University of Virginia Library


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STATEMENT
OF THE
TERMS OF ADMISSION,
Courses of Instruction, Expenses, &c.,
OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA.

MATRICULATION.

To be admitted as a student of the University, the applicant
must be at least sixteen years of age; but the Faculty may dispense
with this requirement, in favor of one who has a brother,
of the requisite age, entering at the same time.

If the applicant for admission has been a student at any other
incorporated seminary, he must produce a certificate from such
seminary, or other satisfactory evidence of general good conduct.

There is no prescribed course of studies in this institution.
Every student may select the schools he will attend: but, in the
academic department, he is required to attend at least three,
unless, upon the written request of his parent or guardian, or for
good cause shown, the Faculty shall allow him to attend less
than three.

Students are permitted to exchange schools, with transfer of
fees, within one week after admission: thereafter, no exchange
is allowed, except by leave of the Faculty, and then, without
transfer of fees.


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COURSE OF INSTRUCTION.

The session commences on the first of October, and continues,
without interruption, until the 29th of June ensuing.

The mode of instruction is by lectures and text-books, accompanied
by daily examinations.

In each school there are, at least, three regular lectures a
week; but in most of the schools there are more than three,
according to the subjects into which the school is divided.

Literary and Scientific Schools:

ANCIENT LANGUAGES.

PROFESSOR GILDERSLEEVE.

I.—LATIN.

The subjects taught in this school are:

1. The Latin language.

2. Roman literature.

3. History of Rome.

The method of instruction comprises lectures, (systematic and
exegetical,) examinations, written and oral exercises. The school
is divided into two classes, Junior and Senior. The authors
read in the Senior Class, are principally: Cicero, Horace, Livy,
Juvenal and Tacitus; in the Junior Class, Terence, Sallust,
Virgil and Ovid.

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, Zumpt's Grammar, Dr. Harrison's
Exposition.

For the lectures on the History of Rome, (Senior Class,)
Liddell's Rome.

The written and oral exercises constitute a prominent feature
in the plan of instruction.


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II.—GREEK.

The subjects taught in this school are:

1. The Greek language.

2. Greek literature.

3. History of Greece.

The method of instruction is identical with the plan of the
school of Latin.

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, Hadley's Greek Grammar, Kühner's
School Grammar.

For the lectures on the History of Greece (Senior Class,)
Thirlwall's and Grote's History of Greece.

III.—MODERN LANGUAGES.

PROFESSOR SCHELE DE VERE.

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 VENABLE.

In this school there are four classes:

In the first, or Junior Class, the subjects of study are the
General Properties of Numbers and theory of Notation, Algebra
Geometry and Plane Trigonometry. Though Algebra and


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Geometry are commenced in this class, it is very desirable that
those who enter it should not only be thoroughly acquainted
with Arithmetic, but should also have previously pursued the
study of Algebra through equations of the second degree, and of
Geometry through the first four books.

In the second, or Intermediate Class, the subjects of study are
Plane and Spherical Trigonometry, with applications to Surveying,
Navigation, and Nautical Astronomy, Descriptive Geometry,
with its applications to Spherical Projections, Shades, Shadows,
and Perspective and Analytical Geometry.

In the third, or Senior Class, the subjects of study are Analytical
Geometry of three Dimensions, and the Differential and
Integral Calculus. Lectures are given to this class on the History
and Philosophy of Mathematics.

There is also a fourth class, that of Mixed Mathematics,
designed for the benefit of such of the more advanced students
as may desire to prosecute their studies beyond the limits of Pure
Mathematics.

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.


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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
others, the Centre of Gravity, Theory of Machinery, Friction,
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 considered 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
phenom 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


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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.

Reference is made in this class to Rogers' Mechanical Philosophy,
Lardner's Hand-books,
and Silliman's Philosophy.

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.—Treatises of Herschel, Norton
and 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 practicable, from the Geological structure of
Virginia.

The students have an opportunity of familiarizing themselves
with the minerals, rocks and fossils exhibited in the lectures.

Text-Books.—Dana's Manuals of Mineralogy and Geology.


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VI.—CHEMISTRY.

PROFESSOR MAUPIN.

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, chemical symbols and notation are explained,
and the history of the non-metalic 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, they are taken
up individually and very fully considered, together with their
compounds with the non-metalic 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.—Fownes' Chemistry, as a text-book;
Graham's Elements; Regnault's Elements, and Abel & Bloxam's
Hand-book of Chemistry for reference.


