Month: May 2022

Explore HBCU – Mississippi Valley State University

Staff Writer
May 31, 2022

Mississippi Valley State University is a public, historically black university located in Mississippi Valley State, Mississippi.

Background

Under the Mississippi Legislature in 1946, the Mississippi Vocational College was established with the express purpose to provide vocational training and to instruct teachers for rural and elementary schools. The college opened in the summer of 1950 to an enrollment of 14 students and seven faculty members.

The college initially offered a Bachelor of Science degree in 14 areas in addition to providing  Extension Services. In 1964, the curriculum was expanded as the school was authorized to offer the liberal arts degree, as well as science and education degrees. The name of the institution was changed to Mississippi Valley State College, and ten years later, the name was again changed to Mississippi Valley State University with the expansion of program offerings.

Today, Mississippi Valley State University is a Carnegie Classified Master’s University accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate and master’s degrees.

Programs & Opportunities

Mississippi Valley State University acknowledges the academic program as the core service of the university. As such, educational offerings are delivered by a fleet of highly qualified educators who act as experts of the curriculum and instruction. 

As a Carnegie Classified Master’s University, MVSU provides comprehensive undergraduate and graduate areas of study, offering course engagement leading to the awarding of baccalaureate degrees in the arts, science, music education, social work, and master’s degrees in science, social work, and business administration.

To facilitate a well-rounded overall educational experience, students are also offered multi-faceted and diverse participation in social, cultural, and recreational activities.

Learn more about programming at Mississippi Valley State University here. 

Alumni Affairs

Mississippi Valley State University is an institution of higher education with a learner-focused environment meant to prepare critical thinkers, exceptional communicators, and engaged, service-oriented citizens.

Some notable alumni include, but are not limited to:

  • Dr. Gary A. McGaha, Ph.D.—educator and President of Atlanta Metropolitan State College—graduated from Mississippi Valley State University with a bachelor’s degree in social science.
  • Katie Hall—politician who served as a former United States Representative—graduated from Mississippi Valley State University with a degree in political science.
  • Bryant Clark—Mississippi State Representative and lawyer—graduated from MVSU with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology.

Financial Information

At Mississippi Valley State University, based on full-time enrollment for undergraduate students at 12 credit hours, tuition and fees are an estimated $6,402 for an academic year. For full-time enrollment of graduate students at 9 credit hours, tuition and fees are an estimated $3,600. 

As non-resident fees are not assessed, cost of in-state and out-of-state tuition remains the same for students of comparable study level. Total cost of attendance will vary depending on indirect components of study costs such as those of books & supplies, personal, transportation, and housing fees. 

Financial aid opportunities at MVSU are available to ensure there are minimal to no financial barriers within the university’s control that prevent students from earning their degrees.

Conclusion

At MVSU, the mission to create extraordinary educational opportunities for the Mississippi Delta and beyond remains of the utmost importance. The university is committed to excellence in teaching, learning, service, and research.

Learn more about Mississippi Valley State University here.

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Explore HBCU – Jackson State University

Staff Writer
May 26, 2022

Jackson State University is a public, historically Black university in Jackson, Mississippi.

Background

Jackson State University was founded as Natchez Seminary in 1877 by the American Baptist Home Mission Society in Natchez, Mississippi. In November of 1882, the school was moved to Jackson, Mississippi and seven years later, the curriculum was expanded and the name changed to Jackson College.

By 1940, the state of Mississippi assumed support of the college and assigned the school the mission of training teachers. As the curriculum continued to evolve, a graduate program and bachelor’s program in the arts and sciences became included, preceding the college’s name change to Jackson State College in 1956.

Jackson State continued to expand its undergraduate and graduate curriculum along with the addition of notable building and infrastructure changes, and in March of 1974 the school obtained university status. Jackson State University was officially designated the Urban University of the State of Mississippi in 1979, and has since grown to serve the Mississippi community as a public, coeducational institution supported by legislative appropriations, student fees, and federal and private grants.

Programs & Opportunities

Presently, Jackson State University’s eight schools are organized into five colleges: Business, Education and Human Development, Liberal Arts, Public Service, and Science, Engineering and Technology. 

