Historically Black Colleges & Universities
Feeling at home on campus can make all the difference in your college experience. So it makes sense to look for schools that offer you the support to be yourself and learn in an environment tailored to your needs.
One way to do that is to consider specialized learning institutions, like Historically Black Colleges & Universities. If you're a high school student looking for a transformative college experience, here's what you need to know about HBCUs.
What Are Historically Black Colleges & Universities?
Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) are educational institutions founded in the United States to serve the African American community. These institutions have a rich history and legacy of providing quality education, fostering leadership, and promoting social advancement.
Why Are HBCUs Important?
HBCUs offer a unique environment that celebrates and embraces Black cultural heritage, experiences, and achievements. Consider the following reasons to consider attending an HBCU:
Cultural Identity:
- HBCUs provide a nurturing and inclusive space to connect with peers who share your cultural background, traditions, and experiences. This sense of belonging fosters a strong community and allows you to embrace your cultural identity fully.
Empowering Support System:
- HBCUs often have faculty, administrators, and staff who understand and identify with the challenges and experiences faced by Black students. This representation and support system can provide mentorship, guidance, and a network of professionals who can relate to your journey.
History and Legacy:
- Attending an HBCU makes you part of a rich historical legacy. These institutions have been at the forefront of Black education and civil rights movements, fostering a sense of pride, empowerment, and social responsibility.
Benefits of Attending an HBCU
Attending an HBCU has many benefits that can positively impact your personal and professional growth. Here are the key advantages:
Supportive Learning Environment:
- HBCUs prioritize student success and provide a supportive learning environment. With smaller class sizes, accessible faculty, and dedicated support services, you'll receive personalized attention, mentoring, and resources to excel academically.
Culturally Relevant Education:
- HBCUs integrate African American history, perspectives, and contributions throughout their curricula. This provides a unique lens through which you can explore various academic disciplines, promoting cultural understanding and appreciation.
Leadership Development:
- HBCUs have a strong emphasis on leadership development. You can develop essential leadership skills, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact through mentorship programs, student organizations, and community engagement opportunities.
Professional Networks and Connections:
- HBCUs often have extensive networks that connect students with successful African American professionals, alumni, and organizations. These connections can open doors to internships, mentorship, and career opportunities specific to your field of interest.
How You Can Use This List of Historically Black Colleges & Universities
The Historically Black Colleges & Universities on this list offer a transformative college experience that celebrates African American culture, empowers students, and provides a strong foundation for future success. By attending an HBCU, you can embrace your cultural heritage, access personalized support, and benefit from educational programs tailored to your needs.
Howard University is an HBCU comprised of 13 schools and colleges located two miles from the US Capitol. Nationally-ranked programs at HU include social work, business, and communication sciences and disorders. Howard has three honors programs for...
I have learned more in the past year at Howard than I can honestly put into words. I have learned so much about Architecture my first year that I can confidently draft floor plans and elevations of a structure, and make a decent model of it, whereas...
” – Devon from Arlington, VA
Spelman College is an historically Black college and the first in history for women only, which is still the college's primary focus today. The most selective women's college in the nation, Spelman has also topped US News & World Report's list of...
It's EXPENSIVE...but well worth it...to afford it, just keep on top...better yet, AHEAD, of your scholarship searches and info...you'll make it just fine...
” – Chastity from College Grove, TN
Southern University and A & M College is a 4-year public Historically Black College and University in Baton Rouge and the flagship institution of the Southern University System. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, SUBR is Louisiana’s...
You get out of this experience whatever you put into it. It is your choice to go to class everyday because noone is going to hold your hand. The teachers are great and there are several tutoring programs on campus.
” – Cassie from Greensburg, LA
Xavier University of Louisiana is an historically black college and university (HBCU) located in New Orleans. This 4-year, liberal arts institution is one of 10 to receive a Building Infrastructures Leading to Diversity (BUILD) award for their...
