About Allen University
Students pay an average net price of $11,081 after financial aid, with 79.77% receiving Pell Grants. Graduates earn a median of $30,497 ten years after graduation, but carry median debt of $34,290. The monthly loan payment of $364 represents a significant burden given typical starting salaries. The 13.82% loan repayment rate suggests many alumni struggle financially after graduation.
The student body is 90.24% Black and 57.01% male, creating a supportive environment for underrepresented students. However, academic outcomes present challenges. Only 13.20% of students graduate within six years, and just 11.11% finish in four years. The 90% retention rate shows students want to stay, but something prevents timely completion. With a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, personal attention exists for those who can navigate to graduation.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 16:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 52.2%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 11.1%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 13.2%
- Retention Rate
- 90.0%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $30,497
- Carnegie Classification
- Liberal Arts College
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $23,340 |
| Biology, General. | Bachelor | $18,315 |
Campus Life
Columbia's humid subtropical climate calls for lightweight clothes most of the year, though you'll need a jacket for brief winter months. Students are just minutes from downtown Columbia's restaurants and entertainment districts. The Yellow Jackets compete in 10 NCAA Division II sports, with 294 student-athletes representing nearly half the student body. Basketball games draw enthusiastic crowds during conference play.
Weekend life centers around campus activities and exploring Columbia's college town atmosphere. Many students participate in religious services reflecting the university's African Methodist Episcopal heritage. Greek organizations and student clubs provide social outlets. With 90% of students being Black, the campus celebrates African American culture through events, speakers, and traditions that honor the school's 150-year HBCU legacy.
- Setting
- City-Midsize
- Housing Capacity
- 425 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Founded
- 1870
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 36°–59°F
- July Avg
- 72°–95°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 48.1"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.2"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 57.0%
- Women
- 43.0%
- White
- 0.3%
- Black
- 90.2%
- Hispanic
- 3.3%
- Asian
- 0.0%
- In-State Students
- 64.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 79.8%
Location
- Address
- Columbia, South Carolina 29204
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $30,497
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $35,418
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $18,200
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 13.8%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $364/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $34,290
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Allen University?
Allen University accepts 43.36% of applicants, making admission moderately competitive. This historically black university in Columbia evaluates students well-roundedally, focusing on potential for success in its liberal arts programs. The 90% retention rate shows most admitted students choose to stay.
How much does Allen University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $11,081 after financial aid, lower than the $14,304 sticker price. Nearly 80% of students receive financial assistance, with the same percentage qualifying for Pell Grants. Low-income families typically pay around $10,536 annually.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Allen University?
The student-faculty ratio stands at 16:1, allowing for personalized attention in this small university of 635 students. Allen emphasizes close mentoring relationships between faculty and students. The intimate setting supports the university's mission of preparing graduates for careers in education, business, and ministry.
What are the graduation rates at Allen University?
Allen University has a 13.20% six-year graduation rate and 11.11% four-year graduation rate. Graduates earn a median salary of $30,497 ten years after enrollment. The university serves a predominantly first-generation college population, with 92.6% of graduates finding employment.
Where is Allen University located and what is campus life like?
Allen University sits in Columbia, South Carolina, providing students access to the state capital's internship and job opportunities. The campus houses 425 students in residence halls, creating a tight-knit community atmosphere. Students compete as the Yellow Jackets in NCAA Division II athletics with 294 total athletes across 10 sports.
Is Allen University affiliated with a religious denomination?
Allen University maintains its founding connection to the African Methodist Episcopal Church, established in 1870 during Reconstruction. The university's 90.24% Black student population reflects its continuing mission as an HBCU. Religious heritage influences campus culture while the curriculum spans liberal arts, business, and ministerial preparation.
