Pfeiffer University logo

Pfeiffer University

Misenheimer, NC

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1885
Founded
Private university
Type
654
Total Students
$34K
Tuition (In-State)
$34K
Tuition (Out-State)
$22K
Avg Net Price
95%
Acceptance Rate
43%
Graduation Rate
6-year
68%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Dr. Scott Bullard

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

About Pfeiffer University

Pfeiffer University: A historic journey from home school to a thriving private university.

Pfeiffer University stands as a testament to educational resilience and growth, tracing its roots back to a humble home school founded by Emily Prudden in 1885. What began as the "Oberlin Home and School" on Lick Mountain, later supported by Mrs. Mary P. Mitchell and renamed the "Mitchell School," embarked on a remarkable journey. After overcoming challenges, including a devastating fire, the institution found its permanent home in Misenheimer in 1910, laying the groundwork for its future as a cornerstone of learning in North Carolina.

The institution's evolution continued with the introduction of high school diplomas in 1913, followed by junior college classes in 1928. Generous financial gifts from the Pfeiffer family of New York City in 1934 were pivotal, leading to new constructions and the renaming of the institution to Pfeiffer Junior College. This support propelled its expansion into a four-year institution, achieving full accreditation as Pfeiffer College in 1960. Today, Pfeiffer offers a comprehensive university experience, catering to a diverse student body across its main Misenheimer campus and its dynamic satellite location in Charlotte.

Prospective students and families will find Pfeiffer University to be a private institution deeply proud of its heritage, where tradition meets innovation. The campus itself boasts the "Pfeiffer Junior College Historic District," a collection of 14 Georgian Revival-style buildings erected between 1923 and 1948, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. This blend of historic charm and modern academic pursuit, led by President Dr. Scott Bullard, creates a unique environment for personal and intellectual growth. With a student body of 1,800, Pfeiffer maintains a close-knit community while offering robust programs designed to prepare students for successful futures.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1885, evolving from a historic home school into a comprehensive private university.
  • A private university with a student body of 1,800, fostering a close-knit academic community.
  • Home to the Pfeiffer Junior College Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring 14 Georgian Revival-style buildings.
  • Operates a main campus in Misenheimer and a satellite campus in Charlotte, established in 1977.
  • Achieved full university status in 1996, reflecting its growth and diverse academic offerings.
  • Benefited from significant philanthropic support, notably from the Pfeiffer family, which greatly aided campus development.

Timeline

1885
Emily Prudden's "Oberlin Home and School" begins, marking the university's founding.
1907
A fire destroys the Mitchell School, leading to its relocation to Lenoir.
1910
The school relocates to its current permanent site in Misenheimer.
1928
Junior college classes are introduced.
1935
Renamed "Pfeiffer Junior College" following generous gifts from the Pfeiffer family.
1960
Achieves full accreditation as a four-year institution, becoming "Pfeiffer College."
1977
A satellite campus opens in Charlotte.
1996
Re-organizes and adopts the current name, "Pfeiffer University."
🏛️
141 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Pfeiffer University

🏫

Gray Stone Day School

A charter high school that originated in Pfeiffer's Harris Building in 2002 and later moved to its own campus on land donated by the university.

Leadership

Dr. Scott Bullard
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Pfeiffer University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search