Overview
Founded in 1870 by Bathsheba A. Benedict and the American Baptist Home Mission Society, Benedict College was established to educate formerly enslaved people in the aftermath of the Civil War. It grew from a small school offering basic education into a four-year liberal arts institution, becoming one of the nation's historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) with a mission centered on academic transformation, character development, and leadership training. The college is particularly known for its rigorous personal and career development curriculum and its focus on serving students who may be academically underprepared but show strong potential.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Columbia, South Carolina |
| Founded | 1870 |
| Total students | 1,900 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 14:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 46% |
| Graduation rate | 28% |
| Average starting salary | $36,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $19,800 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $19,800 |
| Room & board | $9,500 |
| Average financial aid | $16,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 95% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 750-950 |
| ACT range | 14-18 |
| Average GPA | 2.80 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Computer Science
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.