Lincoln University

Breadcrumb Abstract Shape
Breadcrumb Abstract Shape

Lincoln University

Lincoln University Overview & Academics

  • Founded in 1866 by African American veterans of the Civil War, Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, is a public, land-grant, historically Black university (HBCU).
  • Offers diverse academic programs, including certificates, associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.
  • Academic units include the College of Agriculture, Environmental and Human Sciences; College of Arts and Sciences; College of Professional Studies; School of Nursing; and School of Business.
  • Highlights science, agriculture, business, nursing, education, criminal justice, social sciences, and liberal arts.
  • Features hands-on, research-driven learning and a student-to-faculty ratio that promotes personal mentoring.

Admissions

  • Applications can be submitted online or via mail.
  • Standard requirements: completed application, official high school transcripts or GED, SAT/ACT scores (test-optional for some terms), immunization records.
  • Rolling admissions; applications accepted year-round with start terms in fall, spring, and summer.
  • Support for first-generation students and transfer applicants.

Admission Stats

  • Acceptance Rate: Around 60–70% (subject to yearly fluctuations).
  • Freshman SAT Middle 50%: Typically 850–1040 (if submitted).
  • Freshman ACT Middle 50%: Typically 16–20 (if submitted).
  • Most students accepted have a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

Cost

  • In-State Tuition (2023–2024): Approximately $8,000 per year (tuition and fees).
  • Out-of-State Tuition: Approximately $15,000 per year (tuition and fees).
  • Room & Board: Estimated $8,400 annually.
  • Financial aid available: scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans.

Student Population

  • Total Enrollment: Around 1,800–2,000 students.
  • Diverse, with substantial African American representation as well as students from across Missouri, the Midwest, and internationally.
  • Undergraduate to graduate student ratio is majority undergraduate.

Rankings & Distinctions

  • Consistently listed among top HBCUs nationally.
  • Makes regular appearances in regional college rankings for social mobility, value, and public service.
  • Recognized for its historic legacy and active contributions to research in agriculture and STEM.

Campus & Culture

  • Occupies a scenic, 174-acre campus in Missouri’s capital city, blending historic brick buildings and modern facilities.
  • Resources include residence halls, research labs, art studios, nursing simulation centers, student tech hubs, and campus farm facilities.
  • Active on-campus life with events celebrating diverse cultures, leadership, and community engagement.

Athletics & Traditions

  • NCAA Division II, competing as the Lincoln Blue Tigers.
  • Offers men’s and women’s basketball, track & field, football, softball, golf, cross country, and volleyball.
  • Track & field teams have won multiple NCAA championships.
  • Traditions include Founders Day, Homecoming, and Blue Tiger Fest.

Mission

  • Advances access to higher education and the development of integrity, leadership, and lifelong learning in a diverse, inclusive environment.
  • Committed to preparing graduates to excel in their professions and communities, with a focus on service, research, and global citizenship.

Leadership & Current Developments

  • Led by a President and a Board of Curators, comprised of community and alumni leaders.
  • Ongoing upgrades to campus infrastructure and technology.
  • Strategic focus on enrollment growth, retention initiatives, expanded online learning, and innovation in agriculture research.

Programs

  • Undergraduate: Biology, Chemistry, Criminal Justice, Social Work, Business Administration, Nursing, Education, Computer Science, Agriculture, Visual Arts, Journalism, Music, Mathematics, among others.
  • Graduate: Master of Education, MBA (Master of Business Administration), Master of Science in Environmental Science, and other certificates and post-bacc programs.
  • Certification: Teacher certification, online learning, agricultural extension programs.

Campus Life

  • Engaged student life with residence hall communities, intramural sports, Greek life, and volunteer service opportunities.
  • Diversity and Inclusion Center, wellness and counseling services, and career development programs support students holistically.
  • Regular workshops, cultural festivals, speaker series, and networking events.

Student Organizations

  • More than 40 clubs, including academic societies, cultural groups, professional organizations, student government, honor societies, fraternities and sororities, and special interest clubs (e.g., performing arts, STEM, media, business).
  • Opportunities for leadership development, community outreach, and regional/national competitions.