You are here: Home / 25 Most Affordable Bachelor’s-Granting Historically Black Colleges/Universities
In this ranking, we strive to help students considering a bachelor’s degree from historically black colleges and universities. With so many programs, options, and schools available, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and confused, particularly if a student does not have a specific career path in mind. Rising from a historic environment of legal segregation, historically black colleges and universities, also known as HBCUs, were established before 1964 with the goal of offering high-quality, accredited education to African-American students in the U.S. There are more than 100 professional, public and private, and two- and four-year schools in the country.
The following top 25 most affordable bachelor’s-granting historically black colleges and universities were identified by considering each school’s student support, outcomes, affordability, and academic standards. The following school profiles explore the ongoing initiatives, present successes, and legacies of each institution of higher education.
Methodology
We developed the following ranking in order to help students find the best HBCU that meets their academic and professional goals. In order to compile a list of colleges and universities to include, we pulled from all known HBCUs and cross-referenced information with the National Center for Education Statistics. We also based our rankings on data and information compiled from each school’s website and U.S. News & World Report in terms of national rankings, student-to-faculty ratios, and the cost of undergraduate tuition.
Average Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
When choosing an HBCU to attend for a bachelor’s degree, it is important to consider not only the quality of the program but the cost as well. In some cases, the most expensive degrees might not meet a student’s particular interests or goals. In other cases, some of the most affordable bachelor’s programs may offer an abundance of major options and extracurriculars not provided by the high-cost schools. We have provided both in-state and out-of-state tuition rates for each school below for your reference, but we based the awarding of points on the average cost between the two. None of the schools listed exceeds $20,000 in undergraduate tuition per year.
Points:
Under $7,000: 3 points
$7,001 to $13,500: 2 points
$13,501 to $20,000: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Although there are many benefits to attending large schools, students who are seeking a more intimate, personalized program may benefit from smaller class sizes. Smaller HBCUs may also offer more opportunities for individualized or specialized studies as well as close mentoring with faculty, alumni, and professionals associated with the school. For this list, we assigned the most points to the schools with the lowest student-to-faculty ratios as indicated below.
Points:
10:1 or lower: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Higher than 15:1: 1 point
College Ranking
U.S. News & World Report and other similar institutions are tasked with rating, reviewing, and ranking programs and schools across the U.S. as well as comparing them to one another. Prospective students who would like to learn more about specific programs may find these resources helpful as they narrow down the available options at HBCU throughout the country. For this article, we consulted the organization’s ranking for Historically Black Colleges and Universities category and assigned points based on the following table.
Points:
U.S. News & World Report: Historically Black Colleges and Universities Ranking:
Top 10: 5 points
Top 11 to 25: 3 points
Top 26 to 50: 2 points
Top 51 and above: 1 point
Ranking Top 25 Most Affordable Bachelor’s-Granting Historically Black Colleges and Universities
25. Johnson C. Smith University
Charlotte, North Carolina
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1867 as the Biddle Memorial Institute, Johnson C. Smith University is a private HBCU in Charlotte, North Carolina. Affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, JCSU confers undergraduate and graduate degrees through its three colleges: the College of Professional Studies, the College of Arts and Letters, and the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The school’s eLearning Department supports computer-assisted, face-to-face courses as well as distance learning, and online students receive the same education as their on-campus peers. All bachelor’s degrees challenge students through exams, projects, writing assignments, discussion questions, and lectures, and all work is completed during a 16- or 8-week academic period. Available undergraduate programs include accounting, business management, social work, criminology, interdisciplinary studies, and sport management.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $18,236
In-State Tuition: $18,236
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,236
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#22 (tie)
24. Dillard University
New Orleans, Louisiana
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1930 and incorporating other institutions that were established as early as 1869, Dillard University is a top HBCU that provides undergraduate students with a four-year, highly rated liberal arts education. Affiliated with the United Methodist Church and the United Church of Christ, the school is well-known for its nursing program as well as its Student Success division that focuses on retention and provides support for students. In addition to nursing, other popular majors for students seeking a bachelor’s degree include sociology and business administration. Graduates who earn a bachelor’s degree from Dillard are prepared to enter prestigious graduate schools such as Johns Hopkins, Princeton, Harvard, and Yale. Dillard is also ranked among the most selective HBCUs in the country.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $17,918
In-State Tuition: $17,918
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,918
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#11
23. Virginia State University
Petersburg, Virginia
