Philander Smith University
The Vibe Check
Philander Smith College offers a close-knit, family-like atmosphere where students are not just numbers but individuals known by name. The campus feels like a supportive community hub, with small class sizes fostering deep connections among peers and professors. It's an intimate urban campus where you can feel the pulse of Little Rock just beyond the gates.
Academics & Majors
The college provides a strong liberal arts foundation with notable strengths in Business, Biology, and Criminal Justice. Teaching quality is high, with faculty who are accessible and invested in student success rather than just research output. While research opportunities exist, they are often tailored to undergraduate engagement, providing hands-on experience.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Little Rock
Little Rock offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, with students frequenting the River Market District for dining and entertainment. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking and biking trails at Pinnacle Mountain State Park or exploring the Big Dam Bridge. The city also has a growing arts scene and minor league sports teams for weekend fun.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($38,427):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in an urban setting and maintains its own campus security patrols and emergency alert systems. While the surrounding city of Little Rock has typical urban crime rates, the campus itself is generally considered secure, though students are advised to remain aware of their surroundings.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors.
- ✓ Generous financial aid packages make it accessible for low-income students.
- ✓ Located in Little Rock provides access to internships and urban amenities.
- ✓ Strong historical ties and a mission focused on service and leadership.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate is below the national average, suggesting student retention challenges.
- ✗ Smaller campus size limits the variety of extracurriculars and facilities compared to larger universities.
- ✗ Median alumni earnings are lower than many peer institutions.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Philander Smith is known for its historic role as a private, liberal arts institution with ties to the United Methodist Church. It is recognized for its small, intimate class sizes and a strong focus on serving underrepresented communities, particularly through its Center for Social Justice. The college emphasizes a holistic education focused on leadership, service, and academic excellence in a supportive environment.
Philander Smith College is generally considered accessible, with an acceptance rate that is not highly restrictive. While specific admissions data can vary, the college focuses on a holistic review process that values essays, recommendations, and personal history over just test scores (as it is test-optional). The average GPA of admitted students typically falls around 3.0 to 3.5, making it a viable option for students with solid academic records.
Campus life is intimate and community-oriented due to the small enrollment of roughly 842 students. Students often describe the environment as a 'big family,' where everyone knows each other, fostering strong peer support networks. While the campus is small, students engage in Greek life, student government, and various clubs, often supplementing social life with the offerings of nearby downtown Little Rock.
For students who take advantage of financial aid (which 71.4% of the student body does), the cost is relatively low compared to many private institutions. However, prospective students should weigh the lower-than-average median earnings of alumni ($38,427) against the degree cost. It is worth the investment for those who leverage the personalized faculty attention to secure strong internships or pursue graduate education, which can boost long-term earning potential.
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University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,146
- In-State Tuition $13,014
- Zip Code 72202
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $15,360 and a Pell Grant rate of 71.4%, the college is relatively affordable for students receiving financial aid. However, the 10-year median earnings of $38,427 are below the national average for college graduates, suggesting that while the upfront cost is manageable, the immediate return on investment may require strategic career planning. For students minimizing debt through scholarships and grants, the value proposition is significantly stronger.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.