At Xavier professors care, they are always available to you. Xavier being a small school your classes are a lot smaller and you get the chance to interact with your professors and really get an understanding of what they are teaching. Also when you...
” – Antoinette from Washington, DC
Tuskegee University is a 4-year private school and an Historically Black College and University in east Alabama. Tuskegee offers bachelor’s degrees in over 65 academic majors and is the only HBCU to house a fully-accredited College of Veterinary...
I'm a freshman at Tuskegee and I just finished my 1st semester. As an Animal Poultry and Veterinary Science Major I have learned so much more than I expected. I was expecting to only become a Vet with my major but our APSC 100 class taught me to open...
” – A. Smith
Founded in 1887, the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is an Historically Black College and University in Tallahassee and the only public HBCU in the state of Florida. Florida A&M is home to 12 colleges and schools granting bachelor’s...
The professors come from all over the world and are always willing to share their personal perspective upon request...
” – Karl from Dallas, TX
Founded in 1891, Delaware State University is a public Historically Black College and University in the state capital of Dover. Delaware State is home to colleges of Humanities, Agriculture, Business, and Health Sciences conferring undergrad degrees...
Learning is a fundamental thing at this school. Don't take your education for granted becuase the classroom size is small enough for you to ask as many questions when there is something not understood.
” – Karis from Suitland, MD
Founded in 1868 after the Civil War to provide education to freedmen, Hampton University is an Historically Black College and University on the Virginia Peninsula. Hampton is home to eight undergraduate colleges conferring bachelor’s degrees and...
Hampton University is an excellent school when it comes to academics.l The professors are very interested in their students. They provide office hours as well as email addresses in order for their students to contact them. All of my professors...
” – Asia from Winterville, NCFounded in 1879, Florida Memorial University is an HBCU affiliated with the Baptist Church. It is a member of the United Negro College Fund and offer pre-college youth programs focused on the academic future of surrounding community members. A...
fmu is a great university i really enjoy the things i achieved since i been here
” – Latifah from Tampa, FL
North Carolina Central University is a 4-year public school in the Research Triangle and an Historically Black College and University. NCCU is home to six colleges and schools granting undergraduate degrees in 32 academic majors and is the first...
Most teachers are passionate about their jobs and they love being at North Carolina Central University. Teachers are always available outside of class to offer you help whenever you need it. There are also so many other resources to use on campus...
” – A Proud Eagle from Raleigh, NCFounded in 1867, Johnson C Smith University is a private HBCU and research institution. JCSU is located in Charlotte, North Carolina and associated with the Presbyterian Church. JCSU is a member of the United Negro College Fund and home to Biddle...
At Johnson C. Smith University I will learn a lot about the field I'm going to major in which is Health Education. I will also learn more about the history of my school. How? Who? What? Where? All the need to know bases.Time management. I will learn...
” – Lanee
Founded in 1896 as an educational institution for freedmen, Oakwood University is a Christian school in northern Alabama and an Historically Black College and University. Operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Oakwood is home to schools of...
The faculty at Oakwood is wonderful. The teachers don't only teach the information in the textbook, but they also teach from the Bible. This is great because, in the end, the only wisdom that will truly count is what we learn from the Bible and...
” – Kelcie from Madison, AL
Wiley College is a private HBCU and liberal arts college. It is associated with the Methodist Episcopal Church. Liberal arts and humanities, nonprofit and public management, and police and criminal justice are the top fields of study. It is a member...
Wiley College is the place to be. This is the opportunity to learn about your history while becoming apart of history! Everyone can succeed at Wiley College!
” – JASMINE from Dallas, TX
Winston-Salem State University is an Historically Black College and University and a public constituent institution of the University of North Carolina. WSSU is the country’s only HBCU to offer a Motorsports Management degree and its Department of...
At Winston Salem State University I have learned a ton of new things, and also I have fun while learning and that's the best part! Some of the new things I have learned are the proper ways to write persuasive essays,how to act as an adult (being...
” – Brittany from Durham, NC
One of the largest Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the nation, Texas Southern University is a 4-year public institution in Houston. TSU is home to 12 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 100 academic majors...