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1882, Virginia State University is one of two land-grant institutions of higher education in Virginia and the first fully state-supported four-year institution of higher learning for African-American students. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the school enrolls more than 4,000 undergraduates and offers degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels through its colleges in natural sciences, engineering and technology, business, agriculture, humanities and social sciences, education, and graduate studies. Popular majors include physical education, social work, media studies, criminal justice, and mass communication. In addition to receiving accolades for its academic programs, the school is also recognized as being one of the least selective HBCUs in the country.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $14,681
In-State Tuition: $9,056
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,307
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#19
22. Kentucky State University
Frankfort, Kentucky
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded as the State Normal School for Colored Persons in 1886, Kentucky State University is a public HBCU and the second state-supported institution of higher learning in Kentucky. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky, KSU offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degrees in nearly every academic area, and popular majors include psychology, liberal studies, political science, and nursing as well as its organic farming program, which ranks among the top 20 in the country. The school supports and supplements its programs through internship opportunities, an honors program, online learning options, dual enrollment options, community service activities, and adult learning.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $13,740
In-State Tuition: $8,090
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,390
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#22 (tie)
21. Wilberforce University
Wilberforce, Ohio
Points: 6
Program Website
Wilberforce University, located in Wilberforce, Ohio, is an HBCU that was founded by leaders of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 1865. The school is a student-centered, urban, private university in a rural setting, yet it is conveniently located close to urban centers such as Cincinnati and Daytona. Students may choose from undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and dual degrees are available in nuclear engineering, aerospace, and architecture. Wilberforce’s Credentials for Leadership in Management and Business (CLIMB) is a unique alternative to the traditional bachelor’s degree, serving adults ages 23 and older who have already completed at least 45 semester hours of college. Wilberforce is a member of the United Negro College Fund and embraces the core values of social and community responsibility, quality education, and Christian principles.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $13,250
In-State Tuition: $13,250
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,250
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#58-#76
20. Philander Smith College
Little Rock, Arkansas
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1877, Philander Smith College in Little Rock is a private, four-year HBCU and the only Negro College Fund institute in Arkansas. A small school enrolling fewer than 900 undergraduates, Philander Smith offers four types of undergraduate programs: the Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Social Work, and Bachelor of Business Administration. Popular majors include English language and literature, business administration, sociology, and psychology. The school is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and aims to produce academically accomplished students who are grounded as advocates for social justice and determined to make the world a better place.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $13,014
In-State Tuition: $13,014
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,014
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#44
19. West Virginia State University
Institute, West Virginia
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1891 as the West Virginia Colored Institute, West Virginia State University is an HBCU and the smallest land-grant institution in the country. Enrolling approximately 3,500 undergraduates, students can choose from bachelor’s programs in the health sciences, criminal justice, English and technical writing, and business administration with concentrations in either management or accounting. WVSU offers study-abroad programs, ROTC studies, research opportunities, an online learning center, internships, and an honors program — all of which enrich and supplement its areas of study. Regardless of the undergraduate or graduate degree they are pursuing, all WVSU students benefit from a student-centered approach to learning. Every program features coursework grounded in relevant skills and the right combination of practicality and flexibility that students need for success.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $12,939
In-State Tuition: $8,212
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,666
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#36 (tie)
18. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Points:
Program Website
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff was founded in 1890 as a land-grant university, making it the second-oldest public institution of higher learning in Arkansas. Known for its Center of Excellence in fisheries and aquaculture, UAPB also focuses on science and mathematics, education, minority business development, and student leadership and development. Students benefit from a 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio, and UAPB offers co-op, internship, and fellowship opportunities. Out-of-class experiences and student involvement include more than 90 student-run organizations, a nationally recognized debate team, a marching band, an internationally renowned vesper choice, an accomplished athletic program, and an award-winning theater department.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $11,218
In-State Tuition: $8,038