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VII.—SCHOOL OF CIVIL ENGINEERING.

PROFESSORS VENABLE, SMITH AND MAUPIN.

The course of instruction in this school will, in general, occupy
the attention of the student for two sessions.

The studies of the first session are those pursued in the schools
of Mathematics, Natural Philosophy, Mineralogy and Geology,
and Chemistry; together with lessons in Geometrical Drawing.

Students who desire to accomplish the full course of Engineering,
in two sessions, should come prepared to enter the Intermediate
and Senior classes in the school of Mathematics.

The studies pursued during the second session are:

1. With the Professor of Mathematics and the Teacher of
Drawing: Higher Geodesy, Spherical Astronomy, Levelling,
Roads and Railways, Theory and Use of Instruments, Geometrical
Drawing, Applications of Descriptive Geometry to Shades,
Shadows, and Perspective, Stone cutting; Field Practice.

2. With the Professor of Natural Philosophy: Strength of
Materials, Resistances, Structures in Wood, Iron and Stone;
Machinery, Hydraulic Engineering, Steam Engine, Meteorology
and use of Meteorological Instruments.

3. With the Professor of Chemistry: Metallurgy, Metallurgical
Implements, Structures and Processes; Assay of Ores and
Alloys; Details of the Smelting of Iron, Copper, Lead, Zinc, &c.

Since many of the standard works to which the student of
Engineering will be referred are in French, it is desirable that he
should have a sufficient knowledge of that language to enable
him to read them with facility.

VIII.—MORAL PHILOSOPHY.

PROFESSOR McGUFFEY.

There are two classes in this school:

  • I. The class in Mental Philosophy.

  • II. The class in Political Economy.

Books requisite for the class in Mental Philosophy:

  • 1. Hamilton's Lectures on Metaphysics.

  • 2. Hamilton's Lectures on Logic.


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  • 3. Cousin's True, Beautiful and Good.

  • 4. Stewart's Active and Moral Powers.

  • 5. Jouffroy's Ethics.

  • 6. Alexander's Moral Science.

  • 7. Butler's Analogy and Sermons.

Books required on Political Economy:

  • Say's Political Economy.

  • J. S. Mill's Political Economy, latest edition.

Four lectures each week are given to the class in Mental
Philosophy, and two lectures each week to the class on Political
Economy.

HISTORY AND GENERAL LITERATURE.

PROFESSOR HOLMES.

This school is divided into two distinct classes—one of History,
and one of Literature. Either study may be pursued separately.
A diploma is granted for proficiency in both branches: a certificate
for proficiency in one.

HISTORY.

In the Historical class the successions, revolutions and aspects
of the principal nations of the world are considered in such a
manner as to afford a general view of the evolution of civilization.

In the absence of appropriate text-books, the following are
used: Schmitz' Manual of Ancient History, Smith's History of
Greece, Gibbon abridged by Smith, Taylor's Manual of Modern
History.

LITERATURE.

In the class of General Literature, attention is confined to the
study of the English language and Literature.

Suitable text-books are unattainable in this department. The
following are employed:

Spalding's History of English Literature, Shaw's Outlines of
General Literature; Shakespeare's Complete Works; Aiken's
British Poets.

Additions to the course will be made as opportunity offers.


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Medical Department.

Medical faculty.

H. HOWARD, M. D.,
Professor of Medical Jurisprudence, Obstetrics and Practice of Medicine.

Text-books.—Taylor's Medical Jurisprudence, Meigs' Obstetrics
and Wood's Practice.

J. L. CABELL, M. D.,
Professor of Comparative Anatomy, Physiology and Surgery.

Text-books.—Dalton's Physiology and Druitt's Modern Surgery.

J. S. DAVIS, M. D.,
Professor of Anatomy and Materia Medica.

Text-books.—Wilson's Anatomy and Dunglison's Therapeutics.

S. MAUPIN, M. D.,
Professor of Chemistry and Pharmacy.

Text-books.—Fownes' Chemistry and Parrish's Pharmacy.

J. E. CHANCELLOR, M. D.,
Demonstrator of Anatomy.

The Faculty invite the attention of the physicians of the
Southern States to the peculiar features of the Medical Department
of this Institution.

