Johnson C Smith University
Johnson C Smith University is a private nonprofit university in Charlotte, NC ranked #1199 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B-, enrolling about 1,244 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 45.2%. Students most often pursue Computer and Information Sciences and Business Administration, Management and Operations.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, 71.3% first-year retention, and 34.3% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $20,894, about $3,896 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -62.3%, roughly 147.6 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $31,478. That's about $12,210 below national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Johnson C Smith University has an acceptance rate of 45.2%, annual tuition of $21,300, average net price of $20,894, and a national rank of #1199 (Grade B-), with a 34.3% six-year graduation rate, about 1,244 undergraduates, and median earnings of $31,478 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is Johnson C Smith University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Johnson C Smith University graduates 34.3% of students within six years and keeps 71.3% of first-year students. Affordability earns an A- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Johnson C Smith University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $21,300 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $8,600 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $5,250 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $34,923 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 69.5% of Johnson C Smith University students receive Pell Grants — well above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $19,940 to $29,050 depending on family income. Use Johnson C Smith University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $19,722/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $29,050/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $31,478
- 10-Year Median Earnings $31,478
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $20,500
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 26.5%
- Employment Rate 85.2%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Johnson C Smith University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Johnson C Smith University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Johnson C Smith University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Johnson C Smith University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Johnson C Smith University graduates earn $31,478 median, the -62.3% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,244
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 71.3%
- Graduation Rate 34.3%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 12:1
How to Get Into Johnson C Smith University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Johnson C Smith University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 45.2%, Johnson C Smith University is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Johnson C Smith University accepts 45.2% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Johnson C Smith University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Biology, General, and Social Work draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 21.8%
- Biology, General 12.8%
- Social Work 10.3%
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 9.4%
- Criminology 8.5%
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other 8.1%
See more majors
- Communication and Media Studies 7.3%
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 5.6%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer and Information Sciences, General $60,754
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations $47,745
- 3. Criminology $45,538
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Social Work $43,956
- 5. Biology, General $41,716
- 6. Psychology, General $39,952
- 7. Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities $33,847
- 8. Health and Physical Education/Fitness $32,373
- 9. Communication and Media Studies $26,090
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Social Work (Master's Degree) $56,861
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer and Information Sciences, General grads earn $60,754—133% more than Communication and Media Studies ($26,090). Graduate: Social Work programs lead with $56,861 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Johnson C Smith University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Social Work (Master's Degree, 42 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 30 graduates)
- Social Work (Bachelor's Degree, 24 graduates)
- Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 17 graduates)
- Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degree, 13 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (18 programs)â–¼
- Biology, General
- Social Work
- Communication and Media Studies
- Psychology, General
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Chemistry
- Political Science and Government
- Computer Engineering
- Music
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- History
- Economics
- Dance
- Mathematics
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- English Language and Literature, General
Online Master's Degrees (1 program)â–¼
- Social Work
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,244
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 48.1%
- Female Students 51.8%
- Caucasian 0.6%
- Asian 0.2%
- Hispanic 0.5%
- Black 80.5%
- Pell Grant Recipients 69.5%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Johnson C Smith University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Johnson C Smith University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Johnson C Smith University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Johnson C Smith University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Johnson C Smith University has a diverse student body, with 0.6% identifying as White. 69.5% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Johnson C Smith University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Johnson C Smith University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Johnson C Smith University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -62.3% ROI. Ranked #1199 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $20,894 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $31,478 median earnings. With 34.3% graduating within six years and 71.3% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Johnson C Smith University's Positioning
With a B- grade and #1199 ranking, Johnson C Smith University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $20,894 annually, Johnson C Smith University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 71.3% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $14,626 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -62.3% ROI and $31,478 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $10,894+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Johnson C Smith University ranks #1199 of 6101 institutions, with 1425 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 34.3% six-year graduation rate sits 28.2 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 71.3% first-year retention is 5.5 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -62.3% return on investment is 147.6 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $31,478 run about 28% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $20,894 is roughly $3,497 higher than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 12:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 71.3% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 85.2% employment rate within three years sits 17.0 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $20,894 is about $3,497 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Charlotte, NC, Johnson C Smith University operates as a private nonprofit university and receives a B- from EDsmart. It appears at #1199 in EDsmart's national list Completion earns C+, Support B, Career Outcomes C+, and Affordability A-.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 71.3% of first-year students return, and roughly 34.3% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -62.3% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $20,894 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $34,923.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $14,029 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $20,500 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 69.5% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $31,478 at the median. This is roughly 28% below typical U.S. college outcomes.
Employment outcomes report about 85.2% of alumni working within three years.
EDsmart lists the ROI at -62.3%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
45.2% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Johnson C Smith University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Johnson C Smith University's acceptance rate?
Johnson C Smith University's acceptance rate is 45.2%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Johnson C Smith University cost?
At Johnson C Smith University, listed tuition and fees are $21,300 per year, and the average net price after aid is $20,894. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Johnson C Smith University's ranking?
Johnson C Smith University ranks #1199 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Johnson C Smith University's graduation rate?
At Johnson C Smith University, the six-year graduation rate is 34.3%, and first-year retention is 71.3%.
What are Johnson C Smith University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Johnson C Smith University report median earnings of $31,478 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Johnson C Smith University's student population?
Johnson C Smith University enrolls about 1,244 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Charlotte, NC 28216-5398
- Website www.jcsu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$64.3M