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,398
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#34 (tie)
17. Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1892 as Slater Industrial Academy, Winston-Salem State University is a constituent institution of the University of North Carolina System. Undergraduates may choose from bachelor’s degrees in clinical laboratory science, nursing, and interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in integrative studies. A birth to kindergarten education (BKE) program is also available as well as two online graduate degrees and one online doctorate. Class sizes are exceptionally small as the school boasts a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio, meaning students receive plenty of opportunities for one-on-one learning. Known for helping economically disadvantaged students earn an affordable education and well-paying job, WSSU supplements its programs with study-abroad programs, a scholar society, academic success counselors, and an honors program.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $11,027
In-State Tuition: $5,904
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,151
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#36 (tie)
16. Albany State University
Albany, Georgia
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1903 as the Albany Bible and Manual Training Institute, Albany State University is a state-supported, four-year HBCU and the largest of three HBCUs in the University System of Georgia. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, ASU elevates its region and community by offering a variety of graduate, bachelor’s, associate, and certificate programs both on-campus and online. Distance learning programs at the undergraduate level include degrees in management information systems and technology, organizational leadership, and nursing. ASU is often recognized for its creative and innovative delivery of educational programs, creative scholarship and applied research, and broad-based public service and community engagement.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $10,965
In-State Tuition: $5,735
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,196
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#40 (tie)
15. Bluefield State College
Bluefield, West Virginia
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1895 as the Bluefield Colored Institute, Bluefield State College is a public HBCU located in Bluefield, West Virginia. BSC offers several undergraduate degrees within its five academic schools, including programs in computer science, engineering, business, humanities and the social sciences, education, criminal justice, health services, and nursing. The school boasts a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and it is dedicated to helping adult learners through its Educational Opportunity Center. Flexibility is provided through interactive and online courses, and both online and on-campus degrees are supplemented by study-abroad and honors programs. BSC is also known for its Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges, which assist military personnel who wish to earn a college degree.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $10,296
In-State Tuition: $7,056
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,536
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#50 (tie)
14. Central State University
Wilberforce, Ohio
Points: 6
Program Website
Located in Wilberforce, Ohio, Central State University is a public HBCU that was established in 1887 as the Combined Normal and Industrial Department of Wilberforce University. Students may choose from more than 30 degrees across the College of Education, the College of Business, and the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences as well as the College of Engineering, Science, Technology, and Agriculture. With a low student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1 and one of the most affordable tuition rates of any HBCU, CSU has produced alumni who serve with distinction in entertainment, athletics, international and national public service, industry, and education. CSU has also been named an Ohio Center of Excellence in Emerging Technologies, a designation that recognizes the school’s prominence in graduating students in STEM fields.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $7,346
In-State Tuition: $6,346
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,346
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#40 (tie)
13. Alcorn State University
Lorman, Mississippi
Points: 6
Program Website
Located in Lorman, Mississippi just 80 miles southwest of Jackson, Alcorn State University is an HBCU that was founded in 1871 to provide higher education for freedman and the first black land-grant college established in the country. It is comprised of a School of Arts and Sciences, School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, School of Business, School of Nursing and School of Education and Psychology. Students may pursue more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, including bachelor’s degrees in business administration, criminal justice, and child development. A member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, notable graduates include civil rights activist Medgar Evers as well as professionals, politicians, and activists throughout Mississippi and beyond.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $7,084
In-State Tuition: $7,084
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,084
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#21
12. University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Princess Anne, Maryland
Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore was founded in 1886 by the Methodist Episcopal Church and is a leading HBCU as well as a competitive doctoral research university. A member of both the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and the University System of Maryland, the school enrolls more than 4,000 students in its undergraduate and graduate degree programs throughout its five schools in agricultural and natural sciences, business and technology, graduate studies, pharmacy and health professions, and education, social sciences, and the arts. Popular offerings include degrees in hospitality and tourism, professional golf management, and construction management technology. The school is recognized among the top 20 HBCUs in the country, and the school takes pride in its diversity and its commitment to students.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $13,405