1. Length of Session.—Nearly all the Medical Schools of this
country are located in our cities or larger towns, and have only
a nominal connexion with the colleges from which they borrow
their names and chartered privileges. In these schools the usual
length of a session is from four to five months. In order to
embrace all the important branches of Medical Science in a
course of instruction compressed into so short a term, it is found
necessary to employ the services of six or seven Professors, who


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deliver six lectures a day. Under this arrangement, the students,
if they take all the tickets, are required to spend nearly
the whole of the day in listening to lectures, delivered in rapid
succession, and treating of diverse topics. None but those who
have had personal experience in this matter, can fully appreciate
the troubles and difficulties which beset a student when he first
enters the school; the fatigue of body and perplexity of mind
which he inevitably experiences in his painful efforts to hear
every lecture and master every subject. In attempting, after
the close of the lectures for the day, to bring in review the topics
discussed by his teachers, he finds links in the chain here and
there broken; he flies from one subject of thought to another,
without adequately mastering any, and confounded by their number,
and the utter impossibility of keeping pace in his private
reading at night with the lectures of six Professors, he despairs
of doing more than retaining such portion of the facts stated in
the lectures as may happen to make the strongest impression on
his mind.

In the Medical Department of this Institution, the length of
the session, which is nine months, enables four Professors to perform
all the duties which are elsewhere assigned to six. The
students attend but two lectures a day, and thus have ample time
for private reading, and for pursuing their Anatomical dissections.
The supply of subjects is ample, and the Demonstrator devotes
the whole of every afternoon to his duties. He guides the labors
of those who are at work, and explains to them the structures
which are successively exposed.

2. System of Daily Examinations. Immediately before each
lecture, the students in every school of the University are subjected
to a rigid examination on the subject of the preceding
lecture, or on portions of some approved text-book. Experience
has shown that this is an almost indispensable adjunct to the
system of teaching by lectures; and the recognition of its importance
is so general, that students in other medical schools where
its efficient introduction is precluded by want of time, often
resort to the expedient of employing the services of private
instructors by whom they may be examined at night on the topics
discussed each day in the lecture-room. The fee paid by the
students for this necessary, but extra collegiate instruction,


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varies from $30 to $50 for the term of lectures, and is usually
about $100 for the whole year.

The enactments of the University prescribe that no Professor
shall engage in pursuits unconnected with its service, or shall
receive from the members of his class any compensation besides
that provided for by the laws. They further require every Professor
to reside within the precincts, for the purpose both of
assisting to enforce the discipline of the college, and of being
accessible to the students who may seek aid in their hours of private
study. These students, then, enjoy advantages here which
elsewhere are purchased at a high price over and above the
necessary collegiate expenses.

3. Order of Studies. All medical colleges aim to place medical
education on a scientific basis. Indeed, if the practice of the
healing art is not based on general principles, embodied in the
fundamental sciences of Anatomy, Chemistry, Physiology, Pathology
and Therapeutics, these branches of medical science
might as well be omitted in a course of professional education.
If, however, this relation does exist, the propriety and necessity
of laying a good foundation before the superstructure can be
reared, are too obvious to need illustration. This cannot be done
in schools, where the courses on the different branches of medicine
are carried on simultaneously. Their system assumes that
the students have "read," as it is termed, with a preceptor for a
year, at least, before they commence their attendance on lectures.
Such, however, is not always the case, and when it
occurs, is of comparatively little benefit; for the paramount
duties of the practitioner absorb his time, and the fundamental
branches of medical science are precisely those demanding for
their illustration the appliances which are only to be found within
the walls of colleges. The Anatomical Department, for example,
is here enriched by a collection of about two hundred large
paintings executed to order, with great fidelity and beauty.

It is one of the peculiar advantages of the University Medical
School, that it unites, as may have been inferred from the preceding
remarks, the plan of instruction by private pupilage with
that of public lectures; while the length of the session enables the
Professors to pursue a philosophical order of studies, and thus to
afford the students an opportunity of mastering the elementary


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branches before attention is directed to their practical application.

4. Conditions of Graduation. The regulations for graduation
elsewhere require that the student shall have attended two full
courses of Medical lectures, and shall have been the private pupil
for at least a year, of a respectable practitioner of Medicine.
At this University, a consecutive course of nine months being at
least equivalent to two courses in most other schools, in respect to
the time employed and the advantageous distribution of the subjects
of study, the students are permitted to take their diplomas
at the end of one session, if they show themselves qualified. The
severity of the examinations deters a large majority of the class
from making the trial, and none but the perseveringly diligent
attain the honor.