Texas Southern University is a fine institution, despite all the negative trash people say about it. Taking courses in chemistry, biology, and math at this college really made me see the important role that the classes played not only in science, but...
” – Brittany from Houston, TX
Lincoln University is a public, historically black institution established in Oxford, Pennsylvania, with a satellite location in Philadelphia. The 422-acre main campus is home to over 50 buildings built as early as 1899. The college offers nearly 40...
Lincoln University was not one of my first choices, however, I am glad that I decided to attend. Many of the courses I have taken have professors who are very good with communicating information to the students. I have learned numerous things that...
” – Nicholas from Washington, DCFounded in 1890, North Carolina A&T State University is a public Historically Black College and University and the state’s first land-grant university for people of color. N.C. A&T is home to nine colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees...
I just graduated from A&T in May, and I feel more than ready to begin my Master's of Accounting program at The Ohio State University. Not only am I prepared, but I also managed to get a scholarship for my Master's and for the CPA Exam (which I am...
” – Winnie from Greensboro, NC
Claflin University is a private HBCU and independent institution based in Orangeburg, South Carolina. The school provides a career-oriented liberal arts education. It is a member of the United Negro College Fund and affiliated with the United...
Yes, I've learn so much that I earn 20 credit hrs. as a first semester freshmen in the spring of 2009, and haved accumulated a 3.33 GPA.
” – Michael from Columbia, SC
Founded in 1895, Fort Valley State University is a 4-year public public school in central Georgia and an Historically Black College and University. Part of the University System of Georgia, FVSU is home to colleges of Arts & Sciences, Agriculture...
College is totally different than high school. You not only learn about academics but you also learn life lessons.
” – Ashley from College Park, GA
Founded in 1866, Fisk University is a private HBCU and the oldest university in Nashville, Tennessee. Fisk University is a member of the United Negro College Fund and its Victorian architecture-style campus is recorded in the National Register of...
At Fisk, professors aren't the only ones you learn from. It's the students.
I am reminded everyday that, I sit in class next to some of the brightest minds in the country!
Originally founded in 1900 as a training school for African American teachers, Coppin State University is a 4-year public school and an Historically Black College and University in Baltimore. Coppin State hosts colleges of Arts & Sciences, Education...
This is and excellent HBCU, and the nursing program is the !!!TRUTH!!! im am treated like an individual and not a number......
” – Quinton from Baltimore, MD
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the oldest Historically Black College and University in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the United States. Bowie State encompasses colleges of Arts & Sciences, Education, Business, and Professional...
So far, I have found the professors to be very knowledgeable in their fields of study.
” – Jasmine from Clinton, MD
With two campuses in Nashville, Tennessee State University is the only state-funded Historically Black College and University in the state of Tennessee and part of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. TSU grants bachelor’s and graduate degrees in 77...
I learn a lot of things here. This college is a great place to be. I love the experience!
” – Amber from Memphis, TN
Founded in 1865, Virginia Union University is a private, historically black institution of higher education in Richmond, VA. VUU is affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA and the National Baptist Convention. The school offers a theology...
Virginia Union University is a very small school. That's a plus when in the classroom because you work close with your professors. You get more out of your learning my classroom.
” – Cherrelle from Englewood, NJFounded in 1876, Stillman College is a liberal arts school and HBCU. It is situated in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, so every student at Stillman College must complete 12 hours of religious education. On top of...
Stillman is a small college with a great staff that will help you on your collegiate journey. The vibe here is very family oriented and people will strive to help uplift you. Stillman is a great place to attend if you want to be successful in life.
” – Biyunka from Columbus, MSDillard University is a private HBCU and liberal arts institution situated in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is associated with the United Methodist Church and the United Church of Christ. Dillard provides a liberal arts-based curriculum focused on...
Here at Dillard University curriculum is excellent. Each and every student and professor inspire you to learn. They encourage you to read to become knowledgeable, they also teach you not to read to retain information for test, but to read to learn...