In-State Tuition: $8,302
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,508
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#17 (tie)
11. Morgan State University
Baltimore, Maryland
Points: 7
Program Website
Located in northeast Baltimore City, Morgan State University is a top-ranked HBCU and a comprehensive public university that offers a number of doctoral, master’s, and bachelor’s programs with a particular emphasis on the arts and sciences. Popular majors include engineering, marketing, management, and business. Boasting a low student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, students have many opportunities to pursue individualized studies and form close personal connections with their peers and professors. In addition to ranking among the best HBCUs in the country, Morgan State is also recognized as being one of the leading producers of African-American graduate students who have earned doctoral degrees.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $13,033
In-State Tuition: $7,900
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,167
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#14
10. Delaware State University
Dover, Delaware
Points: 7
Program Website
Delaware State University is a public HBCU located in Dover, Delaware that also operates two satellite campuses in Georgetown and Wilmington. DSU is comprised of four colleges: the College of Health & Behavioral Sciences, College of Business, College of Humanities, Education & Social Sciences, and the College of Agriculture, Science & Technology. Students may pursue more than 40 bachelor’s degrees, more than 20 graduate degrees, and a handful of doctoral degrees as well as several dual-degree and cooperative programs. Popular majors include psychology, social sciences, communication and journalism, business, marketing, and management as well as parks, fitness, leisure, and recreation studies. DSU supplements its academic programs with an honors program and a Minority Access to Research Careers program.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $12,386
In-State Tuition: $7,868
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,904
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#12 (tie)
9. Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1867 as the Howard School, Fayetteville State University is a member institution of the University of North Carolina System and the second-oldest state-assisted institution in North Carolina. FSC offers traditional undergraduate and graduate degree programs as well as flexible online degrees through its Online Degree Completion program to more than 6,500 students. Students can choose from 10 majors in sociology, psychology, professional studies, nursing, intelligence studies, general business management, fire and emergency services administration, criminal justice, accounting, and birth to kindergarten (non-teaching). Students may also take advantage of study-abroad opportunities, ROTC programs, an honors program, and dual-degree options.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $11,053
In-State Tuition: $5,249
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,857
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#22 (tie)
8. University of the District of Columbia
Washington, D.C.
Points: 7
Program Website
Located in Washington, D.C., the University of the District of Columbia is the only public university in the city, enrolling 4,465 students each year, including 1,900 undergraduates. An HBCU established in 1851, UDC is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and one of only a few urban land-grant universities in the country. Students may pursue associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees through its six schools and colleges. The most popular majors at UDC include political science and government, accounting, legal professions and studies, health professions and related programs, and business administration, operations, and management.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $9,152
In-State Tuition: $5,888
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,416
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#48
7. Mississippi Valley State University
Itta Bena, Mississippi
Points: 7
Program Website
One of the youngest HBCUs in the country, Mississippi Valley State University was not established until 1950. Today, this coeducational, private school is home to more than 2,000 undergraduates, providing 36 undergraduate and graduate degree options in a variety of industries. Popular majors at MVSU include fitness studies, homeland security, public administration, marketing, and business. To ensure affordability for as many students as possible, MVSU charges the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, most classes are comprised of fewer than 20 students. In addition to intimate classrooms, MVSU boasts a knowledgeable faculty, with nearly 70 percent of professors holding a doctorate.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $6,550
In-State Tuition: $6,550
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,550
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#36 (tie)
6. Elizabeth City State University
Elizabeth City, North Carolina
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1891, Elizabeth City State University is located in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Part of the University of North Carolina System, the school confers more than 30 degrees across 10 academic departments. Often recognized as being a “best value” school and one of the most affordable small colleges in the country, ECSU also ranks among the top HBCUs for opportunity, earning potential, affordability, and academic quality. Popular majors include business, criminal justice, biology, sociology, physical education, social work, communications, education, and accounting. Supplements to ECSU’s degrees include study-abroad options, an Army ROTC program, research opportunities, an honors program, an e-mentoring and internship program, and a community development program.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $5,194
