A merger with Barber Memorial College of Anniston, Alabama in 1930 resulted in the adoption of the College's present name in 1932. The first bachelor's degree was granted in 1945, and in 1946, the North Carolina Board of Education gave the college a four-year rating. In 1954, the School became a coed college, allowing men to enroll. Campus buildings are a placid mix of old and new. Faith Hall, one of the first buildings on the campus, stands in concord with the more modern facilities, such as the Sage Memorial Learning Resource Center, a multifaceted library.
Additional funds are also available.
Scholarships pay tuition and housing. Students must be recommended to the President their high school counselor. Approximately 34 endowed scholarships and 15 endowed loan programs are available to students who demonstrate financial need. Students should contact the ROTC offices on campus. Athletic scholarships are available to students participating in intercollegiate sports.