The importance of the advantages thus claimed for the Medical
Department of this Institution, has been tested by the experience
of nearly forty years, during which several thousand medical
students have been educated here.

5. It will be noticed that those students who prefer taking
their diploma at a city school, will yet find it highly beneficial to
attend the first course at an Institution organized on the plan of
the Medical Department of the University, where the lengthened
term, the consecutive arrangement of studies, and the thorough
drilling, prepare them to appreciate and improve the advantages
they may afterwards enjoy.


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Law School.

PROFESSOR MINOR.

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 Professor, 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,
conveyances and other assurances; and, in short, to perform
most of the functions of a practising lawyer.

The School comprises 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.

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 1860, Gordon's Digest of
United States Statutes.

DEPARTMENT OF EQUITY, MERCANTILE, INTERNATIONAL AND CONSTITUTIONAL
LAW, AND GOVERNMENT, ETC.

Junior Class.—Vattel's International Law, Lectures on Government,
Federalist.


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Senior Class.—Smith's Mercantile Law, Greenleaf's Evidence,
Barton's Suit in Equity, Adams' Equity.

The degree of Bachelor of Law 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.

The Faculty have authority to license persons, of suitable
attainments, character and habits, to give private instruction in
aid of the public teachings in any of the Schools of the
University.

Licentiates are not at liberty, without special leave of the
Faculty, to receive pupils who are not members of the school or
schools for which they are licensed, nor to give instruction on
subjects not embraced in the plan of the same.

The employment of the Licentiate is at the option of the student,
and the compensation a matter of private arrangement.

EXAMINATIONS.

The examinations are of three kinds: 1, the Daily examinations;
2, the Intermediate and Final general examinations; and
3, examinations for graduation.

1.—DAILY EXAMINATIONS.

Each Professor, before commencing the lecture of the day,
examines his class orally, on the subject of the preceding lecture
as developed in the text-book and expounded in the lecture.


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2.—GENERAL EXAMINATIONS.

Two general examinations of each class are held during the
session in the presence of a committee of the Faculty, which
every student is required to stand. The first, called the Intermediate
examination, is held about the middle of the session, and
embraces in its scope the subjects of instruction in the first half
of the course. The second, called the Final examination, is held
in the closing week of the session, and embraces the subjects
treated of in the second half of the course. These examinations
are conducted in writing. The questions propounded have, each,
numerical values attached to them. If the answers of the student
are valued, in the aggregate, at not less than three-fourths of the
aggregate values assigned to the questions, he is ranked in the
first division: if less than three-fourths and more than one-half,
in the second division: if less than one-half and more than one-fourth,
in the third division: and if less than one-fourth, in the
fourth division.

Certificates of distinction are awarded to those who attain the
first division at one or both of these examinations, and their
names are published or announced in the closing exercises of the
session.

The general examinations are sufficiently comprehensive and
difficult to render it impossible for the student, without steady
diligence, to secure a place in the first division. The results,
whatever they may be, are communicated to parents and guardians
respectively, in the final circular of the session.

The standing of the student at the daily and general examinations
is taken into the account, in ascertaining his qualifications
for graduation in any of the schools.

3.—EXAMINATIONS FOR GRADUATION.

The examinations for graduation are held in the last month of
the session. They are conducted, in each school, by the Professor
thereof, in presence of two other Professors, forming with him
the committee of examination for the school.

The candidates for graduation are subjected to searching interrogations
on the details and niceties, as well as the leading principles
of the subject, and they are expected to be accurately


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versed in all the topics treated of in the lectures and correlative
texts.

These examinations are carried on chiefly in writing; but in
some of the schools they are partly oral.

☞ As a due acquaintance with the English language is
indispensable to the attainment of even the inferior honors of the
institution, all candidates for graduation are subjected to a preliminary
examination, to test their qualifications in this respect.

DEGREES.

The degrees conferred by the University are academic and
professional.

The Academic Degrees are—

1. That of Proficient—conferred for satisfactory attainments
in certain subjects of study, to wit: in Anglo-Saxon; Mineralogy
and Geology; Physiology; Medical Jurisprudence; Human
Anatomy; Botany; Political Economy; History; Literature; and
International Law and Government.