In-State Tuition: $3,194
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,194
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#29 (tie)
5. Claflin University
Orangeburg, South Carolina
Points: 8
Program Website
Founded in 1869 following the American Civil War, Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina is one of the smallest HBCUs on our list, enrolling just over 2,000 undergraduate students. As a result, the school boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, affording students the opportunity to receive one-on-one attention from professors and form close bonds with classmates. Still, the student population is diverse, with students hailing from 18 different countries and 24 states. Claflin’s most popular majors include business administration and management, mass communication and media studies, psychology, criminal justice, and biology.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $16,854
In-State Tuition: $16,854
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,854
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#7 (tie)
4. North Carolina A&T State University
Greensboro, North Carolina
Points: 8
Program Website
Founded in 1891 by the North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is a member of the University of North Carolina System. Not only is NCA&T one of the best HBCUs in the country, but it is also the largest public HBCU by enrollment in the nation. Offering more than 100 bachelor’s degrees, more than 50 master’s degrees, and several doctoral programs, NCA&T is known for popular majors such as psychology, engineering, communication, liberal arts and sciences, and business. The school also boasts a large alumni network that is comprised of more than 55,000 members worldwide, including notable graduates such as U.S. Congresswoman Alma Adams and civil rights leader Jesse Jackson.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $13,217
In-State Tuition: $6,612
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,822
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#7 (tie)
3. North Carolina Central University
Durham, North Carolina
Points: 8
Program Website
Founded in 1910, North Carolina Central University is the oldest publicly funded liberal arts HBCU in the nation. Today, NCCU confers more than 80 degrees, including 32 bachelor’s, 27 master’s, one doctorate, and 20 certificates through its eight colleges and schools. Popular majors such as family and consumer sciences, business administration, psychology, criminal justice, and law. Degrees are supplemented by study-abroad options, research opportunities, online and distance learning options, and a national student exchange program. NCCU reports that the average class size is 23 students, and approximately 8,200 students, 6,400 of whom are undergraduates, pursue degrees each year.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $12,817
In-State Tuition: $6,464
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,171
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#10
2. Florida A&M University
Tallahassee, Florida
Points: 8
Program Website
Founded in 1887, Florida A&M University is a public HBCU that reports a total undergraduate enrollment of more than 8,000 students. The school offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in popular majors such as the health professions, interdisciplinary studies, business, homeland security, and psychology as well as in unique areas of study such as health informatics, jazz studies, and cardiopulmonary sciences. Students may take advantage of more than 100 student-run organizations. FAMU is recognized for its legacy of providing an affordable, high-quality education to many students who otherwise may never have the opportunity to earn a college degree. FAMU is also known for its commitment to providing pathways for economic and social mobility, and the school is ranked as one of the top HBCUs in the country for fostering economic and social opportunity.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $11,755
In-State Tuition: $5,785
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,725
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#9
1. Tougaloo College
Tougaloo, Mississippi
Points: 8
Program Website
Founded in 1869 by the American Missionary Association, Tougaloo College is a top HBCU and known nationally as the “Cradle of the Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi” for its role as a safe haven for activists as well as important leaders of the Movement. One of the smallest HBCUs in the country, TC enrolls fewer than 800 undergraduate students. As a result, it boasts an impressive 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio — the lowest on our list. Still, despite its size, it offers a reasonably comprehensive assortment of undergraduate majors, some of the most popular of which include psychology, economics, media studies, biology, health and physical education, English and literature, and sociology. Students may take advantage of supplementary support and resources through study-abroad programs, research opportunities, online courses, dual degrees, and community service opportunities.
Average Undergraduate Tuition: $10,600
In-State Tuition: $10,600
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,600
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
U.S. News & World Report Ranking:
#12 (tie)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should You Attend an HBCU?
If you have considered attending an HBCU but initially brushed off the idea, you may want to revisit the thought. There are a number of reasons to consider applying to and obtaining your college degree from one of these postsecondary institutions, including:
- Exclusive scholarships and grants: Grants and scholarships ease the financial burden of higher education. In addition to academic-based scholarships, there are a number of scholarships reserved specifically for African-American students as well as for those looking to attend an HBCU. Depending on the scholarship, a degree from an HBCU may be more affordable than a traditional college or university.
