faculty may approve.
The charges at the private boarding-houses, being those licensed
by the Faculty, are required by the regulations not to exceed those
of the hotels within the precincts.
The hotel-keepers are bound to maintain good order among
their boarders during meals, and to report all cases of misconduct
of which they have knowledge, whether occurring in their own
houses or elsewhere.
KEEPING OF STUDENTS' FUNDS.
Every student resident within the precincts is required, on matriculating,
to deposit with the Patron all the money, checks, bills,
drafts, and other 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 from thence to
his residence, Nor shall he matriculate till he shall have deposited
a sum at least sufficient to pay for the use of his dormitory
and the public rooms, to pay the fees of the Professors whom he
may design to attend, to pay three months' board to his hotel-keeper,
to purchase the text-books and stationery which he may
want at the commencement, twenty dollars on account of fuel and
candles, and ten dollars to cover contingent charges and assessments
against him for injuries to the buildings, &c. , which two
last mentioned sums are credited in the final settlement of his accounts.
In like manner, he shall deposit with the Patron all the
the purpose aforesaid. At the end of the first three months of the
session, he shall deposit enough to pay his board and other expenses
for the next three months; and at the expiration of the
second period of three months, he shall deposit enough to pay his
board and other expenses for the residue of the session.
Students resident out of the University, are required, on matriculating,
to deposit with the Patron funds sufficient to pay the fees
of Professors whom they may propose to attend, the sum charged
for the use of the public rooms, and ten dollars to cover contingent
charges.
PRIVILEGED STUDENTS.
Ministers of the Gospel, and young men preparing for the min
istry, bringing proper certificates from their congregations as to
character and standing, may attend any of the schools of the University,
without payment of fees to the Professors.
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 those laws
of the Institution which enjoin respectful and orderly 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 reports may suggest.
LIBRARY.
The Library of the University, originally selected and arranged
by Mr. Jefferson, has since been augmented by several valuable
donations, among which the legacy of Mr. Madison, amounting to
587 volumes, that of the late Christian Bohn, Esq., a generous
and enlightened citizen of Richmond, amounting to 3,380 vols.,
and a donation of 234 works presented by an unknown benevolent
lady through the Rev. Dr. Alexander, of Princeton. Through
such additions, and the annual increase by purchase, the library
now numbers upwards of 18,000 volumes, comprising an unusually
large proportion of standard literary and scientific works in
the principal European languages, together with a rich and extensive
collection of engravings.
Students are allowed the use of the books, under the usual restrictions,
and the Librarian is in attendance daily at stated hours
to comply with their orders and to receive the books returned.
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
Rotunda on the day preceding the Public Day.
LITERARY SOCIETIES.
There are three literary societies formed by the students of the
University, which meet weekly at their own or public rooms for
the purpose of cultivating debate and composition, and hold occasionally
public exhibitions.
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 32 students, without payment of Professor's fees,
board or University charges.
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 education.
Their connection with the University is to continue two years,
but for extraordinary proficiency the Board of Visiters may prolong
the term. 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 expected to teach in some public or private
school within the limits of Virginia, for two years after leaving
the University.
The selection of students, on this foundation, is made by the
Faculty on the first day of July, annually. Applications for vacancies,
accompanied by proper testimonials, addressed to the
Chairman of the Faculty, should reach the University by the
25th of June.
☞ 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 at
least three, unless, for good cause, the Faculty permit him to
attend a less number.
2. In order to be admitted, the applicant must exhibit satisfactory
testimonials—1st. Of irreproachable moral character; 2nd.
Of capacity, as well by partial cultivation, as original vigor of
mind, to profit by the instruction given at the University; 3rd. If
he desires to enter the schools of Mathematics, or of Natural
Philosophy, that he possesses a familiar acquaintance with all the
branches of numerical Arithmetic, or if he desires to enter the
school of Ancient Languages, 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 vacant districts, for which appointments will be made
on the first of July, 1853, will be made known by means of a
circular.
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