Overview
Allen University was founded in 1870 by the African Methodist Episcopal Church, making it one of the oldest historically Black colleges in South Carolina, established shortly after the Civil War to provide education for formerly enslaved people and their descendants. The university has a long tradition of producing educators, ministers, and community leaders, and it remains closely tied to its founding church's mission of faith-based education and social uplift. It is a small, private, liberal arts-oriented institution that emphasizes personal attention and community engagement over research output.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Columbia, South Carolina |
| Founded | 1870 |
| Total students | 1,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 45% |
| Graduation rate | 30% |
| Average starting salary | $35,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $13,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $13,000 |
| Room & board | $8,500 |
| Average financial aid | $9,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 95% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 750-900 |
| ACT range | 14-18 |
| Average GPA | 2.70 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Criminal Justice
- Religion and Philosophy
- Social Work
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.