Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU)
Learn what HBCUs are, the degrees they offer, why students choose them, and how these institutions support affordability, community, and career success.
Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have a long tradition of supporting student success through strong academic programs, close-knit communities, and mission-driven learning environments. These institutions offer degrees at every level and remain an important part of higher education today.
If you’re exploring colleges and want a supportive setting with meaningful opportunities, learning more about HBCUs can help you decide whether one of these schools is the right fit.
What Is an HBCU?
Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) were founded to expand access to higher education for Black students during a time when opportunities were limited. Today, HBCUs welcome learners from all backgrounds and continue to play a central role in supporting equity, academic achievement, and cultural enrichment.
These institutions are known for strong academic programs, dedicated faculty, and a mission-driven environment. HBCUs offer a supportive environment, both in the classroom and across campus life.
Degree Options at HBCUs
At one of the many accredited HBCUs in the U.S., you can earn your associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across a wide range of fields. You can study subjects like business, psychology, education, engineering, biology, nursing, social sciences, and the arts.
These institutions also often offer flexible online or hybrid programs, which can be helpful if you’re balancing work or family commitments. Program offerings vary by institution, so comparing schools can help you find the major that aligns with your goals.
Supportive Learning Environments
Many students choose HBCUs for their strong sense of community. Smaller class sizes, close faculty relationships, and mentorship opportunities help students stay on track academically.
Campus life also plays an important role. Cultural events, student organizations, and leadership opportunities help build confidence and connection. These experiences can make HBCUs welcoming environments where students feel supported in both personal and academic growth.
Affordability and Financial Aid
HBCUs are widely recognized for offering accessible tuition and generous financial aid. Scholarships, grants, and federal funding programs help many students manage college costs, and some schools provide additional support for first-generation learners or underserved communities.
You may find that the cost of attending an HBCU is lower than that of comparable institutions. Reviewing tuition rates, financial aid packages, and available scholarships can help you understand the total cost of earning your degree.
Career Preparation and Opportunities
HBCU graduates enter a wide range of careers, including healthcare, education, business, technology, public service, and the arts. Schools typically offer strong internship networks, career services, and alumni connections that help students transition into the workforce.
Some HBCUs are especially known for producing high numbers of graduates in STEM and for preparing students for graduate or professional school. Career outcomes vary by major, but these institutions often emphasize practical experience and professional readiness.
Here are a few careers commonly pursued by HBCU graduates:
- teacher or education specialist
- registered nurse
- social worker
- software developer
- engineer
- business analyst
- healthcare administrator
- public health professional
- psychologist (with advanced training)
Explore HBCU Programs and Schools
The articles below offer additional information about historically Black colleges and universities, including degree options, online pathways, and affordability considerations. These resources can help you compare programs and choose an HBCU experience that aligns with your educational goals.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) like Howard University and Hampton University are top online colleges for African American students.
Explore the world of online degrees at HBCUs. Discover top institutions like Alabama A&M, Alabama State, and more. Unlock a diverse and enriching education.
Most Historically Black Colleges and Universities are located in the southeastern United States, including in Alabama. Discover the best HBCUs in Alabama.
Across the country, there are many Historically Black Colleges and Universities, or HBCUs. These schools have been seeing a rise in enrollment numbers in recent years; check out the fastest-growing HBCUs in the country.
Many historically Black colleges and universities in the U.S. provide high-quality nursing programs that are accredited, affordable, and have high test scores.
Explore the presence and impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Chicago, IL, including insights on average costs and unique offerings.
Living on campus is the most convenient option for many students who attend in-person classes. Check out some of the top HBCUs with the best dorms and residency options.
Find out if there are any Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs) in New Jersey and, if not, learn about some good alternatives. Get answers to questions you may have about attending a Predominantly Black Institution (PBI).
Interested in earning a degree from one of the historically black colleges and universities in your area? Read on to learn about HBCUs near Philadelphia, PA.
If you're thinking about attending a historically black college and university in your area, take a look at degree programs from HBCUs in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Are you interested in earning a degree from one of the country's top Historically Black Colleges and Universities? Learn.org identifies all of the HBCUs available in or near the city of Baltimore and explains to readers how to choose the right HBCU.
