Benedict College is a historically black, liberal arts college located in Columbia, South Carolina. Founded in 1870 by northern Baptists, it was originally a teachers' college. It has since expanded into a four-year college. It’s nickname is Tigers and the University is member of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Their colors are Purple and gold and their motto is A Power for Good in Society.

Location:
1600 Harden Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29204-1086
Phone: (803) 256-4220
Website: www.benedict.edu
Type: 4-year, Private not-for-profit
Awards offered:
Bachelor's degree
Campus setting:
City: Midsize
Campus housing: Yes
Student population: 3,137 (all undergraduate)
Student-to-faculty ratio: 19 to 1
History

• Benedict College was founded in 1870 on a 110-acre (45 ha) plantation in Columbia, South Carolina.
• On November 2, 1894, the institution was chartered as a liberal arts college by the South Carolina Legislature and the name Benedict Institute was changed to Benedict College.
• From 1870 to 1930, Benedict College was led by seven northern white Baptist ministers, all college trained.
• On April 10, 1930, the Reverend John J. Starks, who earned his bachelor's degree from the college in 1891, became the first African American president of the college.

Campus

The college is currently implementing a $50 million campus improvement plan, which includes land acquisition and the completion of a comprehensive athletics complex. Campus facilities improvements over the past nine years have included installation of air-conditioning, fire sprinkler systems, and security systems in residence halls; completion of an activities field and community park; renovation of historic Antisdel Chapel, Bacoats and Alumni Halls, and restoration of historic Morgan, Pratt, and Starks Halls, including the Student Leadership Development Center. During this period, new construction has included three residence halls, a parking garage, a campus center/dining hall, an Administration Building, and a Business Development Center. Additionally buildings were acquired to house a fitness center, and the Division of Community Development/Center for Excellence. Three apartment complexes have been purchased for student housing.

Academics

Maintaining a liberal arts tradition, Benedict College now offers bachelor degree programs in twenty-nine major areas of study to meet the needs of a complex and technological society at home and worldwide as the 21st century sets new parameters for peoples across the universe.

• Benedict offers 29 degrees from 12 departments.
• Benedict College is ranked as one of the top producers of African American Physics majors in the United States.
• In addition to offering traditional education, the college also offers continuing education for those “non traditional students”.

Facilities

• 25,000 Square Feet
• Office Space
• Computer Literacy Classroom
• Multipurpose Conference Room
• Well Lit Parking Area
• Rental Reception Area
• Meeting Room Rental
• Smart Classroom with Teleconferencing
• Aesthetic Waiting Room Area
• 24/7 Security Patrol

Source: Benedict College