About Lincoln

Welcome to Lincoln University of Missouri in Jefferson City

Located in Jefferson City, the capital city of Missouri, Lincoln University of Missouri blends a rich legacy with modern academic excellence. Founded by the brave soldiers of the 62nd and 65th United States Colored Infantries, Lincoln continues to honor its heritage as one of Missouri’s two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the only HBCU in the nation founded by formerly enslaved Black soldiers.

Our campus sits just minutes from the Missouri State Capitol, providing students with cultural, civic and professional opportunities unique to life in a capital city.

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Lincoln History

At the center of Lincoln University’s campus, in Soldiers' Memorial Plaza, stands a moving statue honoring the 62nd and 65th United States Colored Infantries — men born into enslavement who fought for their freedom and later founded what became Lincoln Institute in 1866.

These founders created the institution to ensure Black soldiers and Black Americans could pursue education, dignity and opportunity. Today, their legacy lives on in a university devoted to service, support and academic excellence.

Lincoln University stands proudly as one of the nation’s distinguished Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As the only HBCU founded by formerly enslaved Black soldiers, LU maintains a deep commitment to access, diversity and empowerment for students of all backgrounds.

Our mission — rooted in education, opportunity and service — continues to guide everything we do today.

Learn more about Lincoln’s history Meet our president 

Lincoln Academics

Lincoln University offers more than 50 learner-centered undergraduate programs and master’s programs in fields such as education, business, criminal justice and the social sciences.

With small classes, applied learning and access to internships in Jefferson City, St. Louis, Kansas City and beyond, LU ensures students graduate prepared to lead.

Explore degree programs Request more information

Lincoln Student Life

When you join the Blue Tiger Nation, you gain more than an education — you join a community.

• A welcoming campus in Jefferson City, offering a blend of small-campus comfort and access to capital-city opportunities.
• A diverse student body from across the nation and around the world.
• Greek life, student organizations and service opportunities.
• Competitive Division II athletics and the world-renowned Marching Musical Storm.
• Annual traditions such as Founders’ Day and community-building events that celebrate LU pride.

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Be a Blue Tiger 

At Lincoln, you’ll find a place where innovation meets community, where you can build your future while honoring a powerful legacy. Here, you’ll be challenged, supported and inspired to achieve more than you imagined.