” – Nicolette from Marrero, LA
Formed by the merger of Clark College and Atlanta University, Clark Atlanta University is an Historically Black College and University affiliated with the United Methodist Church in Atlanta. CAU is home to colleges of Business Administration...
try to go to all your classes and get to know the professors because they can really help you out if you're having trouble.
” – Tia from Atlanta, GAThe University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is a public institution and historically black university. It is a land-grant research university and member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. UAPB operates Research and Extension offices around the state...
UAPB is in a small town but, if you are involved in campus activities there is plenty to do.
” – Kenya from Memphis, TNJarvis Christian College is an HBCU providing a church-related, liberal arts curriculum. The school was founded by the Disciples of Christ Church and offers student-centered support programs in both academics and spiritual worship. Jarvis requires...
Jarvis Christian College is a historically black college. Traditional and hands on. Perfect for students who want the college experience without being on a big campus.
” – Cameron from Dallas, TXFounded in 1894, Texas College is a historically black institution based in Tyler, TX. It is affiliated with the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church and a member of the United Negro College Fund. Noted programs include computer science, criminal...
Texas College has shown me answers to many life questions. Students have the ability to contact their Professors 24/7. Its a population of a 1,000 which leads us to being a huge family.
” – Monique from Milwaukee, WIFounded in 1867, Fayetteville State University is a 4-year public school in central North Carolina and an Historically Black College and University. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and the University of North Carolina System, FSU...
While Fayetteville State is a great school. With its vast number of programs and clubs offered there is always something to do. Although this school is a HBCU there is still some diversity with the students, the food, and the classes.
” – Taylah from Hope Mills, NC
Rust College is a private, historically black institution established in Holly Springs, Mississippi. Classes at Rust College utilize an 8-week, modular structure, with their academic calendar consisting of six modules. The campus showcases a variety...
Rust College has a great academic program. The teacher's are marvelous at what they do! On a scale of 1-10 I'll give Rust College a blazing number eight.
” – SHANA from milwaukee, WI
Prairie View A&M University is an Historically Black College and University in the Houston metro area and the second oldest public institution of higher learning in the state of Texas. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and Texas A&M...
I have been at PV for almost 3 years now and I can firmly say that you cant help but learn something as your here. I am a firm believer that Prairie View Produces Productive People because their are so many great influences on this campus you cant...
” – Chelsea from Prairie View, TX
Founded in 1886, The University of Maryland Eastern Shore is a public Historically Black College and University in southeast Maryland. UMES is home to schools of Business, Natural Sciences, Education, and Health Professions conferring undergrad...
I learned alot about the many different life making decisions
” – DENEEN from Washington, DC
Originally founded as a minister training school in 1879, Livingstone College is a Christian institution in central North Carolina and an Historically Black College and University. Affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church...
Not only educationally but attending Livingstone College has taught me a lot about college and life in general.
” – Nichelle from Charlotte, NC
Founded in 1866, Edward Waters College is a private, liberal arts HBCU affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church and is the oldest private university in Florida. Edward Waters is home to the Schell-Sweet Community Resource Center, which...
Edward Waters College is special school. The class are small we learn a lot about black history. The teacher really listing the questions students asks.
” – Mariolinda from Orlando, FL
Founded in 1867, Morgan State University is an Historically Black College and University in Baltimore and Maryland’s preeminent public urban research institution. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Morgan State offers degrees in more...
This school has alot to offer. We are very diverse and very welcoming.
” – Chelsea from Germantown, MD
Founded by a Union army soldier in 1865, Shaw University is an Historically Black College and University in the North Carolina Research Triangle and the first HBCU in the south. Shaw confers bachelor’s degrees in over 20 academic majors and is the...
The University has a great campus and is very secure. All staff members of Shaw University are very friendly and are always willing to help if needed.
