Equip Students for What Comes Next
At its core Relevant, Experiential and Applied Learning (REAL) is about connections—a central thread that connects all the academics, community service, creative projects, and other activities you do on campus.
Connect. Create. Contribute
While experiential learning at VCU may occur in many places and take many forms, all REAL activities are anchored by one consistent vision: the REAL 3Cs.
REAL experiences:
- Connect students to people, ideas, and resources that will help them find their path to meaning-filled lives and careers
- Creates opportunities for students to grapple with complex problems in cooperation with faculty and community members
- Contribute to the public good by recognizing and acting on our shared responsibility to wider society – locally, nationally, and globally
These 3Cs are the outcomes that REAL activities embody.
Apply for REAL classification
Based on national research, VCU now classifies experiential learning activities across four levels (see guiding principles for classification). You must apply and have your REAL level and type approved before your course or co-curricular experience can be officially assigned a REAL classification.
Courses
Please use the application embedded in the CIM course form to propose a new or renew a current REAL designation. Additional information regarding accessing, proposing and editing courses can be found in the CIM User Resources folder.
Co-Curriculars
Facilitating learning beyond the classroom? Learn how to get your co-curricular officially REAL classified and apply here.
We are here to help!
Navigating the application process can seem overwhelming the first time through. If you have questions, or simply need some technical support, book a meeting with a REAL expert!
All sessions will be held via Zoom.
Explore Our Toolkit
Academic Regulations
What if every undergraduate left VCU with hands-on experience that shaped their future That’s the goal behind the experiential learning graduation requirement.
Model Syllabi
Looking for a blueprint to help with your course's REAL classification process? See examples of syllabi.
Guiding Principles for Classification
Curious what makes an experience REAL? Explore the levels, core pillars and criteria that define and guide REAL classification at VCU.
Data Dashboard
Want to know who’s engaging in experiential learning at VCU? Explore the REAL Data Dashboard to help identify trends and address gaps.
Types of Activities
Wondering what REAL experiences look like in action? Learn more about the different types of experiential learning opportunities within courses and co-curricular experiences.
Reflection Handbook
Looking for ways to deepen student reflection? This handbook offers practical tools and strategies for faculty and staff to facilitate meaningful reflection in courses and co-curricular experiences.