Livingstone College

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Livingstone College

  • Overview & Academics

    Livingstone College is a private, historically Black Christian college located in Salisbury, North Carolina. Established in 1879, it is affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church and offers a liberal arts education with a commitment to social justice, leadership, and service. Livingstone College awards certificates, associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and a master’s degree in the School of Graduate Studies.

    The academic structure includes the Division of Liberal Arts and Humanities, Division of Mathematics and Sciences, School of Business, School of Education, and the School of Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts. Noteworthy programs include Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Sport Management, Computer Information Systems, and Biology, among others.

  • Admissions

    Livingstone College practices a holistic admissions process. Prospective students are evaluated on the basis of high school GPA, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT, though test-optional in some years), recommendation letters, an essay, and extracurricular involvement. Transfer and international students have additional requirements regarding transcripts and English proficiency.

  • Cost

    Tuition and fees for undergraduate students are approximately $18,296 per year, with additional costs for room and board estimated at around $9,100. Books, supplies, and personal expenses may bring the total annual cost to between $28,000 and $30,000. Financial aid is available, and more than 90% of students receive assistance through grants, scholarships, and work-study.

  • Student Population

    The student body consists of approximately 980 undergraduate and graduate students, with a demographic profile reflecting strong African American representation. The male-to-female ratio is nearly balanced, and students hail primarily from North Carolina and surrounding states, with some from across the U.S. and internationally.

  • Rankings & Distinctions

    Livingstone College is recognized as a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) and has earned regional recognition for its commitment to community service, workforce development, and alumni achievement. It is an active member of the United Negro College Fund.

  • Campus & Culture

    The 40-acre campus is situated near downtown Salisbury. Notable features include historic architecture, a modern student center, residential halls, dedicated science and business facilities, a library, chapel, and computer labs. The college fosters a supportive, close-knit community with a focus on leadership, ethics, and service.

  • Athletics & Traditions

    Livingstone College’s athletic teams, known as the Blue Bears, compete in NCAA Division II and are members of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). Sports include football, basketball, track and field, volleyball, bowling, cross country, and softball. The annual Homecoming and classic games are celebrated campus traditions.

  • Mission

    Livingstone College’s mission is to provide quality education, foster academic excellence, and empower graduates to assume leadership roles in a global society, rooted in Christian faith and social responsibility.

  • Leadership & Current Developments

    The college is led by its president and a board of trustees, with a vision for strategic investment in academics, campus infrastructure, and student services. Recent developments include technology upgrades, expanded career services, and the launch of contemporary degree programs in response to labor demands.

  • Programs

    • Bachelor’s Degrees: Biology, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Computer Information Systems, Elementary Education, English, Sport Management, Sociology, Liberal Studies, etc.
    • Associate’s Degrees: General Studies, Early Childhood Education
    • Certificates: Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, and others
    • Master’s Degree: Offered in select fields within the School of Graduate Studies (availability may vary)
  • Campus Life

    Students enjoy a vibrant campus life, with residence halls, dining facilities, wellness resources, and spaces for engagement. Campus events, cultural celebrations, spiritual life opportunities, and leadership training are central to the student experience.

  • Student Organizations

    • Student Government Association (SGA)
    • Greek life including historically black fraternities and sororities
    • Academic clubs (Biology, Business, Criminal Justice)
    • Performing arts groups: Choir, band, drama
    • Religious life organizations and service groups
    • Special interest clubs: debate, STEM, honor societies
  • Admission Stats

    Livingstone College typically has an acceptance rate between 50–65%. The average admitted student has a high school GPA of around 2.6–3.0. SAT/ACT scores are considered but frequently optional. The college operates on a rolling admissions basis, making it accessible for traditional, non-traditional, and transfer students.