Rising from a historic environment of legal segregation, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were established prior to 1964 with the intention of offering accredited, high-quality education to African American students across the United States. These schools do, however, admit students of all races. Students can choose from 99 HBCUs across America, including public and private schools, two-year and four-year schools, and professional schools.
Prairie View A & M University
One of the oldest public universities in Texas, Prairie View A&M University was founded in 1876, and it is currently one of the best historically Black colleges and universities. Enrolling more than 9,000 students, PVAMU offers more than 60 programs, including popular options in healthcare, engineering, and business.
Whether attending classes on the sprawling 1,440-acre campus or online, PVAMU learners can access the school’s extensive student support services, academic resources, and libraries. The university also hosts major research institutes for students and researchers, including centers for military data intelligence, energy and environmental sustainability, and agricultural research.
Hampton University
Founded in 1868, Hampton University educates over 3,500 students and offers more than 80 programs at various levels. It stands as one of the oldest and best HBCUs. Popular undergraduate programs at HU include nursing, aviation management, and marine and environmental science.
HU’s 314-acre campus in Virginia houses over 55 student groups and organizations and a student center that features recreational facilities and various student activities. Degree-seekers engaged in research can access 15 research institutes, including centers for atmospheric science, proton therapy, and visual parts engineering.
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Dating back to 1873, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff enrolls nearly 2,500 students in more than 30 programs across agriculture, business, education, and arts and sciences divisions. One of the best historically Black colleges and universities, UAPB offers more than 35 bachelor’s degrees, including programs in forensic chemistry, regulatory science, and aquaculture and fisheries.
UAPB’s students benefit from substantial support services, including career, counseling, and academic services. They can also join one of over 90 student organizations, as well as a preparatory STEM summer academy. While the school is open to all students, minority learners can take advantage of the Minority Initiative Subrecipient Grant Office and the Minority Research Center.
Bowie State University
Founded in 1865 as the first HBCU in the state of Maryland, Bowie State University now serves more than 6,000 students in over 45 programs. Students can pursue degrees in fields like military science, educational leadership, and behavioral sciences.
On the university’s 300-acre campus, degree-seekers can access health and wellness services, civic engagement opportunities, over 50 student groups, and various multicultural programs. The university also houses a performing arts center; an entrepreneurship academy; and the Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Nursing, which boasts a nursing simulation lab and fully functional greenhouse.