University of the Virgin Islands-Albert A. Sheen
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Overview & Academics
The University of the Virgin Islands-Albert A. Sheen Campus is a public, four-year institution located on the island of St. Croix in the Virgin Islands. As part of the larger University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) system, it offers accredited undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in the liberal arts and sciences. Academic offerings span liberal arts, business, education, science & mathematics, nursing, social sciences, and emerging fields. The university emphasizes research, experiential learning, and community service.
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Admissions
UVI-Albert A. Sheen has a moderately selective admissions process. The university accepts applications online year-round for both Fall and Spring semesters. Admission requirements include a completed application, official transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT, though waivers may sometimes be available), and in some cases, letters of recommendation or a personal essay. Transfer students are welcomed and must provide transcripts from previous colleges.
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Cost
- Tuition (2023-2024 Academic Year):
- In-state: Approximately $5,235 per year (full-time undergraduate)
- Out-of-state: Approximately $14,496 per year (full-time undergraduate)
- Additional Costs: Room & board, books, fees, and miscellaneous expenses apply.
- UVI participates in scholarship programs, work-study, and various federal and local financial aid initiatives.
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Student Population
UVI serves a close-knit student body of approximately 2,000-2,500 students across both of its main campuses, with several hundred students enrolled at the Albert A. Sheen Campus. The university draws students from the local Virgin Islands community, the wider Caribbean, the continental U.S., and other countries, creating a diverse and multicultural environment.
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Rankings & Distinctions
- Recognized as a premier historically black college/university (HBCU) in the Caribbean.
- Renowned for its Marine and Environmental Sciences programs.
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
- Consistently honored for service, student engagement, and STEM opportunities in the region.
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Campus & Culture
The Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix offers modern classroom buildings, laboratories, student housing, a library, and recreational facilities. The campus features lush tropical grounds, open courtyards, and views of the Caribbean landscape. Student life emphasizes academic achievement, leadership development, community engagement, and cultural celebration. Annual events, festivals, and speaker series foster unity and pride.
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Athletics & Traditions
- UVI’s athletic teams are known as the Buccaneers.
- The university competes in the NAIA and participates in basketball, cross country, track & field, and volleyball.
- There is a strong tradition of school spirit centered around athletic competitions, intramural sports, and annual Carnival celebrations unique to the Virgin Islands.
- Regular pep rallies, campus games, and festivity weeks add vibrancy to campus life.
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Mission
UVI’s mission is to provide high-quality, culturally relevant education, research, and public service to students in the Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean region. The university fosters lifelong learning, academic excellence, and community leadership in an environment rooted in Caribbean heritage and global awareness.
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Leadership & Current Developments
UVI is under the leadership of a President and Board of Trustees. The institution is focused on strategic growth, fostering innovation in teaching and learning, promoting STEM and health disciplines, and expanding global partnerships. Current initiatives include new degree programs, campus facility upgrades, and stronger online and hybrid course offerings designed to increase regional and international impact.
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Programs
- Bachelor’s Degrees in Arts, Sciences, Business Administration, Accounting, Education, Criminal Justice, Computer Science, Nursing, Social Sciences, and more.
- Master’s Degrees in Business Administration (MBA), Education (M.Ed.), Marine & Environmental Science, and other fields.
- Associate degrees and certificate programs in career-focused areas.
- Special pre-professional, honors, and research programs are available.
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Campus Life
Students live and learn in a vibrant island setting. On-campus housing, dining, campus safety services, and wellness resources are provided. The university hosts concerts, film nights, island cultural events, and guest lectures throughout the year. Student government, peer mentorship, and leadership workshops support a dynamic collegiate experience.
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Student Organizations
- Student Government Association
- National Society of Leadership and Success
- Greek Life (Fraternities & Sororities)
- Professional organizations: Business, Education, Criminal Justice, and Science clubs
- Music, arts, debate, and special interest groups
- Community service organizations and volunteer groups
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Admission Stats
- Acceptance rate: Typically 90-95%
- First-year retention rate: Approximately 65-70%
- Average SAT score range: 830-1050 (when submitted)
- Average ACT score range: 16-21 (when submitted)
- Application deadlines: Rolling admissions; priority deadlines for scholarship consideration
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Contact & Location
- Website: www.uvi.edu
- Address: St. Croix, St. Croix, Virgin Islands 00850


