Lane College

What is the history of Lane College?

Lane College is a private, historically Black college founded in 1882 in Jackson, Tennessee. It was established by the Colored Methodist Episcopal Church, now the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, to expand educational opportunities for Black students after the Civil War.

The college's name honors Bishop Isaac Lane, a leader in its founding. Lane's history remains relevant to applicants today: it is a church-affiliated institution with a liberal arts mission, not a religious seminary, and its campus traditions include both academic ceremonies and chapel gatherings.

What are the faculties and departments at Lane College?

Lane College is primarily an undergraduate institution offering bachelor's degree programs across the liberal arts, sciences, education, business, and professional fields. Its offerings include biology, chemistry, computer science, English, mathematics, communication, criminal justice, sociology, and business administration.

Students considering a major should check the current academic catalog for its required courses, available concentrations, and graduation requirements. An interest in teaching or another licensed profession warrants an additional question: whether the particular program meets the requirements for licensure in the state where the student intends to work. Institutional accreditation alone does not establish that.

What is the location of Lane College?

Lane College is in Jackson, Tennessee, between Memphis and Nashville. Its campus sits in a small-city setting rather than a large metropolitan area, a distinction that can affect commuting, internships, and access to services off campus.

Students can live on campus or make their own commuting arrangements. First-year students are permitted to register or park a car on campus, although they should check current parking rules and costs. Memphis International Airport is a regional flight option, but reaching it from Jackson requires planning for a substantial ground trip.

What is the mission and vision of Lane College?

Lane College describes its educational purpose in terms of liberal arts learning, intellectual development, and preparation for service and leadership. Its identity as a historically Black college and its affiliation with the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church are central to that stated mission.

Prospective students can expect the college's religious heritage to be visible in campus life, including chapel programming. That affiliation should not be confused with a requirement that every student pursue religious study; applicants who want to know how chapel attendance or other institutional expectations apply to them should review the current student handbook.