Dillard University

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Breadcrumb Abstract Shape

Dillard University

Overview & Academics

  • Dillard University is a private, historically Black liberal arts university located in New Orleans, Louisiana. Founded in 1869, the university is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and the United Church of Christ.
  • The university offers a student-centered education with an emphasis on critical thinking, ethical leadership, and social justice.
  • Degrees awarded include Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in a variety of disciplines across the arts, sciences, business, and health professions.
  • Popular academic areas include Biology, Nursing, Business Administration, Mass Communication, Urban Studies, Public Health, and Psychology.
  • Dillard features small class sizes and a low student-faculty ratio, promoting close mentorship and active learning.

Admissions

  • Dillard University has a holistic admissions process, considering academic performance, standardized test scores (optional in some cases), essays, extracurricular involvement, and letters of recommendation.
  • Applicants typically submit the Common Application or the university’s application, high school transcripts, and supporting documents.
  • Application deadlines include Early Action, Regular Decision, and Rolling Admissions options.

Cost

  • Tuition & Fees (2023-2024): Approximately $19,194 per year for undergraduate students.
  • Additional costs for room, board, books, and personal expenses average between $10,000–$13,000 annually.
  • Financial aid is available in the form of scholarships, grants, federal and private loans, and work-study programs.
  • Dillard’s Office of Financial Aid provides personalized counseling and resources to support affordability and access.

Student Population

  • Total enrollment: around 1,200–1,300 students.
  • Majority undergraduate population with a diverse student body representing multiple states and countries.
  • The university maintains a strong commitment to serving underrepresented and first-generation college students.

Rankings & Distinctions

  • Recognized as one of the nation’s top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
  • Highly ranked regionally for social mobility, nursing, and public health.
  • Dillard’s programs in STEM, Mass Communication, and Pre-Law are highly regarded.

Campus & Culture

  • The picturesque 55-acre campus features notable architecture, green spaces, and historic landmarks.
  • Located in the culturally vibrant Gentilly neighborhood of New Orleans, offering close connections to the city’s music, arts, and civil rights history.
  • Campus traditions include Homecoming, Brain Food Lecture Series, and Founder’s Day celebrations.
  • Facilities include modern residence halls, a library, performance venues, health and wellness centers, and a state-of-the-art science complex.

Athletics & Traditions

  • The Dillard Bleu Devils compete in the NAIA as members of the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC).
  • Varsity sports include basketball, cross country, track and field, and volleyball.
  • Campus spirit is enriched by the Bleu Devil mascot and longstanding rivalries with other HBCU institutions.
  • Athletics focus on teamwork and leadership, with strong support from the campus community.

Mission

  • Dillard University’s mission is to produce graduates who excel in their chosen fields, are broadly educated, culturally aware, and concerned with improving the human condition.
  • The university fosters a learning environment distinguished by excellence in teaching, intellectual exploration, and commitment to social justice, ethical values, and global citizenship.

Leadership & Current Developments

  • Dillard is led by a President and a Board of Trustees, supported by academic deans, faculty, and staff.
  • The university is pursuing strategic growth in STEM, health science programs, and community partnerships.
  • Recent priorities include enhancing campus facilities, expanding research initiatives, and strengthening alumni engagement.

Programs

  • Offers more than 22 majors and several pre-professional programs such as Pre-Med, Pre-Law, and Pre-Pharmacy.
  • Notable programs: Biology, Nursing, Mass Communication, Business Administration, Urban Studies and Public Policy, Physics, Psychology, Theater Arts, Public Health, and Film.
  • Graduate offerings include a Master’s of Science in Nursing (MSN).
  • Students benefit from internships, study abroad opportunities, and research initiatives.

Campus Life

  • Residential campus with multiple housing options, including suite-style and traditional dormitories.
  • Dining services offer diverse menus with consideration for dietary preferences.
  • Campus amenities include a fitness center, counseling services, and multipurpose spaces for events and gatherings.
  • Active campus ministry and community service programs connect students to the larger New Orleans region.

Student Organizations

  • Over 40 student organizations, including academically focused clubs, fraternities and sororities, leadership councils, honor societies, and performing arts groups.
  • Student Government Association (SGA) is a key voice in university policy and campus life.
  • Annual cultural events celebrate African American heritage, civic engagement, and Dillard traditions.

Admission Stats

  1. Acceptance Rate: Typically ranges between 55%–65%.
  2. Average GPA of Admitted Students: 2.7–3.3 (on a 4.0 scale).
  3. Average SAT/ACT (if submitted): SAT 900–1040, ACT 18–21 (test-optional approach for many applicants).
  4. Application Deadlines: Early Action (November), Regular Decision (March), Rolling Admissions until capacity is reached.