Centenary College of Louisiana, founded in 1825, is a private liberal arts college located in Shreveport, Louisiana. It is the oldest chartered liberal arts college west of the Mississippi River. The college has a rich history, having evolved through several relocations and mergers before settling in its current location in Shreveport in 1908. Centenary is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, and it embraces a tradition of fostering a supportive and inclusive community that encourages intellectual growth and civic engagement.
What sets Centenary College apart is its commitment to personalized education and experiential learning. The college maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for close interactions between students and professors. It emphasizes global citizenship through its Centenary in Paris program, where incoming freshmen have the opportunity to begin their college experience with a study abroad trip to Paris. This experience is designed to broaden students' perspectives and immerse them in a different culture, setting the tone for their academic journey.
Academically, Centenary College is well-regarded for its strong programs in the sciences, particularly biology and geology, as well as its pre-medical advisory program, which prepares students for medical school and healthcare careers. The college also offers unique interdisciplinary programs and encourages undergraduate research, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities. The music and theater arts programs are also noteworthy, attracting students interested in pursuing careers in the performing arts.
On the downside, some students have noted the need for improvements in campus facilities, with particular attention to older dormitories and recreational spaces. Additionally, while the small campus atmosphere is a draw for many, it can feel limiting to those seeking a more vibrant social scene or a broader range of extracurricular activities. Despite these challenges, Centenary continues to strive toward enhancing the student experience through ongoing improvements and investments in campus infrastructure and student life.
