Fisk University

Fisk University is a private, historically Black liberal arts university in Nashville, Tennessee, founded in 1866. It holds the distinction of being the oldest institution of higher education in Nashville and was the first African-American university to gain accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 1930. The university is recognized for its rich history in shaping Black learning and culture in America, with a legacy of producing intellectual, artistic, and civic leaders.

Academics

Fisk University's curriculum is grounded in the liberal arts, emphasizing the discovery and advancement of knowledge through research in natural sciences, social sciences, business, and humanities. The university's core curriculum focuses on developing competent, resourceful, and global leaders, explicitly teaching critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Fisk offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, with notable strengths in areas that have produced distinguished alumni in civil rights, education, and the arts. The institution also has several honor societies recognizing academic excellence across various disciplines.

International Students

Fisk University is committed to maintaining a diverse community and supports its international student population, which makes up approximately 9-12% of the student body. While specific support services for international students are provided through the Office of Global Initiatives, the university's overall student engagement division offers a variety of academic support programs and resources. In 2020, Fisk was home to approximately 84 international students, with the largest communities from the Bahamas, Nigeria, and Nepal. Cultural integration is fostered through over 30 student organizations, including a Caribbean Students Association, catering to a broad range of interests.

Campus & Location

Fisk University's 40-acre campus is a historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places, located just five minutes from downtown Nashville. Nashville offers a vibrant city life with numerous economic and social hubs, providing students with opportunities for socialization and engagement. Campus features include historic buildings like the Carl Van Vechten Gallery, which houses the Stieglitz Collection of modern art, and the Fisk Memorial Chapel, an interdenominational space for learning and worship. The campus is also conveniently located near other educational institutions.

Career Outcomes

Fisk University places a strategic focus on career development, with the Office of Career Planning and Development aiding students in achieving their career goals through professional development services. This office provides timely, practical, and customized career information, counseling, and assistance with job search processes. Fisk partners with various industry leaders, offering students internship opportunities across the country. Notable alumni have gone on to achieve significant success in politics, civil rights, education, and the arts, demonstrating the university's strong foundation for future careers.