Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a symbol of academic excellence and cultural importance. Founded in 1867 as Freedmen’s College, it has a storied past rooted in the aftermath of the Civil War. The Rev. S.C. Alexander and the Rev. W. L. Miller established JCSU to offer educational opportunities to newly freed slaves.
Over the years, JCSU evolved and expanded, driven by its mission to educate, equip, and graduate a diverse array of skilled students. A transformative gift from Jane Berry Smith in 1923 led to the renaming of the institution to Johnson C. Smith University, a significant milestone.
Importantly, JCSU has been a trailblazer in higher education, setting standards and breaking new ground. It earned national acclaim in 2000 with the IBM Laptop Initiative, providing all students with state-of-the-art technology. Generous funding from The Duke Endowment has since supported initiatives in leadership, community engagement, and scientific research.
Beyond academics, JCSU fosters an inclusive environment that nurtures global citizenship and social responsibility. It strives for academic prowess and comprehensive growth, seeking recognition as a leading professional liberal arts Historically Black College and University (HBCU).
With its devoted faculty, dynamic student community, and steadfast dedication to its principles and goals, Johnson C. Smith University is molding tomorrow’s leaders. Rooted in a rich heritage yet always looking ahead, JCSU is committed to excellence.
Empowering Career Paths
In today’s dynamic job market, JCSU’s College of Business and Professional Studies offers a diverse range of academic programs. Within the Department of Business Administration, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. This program offers concentrations in Accounting, Finance, International Business, Management, Marketing, and Retail Management. These specialized tracks equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in various sectors of the business world.
For those interested in the intersection of health, wellness, and management, the Department of Health and Human Performance offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Sport Management and Public Health. These programs provide students with the tools to navigate the complexities of the sports industry or contribute to public health initiatives.
In addition, the Department of Social Work offers a pathway for students to make a meaningful impact in their communities. It does this through its Bachelor of Science in Social Work program. For those seeking advanced credentials, the department also offers Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) degree programs.
A distinguishing feature of the College of Business is its flexible learning modalities. It offers traditional classroom settings, hybrid formats, and fully online courses. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to suit their individual needs and preferences.
Furthermore, the university’s location in Charlotte, North Carolina, the second-largest financial center in the U.S., provides students with unparalleled access to internships, networking opportunities, and mentorship from corporate leaders. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, Charlotte serves as an ideal backdrop for students to gain practical experience and launch successful careers in their chosen fields.
Adapting to Workforce Trends with New Programs
In response to evolving workforce trends, the College of Business and Professional Studies is set to launch new programs. These include a B.S. in FinTech, a B.S. in Healthcare Administration, a 4+1 BSW-MSW Program, and MBA & MS Programs. The college is a member of both the AACSB and ACBSP, the world’s leading accreditation bodies for business programs. Additionally, the college offers 100% online degree completion programs, catering to the needs of working adults and veterans.
Leadership and Vision in Business Education
Dr. Alphonso Ogbuehi, the Dean of the College of Business and Professional Studies at JCSU brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role. His distinguished career includes tenures as Dean of the School of Business at Stockton University in New Jersey and the College of Business at Clayton State University in Atlanta, Georgia.
In his role as Dean, Dr. Ogbuehi fosters a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for success in the ever-evolving world of commerce. He emphasizes innovation and real-world application, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education that extends beyond textbooks. His dedication to entrepreneurship is evident in initiatives like the state-of-the-art eHub powered by PNC, which provides students with resources and support to pursue their business ideas.
Guided by a commitment to academic excellence and the preservation of the rich cultural heritage of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Dr. Ogbuehi’s leadership ensures that students at JCSU receive a transformative education. This education, rooted in experiential learning, is supported by internships at leading companies in Charlotte, the nation’s second-largest financial center.
As a visionary leader and advocate for student success, Dr. Ogbuehi invites prospective students and parents to explore the opportunities available at Johnson C. Smith University’s College of Business and Professional Studies. His invitation reflects his passion for empowering students to achieve their academic and professional goals, positioning JCSU as a premier destination for aspiring business leaders.
Building Connections: Thriving at Johnson C. Smith University
JCSU offers a vibrant, community-centric student life, teeming with opportunities for engagement, growth, and connection. The campus is a hub of activity, creating a supportive environment where students can excel both academically and socially.
The university hosts over 30 student organizations, catering to various interests and backgrounds. These organizations, ranging from academic clubs to cultural groups, provide students with opportunities to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and build lasting friendships. The university also encourages students to shape campus life actively through participation in student government and community service projects.
Inclusivity and the celebration of its heritage as an HBCU are cornerstones of student life at JCSU. The campus embraces diversity, providing a welcoming space where students of all backgrounds feel valued and supported.
Outside the classroom, students can engage in the thrill of Golden Bulls Athletics, whether as cheering spectators or participants in intramural sports. The campus calendar is packed with events and activities organized by the Golden Bulls Activities Committee and other student groups, ensuring there is always something exciting happening on campus.
The relatively small size of JCSU fosters a close-knit community where students receive personalized attention from faculty and staff. Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, students also have access to the city’s vibrant cultural scene, internship opportunities, and the diverse offerings of a dynamic city.
Accessible Admissions Process and Holistic Evaluation
JCSU offers an accessible and inclusive admissions process, focusing on identifying talented individuals who will enrich the vibrant campus community. JCSU operates a rolling admissions process, making it crucial for prospective students to be aware of important deadlines, particularly for scholarship consideration.