As a comprehensive urban research university, academic offerings culminate in research and service at the baccalaureate, masters, specialist, and doctoral levels: JSU offers over 40 bachelor degree programs, over 30 master’s degrees, 11 doctoral degrees, and three specialist-in-education degrees.

As for student life, JSU’s over 200 plus acre campus location hosts more than 130 student clubs, leadership organizations, academic and social activities, internship/co-op, job counseling, and study abroad programs. In addition to extracurricular activities, there are on-campus artistic, sporting, and volunteering opportunities, all paired with JSU’s award-winning marching band, the Sonic Boom of the South.

Learn more about Jackson State University here.

Alumni Affairs

Jackson State University’s historic mission of empowering diverse students to become leaders has resulted in a challenging, state-of-the-art technologically-infused intellectual community set on nurturing its inhabitants. 

Some notable JSU alumni include, but are not limited to:

  • Felicia C. Adams, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science from Jackson State University.
  • Percy Green, founder of the Jackson Advocate, Mississippi’s oldest black-owned newspaper, attended Jackson State. 
  • Rod Paige, former U.S. Secretary of Education, graduated from Jackson State University with a bachelor’s degree.
  • Tonea Steward, actress and university professor, graduated from Jackson State with a bachelor’s degree in Speech and Theatre.

Financial Information

Depending on academic program, student classification, number of hours attempted, residency status, and housing and meal preferences, the cost of attendance for students at JSU may vary. For undergraduate students pursuing a course load of 12-credit hours and higher, in-state tuition is $4,135 while out-of-state tuition is $4,635. For graduate students, in-state resident tuition is $460 per credit hour while out-of-state tuition is two times that price at $960 per credit hour.

The Financial Aid Office at Jackson State University coordinates financial assistance (federal, state, institutional, and private) with the fundamental purpose of making education more accessible for students.

Conclusion

At Jackson State, students and faculty alike engage in creative research, participate in multi-institutional collaborative learning initiatives, and strive to become global leaders who think critically and can properly address societal problems.

Learn more about Jackson State University here.

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Explore HBCU – Coahoma Community College

Staff Writer
May 24, 2022

Coahoma Community College is a public, historically black community college in Coahoma County, Mississippi.

Background

Coahoma County Agricultural High School was established in 1924 as the first agricultural high school in Mississippi for Black people under the “separate but equal” doctrine of the time. In 1949, the junior college curriculum was added and the name of the institution was changed to Coahoma Junior College and Agricultural High School.

While Coahoma Junior College was supported entirely by county funds in its first year, by 1950 the school became the first educational institution for Black individuals to be included in Mississippi’s public junior colleges system, and therefore able to share in funds appropriated by the Mississippi Legislature for the support of public junior colleges.

The school desegregated in 1965, welcoming students “regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, or disability.” Then, with the approval of the Board of Trustees of Coahoma Junior College and the State Board for Community and Junior Colleges, Coahoma Junior College’s name was changed to Coahoma Community College in 1989. In the six years following, a bill was introduced that also gave Coahoma Community College its own district. 

Today, Coahoma is spread across a 99-acre campus bordered by a serene and picturesque lake, a school site conducive to wholesome recreation and scholarship.

Programs & Opportunities

As a two-year, accredited, public, and comprehensive institution of higher learning, Coahoma Community College offers a varied range of study. The college offers 17 Career and Technical Programs, five short-term programs, and the university parallel general education program with 61 areas of study. 

Classes are conducted in person, online, and at extension sites within a service area that spans five counties: Bolivar, Coahoma, Tallahatchie, Tunica, and Quitman counties. There are also a wide array of activities offered to allow students to develop socially as well as leadership ability and community involvement. Support services in the form of clubs & organizations, counseling services, access to a career center, mentoring opportunities, student activities including religious, media, student government, and intramural sport offerings are available. 

Learn more about Coahoma Community College’s programming here.

Alumni Affairs

Coahoma Community College is committed to serving as a catalyst for social and economic development within the Northwest Mississippi Delta region and beyond. Coahoma alumni are often students who work to maintain the educational tradition of Coahoma through the fostering of creative connections with the greater community.

