Overview of Fisk University
Fisk University, located in Nashville, Tennessee, is a private historically black university (HBCU) with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1866. Established shortly after the Civil War, Fisk University has played a significant role in providing educational opportunities to African American students and has a legacy of fostering academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and social activism.
Historical Significance: Fisk University holds a special place in history, particularly for its role in advancing African American education during a critical period. The university was founded by the American Missionary Association and the Freedmen’s Bureau to provide educational opportunities for newly emancipated slaves. Named after General Clinton B. Fisk, the university became a beacon of hope for African Americans seeking education and empowerment.
Academic Programs and Colleges: Fisk University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs through its various colleges. The university is organized into the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business and Economics, the College of Education, the College of Graduate Studies and Research, and the School of Humanities and Behavioral Sciences.
The College of Arts and Sciences provides a comprehensive liberal arts education, offering programs in the natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and fine arts. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, communication skills, and a broad understanding of various disciplines.
The College of Business and Economics at Fisk University focuses on preparing students for success in the business world. Programs in business administration, accounting, and economics equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for leadership roles in diverse industries.
The College of Education at Fisk University is dedicated to preparing educators who are committed to fostering learning and social justice. The college offers programs in teacher education and counseling, emphasizing community engagement and cultural responsiveness.
The College of Graduate Studies and Research provides opportunities for advanced study and research across various disciplines. Graduate programs at Fisk University contribute to the university’s commitment to academic excellence and intellectual inquiry.
Cultural Enrichment and Fine Arts: Fisk University has a strong tradition of promoting cultural enrichment and the arts. The university is renowned for its Jubilee Singers, a vocal ensemble formed in the late 19th century. The Jubilee Singers gained international acclaim for preserving and performing spirituals, raising funds for the university, and contributing to the recognition of African American musical traditions.
The Carl Van Vechten Gallery at Fisk University is home to a notable art collection, featuring works by African American artists such as Aaron Douglas and Georgia O’Keeffe. The gallery contributes to the university’s commitment to the arts and serves as a cultural resource for the community.
Social Activism and Community Engagement: Fisk University has a legacy of social activism and community engagement. Throughout its history, the university and its students have been involved in civil rights movements and social justice initiatives. Fisk University played a role in the Nashville sit-ins during the 1960s, contributing to the larger struggle for civil rights.
The university’s commitment to community engagement is evident in its outreach programs, partnerships with local organizations, and initiatives that address social and economic challenges. Fisk University emphasizes the importance of education as a tool for positive change and community upliftment.
Diversity and Inclusion: Fisk University values diversity and inclusion, recognizing the importance of creating an environment where individuals from various backgrounds feel welcome and supported. The university’s commitment to diversity extends beyond its student body to its faculty, staff, and the broader community.
Campus Life and Student Organizations: Campus life at Fisk University is characterized by a sense of community and shared purpose. Students have the opportunity to engage in various student organizations, clubs, and activities that cater to diverse interests. These organizations contribute to a vibrant campus culture and provide students with opportunities for leadership development.
Athletics: Fisk University participates in intercollegiate athletics, and its teams, known as the Bulldogs, compete in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The university’s athletic programs contribute to school spirit and provide student-athletes with opportunities for personal and athletic development.
Alumni Achievements: Fisk University has a distinguished alumni community that includes trailblazers and leaders in various fields. Alumni have made significant contributions to areas such as education, the arts, science, business, and civil rights. The accomplishments of Fisk University’s alumni reflect the impact of the university’s commitment to excellence and social responsibility.
Conclusion: Fisk University stands as a historic institution with a profound legacy in African American education, cultural enrichment, and social activism. From its founding to the present day, Fisk University continues to uphold its mission of providing a transformative educational experience that prepares students to make meaningful contributions to society. The university’s commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and community engagement ensures that it remains a vital institution in the landscape of higher education.
1000 17th Avenue N Nashville, TN 37208-3051
Phone: (888) 702-0022
Email: admissions@fisk.edu
Web site: http://www.fisk.edu
Rankings: Fisk University
Located in Nashville, TN, Fisk University is one of the best universities in the state of Tennessee. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for Fisk University in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is Fisk University.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 2.6 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 174 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 81.5% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 53.0% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | 43% |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | 10 |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 132 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 77.2% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 1.1% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 10:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 85.3% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 196 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 17-21 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 19% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 37% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 59.1% |
| Financial resources rank: | 56 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 89 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 29.5% |
Essential Facts: Fisk University
- Fisk University is a small liberal arts school. Fisk is known for its academics and is ranked among one of the finest schools in the United States.
- Fisk University received a charter for the first chapter of The Phi Beta Kappa Society on a predominantly black campus in 1953.
- Fisk University has received a top 10 ranking among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s), according to the 2019 U.S. News and World Report.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 61% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 20% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 20% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 90% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | Yes |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | 25% |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | No |
| Additional policies and regulations: | class attendance policies set by individual instructors, hazing prohibited |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA III |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | N/A |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | N/A |
| Student activities: | choral groups, dance, drama/theater, jazz band, literary magazine, music ensembles, radio station, student government, yearbook |