Southern University and A&M College, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is the flagship institution of the Southern University System and a prominent historically Black college and university (HBCU). Established in 1880, it is recognized as the largest HBCU in Louisiana and serves as a land-grant institution under the 1890 Morrill Act.
Overview
- Campus Size: The main campus spans 512 acres, with an additional 372-acre agricultural experimental station nearby.
- Student Enrollment: Historically, the university has maintained enrollment figures exceeding 10,000 students from 1970 to 1990, solidifying its status as a leading HBCU.
Academic Structure
Southern University offers a variety of academic programs through several colleges:
- College of Education, Arts, and Humanities
- College of Business
- College of Sciences and Engineering
- College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- College of Nursing and Allied Health: Notably, this college has been awarded Louisiana’s Nursing School of the Year multiple times and is a significant producer of African American nursing graduates nationwide.
- Southern University Law Center: One of only two public law schools in Louisiana, it was established in 1947 and offers both full-time and part-time programs.
Achievements
Southern University is recognized for its contributions to engineering education among African Americans and has been ranked highly for producing Black male doctorate recipients. The university also boasts nationally recognized ROTC programs for both Army and Navy.
Community Engagement
The institution emphasizes community involvement alongside academic success. It prepares students not only for careers but also for impactful roles within their communities. In summary, Southern University stands out as a vital educational institution that fosters academic excellence while promoting diversity and community engagement.