Application requirements include a completed application form, an official high school transcript demonstrating a minimum GPA (which varies by program), and the option to submit SAT or ACT scores, though they are not mandatory. Additionally, applicants are expected to have completed a college preparatory course history.
JCSU adopts a holistic approach to admissions, evaluating more than just test scores. The university assesses applicants based on their academic record, including GPA and course selection, and standardized test scores if provided. Additionally, extracurricular activities, achievements, personal statements, and individual stories are also taken into account during the admissions process.
Notably, JCSU offers a variety of programs tailored to students with different GPAs, demonstrating its commitment to providing educational opportunities to a diverse range of learners. The university also encourages applications from international students, further diversifying the campus community with global perspectives.
Distinguished Faculty and Innovative Teaching
JCSU’s College of Business and Professional Studies boasts a faculty distinguished by its exceptional qualifications and commitment to delivering top-tier education. With 90% of faculty holding terminal degrees in their disciplines, students benefit from the expertise of seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom.
Not only are the faculty members at JCSU experts in their fields, but they are also passionate educators who use innovative teaching methods to engage students. The use of the case teaching method and a focus on experiential learning ensure students gain practical insights and skills applicable to real-world scenarios.
Furthermore, faculty members actively collaborate with local companies and non-profit organizations in the Charlotte region. This collaboration provides students with opportunities to work on real-world projects and gain valuable hands-on experience. This blend of academia and industry creates a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for success in their chosen careers.
Besides that, the college also houses cutting-edge facilities. These include the Finance Learning/Technology Lab, equipped with state-of-the-art software for finance and investment courses. The presence of the PNC Entrepreneurship Hub (eHUB) highlights the college’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurial learning and fostering innovation among students and the local community.
Cultivating Diversity and Belonging at JCSU
JCSU nurtures a campus culture that celebrates cultural diversity and fosters a sense of belonging for all students. From admissions to campus life and support services, JCSU integrates diversity and inclusion into various aspects of university operations.
In the admissions process, JCSU proactively recruits students from diverse backgrounds, valuing a well-rounded student body with a range of perspectives. By adopting a “whole package” approach that extends beyond test scores, the university ensures individuals from all walks of life have opportunities to contribute to and benefit from the JCSU community.
Once on campus, students find an inclusive environment that respects cultural differences and promotes understanding. The university’s support for student organizations representing various ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds underscores its commitment to fostering a diverse and welcoming campus culture.
As a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), JCSU has a long-standing tradition of empowering minority students and enhancing the vibrant diversity of the campus community. This rich history forms the foundation for promoting inclusivity and equity in all aspects of university life.
For international students, JCSU offers dedicated support services to ease the transition to life in the U.S. These services range from immigration guidance to cultural events, providing international students with the resources they need to navigate their academic and personal journey successfully. Furthermore, international students are eligible for merit-based scholarships and other financial aid options, ensuring that financial barriers do not obstruct access to education.
Fostering Academic Excellence and Career Preparation
JCSU is designed to foster academic excellence and career preparation for all students. It provides comprehensive, holistic experiences that offer a wide range of inclusive educational opportunities, services and supports to enhance student engagement and success.
The college comprises six divisions: the Center for Student Success and Academic Excellence, the Smith Institute for Research, Career Development and Post-Graduate Readiness, the Biddle Institute, the McNair Scholars Program, Student Support Services, and Upward Bound. Each division is dedicated to advancing and fulfilling the mission of the university.
Igniting Innovation: Cultivating Entrepreneurial Spirit
JCSU is dedicated to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among its students. It provides a supportive environment where budding entrepreneurs can flourish. The College of Business and Professional Studies plays a central role in this mission, integrating entrepreneurship concepts into its curriculum and emphasizing experiential learning. This approach equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the business world. Through coursework and practical experiences, students can explore various aspects of entrepreneurship, from generating ideas to developing business plans.
A key element of JCSU’s support for student entrepreneurs is the eHub powered by PNC. This dedicated space for innovation and entrepreneurship on campus offers selected student entrepreneurs, known as PNC Fellows, access to incubator space, mentorship, technology resources, and seed funding. This initiative equips students with the necessary resources and support to turn their entrepreneurial aspirations into reality.
In addition to the eHub, JCSU encourages student participation in business plan competitions. These competitions provide students with valuable experience in pitching their ideas and the opportunity to secure funding for their ventures. They expose students to real-world scenarios, helping them refine their entrepreneurial skills and fostering a spirit of innovation and creativity.
Faculty mentorship is crucial in supporting student entrepreneurs at JCSU. Business professors, many with industry experience, offer guidance and support to students. They share their expertise and help students navigate the challenges of starting and running a business.
Through one-on-one mentorship, faculty members assist students in developing their entrepreneurial ideas and overcoming obstacles. JCSU also offers students opportunities for learning and growth through workshops and seminars on various entrepreneurship-related topics.
These include business plan development, marketing strategies, and fundraising techniques. These events allow students to gain practical knowledge and insights from industry experts, enhancing their entrepreneurial skills and abilities.
Moreover, JCSU encourages students to explore social entrepreneurship, which focuses on addressing social issues through innovative business models. The university provides resources and support for students interested in launching businesses that create positive social change, underscoring its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship for the greater good.
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