Historically Black Colleges and Universities Near Philadelphia, PA

An HBCU is a Historically Black College and University established before 1964, according to the Higher Education Act of 1965.

The goal of Historically Black Colleges and Universities was to ensure Black students were able to gain the same access to higher education as white students during segregation.

While HBCUs were historically created for Black Americans, they serve students of all races.

If you're interested in attending an HBCU in your area, keep reading to find out about historically Black colleges and universities near Philadelphia.

List of HBCUs in Philadelphia, PA

Discover HBCUs near Philadelphia and learn all about their academic offerings.

1. Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Cheyney University of Pennsylvania is located in Cheyney, which is about 30 miles from Philadelphia.

The university is the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the nation. Founded in 1837, it was established to prepare people of African descent as teachers.

Students can choose from business, education, humanities, natural and applied sciences, social and behavioral sciences, and more undergraduate programs.

Programs include business administration, early childhood education, communication, biology, psychology, social relations, and recreation and leisure management.

2. Lincoln University

Lincoln University, located about 50 miles west of Philadelphia, is the first HBCU in the nation to grant degrees.

The school has been recognized as one of the best HBCUs in the country and has received high marks for social mobility, military friendliness, and affordability.

Individuals interested in earning a bachelor's degree from the university can choose from dozens of programs.

Options include chemistry, physics, information technology, accounting, sociology, religion, engineering science, criminal justice, and economics.

3. Delaware State University

Delaware State University in Dover, Delaware is an HBCU about 80 miles from Philadelphia.

Founded in 1891 as the State College for Colored Students, the university was one of the first land-grant educational institutions in the country.

Delaware State now educates African American, Caucasian, Hispanic, Asian, and other international students.

Attendees can choose from dozens of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in areas of study like aviation, food and nutritional sciences, justice studies, neuroscience, and sports management.

4. Morgan State University

Morgan State University is a high-research university classified by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

The school was founded in 1867 and is situated in Baltimore, Maryland ?about 100 miles from Philadelphia.

Housing more than 140 academic programs, the university delivers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees to a multiracial, multinational, multiethnic student body.

Program offerings include cloud computing, economics, information systems, philosophy, accounting, nursing, social work, engineering, and public health.

What's the Average Cost of an HBCU Degree Program?

The cost of attending an HBCU depends on a variety of factors.

Schools commonly charge based on the number of credits students take, which means the course load each semester could dictate the cost of tuition.

Another factor that can impact the cost of attending an HBCU is a student's residency. Students who live in-state often pay lower tuition than out-of-state students.

In-person vs. online learning fees might also affect costs.

One of the most affordable HBCUs near Philadelphia is Cheyney with in-state tuition of 3,858 per semester. Morgan State University in Maryland costs even less at just $2,793.50 in-state per semester.

How to Choose the Right HBCU

When deciding which of the HBCUs near Philadelphia is right for you, it's good to consider program offerings, costs, and the campus itself.

First, make sure that the schools you're considering offer your program of study at the appropriate academic level (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral).

While tuition shouldn't be your only deciding factor, you'll want to look at HBCUs that align with your budget. If your desired school is somewhat pricey, look into scholarships and grants.

Take time to visit campuses to see dorms if you plan to live on campus. Also, meet with faculty at each school to learn more about your potential academic experience.

Are There Online HBCUs?

Yes, there are plenty of HBCUs offering online educational opportunities. Even some HBCUs near Philadelphia offer online programs.

Delaware State University is home to DSU Online, which provides students with undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work, accounting, nursing, and more.

Morgan State University offers online bachelor's degrees in cloud computing and applied liberal studies as well as online graduate programs like public health, social work, and project management.

At Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, students can take online courses in programs like fine arts, graphic design, political science, social relations, and psychology.

Lincoln University does not offer online programs for fall and spring semesters; however, some courses mix in-person and online teaching. The university does offer online summer session programs.

Find a Historically Black College or University Near You

There are several great HBCUs near Philadelphia available to students interested in attending a Historically Black College or University.

Don't wait any longer to enroll. Explore the top HBCUs to find the right school today.