Campus Identity
Philander Smith University is a private nonprofit university in Little Rock, AR. The campus sits on Murray Lake, just 1 mile from the water. Philander Smith University is a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). CollegeCove's campus safety score is 82/100 (Pretty Safe), based on U.S. Department of Education Clery Act data.
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At a Glance
Philander Smith University is a private nonprofit university in Little Rock, AR. The campus sits on Murray Lake, just 1 mile from the water. Philander Smith University is a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). CollegeCove's campus safety score is 82/100 (Pretty Safe), based on U.S. Department of Education Clery Act data.
Campus Lifestyle
Philander Smith University is a under 1,000, urban school with NAIA athletics. The campus is 277 miles from Hidden Valley Ski Area.
Athletics
NAIA
HBCUAC
School Size & Setting
Under 1,000
Urban setting
Weather
Warm Climate
56°F avg school-year
Nearby Ski Resorts
Philander Smith University students have access to 3 ski resorts within driving distance. The closest is Hidden Valley Ski Area, 277 miles away with 7 lifts and 30 skiable acres. All are within 467 miles of campus.
Missouri
Missouri
Illinois
Lake Life Campus
Murray Lake is less than a mile from campus, making it a true lake-life school, giving Philander Smith University students access to boating, swimming, and waterfront recreation.
Murray Lake
Lake access within 1.3 miles
Average Monthly Temperature
1991–2020 Climate Normals · Little Rock, AR
Little Rock has a mild climate, with winters averaging 41°F in Jan and summers peaking around 81°F in Jul.
Station: LITTLE ROCK AIRPORT ADAMS FIELD · Source: NOAA NCEI
On Campus Safety Score
2021–2023 U.S. Dept. of Education Campus Safety and Security data normalized per 1,000 students
Philander Smith University in AR earns a composite safety score of 82/100, rated Pretty Safe among U.S. colleges.
On Campus Safety data from the U.S. Dept. of Education Clery Act Database, normalized per 1,000 enrolled students. Higher scores indicate a safer environment. Review detailed data on the U.S. Dept. of Education Campus Safety and Security website.
Cost Breakdown
2024-25 academic year. Tuition: College Scorecard. Fees and room & board: IPEDS/NCES.
| Cost Item | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $13,014 |
| Fees | $1,210 |
| Room & Board | $10,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $24,224 |
What students actually pay after grants and scholarships. Source: College Scorecard.
Fields of Study
17 programs offered
Most Popular Programs
Bar width proportional to graduates per year. Earnings = median 4 years after graduation.
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect graduates working and not enrolled full-time. Data suppressed (shown as —) for programs with fewer than 30 graduates. Most recent available year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Philander Smith University located?
Philander Smith University is located in Little Rock, AR. The main campus address is 900 W. Daisy Bates Drive, Little Rock, AR. It is a private institution offering 4-year degree programs.
How much does it cost to attend Philander Smith University?
For the 2024-25 academic year, Philander Smith University charges $13,014/year in tuition. Including room and board ($10,000/year), the total estimated cost is approximately $13,014/year. The average net price after grants and scholarships is $14,224/year — what students actually pay. Use Philander Smith University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
What is the application fee for Philander Smith University?
The undergraduate application fee at Philander Smith University is $25. Check the admissions website for fee waiver eligibility.
Does Philander Smith University have college sports?
Yes — Philander Smith University competes at the NAIA level in the HBCUAC. Division III programs emphasize academic achievement alongside athletic competition, without athletic scholarships.
Is Philander Smith University an HBCU?
Yes, Philander Smith University is a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). HBCUs were established primarily to serve Black Americans and have a rich history of academic excellence, cultural significance, and community impact. Philander Smith University remains an important institution for higher education and Black culture.
Is Philander Smith University the right fit for me?
Whether Philander Smith University is right for you depends on your academic goals, budget, lifestyle preferences, and career aspirations. Key factors to consider: admissions requirements, avg net price ($14,224/year after aid), campus culture in Little Rock, and available programs. Use CollegeCove's compare tool to weigh Philander Smith University against similar schools side-by-side.
Tuition: College Scorecard (2024-25). Fees, room & board, and other data: IPEDS/NCES 2024. Always verify with Philander Smith University directly for the most current information.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Private
- Location
- Little Rock, AR
- Size
- Under 1,000
- Degrees Offered
- Bachelor's, Master's
- HBCU
- Yes
- NCAA
- NAIA
- Conference
- HBCUAC
- School Year Weather
- Warm · 56°F avg
- App Fee
- $25
- On Campus Safety Score
- 82/100
- Nearest Airport
- Little Rock, AR (LIT) · 3 mialso LRF (15 mi), PBF (44 mi)
Location
Little Rock, AR