Voorhees University
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Overview & Academics
Voorhees University is a private, historically Black institution located in Denmark, South Carolina. Established in 1897 by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, it is affiliated with the Episcopal Church. The university offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs designed to empower students through liberal arts education and professional development. Academic offerings include bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and a doctor’s degree in professional practice. Academic departments cover business, education, sciences, humanities, social sciences, and religion.
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Admissions
- Application portal available online via the Voorhees University website
- Rolling admissions process
- Requirements include a completed application, official transcripts, standardized test scores (optional in some cases), letters of recommendation, and an essay
- Open to both first-time freshmen, transfer, and graduate students
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Cost
- Undergraduate Tuition (per year): Roughly $12,630
- Room and Board: Approximately $8,200 annually
- Fees and Additional Costs: Approx. $1,430
- Financial aid is available to eligible students, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study
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Student Population
- Total Enrollment: About 600–800 students
- Student body is predominantly African American, with a diverse representation of ethnicities and backgrounds
- Low student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention
- Majority of students are traditional undergraduates, with a growing number of graduate and professional students
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Rankings & Distinctions
- Recognized as a Historically Black College/University (HBCU)
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Member of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF)
- Celebrated for community engagement and leadership development
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Campus & Culture
- Rural campus on 365 acres in Denmark, South Carolina
- Core buildings include historic Booker T. Washington Hall and St. Philip’s Chapel
- Safe, close-knit, and supportive environment celebrating cultural heritage
- Regular events: Founders’ Day, Homecoming, Religious Emphasis Week, and Spring Fest
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Athletics & Traditions
- Teams known as the “Voorhees Tigers”
- National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) affiliation
- Sports include basketball, track and field, volleyball, golf, and cross-country
- Long-standing rivalries and spirited traditions enhance the campus experience
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Mission
The mission of Voorhees University is to foster a student-centered living and learning environment, dedicated to developing productive citizens who embody ethical leadership, service, lifelong learning, and spiritual development.
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Leadership & Current Developments
- President: Dr. Ronnie Hopkins
- Continuation of strategic initiatives focused on academic innovation, infrastructure improvements, and increased partnerships
- Recent transition from “Voorhees College” to “Voorhees University” in 2022, signaling expanded academic offerings and research capacity
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Programs
- Bachelor’s Degrees: Business Administration, Child Development, Criminal Justice, Sport Management, Psychology, Biology, Health and Human Services, and more
- Master of Education in Teaching and Learning
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
- Pre-professional and certificate programs available
- Emphasis on experiential learning, internships, service learning, and research
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Campus Life
- Residential options include residence halls and off-campus housing support
- Dining facilities provide healthy meal options and accommodate dietary needs
- Library, computer labs, recreation center, and wellness services available
- Spiritual life is integrated into campus programs reflecting the university’s Episcopal heritage
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Student Organizations
- Student Government Association (SGA)
- Greek-letter fraternities and sororities (NPHC)
- Academic clubs, performing arts groups, honor societies
- Community service organizations and special interest clubs
- Opportunities for student leadership, advocacy, and engagement
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Admission stats
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 64%
- Average SAT Range (optional): 830–970
- Average ACT Range (optional): 15–18
- First-year retention rate: About 50–55%
- Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; encouraged to apply by spring for fall entry


