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Belhaven University

Jackson, MS

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Non Ministari Sed Ministare (Latin)(Not To Be Served But To Serve)

1883
Founded
Private university
Type
1,370
Total Students
$29K
Tuition (In-State)
$29K
Tuition (Out-State)
$22K
Avg Net Price
53%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
6-year
69%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Roger Parrott

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Belhaven University

Belhaven University: A Christian institution, nationally accredited in all four major arts, and growing strong.

Belhaven University stands as a dynamic private institution with a rich heritage rooted in Christian faith and remarkable academic achievements. Founded officially in 1883, it has grown from the "Belhaven College for Young Ladies" into a fully co-educational university serving approximately 3,600 students across multiple campuses and online.

Known for its distinct "Christian Worldview Curriculum," Belhaven prides itself on integrating faith into all aspects of learning. A significant point of distinction is its national accreditation in all four major arts disciplines: Music, Theater, Visual Arts, and Dance, offering students unparalleled opportunities in creative fields within a faith-centered environment.

The university's journey has been marked by resilience and expansion. Despite early challenges like devastating fires, Belhaven has consistently evolved, embracing co-education in 1954 and becoming fully independent in 1972. Under current President Roger Parrott, the university has seen exceptional growth, nearly quadrupling its student body, adding numerous academic programs, new buildings, and expanding its reach with additional campuses in several states and robust online offerings, solidifying its standing as a comprehensive university. This commitment to growth and a strong Christian mission makes Belhaven an engaging choice for prospective students seeking an education that nurtures both intellect and spirit.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1883, reflecting a long history of educational commitment and resilience.
  • Serves approximately 3,600 students through its main campus, additional campuses, and online programs.
  • Achieved national accreditation in all four major arts disciplines: Music, Theater, Visual Arts, and Dance.
  • Offers a distinctive "Christian Worldview Curriculum," integrating faith into academic study.
  • The student body has nearly quadrupled under the leadership of current President Roger Parrott.
  • Expanded its footprint with new campuses in Memphis, Orlando, Houston, Chattanooga, and Atlanta.
  • Debuted the world's first singing Christmas tree in 1933.

Timeline

1883
Established from the merger of Mississippi Synodical College and McComb Female Institute; adopted as official founding date.
1894
Opened as "Belhaven College for Young Ladies" at its current location in Jackson, Mississippi.
1910
The original college building was destroyed by fire.
1911
Reopened as the "Belhaven Collegiate and Industrial Institute" at its current Peachtree Street location.
1915
The board of trustees changed the school's name to "Belhaven College".
1927
Another major fire devastated the college's only building.
1933
The world's first singing Christmas tree debuted at Belhaven.
1954
The board of trustees voted to allow the enrollment of male students, making it fully co-educational.
1972
The Synod of Mississippi officially transferred ownership, making Belhaven a fully independent college.
2010
Name officially changed from Belhaven College to Belhaven University.
🏛️
143 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Roger Parrott
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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