Academics
Paul Quinn College is a private Christian school in Dallas, Texas, with a liberal-arts-inspired curriculum. The school’s mission is “to provide a quality, faith-based education that addresses the academic, social, and Christian development of students and prepares them to be servant leaders and agents of change in the global marketplace.” PQC students (“Quinnites”) can choose from about 20 majors that largely represent traditional courses of study, such as Mathematics, History, Psychology, Business Administration, and Religious Studies. Alongside those, considerable emphasis is placed on practical, real-world educational experiences. The school is widely praised for its Work Program, which allows students to embrace the ideals of disciplined work through undergraduate immersion into the business world. Similarly, the school’s study abroad program, lauded by Quinnites, affords students the unique opportunity to study in diverse countries such as England, Ghana, Costa Rica, Hong Kong, and The Netherlands. In accordance with the PQC commitment to social change, the Early Talent Identification Program works to prepare academically gifted yet underserved children to compete in selective primary and secondary school environments.
Career
PQC culture reflects the school’s Biblical foundation as well as its commitment to social justice. Optional Bible study and religious services are held weekly. There is a “business casual” dress code during weekdays (outside their dormitories), and resident students have a curfew. The “WE over Me” ethos unites the student body, and Quinnites are known locally for charity work such as organizing blood drives or collecting food for those in need. The library features an acclaimed mural, painted in 1968 at the close of the Modern Civil Rights Movement, that depicts the African American educational experience and the associated struggles. Quinnites also place a premium on fun. Greek life flourishes on campus, and there are a variety of student organizations and athletic programs for students. Dallas provides a rich cultural environment and a wealth of first-rate attractions. Students are often seen enjoying plays at the Bishop Arts Theater Center or taking in an exhibit at the nearby African American Museum. Fair Park hosts national sporting events at its famed 91,000-seat Cotton Bowl Stadium, as well as big-name concerts.
Culture
In keeping with PCQ’s dedication to the betterment of underserved communities, common career paths for alumni include education, business development, and community and social services. The Work Program affords eligible students the highly coveted opportunity to work for major corporations such as JPMorgan Chase, Liberty Mutual, and Bank of America, greatly enhancing these individuals’ marketability upon graduation. Payscale.com data reflect an average base annual income of $54,000 for PQC graduates. Notable alumni include Baseball Hall of Fame inductee Andy Cooper; Toni Rose, member of the Texas House of Representatives; and Dick Campbell, producer, director, and a key figure in Black theater during the Harlem Renaissance.