Founded in 1877, Philander Smith College is the result of the first attempt west of the Mississippi River to make education available to freedmen (former African American slaves).

Philander Smith College offers a wide variety of majors. Such a wide range of disciplines offers innovative and integrated approaches to the liberal arts curriculum. Emphasized also is undergraduate research, experiential learning, and study abroad.

The College’s mission is to graduate academically accomplished students, grounded as advocates for social justice, determined to change the world for the better.