The Sydney Lewis School of Business at Virginia Union University is inspired by the University’s history of providing education and opportunity for slaves and being a part of the first college accessible to African American women. It fosters an environment focused on innovation, diversity, excellence, integrity, and spiritual formation. The SoB is made up of the Accounting Department and the Management Department. The ACBSP-accredited business programs are geared towards developing strong, competent, and confident leaders that can positively impact organizations in both the business and government sectors. Offering quality undergraduate degree programs will also prepare students to enter graduate school if so desired. Graduates will have acquired an ethical perspective, technical skills, professionalism, and excellent education that qualify them to compete on a global level.
Education
Many students need financial assistance to complete a degree in higher education. The Lewis SoB has connections to business-specific endowed scholarships like Dr. Ruth C. Harris, Simmons, Nationwide Insurance Company, Retail Merchant Association, and M. M. Gordon Endowed Scholarships. There are also the Study Abroad Scholarship, Fulbright Scholarships and Grants, and Boren Scholarship Award.
All coursework leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. Students can pursue a major in Finance & Banking, Accounting, Marketing, Entrepreneur Management, and Business & Information Technology/Secondary Education. Available business minors are in Accounting, Marketing, and Business. Through the Ruth Coles Harris Leadership Institute, students can complete Certificate Programs in Entrepreneurship, Nonprofit & Church Administration, Organizational Change & Leadership, and Project Management in just six to eight weeks.
Student Life
To accent the coursework, business students can get involved in co-curricular activities, programs, and events. The SoB makes sure to provide plenty of opportunities to gain hands-on, real-world experience, and students can seek internships in the local business community. Campus engagement with other peers and community service are also critical aspects of Lewis’ business education.
Providing an atmosphere of spiritual growth, encouragement, and leadership is essential to the University. Business students can engage in worship services and events on-campus like the Faith-Filled Fridays Bible Study. Also, University Pastors are available to advise and mentor students in their faith.
The Center for International Studies was created through a collaboration with the SoB and many other departments University offices. It provides internationally-oriented resources, education, and research. Business students can take advantage of the Center’s promotion of global learning through international business coursework, workshops, and seminars focused on the relationships between business and international trade and their participation in study abroad opportunities.
Business students can still receive the University’s outstanding assistance and career guidance after they graduate through the Alumni Career Services office. It encourages lifelong learning and support for all graduates. Its resources include networking events and interview prep, graduate school application, communication strategies, career planning, and workplace transition.