Learn about HBCUs in Augusta, Georgia, and its surrounding area with this list of accredited institutions delivering valuable educational opportunities.
Are you interested in earning a degree from an HBCU institution? Learn.org identifies all of the HBCUs available in or near the city of Birmingham, AL, and explains to readers how to choose the right HBCU.
Explore Charlotte, NC and its best Historically Black Colleges. Discover these prestigious colleges' rich histories, varied academic programs, and active campus communities.
Find out about the best HBCUs Bluefield, WV, has to offer, as well as how to choose the right HBCU for you, today to start your education off on the right foot.
Most HBCUs are in the southeastern United States, but there are a handful in the northeast, like Maryland, as well. Discover HBCUs in Bowie, Maryland, and nearby.
Explore the heart of Columbia, SC, where Historically Black Colleges offer unparalleled education, cultural richness, and leadership in diverse fields.
Check out the best HBCUs Daytona Beach, FL, has to offer so that you can get an education that meets both your cultural and career needs at the same time.
Learn about whether there are Historically Black Colleges and Universities in Dover, Delaware, and find answers to common questions you may have about going to school at an HBCU.
Discover accredited institutions with a wide range of educational opportunities and various program offerings with this list of HBCUs in Jackson, Mississippi.
Discover the impact and offerings of HBCUs in Jacksonville, FL, exploring Edward Waters University and more that enhance education for diverse communities.
Find out how many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are located in Jefferson City, Missouri. Get answers to related questions you may have about attending an HBCU.
Uncover the rich legacy of HBCUs in Louisville, KY, and their impact on education and community. Explore Louisville, KY, HBCUs today to advance your academic career.
Does studying at a college or university that historically served African Americans, especially before and during Louisiana's civil rights movement, appeal to you? If so, you might want to explore studying at one of the distinctive Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in New Orleans in this article.
Discover one of the oldest public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) in Georgia, located in Savannah, offering a diverse range of programs on a scenic 201-acre campus. In this article you can also explore various options for fully online HBCUs across the nation.
Find out if there are any Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs) in Shreveport, Louisiana, and get answers to questions you may have about going to school at an HBCU.
Explore the rich educational landscape of Montgomery, Alabama, with its Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) offering diverse degree programs.
Explore the available Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in St. Louis, Missouri. Get answers to frequently asked questions about choosing and attending the right HBCU for you.
Alabama is home to many Historically Black Colleges and Universities, as well as many historic cities, like Talladega. Learn about the best HBCUs in Talladega and near Talladega.
Get detailed information about Florida A&M University, the only Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in Tallahassee. Find answers to frequently asked questions about HBCUs.
Uncover the captivating origins of HBCUs today. Delve into the rich history, meaning of what 'HBCUs stand for,' and their pivotal role in shaping education.
Discover the history and significance of the first HBCU and explore the first and oldest Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the United States.
There are more than 100 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the United States, most of them in the southeast. Discover which state has the most HBCUs.
Explore Tuscaloosa's renowned HBCUs, Stillman College and Shelton State Community College, offering diverse degree programs and enriching cultural experiences.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) generally offer the same types of programs that other colleges do, including online programs. Discover online programs from HBCUs.
Education can be expensive. If you want to save money while still getting a great higher education today, find out if there are HBCUs with no application fee for 2024.
Unravel the distinctions between HBCUs and PWIs, guiding your choice for your academic future. Explore the unique atmospheres, opportunities, and cultures of HBCU vs. PWI.
There are more than 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) throughout the United States. Discover the top 10 best HBCUs in the U.S. and the programs they offer.
Explore the many historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that offer graduate programs in the field of clinical psychology, including both master's and doctoral programs.
Learn more about HBCUs with the highest graduation rates and find a college that will support your educational journey. HBCUs can prepare students for success.
Most HBCUs offer Greek Life through the National Pan-Hellenic Council, or NPHC. Learn more about HBCU Greek Life and which sororities and fraternities are commonly offered at HBCUs.
To attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), you'll need to submit an application and possibly an application fee. Discover how much it costs to apply to an HBCU.