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Southwestern Christian College

Terrell, TX

private nonprofitHBCUbachelors

Quick Facts

128
Total Students
$12K
Tuition (In-State)
$12K
Tuition (Out-State)
$17K
Avg Net Price
49%
Graduation Rate
6-year
Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges
Classification

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

About Southwestern Christian College

Southwestern Christian College: A historically rich beacon of faith and education since 1948.

Step into the vibrant legacy of Southwestern Christian College (SwCC), an institution that began its journey in 1948 as the Southern Bible Institute in Fort Worth, Texas. Soon after its founding, SwCC found its permanent home in Terrell, embracing a new name and a campus steeped in history. Today, it stands proud as an accredited college, offering a focused education that empowers students to achieve associate and bachelor's degrees, all within a nurturing and historically significant environment.

SwCC's history is a testament to vision and resilience. Founded by educator and minister G. P. Bowser, the college moved to Terrell in 1949, acquiring the property of the former Texas Military College. This move brought with it unique architectural treasures, including the famous "Round House," the first dwelling in Terrell and one of only 20 octagonal houses surviving nationwide. This historic gem, fitted with the first glass windows in Kaufman County, offers a tangible connection to the region's past and adds a distinctive character to the campus experience.

The college's leadership has been marked by extraordinary dedication, notably the 50-year tenure of President Jack Evans Sr., who served from 1967 to 2017, becoming its first Black and longest-serving president. His remarkable leadership shaped generations of students. Under the current leadership of President Ervin D. Seamster Jr., SwCC continues its mission, building on a foundation of academic excellence and historical significance. Since 1973, its accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools assures a quality education, preparing students for future success in a close-knit, faith-centered community.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1948 as Southern Bible Institute in Fort Worth, Texas.
  • Relocated to Terrell, Texas, in 1949 and rebranded as Southwestern Christian College.
  • Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools since 1973, offering associate and bachelor's degrees.
  • Home to the historic "Round House," one of only 20 surviving octagonal houses nationally, featuring Kaufman County's first glass windows.
  • Celebrated the 50-year tenure of Jack Evans Sr. (1967-2017), its first Black and longest-serving president.
  • Currently led by President Ervin D. Seamster Jr.

Timeline

1948
Founded as Southern Bible Institute in Fort Worth, Texas.
1949
Relocated to Terrell, Texas, and renamed Southwestern Christian College.
1950
E.W. McMillan becomes the college's first president.
1967
Jack Evans Sr. begins his 50-year tenure as president, becoming the first Black president.
1973
Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
2008
The historic Administration Building, formerly part of Texas Military College, was destroyed by fire.
2017
Jack Evans Sr. concludes his distinguished 50-year presidency.

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