Lincoln University

public, coeducational institution of higher learning in Jefferson City, Mo., U.S. A historically black institution, Lincoln University offers associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees through colleges of Agriculture, Applied Sciences and Technology; Arts and Sciences; and Business. Among Bachelor of Science degree programs are those in fashion merchandising, computer information systems, and mechanical technology; the school also awards a bachelor's degree in nursing. The arts and sciences college includes bachelor's degree programs in education, philosophy, social sciences, and journalism. Most graduate degrees awarded by Lincoln University are in business and education, but Master of Arts programs in history, sociology, and social sciences are offered as well. Greenberry Farm and three other farms owned by the university are important to its agricultural education programs. Total enrollment is about 3,600 students.

Lincoln University had its origins in Lincoln Institute, conceived by Missouri soldiers of the 62nd U.S. Colored Infantry, stationed near Galveston, Texas, during the American Civil War. The 65th Colored Infantry also contributed to the school's founding. Classes for free black students were inaugurated in 1866. In 1870 the state began funding Lincoln's teacher-training program. College work was added to the curriculum in 1877, and two years later the school became a state institution. Under the provisions of the second Morrill Act, in 1890, Lincoln Institute became Missouri's black land-grant institution. It achieved university status in 1921.