Some notable Coahoma Community College alumni include, but are not limited to:

  • Joe Sargent—Social Worker and Director of Social Services at the Tucker House Nursing and Rehabilitation Center—earned an Associate’s degree in Social Science Education from Coahoma Community College.
  • Donell Maxie—Director of Communications and Marketing at Mississippi Valley State University—earned an Associate’s degree in Journalism from Coahoma Community College.
  • Kendricks D. Hooker, Ph.D., MBA—Vice President of Academic Affairs at Southwest Tennessee Community College—earned an Associate’s degree in Biology from Coahoma Community College.
  • Kyndal M. Pointer—Area Manager at Amazon, Educator, Leadership Counsel Member at the Chicago Civil and Social Organization Equity and Transformation—studied at Coahoma Community College before going on to study at Howard University.

Financial Information

In an effort to provide accessible, diverse, equitable educational opportunities, the Coahoma Community College Office of Financial Aid works to help each student explore the options available to help fund academic pursuits. Sources of financial aid are available through federal, state, and institutional funding, with a wide array of scholarship opportunities made available through the college.

For day students enrolled full-time, tuition totals to approximately $1,525 per semester while part-time day students are charged $170 per credit hour; non-Mississippi residents are charged an out-of-state fee of $1,550 per semester. 

For evening students, tuition totals to $170 per semester hour, with an out-of-state tuition fee of $235 per credit hour. Additional fees for room and board, meals, transportation, international student classification, and more affect the total cost of attendance.

Conclusion

At Coahoma College, the students’ ability for college or university transfer and skilled entry into the workforce remains a top priority. An exceptional learning environment with a family-friendly atmosphere, Coahoma Community College aims to provide an ideal educational experience for all.

Learn more about Coahoma Community College here.

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Explore HBCU – Alcorn State University

Staff Writer
May 19, 2022

Alcorn State University is a public historically black land-grant institution in Lorman, Mississippi.

Background

Originally founded as Alcorn University in 1871, the institution’s establishment is due to Mississippi residents’ efforts to gain education for the descendants of formerly disenfranchised and enslaved African Americans. Alcorn University is the second-oldest state-supported institution of higher learning in the state of Missisissppi, and the oldest public historically black land-grant university in the United States.

In 1878 the university’s name was changed to Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College, where the curriculum was largely focused on preparing students for the agricultural economy of the state. While the college was originally exclusively for male students, women were allowed to be admitted in 1895, with a dormitory for women built in 1902.

In 1974, Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College became Alcorn State University after Governor William L. Waller signed a House Bill to grant the status. Since its conception, Alcorn has thrived by continuously setting and accomplishing dynamic goals despite limited resource allocation from the state. What began as a student body composed by 179 students has grown to a campus of over 4,000 students with varied backgrounds. The student population is now representative of over 65 Mississippi counties, 30 states of the US, and at least 18 foreign countries. 

Programs & Opportunities

Alcorn University aims to provide numerous opportunities for rigorous academic excellence. Through the university’s undergraduate and graduate program offerings, students are exposed to a variety of course teachings through Alcorn’s School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, School of Business, School of Education and Psychology, School of Nursing, and Graduate Studies (of which there are more than 15 study areas offered). 

Through a unified connection between academic and student life offering, Alcorn students are immersed in a globally minded university culture.

Learn more about Alcorn State University’s academic environment here.

Alumni Affairs

Alcorn State strives to be a worthy institution that prepares students to be the leaders of tomorrow.

Some notable alumni include, but are not limited to:

  • Civil rights activist Medgar Evans earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Alcorn. He also sang in the school choir, was a member of the debate team, played football and ran track, and was elected junior class president. 
  • Joseph Edison Walker—leading African American physician, businessman, and religious leader—graduated from Alcorn before attending the HBCU Meharry Medical College.
  • Katie Grays Dorsett, a Democratic member of the North Carolina General Assembly, attended Alcorn State where she completed her undergraduate degree work.

Financial Information

At Alcorn State University, undergraduate tuition rates are an estimated $3,645 for a 12 credit hour course load while graduate tuition rates are typically $3,645 for a 9 credit hour course load.

Additional fees include student activity fees ($15 per semester), technology fees ($20 per semester), and capital improvement fees ($50 per semester), as well as housing fees which differ depending on whether students reside on or off campus. Financial aid at Alcorn State University is intended to make the cost of matriculation more achievable, and as such the Office of Financial Aid is eager to help students obtain the assistance needed to bridge the gap between financial resources and payment.

