Overview
Founded in 1867 as the Biddle Memorial Institute, Johnson C. Smith University is a private, historically Black university located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Originally established to educate freed slaves in the aftermath of the Civil War, the institution was renamed in 1923 in honor of Johnson C. Smith after a substantial donation from Jane Berry Smith. The university has a long legacy of producing Black educators, ministers, and professionals, and it maintains an affiliation with the Presbyterian Church. JCSU is recognized for its small class sizes, personalized instruction, and commitment to expanding access to higher education for underrepresented students.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Charlotte, North Carolina |
| Founded | 1867 |
| Total students | 1,300 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 13:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 58% |
| Graduation rate | 35% |
| Average starting salary | $38,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $18,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $18,000 |
| Room & board | $10,500 |
| Average financial aid | $16,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 95% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 790-970 |
| ACT range | 15-19 |
| Average GPA | 2.90 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.