Benedict College

• Overview & Academics

  Benedict College is a private, historically Black college (HBCU) in Columbia, South Carolina, established in 1870. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across disciplines such as Business, Education, Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Engineering. The academic framework emphasizes a liberal arts core, leadership development, and experiential learning. Classes are led by accomplished faculty who are dedicated to student success and community service.

• Admissions

  Benedict College maintains a moderately selective admissions process with a commitment to access and opportunity for diverse student populations. The application requires submission of:

  • Completed online application
  • Official high school transcripts or equivalency
  • Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), though test-optional policies may apply
  • Letters of recommendation (optional but encouraged)
  • Personal essay and/or interview (optional for some programs)

  Rolling admissions allows students to apply year-round, but priority consideration is given to applicants adhering to published deadlines.

• Cost

  Comprehensive annual costs (2023–2024) are approximated as follows:

  • Undergraduate tuition and fees: ~$17,200 per year
  • Room and board: ~$9,100 per year
  • Total estimated cost of attendance: ~$26,300 per year

  Benedict College offers institutional scholarships, merit awards, need-based grants, and work-study opportunities to help offset expenses. Approximately 90% of students receive some form of financial aid.

• Student Population

  The college enrolls approximately 1,800 undergraduate students and has a modest graduate student presence. The campus is notably diverse, with a majority African American student body, a gender ratio tilted slightly toward female students, and representation from across the United States and some international locations.

• Rankings & Distinctions
  • Consistently recognized as a leading HBCU in national college rankings
  • Awarded “Best College in Social Mobility” in regional assessments
  • Honored for community engagement and leadership development
  • Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Campus & Culture
  • 55-acre campus in central Columbia, with historic and modern facilities
  • State-of-the-art Science and Technology Center, residence halls, library, and student center
  • Active on-campus dining, green spaces, and communal gathering sites
  • Urban proximity offers internships, culture, and employment opportunities in South Carolina’s capital
• Athletics & Traditions
  • Member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II, competing in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC)
  • Varsity teams include football, basketball, baseball, softball, cross country, track and field, and volleyball
  • Traditions: Homecoming celebrations, Founder’s Day, the Purple and Gold spirit, and “The Benedict Marching Tiger Band of Distinction”
• Mission

  Benedict College’s mission is to provide transformative learning experiences that create a just and caring global society. The college is committed to empowering students through quality education, social mobility, civic engagement, and ethical leadership grounded in the values of faith and service.

• Leadership & Current Developments
  • Led by President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis
  • Recent advances include the addition of new academic programs, expanded online learning, and enhanced career readiness initiatives
  • Ongoing campus renovation and improvement of student facilities
• Programs
  • Bachelor’s degrees in disciplines: Business Administration, Biology, Criminal Justice, Computer Science, Education, Engineering, Mass Communication, Social Work, and more
  • Graduate programs: Master’s in Business Administration, Master’s in Sport Management, and select education-focused graduate degrees
  • Pre-professional pathways: Pre-law, Pre-medicine, Pre-engineering
  • Workforce development and continuing education through specialized certificates
• Campus Life
  • Living-learning communities, modern residence halls, and wellness center
  • Weekly campus events such as lectures, cultural festivals, and concerts
  • Mental health and academic support resources available to all students
• Student Organizations
  • 70+ registered student organizations, including academic, social, and cultural groups
  • Active Greek life organizations and honor societies
  • Student Government Association and leadership development institutes
  • Community service, entrepreneurship, arts, and advocacy groups
• Admission Stats
  • Acceptance rate: Approximately 82%
  • Average high school GPA of incoming students: 2.8–3.2
  • SAT middle 50% range (if submitted): 850–1040
  • ACT composite middle 50% range (if submitted): 16–19
  • Majority of enrolled students receive need-based or merit aid