Conclusion

Alcorn State University is a comprehensive institution that seeks to help diverse students develop into globally competitive leaders that ultimately benefit the surrounding communities, states, nations, and world.

Learn more about Alcorn State University here.

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Explore HBCU – Tuskegee University

Staff Writer
May 17, 2022

Tuskegee University is a private, historically black, land-grant institution in Tuskegee, Alabama.

Background

In 1880, Lewis Adams, a local Black leader who was formerly enslaved, pushed for the re-election of W.F. Foster in order to secure funding for an educational institution for black individuals in Alabama. Adams was successful, and as a result, a $2,000 appropriation was authorized for the school. By July of 1881, the Tuskegee Normal School for Colored Teachers was founded, with educator Booker T. Washington acting as principal of the school from its opening until his death in 1915.

While initial space and building for the school was provided by the Butler Chapel AME Zion Church, the campus was eventually moved to an abandoned plantation that spanned 100 acres. Independence was gained by the institution in 1892 when Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute was granted authority to act independent of the state of Alabama. 

Tuskegee obtained its university status in 1985, after which point the school became Tuskegee University. Today the institution has risen to national prominence with over 3,000 students on a campus that spans over 5,000 acres with more than 100 buildings. The University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Programs & Opportunities

Since its attainment of university status, Tuskegee has continued to expand its educational offerings. The College of Business and Information Sciences was established and professionally accredited, while the college of Engineering, Architecture and Physical Sciences was expanded to include an Aerospace Engineering Department. 

Doctoral programs in integrative biosciences and materials science and engineering are also offered, while Tuskegee’s Chemistry program is one of only a few HBCUs approved by the American Chemical Society.

Tuskegee University offers education at the undergraduate and graduate level, with more than 50 degree offerings Tuskegee also boasts many social organizations, co-curricular student initiatives, leadership opportunities, campus civic, religious organizations, Greek Letter, and intramural sport and recreational activities.

Learn more about what Tuskegee University has to offer here.

Alumni Affairs

Tuskegee University’s focus on the nurture and development of morally and intellectually guided individuals stresses the connection between education and a socially-conscious student body.

Some notable Tuskegee University alumni include, but are not limited to:

  • Jessica A. Scoffield—microbiologist and assistant professor in the Department of Microbiology at the University of Alabama’s school of medicine—graduated from Tuskegee University with undergraduate and graduate degrees in microbiology.
  • Milton C. Davis—lawyer who secured a full pardon for the last known surviving “Scottsboro Boy,” and first African American in Alabama to be named a State Assistant Attorney General—completed a bachelor’s degree in Political Science at Tuskegee
  • Amelia Boynton Robinson—activist, leader of the Civil Rights Movement in Selma, Alabama, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Freedom Medal awardee—graduated from Tuskegee University with a degree in home economics.
  • Lionel Richie—renowned singer and songwriter, producer, and television judge—graduated from Tuskegee University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics.

Financial Information

At Tuskegee University, due to the variety of academic study available, pricing options differ. For full-time undergraduate students, the most recent financial data reports an estimated tuition rate of $19,594 for a course load ranging between 12-18 credit hours in an academic year. For full-time graduate students with a range of 8-15 credit hours, financial data reports an estimated tuition rate of $20,378 for the academic year.

To ensure that eligible students have the opportunity to attend Tuskegee, the office of Student Financial Services manages financial aid and scholarship resources from university, federal, state, county, and private sources.

Conclusion

Tuskegee University continues to be an institution dedicated to the broad aims of advancing the education of the Black community and greater society. Tuskegee students are sensitively oriented in ways that produce publicly-spirited graduates who are committed to public service and scholarship. 

Learn more about Tuskegee University here.

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Explore HBCU – Talladega College

Staff Writer
May 12, 2022

Talladega College is a private, liberal arts, historically black college located in Talladega, Alabama.

Background

On November 20, 1865, William Savery and Thomas Tarrant—two formerly enslaved men both from Talladega—met with a group of other freedmen where they created the following pledge: “…We regard the education of our children and youths as vital to the preservation of our liberties, and true religion as the foundation of all real virtue, and shall use our utmost endeavors to promote these blessings in our common country.”