” – E'Neysia from Charlotte, NC
Founded in 1877, Jackson State University is a public Historically Black College and University in the Mississippi state capital of Jackson and one of the largest HBCUs in the nation. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Jackson State is...
great teachers, available tutors for every subject
” – Maia from MI
Founded in 1890, Savannah State University is an Historically Black College and University in east Georgia and the state’s oldest public HBCU. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Savannah State grants bachelor’s degrees in 30 academic...
Savannah State makes tons of learning opportunities available to you, but you have to seek them out on your own. Going to class is not enough! The library has great hours, and there are a dozen tutors on campus. If you utilize these your grades will...
” – Simone from Beaverton, ORTougaloo College is a private, historically black institution established in Madison County, Mississippi. The college offers undergraduate degree programs in 29 fields of study, as well as graduate degree programs in both Education and Child...
Professors are helpful, and available to the student.
The small classes are helpful to older students.
The online classes are helpful the those who work and are unable to attend some classes.
Founded in 1867, Morehouse College is an Historically Black College and University in Atlanta and a 4-year liberal arts college for men. Morehouse grants bachelor’s degrees in 26 academic majors and the college consistently produces more Rhodes...
Morehouse College is the perfect instutution. It have excellent teachers that can have individual time with their student becauese of the number of student that attend the college.
” – Trey from Lynn, MA
Virginia State University is an Historically Black College and University in central Virginia and the nation’s first fully state-supported university for African Americans. The VSU campus hosts colleges of Business, Education, Agriculture, Humanities...
The professors that I have come in contact with so far at VSU, have all be amazing. The knowledge held within the school grounds is overwelming. I feel as though a little bit every day rubs off and sticks to me. I have learned so much being on...
” – Jasmine from Springfield, NJ
Founded by a freedman, Alabama A&M University is a public Historically Black College and University situated in Huntsville and a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Alabama A&M is home to colleges of Business, Natural Sciences, Engineering...
I would honestly say that I am learning a lot of new things at AAMU. I came here thinking that college was going to be extremely hard and that I would fail. But in reality I have had the best classes and very helpful teachers. This is my second...
” – Jalesia from Anniston, AL
Founded in 1866, Kentucky State University is a public institution situated in Frankfort, KY. The school offers a liberal arts education and is also a land-grant institution. Popular majors at KSU include human development, nursing, and criminal...
Kentucky State University is a well-rounded school overall. They challenge you academically and give many academic opportunities. They also make you feel at home.
”Morris College is a private, historically black college located in Sumter, South Carolina. The college is career-focused, and offers a number of programs to prepare students for employment, including their Cooperative Education and Call Me Mister...
Very motivating college
” – Britney from Kingstree, SC
Albany State University is an Historically Black College and University in southwest Georgia and part of the University System of Georgia. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, ASU is home to colleges of Arts & Sciences, Health Professions...
ASU is a great place for learning. The teachers are very nice. Therefore they help you with your classes. If you are failing and do not understand. They will help you or even waver your grades to help you out. They have a lot of people to help you if...
” – Camille from Columbus, GA
Founded in 1867, Talladega College is private liberal arts school and the oldest historically black institution in Alabama. It is affiliated with the United Church of Christ and situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Top fields of study...
Talldega is a very well-rounded and well respected HBCU. Its historic value makes it a very high name on your school list and the student teacher ratio is awesome.
” – Kadeem from Talladega, AL
Voorhees College is a private, historically black institution located in Denmark, South Carolina. The school offers degree options that can be completed entirely in evening courses for students with scheduling limitations. Voorhees’ campus features...
The classroom settings are very small so you can ask for help anytime. There are various opportunities to be taken advantage of. There are also many different programs on campus that help expand your cultural enrichment.
” – Karessa from Long Beach, CA
Founded in 1896, South Carolina State University is a 4-year public school in central South Carolina and the only public Historically Black College and University in the state. SCSU is home to six academic departments conferring undergraduate degrees...
The learning environment at South Carolina State is very relaxed. Teachers are easily accessable and willing to help students understand course material.
” – Andrew from Florence, SC