PSU Receives Historic $19 Million Gift from Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
Investment marks largest donation in history of university.
Investment marks largest donation in history of university.
Join us November 8-16, 2025 for the best homecoming yet!
PSU has received formal approval from the Higher Learning Commission and Initial Approval from the Arkansas State Board of Nursing to launch its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program
Philander Smith University is pleased to announce that the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has reaffirmed the University’s accreditation for a full 10 years.
Maurice D. Gipson, J.D., Ph.D.is Appointed President
& CEO of Philander Smith University
Congratulations, Class of 2025! We’re excited to celebrate your achievements on May 10, 2025. Click below for more details.
Philander Smith University proudly recognizes Dr. Etta Carter, ’63, for her generous presentation of educational scholarships to three deserving students this fall. Her contributions honor her family’s legacy while empowering the next generation of leaders and inspiring others to give back.
APPLY TO PSU TODAY!
Philander Smith University proudly recognizes Dr. Etta Carter, ’63, for her generous presentation of educational scholarships to three deserving students this fall. Her contributions honor her family’s legacy while empowering the next generation of leaders and inspiring others to give back.
Congratulations, Class of 2025! We’re excited to celebrate your achievements on May 10, 2025. Click below for more details.
Maurice D. Gipson, J.D., Ph.D.is Appointed President
& CEO of Philander Smith University
Philander Smith University is pleased to announce that the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has reaffirmed the University’s accreditation for a full 10 years.
PSU has received formal approval from the Higher Learning Commission and Initial Approval from the Arkansas State Board of Nursing to launch its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program
Join us November 8-16, 2025 for the best homecoming yet!
Investment marks largest donation in history of university.
Student / Faculty
Ratio
Enrolled
Students
Number of
Majors
Student
Organizations
Jason Muka, ’23Philander Smith University shattered my preconceptions about small HBCUs. The warmth of the faculty, the opportunities, and the connections I’ve made here have shown me that the size of the school doesn’t define the quality of education.

Founded in 1877, Philander Smith University is the result of the first attempt west of the Mississippi River to make education available to freedmen (former African American slaves). The forerunner of the college was Walden Seminary, named in honor of Dr. J.M. Walden, one of the originators and the first corresponding secretary of the Freedmen's Aid Society.
Learn about our programs, talk to our faculty about your interests, and see what life as a Philanderian is all about.
Admission to Philander Smith University (PSU) is open to all persons who show potential for college-level work and who meet our admissions requirements.
Investing in our scholars allows them to focus on their degree attainment without the heavy burden of financial worries.