Guided by their pledge, Savery and Tarrant (along with the assistance of General Wager Swayne of the Freedmen’s Bureau) worked to provide a school for the children of the community born to formerly enslaved individuals. What originally began as a one-room schoolhouse that used lumber from an abandoned carpenter’s shop eventually transferred to a nearby Baptist Academy, and a surrounding 20 acres of land. The institution was originally named the Swayne School, and it opened in November of 1867. 

By 1869, the Swayne School was issued as a charter as Talladega College, and today Talladega College has over 1,300 students. Talladege has been listed among the Princeton Review’s best colleges in the Southeast, while also being placed in three U.S. News and World Report categories (Top Performers on Social Mobility, National Liberal Arts Colleges, and HBCUs.)

Programs & Opportunities

Talladega College offers a range of undergraduate course study across the divisions of Business Administration, Humanities and Fine Art, Natural Sciences and Mathematics, and Social Sciences and Education. Depending on course specificity and degree specialities, there are over 30 degree tracks available. Talladega College also recently launched its first graduate program, an online Master of Science in Computer Information Systems and Master of Business Administration.

In order to fulfill Talladega College’s vision to create an environment that focuses on the intellectual, social, spiritual, and physical growth of each student, students at Talladega are encouraged to become active participants in the Talladega community. There are a variety of student and leadership development, as well as community accountability activities offered, including that of Student Government and the National Pan-Hellenic Council.

Learn more about Talladega College’s academic offerings here.

Alumni Affairs

With a mission steeped in the equipment of its graduates for the global community, Talladega College emphasizes the importance of academic excellence, community service, and professional development.  

Some notable alumni include, but are not limited to:

  • Maxie Clarence Maultsby, Jr.—psychiatrist and author of several books on topics ranging from behavioral to emotional self-management—graduated from Talladega College with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
  • Nikema Williams—politician in the office of representatives and political executive for Georgia’s 5th congressional district—graduated from Talladega College with a Bachelor of Science degree.
  • Nikky Finney—distinguished poet, author, Professor of English at the University of Kentucky for twenty years, and advocate for social justice—graduated from Talladega College with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
  • William R. Harvey—educator and tenured president of HBCU Hampton University for over 40 years—graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Talladega College.

Financial Information

At Talladega, tuition is $6,065.00 for the typical 12-18 course load of students, whether on or off campus, or $505.41 per credit hour. Total cost of attendance (including technology, athletic, activity, activity center, room reservation, and room and board fees) for residential students ranges from an estimated $20,701 to $22,780. For non-residential students, without the inclusion of room reservation and room and board fees, total cost of attendance is an estimated $6,923. 

Financial aid opportunities (grants, scholarships, loans, and work study) are available to make the Talladega experience more financially feasible.

Conclusion

At Talladega College, students are prepared not only for graduate study but also for life as a part of the global community. Talladega aspires to be a center for excellence in liberal arts higher education.

Learn more about Talladega College here.

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Explore HBCU – Stillman College

Staff Writer
May 10, 2022

Stillman College is a private, liberal arts, historically black Presbyterian college in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Background

In 1875, the Tuscaloosa Institute was authorized by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States and held its first classes in the fall of the following year. By 1895, the institute was chartered as a legal corporation by the State of Alabama, and the name was changed to the Stillman Institute in honor of Dr. Charles Allen Stillman, a pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Tuscaloosa. 

The institute became coeducational in 1922, with a junior college being added just five years after. In the years since, Stillman has continued to collect accolades, becoming accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) in 1937, and by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) in 1953. Stillman has been a member of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) since 1961, and has received the National Innovation in Technology Award presented by Apple Computers in 2002. The school earned its first-ever ranking on the U.S. News and World Report list of top tier schools in 2004, and six years later was named 1 of the 15 most wired college campuses by the publication. 

Today, Stillman College is an institution proud of its rich and diverse heritage, committed to excellence in rigorous scholarship and service. Stillman’s physical campus now encompasses 25 buildings, while the college continues to expand in order to fulfill its plan for a “sense of place.” 

