Aligned with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Privately Owned, Fully Aligned

Southern Virginia University is a private university that is voluntarily aligned with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and it’s principles and values.

Spiritually Supportive

As a gathering place for faithful members of The Church and like-minded individuals, we strive for a welcoming campus environment that builds faith and promotes spiritual growth.

By Study and By Faith

College years are important for solidifying your foundations of faith. That’s why we strive to honor the Lord’s counsel to “seek learning, by study and by faith.” (D&C 88:118)

Community of Shared Values

To cultivate a culture of study and faith, every member of our campus community voluntarily commits to a Code of Conduct based on the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ and the highest standards of personal conduct.

Review the Code of Conduct

Faith-supportive Faculty

Our faculty strive to build up faith—not tear it down—by teaching from faithful sources within the context of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Meet Our Faculty

Join a Ward

Be part of a vibrant Young Single Adult Stake—the first YSA Stake created outside the Wasatch Front—in one of our six highly active student wards.

See Meeting Times

Forums & Devotionals

We regularly gather together as a campus community to enjoy uplifting and inspiring messages from Church and other leaders. We always close these meetings by singing “Love One Another” together as a campus community—a mantra we strive to live by.

Watch our Top Devotionals

Ideal for Missionaries

Whether you are preparing to serve a mission or are just returning from missionary service—join a community that will support your spiritual goals and growth.

Learn about the RM Scholarship

On-site Institute of Religion

Open to all students, our campus is home to the largest daytime Institute of Religion in the Eastern United States. Attending free Institute classes is a great way to learn about Jesus Christ and His teachings, to feel the Spirit, and to connect with your like-minded peers.

Southern Virginia University is also the first independent school in the country to have an agreement for congruent credit through the Buena Vista Virginia Institute of Religion. That means that you can apply up to 14 Institute credits toward your graduation from Southern Virginia University—enough religion credits to also graduate from Institute.

Whether you take an Institute class for credit or for spiritual nourishment, we encourage everyone to attend!

Explore Institute Courses

We Invite and Welcome All

Southern Virginia University serves faithful Latter-day Saints and those who share our values. We invite and welcome all who will strive to live our standards and be kind to others.