Allen University
Columbia, South Carolina 29204
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — close-knit campus
Allen University is a private institution in Columbia with particular strength in business and biology.
A small campus of 635 undergraduates with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
13% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $30,497 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $11,081.
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •History Allen University was founded in Cokesbury in 1870 as Payne Institute by ministers of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, including John M.
- •In 1880, it was moved to Columbia and renamed Allen University in honor of Richard Allen, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
- •By 1898, the university reported having a total of 9 faculty, 304 students, and 208 graduates.
Source: Wikipedia
Admissions
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
19.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
1.5%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$12,000
Programs (20)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
90%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
4
Peer Average
3
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from SC state average + city premium