Does New Mexico Have an HBCU? Non-HBCU Alternatives

While there are no Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs) in the state of New Mexico, there are several fantastic alternatives.

New Mexico is a minority-majority state and has many minority-serving institutions with over 50% minority enrollment.

New Mexico also has some of the most affordable and accessible degrees in the country with average tuition and student debt rates below national averages.

The support the state of New Mexico has given to its minority students has resulted in an above-average degree attainment rate for Hispanic and African American students.

Alternatives to HBCUs in New Mexico

Here are some excellent alternatives to HBCUs in New Mexico.

1. New Mexico State University

New Mexico State University (NMSU) is designated as a minority-serving institution and has campuses across the state, including a main campus in Las Cruces.

NMSU is a research university that offers students the chance to pursue their educational and career dreams in nearly any field of study.

64% of the NMSU student body identifies as Hispanic and the university values diversity and inclusion in everything it does.

NMSU offers a range of cutting-edge science labs to support the growth of STEM education in the region.

2. University of New Mexico

While the University of New Mexico (UNM) is not considered an HBCU, it offers New Mexico students of all backgrounds a warm and inclusive learning environment.

UNM is a world-class research institution and has been recognized as one of the best public universities in the Southwest region.

The university was founded in 1889 and is situated on an 800-acre campus in the bustling city of Albuquerque.

UNM offers 94 different degrees at the undergraduate level and 71 master's programs.

3. Eastern New Mexico University

Students looking for a diverse and accessible university in the state of New Mexico should consider Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU).

ENMU tuition is one of the lowest around with state residents paying only $3,369 per semester and students in surrounding states paying only $4,359.

ENMU has a mission of empowering its entire diverse student body to become leaders of the next generation.

4. New Mexico Highlands University

Located in Las Vegas, New Mexico, New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) is a diverse and accepting public university.

NMHU's core values are diversity, accessibility, excellence, and responsiveness indicating a high degree of support for all students.

The university seeks to enrich the lives of its students through interdisciplinary education and personalized mentorship.

Students will have the support they need to recognize important opportunities for employment or further education after graduation.

5. Western New Mexico University

Western New Mexico University (WNMU) is a strong choice for ambitious and thoughtful students who want to make a difference in the world.

The university has a strong tradition in culture and the arts and seeks to immerse students in the traditions of a diverse range of cultures to increase awareness and creativity.

In-state tuition for undergraduate programs is only $4,917 per credit hour making WNMU an affordable option.

6. New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology provides excellent value by positioning students for successful careers in STEM.

The university is classified as a minority-serving institution and embraces diversity in both the student and staff levels.

The campus is located in the beautiful Rio Grande Valley and offers students a serene atmosphere to study in.

Students will learn how to apply modern science and technology to real-world problems and gain the ability to have a positive impact on their communities.

7. Navajo Technical University

Navajo Technical University was founded to increase self-determination and sovereignty.

The university has a proven record of supporting the career outcomes of its students and offers practical degrees.

Students can earn high-quality degrees at any level of study. Popular programs include biology, computer science, chemistry, electrical engineering, and early childhood multicultural education.

Benefits of Attending a Predominantly Black Institution

College degrees have traditionally resulted in increased lifetime earnings and a broader social network, however, not all students have been able to access these benefits equally.

At Predominantly Black Institutions, students from all backgrounds will benefit from a welcoming and open-minded atmosphere.

Diversity is important not only in student bodies but also in the makeup of the staff and faculty of an institution.

Students who have instructors who understand their unique backgrounds may have greater long-term success.

Tips on Choosing the Right College Program

Regardless of its demographics or classifications, each college has a unique atmosphere that will shape students' experiences.

Taking a trip to visit the campus of any potential program is an important part of gaining a sense of what educational and social aspects of life would be like.

Students can also speak to

What Is the Difference Between an HBCU and a PBI?

While both Historically Black colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) will typically have a high percentage of minority enrollment, there are several differences.

HBCUs are institutions founded before 1964 with a core purpose of serving African American students. This historical mission gives HBCUs a rich tradition and legacy of diversity.

PBIs are defined as institutions with at least 40% African American Students and at least 50% low-income or first-generation students.

Both HBCUs and PBIs can support the educational needs of a diverse population of students.

Find a Historically Black College or University Near You

A college degree can teach students marketable skills and open new doors. Learn more about diverse colleges in New Mexico and pick a program that will support your personal development.