2. That of Graduate in a School—conferred for satisfactory
attainments in the leading subjects of instruction in the same, to
wit: in the Latin Language and Literature; in the Greek Language
and Literature; in the French and German Languages;
Pure Mathematics; Natural Philosophy; Chemistry; Moral Philosophy,
and History and Literature. The degree of graduate
may also be conferred in any one of the Modern Languages,
except Anglo-Saxon, and in Mixed Mathematics.

3. That of Bachelor of Arts—conferred on such students as
have graduated in any two of the Literary Schools, (Ancient
Languages, Modern Languages and Moral Philosophy,) and
any two of the Scientific Schools, (Mathematics, Natural Philosophy
and Chemistry,) and have attained distinctions, at an Intermediate
and Final Examination, in the Junior Classes of the two
remaining Schools.

4. That of Master of Arts of the University of Virginia—
conferred upon students who have graduated in the Latin, Greek,
French and German Languages, Pure Mathematics, Natural
Philosophy, Chemistry, Moral Philosophy, and History and Literature,


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and who have passed satisfactory general examinations,
in review, on all the subjects embraced in the curriculum.

The candidate for the degree of Bachelor or Master of Arts is
also required to submit to the approval of the Faculty, an Essay,
composed by himself, on some subject of literature or science—
which essay must be read by the author on the Public Day, if so
ordered.

The Professional Degrees are—

1. That of Bachelor of Law—conferred for satisfactory attainments
in all the subjects of instruction in the School of Law.
And,

2. That of Doctor of Medicine—conferred for satisfactory
attainments in all the subjects of instruction, except Botany, in
the several schools constituting the Medical Department.

Candidates for the degree of Doctor of Medicine, who have
been previously declared Graduates in Chemistry, or Proficients
in Anatomy, Physiology, or Medical Jurisprudence, are not
required to stand the examinations on these subjects anew—and
the same rule applies to candidates for the degree of Bachelor of
Law, who are Proficients in International Law and Government.

Honorary degrees are forbidden by the laws of the University.

PUBLIC DAY.

On the closing day of the session, which occurs on the 29th of
June, unless that day be Sunday, and then on the 28th, the
Visitors, Faculty, Officers and Students of the University assemble
in the Public Hall—whither also, the friends of the students and
the public generally are invited. On this occasion the results
of the examinations are announced, certificates and diplomas
awarded, and addresses delivered by the Bachelors and Masters
of Arts.


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EXPENSES.

The following is an estimate of the expenses of an academic
student for the session of nine months, exclusive of the cost of
text-books:

                 
Matriculation and library fee,  $25 
Room-rent, if two occupy the same room, each  15 
Contingent deposit,  10 
Tuition fees in three schools, the usual number attended,  75 
Board, including diet, furniture of room and attendance,  180 
Deposit for fuel and lights,  35 
Washing, $1.50 per mo.—per session, say  15 
Infirmary fee, 
$360 

This estimate will be slightly modified if the student enter
more or fewer schools than indicated.

Law students pay $80 per session for tuition, and Medical
students $105: consequently the estimate for the former is $365,
and for the latter $390 per session.

All the foregoing items are payable in advance, except board
and washing. One-third ($60) of the board is required on
admission, and the balance in equal instalments, at three and six
months thereafter. Washing is paid for monthly, as the service
is rendered.

The Contingent deposit is designed to cover contingent charges
and assessments. These are generally small. The residue of
this deposit is refunded to the student in the settlement of his
account at the close of the session.

The Infirmary fee secures, in case of sickness, prescriptions at
the University infirmary, and if needed, nursing by professional
nurses, lodging, board and medical attendance by the physicians
of the institution, free of additional charge.

No abatement is made in the matriculation and tuition fees
and room-rent, on account of late entrance; 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 first of March. The charges for
board, fuel and lights and washing are estimated from the time


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of entrance. Many disadvantages to the student result from late
entrance. Therefore, prompt attendance at the beginning of the
session is earnestly enjoined upon all who wish to derive the full
benefits of the courses of instruction.

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


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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 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


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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, and since enlarged by purchases and donations,
now contains about 35,000 volumes.

Students are allowed the use of the books, under the usual
restrictions, and the librarian is present in the library for four
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 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, of long standing, connected
with the University. Most of the students become members of
one or the other. They meet weekly in their respective Halls,
for the purpose of cultivating debate and composition, and occasionally
hold public exhibitions.

