
1055 North Bickett Road P.O. Box 1001, Wilberforce, OH 45384, USA


Wilberforce University holds the distinction of being one of the oldest private historically Black universities in the United States. Founded in 1856, it was established through a collaboration between the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Cincinnati-based Union Association, aiming to provide higher education opportunities to African American students. The university's inception was part of a broader movement during the mid-19th century to create educational institutions that would empower Black Americans socially and economically.
Throughout its history, Wilberforce University has faced significant challenges, including the destruction of its original buildings by fire in 1865. Despite this setback, the university quickly rebuilt and continued its mission to educate students. Over the years, it has maintained a commitment to liberal arts education, while also adapting its programs to meet the evolving needs of its student body.
Wilberforce University's founding represented both a religious and educational milestone, as it became the first college owned and operated by African Americans. This unique governance structure contributed to a legacy of self-determination and community leadership. The university's enduring presence underscores its role as a foundational institution in the pursuit of educational and societal advancement for African Americans.
Wilberforce University offers a diverse range of faculties and departments designed to serve the academic interests of prospective students. The university's academic structure includes programs in the liberal arts, sciences, and professional studies, providing a broad spectrum of educational opportunities.
Students can choose from departments such as Humanities and Social Sciences, which cover subjects like history, sociology, and English. The university also maintains strong programs in Natural Sciences and Mathematics, focusing on disciplines that prepare students for careers in science and technology.
Additionally, Wilberforce University hosts a School of Business that emphasizes fundamental principles of business administration, accounting, and economics, catering to those interested in management and entrepreneurial careers. The university's commitment to education extends to the School of Education, where future educators receive training in pedagogical methods and classroom management.
These faculties collectively offer students a range of disciplines to explore, supporting both academic and professional development in multiple fields of study.
Wilberforce University is situated in Wilberforce, Ohio, within the Midwest region of the United States. The campus is located at 1055 North Bickett Road, P. O. Box 1001, Wilberforce, OH 45384. This location places the university within reasonable proximity to Dayton International Airport, facilitating accessible travel options for students and visitors.
Wilberforce University emphasizes providing a comprehensive education that nurtures both intellectual growth and character development in its students. The institution seeks to prepare individuals to become leaders and responsible citizens who can contribute meaningfully to society. This is achieved through a curriculum that integrates academic rigor with ethical and social awareness, encouraging critical thinking and community engagement.
The university's vision underscores a commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment that supports diverse perspectives and promotes lifelong learning. It aspires to cultivate graduates who are equipped to navigate and address the complexities of a rapidly changing world, balancing professional expertise with a strong sense of social responsibility.
Name of the institution
Wilberforce UniversityLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PrivateSetting type
Rural: FringeInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
Under 1,000Religious affiliation
Data not availableSchool type
Comprehensive higher education institutionMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1856
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
Accounting and Related Services
Data not availableBiology, General
Data not availableBusiness Administration, Management and Operations
Data not availableBusiness, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
$39,085Communication and Media Studies
Data not availableComputer and Information Sciences, General
Data not availableComputer Engineering
Data not availableComputer Science
Data not availableCriminal Justice and Corrections
Data not availableElectrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
Data not availableEnglish Language and Literature, General
Data not availableEnglish Language and Literature/Letters, Other
Data not availableHealth and Medical Administrative Services
Data not availableLiterature
Data not availableManagement Information Systems and Services
Data not availableMarketing
Data not availableMechanical Engineering
Data not availableMusic
Data not availableNuclear Engineering
Data not availablePolitical Science and Government
Data not availablePsychology, General
Data not availablePublic Health
Data not availablePublic Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
Data not availableRehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
Data not availableSocial Work
Data not availableSociology
Data not availableSurveying Engineering
Data not available