- Helpful alumni associations: Although many schools have their own alumni associations that offer networking and career services, HBCU graduates and current HBCU students are eligible to join exclusive associations such as the National HBCU Alumni Association, the Atlanta HBCU Alumni Alliance, and the DC Metro HBCU Alumni Alliance as well as others, depending on where the school is located.
- Empowering environment: HBCUs were established to focus on the education of African-American students, and there are now public, private, and specialized institutions dedicated to granting degrees to black students. Regardless of the academic environment you’re looking for, there is an HBCU for you.
- Supportive atmosphere: Students will likely have more in common with their peers and have a better overall academic experience due to the inclusive educational journey. Many students welcome the change from being a minority to being in an atmosphere with others from similar backgrounds and life experiences.
- Custom classes and extracurricular activities: The variety of academic and extracurricular offerings at HBCUs differ than those at traditional schools. Diversity provides more opportunities to relate with organizations, professors, and peers that share common interests.
What Can You Expect as an HBCU Student?
You may be wondering what you will learn at an HBCU, what kinds of people you will encounter, and how this type of school will change you as a student. Check out the following 13 things to expect when you earn a bachelor’s degree from an HBCU:
- You will be exposed to all types of diversity, including fellow classmates and professors that come from all economic levels, cultures, backgrounds, races, sexual orientations, and religions.
- Black history will spill over into your other subjects such as English, psychology, biology, and math, and you will learn about all the ways in which black people have shaped the world.
- Celebrities may drop in on campus for a lecture, an event, homecoming, or to teach or endorse a cause.
- School rivalries in academia and sports feel more like an argument with your siblings.
- Alumni have open-door policies from the start, and they are often eager to give back and pass the torch, providing research and internship opportunities to help along the way.
- Financial aid is always a struggle, regardless of whether you attend an HBCU or a traditional school.
- Your school pride will always be with you as the HBCU you attend will have a significant role in influencing who you become.
- You will end up becoming involved in some type of fraternity or sorority, student government, the band, or one of the many other student-oriented on-campus organizations.
- Homecoming is a big deal and often encompasses a full week of activities such as tailgates, football games, comedy nights, fashion shows, and concerts.
- Random turn-ups and pep rallies are normal and often form out of nowhere.
- Networking will become second nature, because attending an HBCU feels like having an extended family.
- You will see an abundance of black excellence as like-minded students strive to grow and push to reach academic and professional success.
- Your glow-up will be strong as you find out more about yourself than you’ve ever discovered before. You will be challenged professionally, politically, intellectually, and culturally, so dive in and be great.
Why Do HBCUs Still Matter?
Every day, more people are questioning the value of a college degree. College tuition continues to increase, wages have become stagnant, and more students are saddled with college debt than ever before. It’s no wonder why students are asking if a college degree is worth it, especially considering the investment and cost. Another question often brought up is whether or not we still need black colleges. There are a number of reasons that HBCUs are relevant now more than ever and are essential to advancing the future of the country.
First, HBCUs produce nearly 20 percent of African-American graduates and 25 percent of African-American graduates in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — the critical industries of the future. In addition, HBCU tuition rates are also 30 percent less, on average, than comparable institutions, which is why they are often referred to as “best buys” in education.
HBCUs provide a nurturing, stable environment for those most at risk of entering or completing college: first-generation, low-income college students. Many HBCU students are academically unprepared for a college educational experience, yet they are the ones that the country needs to obtain college degrees the most.
Finally, it is known that students of color perform better and feel more at home in schools where they feel safe and supported. HBCUs allow students to feel like the majority, not the minority, which can have a significant positive impact on the quality of their college experience. The student environment and how a student fits in is critical for success, and a Gallup-Purdue poll found that black HBCU graduates are more likely to be thriving after graduation than their peers who graduated from mostly white institutions.
For more than 150 years, HBCUs have provided diverse learning environments, from administration to faculty to students, ensuring that everyone has a chance to succeed. If you are considering an undergraduate degree from an HBCU, we hope that our list of the top 25 most affordable bachelor’s-granting historically black colleges and universities is a helpful starting point as you begin to narrow down the available programs and schools.
AS Staff
April 2019