Programs & Opportunities

Stillman College has organized its academic affairs in three schools—Arts and Sciences, Education, and Business. In 2006, the college expanded its offering of degrees with the addition of journalism and nursing, and now students can enter over a total of 20 programs with different tracks and specializations. 

In order to enhance the college experience, Stillman also hosts numerous on-campus groups and extracurriculars for students to choose from, including Greek and Non-Greek programs, Choir, Band, Honda All-star Team, and a Safari club.

Learn more about Stillman College’s academic programming opportunities here.

Alumni Affairs

Through the fostering of experiential learning and community engagement, Stillman works to equip and empower students and members for leadership and service.

Some notable Stillman College alumni include, but are not limited to, 

  • Dr. Trudier Harris, PhD—a historian and professor of American Literature and Folklore—graduated with an undergraduate degree in English from Stillman College.
  • Michael Figures, lawyer and politician who served in the Alabama Senate, graduated from Stillman College with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
  • Ruth Eaton Cummings Bolden, a library founder and civil rights worker, earned her undergraduate education at Stillman College. 

Financial Information

At Stillman College, faculty and university officials hold firm the belief that all individuals are deserving of an education. As such, the institution strives to offer efficient financial assistance, along with prompt and customer friendly services to help students explore possible financing opportunities. 

While tuition for a standard 12-18 credit hours is $9,548 per academic year, with the use of loans, grants, and work study financing opportunities, education at Stillman College becomes that much more accessible.

Conclusion


At Stillman College, students are guided under the principles of faith and ethical integrity intrinsic to the Christian education they utilize. Stillman students are continuously exposed to assessment and improvement opportunities to increase favorable student outcomes, establish new partnerships, and serve the greater Tuscaloosa community.

Learn more about Stillman College here.

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Explore HBCU – Shelton State Community College

Staff Writer
May 5, 2022

Shelton State Community College is a public historically black community college in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Background

Shelton State Community College was established in 1979 as a result of an Alabama State Board of Education resolution, which resulted in the combination of two previously existing historically black institutions: Shelton State Community College and C.A. Fredd State Technical College (created in 1963 as the Tuscaloosa State Trade School originally).

After Shelton State Community College and the Tuscaloosa State Trade School consolidated into the Martin and C.A. Fredd campuses, respectively, the institution retained the name Shelton State Community College as its overarching moniker. The institution is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award the Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, and Associate in Applied Science degrees. The school also holds program accreditations in Practical Nursing Programs, Health Information Technology Program, and Respiratory Therapy Program.

Presently, Shelton State Community College is an open-admission, comprehensive community college whose main mission is to provide accessible postsecondary education and training to its students.

Programs & Opportunities

In all, Shelton State Community College has nearly 100 degrees, certificates, and technical training programs spanning across departments of Behavioral Sciences, Business/Computer Science, Fine Arts, Health, Wellness, Food & Nutrition, Humanities & Communication Arts, Language, Liberal Arts — General Studies, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and much more.

In addition to Shelton State’s academic, health, and technical programming, there are also opportunities available in eLearning, High School Programming, Workforce Development, Adult Education, Community Education, Student Support Services, and corporate partnerships and apprenticeships with companies such as Mercedes-Benz, Nucor, and BFGoodrich Tires.

Learn more about Shelton State Community College’s educational curricula here. 

Alumni Affairs

  • Tarrance L. Crump Jr.—Director of Player Development at DePaul University—attended Shelton State Community College, obtaining an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree.
  • Elaine Bivens—Birmingham-based dancer and choreographer, as well as a past health advisor at Pack Health—attended Shelton State Community College where Bivens studied Nursing.
  • Shantal Ochilly—Food Service Assistant at the DCH Regional Center, as well as a student at the University of Alabama studying Food and Nutrition—obtained an Associate in General Studies in Science degree followed by a Certificate in Wellness with a Health and Physical Education/Fitness focus at Shelton State Community College.

Financial Information

Shelton State works to make higher education accessible for everyone with a sticker price that is a fraction of the cost of traditional four-year colleges, universities, or for-profit vocational schools. 

For Alabama residents, in-state tuition and fees are $138.00 per credit hour, while non-residents pay $247.00 per credit hour. While Shelton State Community College does not participate in any federal or private loan program, more than half of Shelton State students receive financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, federal work-study, and other sources. Shelton State offers both instructional and athletic scholarships to qualified students.

