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Sentara Health and Virginia Wesleyan University advance plans to expand healthcare education in Virginia

Sentara College of Health Sciences to join Virginia Wesleyan University in 2026
Virginia Wesleyan University

Sentara Health and Virginia Wesleyan University (VWU) are excited to announce a major milestone in their growing relationship, aimed at expanding and strengthening health sciences education. Both organizations have formally signed initial agreements marking the first steps in transitioning Sentara College of Health Sciences (SCOHS) into a professional college within Virginia Wesleyan University.

Beginning January 1, 2026, SCOHS will be operated as the Sentara College of Health Sciences of Virginia Wesleyan University, a professional college within VWU’s academic structure, housing all existing degree and certificate programs. This integration builds on the longstanding success of SCOHS and opens new pathways for students by linking career-focused health sciences education with the broader academic resources of a highly respected national university of arts and sciences.

“Our shared vision is to prepare the healthcare workforce of the future while honoring Sentara College’s deep community ties and proud academic legacy,” said Dr. Angela Taylor, president, Sentara College of Health Sciences. “We look forward to working closely with Virginia Wesleyan University to create new opportunities for students, expand access to in-demand programs, and continue meeting the growing healthcare workforce needs of our communities.”

“We are proud to build on our strong relationship with Sentara as we take this important next step forward,” said Dr. Scott D. Miller, president of VWU. “Integrating Sentara College into Virginia Wesleyan’s academic community will create exciting new opportunities for students and strengthen health sciences education across our region.”

Both institutions are now focused on the key steps necessary to ensure a smooth and successful transition, including required regulatory and accreditation processes. Key details of the transition plans include:

  • Through Summer 2026, all current students will complete their programs and courses of study under the Sentara College of Health Sciences name. Starting in Fall 2026, students will receive their credentials from the Sentara College of Health Sciences of Virginia Wesleyan University.
  • For current SCOHS students, there will be no changes to out-of-pocket costs, courses of study, or graduation timelines.
  • The existing SCOHS campus and facilities will continue to be used, supporting continuity for students, faculty, and staff while preparations are being made to transition all programs to the VWU campus.

Prospective students are encouraged to contact the VWU enrollment office for the most up-to-date information.

This collaboration represents a shared commitment to innovation, opportunity, and student success. Over the coming months, efforts will focus on solidifying SCOHS’s permanent integration into VWU, with both institutions committed to minimizing disruption and ensuring continuity for students, faculty, and staff throughout the transition.