MORALITY AND RELIGION.

These are recognized as the foundation and indispensable concomitants
of education. The discipline is sedulously administered
with a view to confirm integrity, and to maintain a sacred regard
for truth. Great efforts are made to surround the students with


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religious influences; but experience has proved that the best way
to effect this result is, to forbear the employment of coercion to
enforce attendance on religious exercises, which is entirely voluntary.
Prayers are held every morning in the Chapel, and divine
service is performed on Sunday by a Chaplain, selected, in turn,
from the principal religious denominations. By means of a
Young Men's Christian Association, new comers are shielded, as
much as possible, from vicious connections, and the energies of
those willing to engage in the Christian enterprises of the neighborhood
are called into active exercise.

STATE STUDENTS.

To render education at the University accessible to meritorious
young men of limited means, provision has been made by the
Legislature for the admission of one student from each Senatorial
District of the State, without payment of matriculation and
tuition fees and rents. This provision is meant to be restricted
to those who are not themselves, and whose parents are not, in a
situation to incur the expense of their education at this Institution,
without aid.

State students are appointed by the Faculty upon satisfactory
testimonials of fitness. The term of appointment is for two years,
but for extraordinary proficiency it 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 aid afforded
them, they are required, on admission, to sign an engagement to
teach in some public or private school in Virginia, for two years,
after leaving the University; the emoluments of such service
enuring, of course, to their own benefit.

The applicant for a State appointment should state his age,
(which must be at least seventeen,) and designate the schools of
the University he may wish to enter. He should submit satisfactory
testimonials of irreproachable moral character, and of
capacity, as well by partial cultivation as original vigor of mind,
to profit by the instruction given at the University. It should
also appear that neither he nor his parents are able to incur the
expense of his education without aid.


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The Faculty will proceed on the 30th of June next to make
appointments of State students for vacant districts. The following
are the districts, all of which are now vacant, except the 5th,
6th, 9th, 12th, 16th, 18th, 20th, 24th and 29th:

  • I. Accomac and Northampton.

  • II. City of Norfolk.

  • III. Norfolk Co. and Princess Anne.

  • IV. Isle of Wight, Nansemond, Surry and Southampton.

  • V. Sussex, Prince George and Dinwiddie.

  • VI. Louisa, Henrico and Hanover.

  • VII. Mathews, Gloucester, Middlesex, King & Queen,
    King William and Essex.

  • VIII. Lancaster, Northumberland, Richmond, Westmoreland,
    Caroline and King George.

  • IX. James City, Charles City, New Kent, York, Elizabeth
    City, Warwick and City of Williamsburg.

  • X. City of Richmond.

  • XI. Chesterfield, Amelia, Prince Edward, Cumberland
    and Powhatan.

  • XII. Buckingham, Albemarle, Fluvanna and Goochland.

  • XIII. Spotsylvania, Stafford, Orange and Prince William.

  • XIV. Alexandria and Fairfax.

  • XV. Frederick, Clarke and Warren.

  • XVI. Loudoun.

  • XVII. Rappahannock, Fauquier, Madison and Culpeper.

  • XVIII. Shenandoah and Page.

  • XIX. Rockingham and Greene.

  • XX. Augusta.

  • XXI. Rockbridge and Nelson.

  • XXII. Alleghany, Bath, Highland and Botetourt.

  • XXIII. Appomattox, Campbell and Charlotte.

  • XXIV. Mecklenburg, Lunenburg, Nottoway, Brunswick and
    Greenesville.

  • XXV. Pittsylvania and Halifax.

  • XXVI. Amherst and Bedford.

  • XXVII. Henry and Franklin.

  • XXVIII. Giles, Montgomery, Roanoke and Craig.

  • XXIX. Carroll, Floyd and Patrick.

  • XXX. Wythe, Grayson, Pulaski and Bland.

  • XXXI. Washington and Smythe.

  • XXXII. Buchanan, Russell and Tazewell.

  • XXXIII. Scott, Lee and Wise.


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Calendar.

  • Oct'r 1.—Commencement of the Session.

  • Feb'y 22.—Anniversary Celebration of the Washington Society.

  • April 13.—Anniversary Celebration of the Jefferson Society.

  • June 25.—Annual Meeting of the Board of Visitors.

  • June 28.—Annual Meeting of the Society of Alumni.

  • June 29.—Public Day, and Closing Exercises of the Session.