
100 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC 28216-5398, USA


Courtesy of Johnson C Smith University
Johnson C Smith University began in 1867 as the Biddle Memorial Institute, founded to provide educational opportunities for African Americans during the Reconstruction era. Originally established as a preparatory school, it evolved over several decades, broadening its focus to higher education. The institution was renamed Johnson C Smith University in 1923 after a significant donation from Jane Berry Smith, the widow of a prominent businessman, whose support helped expand its academic programs and facilities.
The university has a longstanding reputation for emphasizing liberal arts education while serving as a historically Black college dedicated to cultivating leadership and community engagement. Over time, it has developed increased academic offerings and adapted to changing educational demands, yet it retains its original mission to empower students through comprehensive and inclusive learning experiences.
Johnson C Smith University continues to honor its origins by fostering diversity, academic excellence, and social responsibility, positioning itself as a meaningful choice for students seeking a rich historical legacy along with rigorous education.
Johnson C Smith University offers a diverse range of academic faculties and departments designed to cater to the varied interests of prospective students. The university emphasizes liberal arts education while also providing professional studies that prepare students for specific careers.
The institution houses a School of Arts and Sciences, which includes departments such as English, History, Political Science, and Sociology, offering a foundation in humanities and social sciences. Similarly, the sciences are well-represented through departments focusing on Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics, equipping students with critical analytical and scientific skills.
For those interested in business and economics, the university offers programs through its School of Business, which covers key areas including Accounting, Business Administration, and Management. This faculty aims to develop students' competencies for the corporate and entrepreneurial world.
Education is another significant faculty at Johnson C Smith University, preparing future educators through programs in Elementary and Secondary Education. These programs focus on pedagogical methods and classroom management to ready graduates for teaching careers.
The university also supports fine arts and communications disciplines, with departments that provide training in areas such as Music, Theatre, and Mass Communication, enriching students' creative and expressive abilities.
Johnson C Smith University is situated in the South Charlotte neighborhood at 100 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC 28216-5398. This location offers students access to various urban amenities within the city of Charlotte, a growing metropolitan area.
The university's address places it within reach of Charlotte Douglas International Airport, facilitating travel for both domestic and international students. The campus is integrated into a vibrant part of the city, providing convenient connections to local transportation and services important to student life.
Johnson C Smith University aims to provide a comprehensive educational experience that prepares students for leadership and service in a diverse, global society. The university emphasizes intellectual growth, critical thinking, and ethical development through a curriculum that integrates liberal arts and professional studies.
The institution's vision centers on cultivating graduates who are socially responsible and equipped to contribute positively to their communities and professions. It fosters an environment that encourages innovation, inclusivity, and lifelong learning, supporting students in realizing their full potential both academically and personally.
Through its mission and vision, Johnson C Smith University commits to nurturing a student body that values integrity, cultural awareness, and civic engagement, ensuring that education extends beyond the classroom to impact wider society meaningfully.
Name of the institution
Johnson C Smith UniversityLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PrivateSetting type
City: LargeInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
1,000 - 4,999School type
Comprehensive higher education institutionMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1867
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Certificate of less than 1 year
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Associate's degree
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Biology, General
$22,878Business Administration, Management and Operations
$32,622Chemistry
Data not availableCommunication and Media Studies
$20,770Computer and Information Sciences, General
Data not availableComputer Engineering
Data not availableCriminology
$34,747Dance
Data not availableEconomics
Data not availableEnglish Language and Literature, General
Data not availableHealth and Physical Education/Fitness
$19,337Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
Data not availableHistory
Data not availableLiberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Data not availableMathematics
Data not availableMental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
Data not availableMulti/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
Data not availableMusic
Data not availablePolitical Science and Government
Data not availablePsychology, General
Data not availableRomance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
Data not availableSocial Work
$23,981Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
Data not availableVisual and Performing Arts, General
Data not available