The use of virtual reality in higher education plays a major role in addressing key areas of teaching, research, and learning. The applicable use of virtual reality sets the stage for ways to integrate an immersive environment, customizable based on higher education constituents preferences. The purpose of this research was to determine emerged functions on how virtual reality influences education in higher education utilizing thematic analysis and narrative review. The themes that were identified showed the impacts, uses and challenges faced by virtual reality. It also extended beyond normal use of virtual reality due to how virtual reality can be integrated and used effectively for teaching, learning and research. Limitation and future research were identified to help lay the foundation for future research work on those limitation with a major focus building on where this research stopped. The finding of this research will help educators develop content geared towards alternative mode of instruction with virtual reality among other instructional methods. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]