Conclusion

Shelton State prioritizes creating an educational environment best suited to its students, preparing scholars for a real-world future with learning situated in a real-life context. Shelton utilizes on-campus leadership opportunities, progressive partnerships with local industry, and innovative instruction, all the while empowering students through commitment to excellence.

Learn more about Shelton State Community College here.

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Explore HBCU – Selma University

Staff Writer
May 3, 2022

Selma University is a private historically black university located in Selma, Alabama.

Background

In 1868 a group of like-minded Black Alabama pastors and their respective congregations united to form the Alabama State Colored Baptist Convention. The convention was later renamed the Alabama State Missionary Baptist Convention, and the assembly worked to strengthen local churches and better promote the Christian mission, evangelism, and education. 

The leaders of the convention felt that one of the most efficient methods to achieve their goal was to provide their congregation members with a Christian and liberal arts education, leading to the construction of a school to train preachers and teachers throughout the state who would go on to teach members of the congregation and larger community. The Convention established the school in Selma, Alabama and by 1878 classes were being held at Saint Phillips Street Baptist Church of Selma. The school’s name changed to Alabama Baptist Normal and Theological School of Selma in 1881, and in 1908 the institution’s name was again changed to Selma University.

In the late 1980s, Selma University became a four-year institution, becoming accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education in the United States and Canada in February of 2009. In October of 2013, the school received a ten-year reaffirmation of accreditation with the Association for Biblical Higher Education. 

Today, Selma University remains a major project of the Alabama Missionary Baptist State Convention. 

Programs & Opportunities

Selma University offers targeted academic programming with degree offerings such as: Associate of Arts in Theology, Associate of Arts in Health Science (Patient Care Technology track available), Bachelor of Theology and Christian Education, Bachelor of Science in Biology (Health Science and Physical Education track available), Bachelor of Arts in General Studies, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Biology (General track available),  Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Pastoral Ministry, Master of Arts in Bible and Pastoral Ministry (Pastoral Ministry), Master of Arts in Bible and Christian Education (Christian Education).

Selma University also makes it a priority to provide a variety of opportunities to develop the spiritual life of its students. Students are required to attend the “Selma University Family” tradition of Chapel/Convocation period on Wednesdays, to participate in Christian Service opportunities, and provided the chance to become involved with several extracurricular activities and other student life activities such as Founders’ Day, musical concerts, religious retreats, classes, and talent shows. Students are also offered both academic and personal career counseling through the Office of Academic Affairs. 

Learn more about Selma University’s educational curricula here.  

Alumni Affairs

Selma alumni become scholarly and devoted leaders in all the areas they choose to serve. Some notable Selma University alumni include, but are not limited to:

  • Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, studied classical music and choral singing at Selma. Dr. Clark became a nationally renowned gospel choir director. Dr. Clark is also the mother of the Grammy award-winning gospel group, The Clark Sisters. 
  • Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth earned a bachelor’s degree from Selma University in 1951. Called the “the most courageous civil rights fighter in the South” by Martin Luther King, Jr. Reverend Shuttlesworth was a major leader in the civil rights movement. Additionally, Reverend Shuttlesworth was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal by President Bill Clinton in 2001.
  • Autherine Lucy earned a teaching certificate from Selma University before going on to graduate from Miles College and becoming the first African American to attend the University of Alabama.

Financial Information

The total yearly cost of Selma University is a reported $9,380, composed of a $7,200 tuition, and an estimated $2,180 of room and board and other fees. For both in-state and out-of-state residents, Selma tuition remains a $7,200 universal price.

Selma University is not currently eligible to participate in the Federal Financial Aid program, but university officials are working diligently to regain eligibility for its students.

Conclusion

Selma University remains committed to creating communities of academic inquiry, fostering faithful members of society, and reaching students who may be disadvantaged and have been unable to achieve normal education opportunities.

The institution continues to change lives and strives to be a great producer of graduates who demonstrate the reciprocal tenets of Christian servant leadership. Students are taught and encouraged to help themselves and others, who will then help themselves, their families, and their greater communities.

Learn more about Selma University’s offerings here. 

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