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Top 10 HBCUs in the U.S. & Rankings 2026

Top 10 HBCUs in the U.S. & Rankings 2026

Updated on:

February 6, 2026

Explore the top HBCUs in the U.S., their rankings, online degree options, and career outcomes to see why these colleges remain affordable and impactful.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have played a vital role in expanding access to higher education for generations of students. Founded primarily after the Civil War, these schools were created to provide academic opportunities when segregation limited access elsewhere. 

Today, HBCUs remain strong centers of cultural pride, academic achievement, and professional preparation. Students choose HBCUs not only for their affordability and supportive environments, but also for the leadership skills and alumni networks they foster. This article explores what HBCUs are, why they matter, and how they prepare graduates for lasting success.

What Is an HBCU?

HBCUs are institutions founded before 1964 with the primary mission of educating Black Americans who were historically excluded from many colleges. These schools have a deep legacy of advancing civil rights, leadership, and academic excellence in the U.S. 

Today, more than 100 HBCUs are operating, offering a full range of degrees from associate through doctoral programs. Students can pursue majors in education, business, healthcare, STEM, and the arts. While rooted in history, HBCUs continue to shape future leaders and provide access to affordable, high-quality education.

Why Choose an HBCU?

Choosing an HBCU means joining a supportive academic community where mentorship and cultural pride are central to the student experience. HBCUs often provide smaller class sizes and close relationships with faculty who are invested in student success. Affordability is another significant advantage, with many HBCUs offering competitive tuition rates and financial aid packages.

Beyond academics, HBCUs cultivate leadership through student organizations, service opportunities, and alumni connections. Graduates benefit from extensive networks that open doors to internships, jobs, and mentorship long after college. For students seeking a sense of belonging and a rich cultural tradition, HBCUs offer an environment where education and identity are celebrated together.

Top HBCUs in the U.S.

There are currently 107 HBCUs in the U.S. We've listed the top ten below in alphabetical order.

1. Delaware State University

Delaware State University is a private, historically Black research university in Dover, DE. It's considered one of the best HBCUs in Delaware. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees as well as certificates on campus and online.

Programs are available in areas of study like:

  • business
  • communications
  • health sciences
  • human services

The university conducts a high amount of research and has federal research grants in several math and science fields. It also offers an aviation program that allows students to complete their FAA requirements.

Delaware State University enrolls approximately 6,400 students, of whom 64.7% identify as Black or African American. The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

U.S. News and World Report ranks Delaware State #10 for best HBCUs.

2. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is a public, historically Black university in Tallahassee, FL. It offers associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in person and online.

Students can study fields such as:

  • business
  • health sciences
  • human services
  • law

The university offers a highly competitive pre-med program for undergraduate students. It's also one of the only universities in the U.S. where women in the law school program outnumber men two to one.

Florida A&M enrolls around 10,000 students, and over 80% of its student body identifies as Black or African American. It's accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The university is ranked as the #5 best HBCU by U.S. News and World Report and #7 by Times Higher Education.

3. Howard University

Howard University is a private, historically Black university in Washington, D.C., It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificate programs.

Programs are available in areas of study like:

  • business
  • communications
  • health care
  • social sciences

The university offers several programs for high-achieving students, including the STEM Scholars Program, the Google Tech Exchange Program, and the Disney Storyteller Fund.

Howard University is the most famous of the HBCUs; it enrolls just under 13,000 students, 68.8% of whom identify as Black or African American. It's accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

U.S. News and World Report ranks Howard University as the #2 HBCU, while Times Higher Education ranks it #1.

4. Morehouse College

Morehouse College is a private, historically Black men's liberal arts college and is considered one of the best HBCUs in Georgia. It offers bachelor's degrees on campus and online.

Students can study fields such as:

  • biological sciences
  • business
  • social sciences
  • visual and performing arts

The college has multiple activities for students, including a well-known marching band, a debate team, a glee club, and a weekly student-run newspaper.

Morehouse College enrolls roughly 2,200 students, and 98.4% identify as Black or African American. The college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The college is ranked the #3 HBCU by U.S. News and World Report and tied for the fourth-best HBCU by Times Higher Education.

5. North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is a public, historically Black research university in Greensboro, NC. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in person and online.

Programs are available in areas of study like:

  • business
  • engineering
  • liberal arts
  • social sciences

The university produces the highest number of African American engineers in the country, including the highest number of African American women at the bachelor's level and the second-highest number of African American engineers at the master's level.

North Carolina A&T enrolls over 15,000 students, making it the largest HBCU in the country. Nearly 78% of students identify as Black or African American. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and lauded as one of the best HBCUs in North Carolina.

U.S. News and World Report ranks North Carolina A&T as the eighth HBCU, while Times Higher Education has it tied for number eight.

6. North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University is a public, historically Black university in Durham, NC. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus and online.

Students can study fields such as:

  • business
  • health sciences
  • law
  • social sciences

The university includes two research institutes: the Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, and the Julius L. Chambers Biomedical Biotechnology Research Institute.

NC Central enrolls approximately 7,900 students. Within the student body, 75% identify as Black or African American. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The university is ranked as the 13th HBCU by U.S. News and World Report and is tied at the eighth HBCU by Times Higher Education.

7. Spelman College

Spelman College is a private, historically Black women's liberal arts college in Georgia. Located in Atlanta, it offers bachelor's degrees and certificate programs.

Programs are available in areas of study like:

  • biological sciences
  • health sciences
  • humanities
  • social sciences

The college offers numerous honor societies to high-achieving students. It's also one of the most selective HBCUs in the nation, with an acceptance rate of only 28%.

Spelman College enrolls about 3,100 students, 97% of whom identify as Black or African American. It's accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

U.S. World and News Report ranks Spelman College the number one HBCU and Times Higher Education has it ranked at two.

8. Tuskegee University

Tuskegee University is a private, historically Black university in Tuskegee, AL. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in person and via online degree programs.

Students can study fields such as:

  • agriculture and animal sciences
  • business
  • engineering
  • health sciences

The university's campus is designated as a National Historic Site by the National Park Service. Its history also includes several prominent black educators, including Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver.

Tuskegee University currently enrolls about 2,500 students, with 84.4% identifying as Black or African American. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The university is ranked the #4 HBCU by U.S. News and World Report.

9. Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State University is one of the nation's top public HBCUs in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs on campus and online.

Programs are available in areas of study like:

  • biological sciences
  • business
  • healthcare and nursing
  • social sciences

The university's campus comprises over 40 buildings, including the C.G. O'Kelly Library. Students can participate in a range of activities and athletics and join more than 100 student organizations.

Winston-Salem University enrolls just over 5,000 students. Of those, 73.8% identify as Black or African American. It's accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

U.S. News and World Report has Winston-Salem University ranked as the #22 HBCU.

10. Xavier University of Louisiana

Xavier University of Louisiana is one of Louisiana's best HBCUs. This private, Catholic, historically Black research university, based in New Orleans, offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates.

Students can study fields such as:

  • biological and biomedical sciences
  • pharmacology
  • public health
  • psychology

The university was established in 1925 and its Gothic Revival administration building is a New Orleans landmark. The school hosted Freedom Fighters in the 1960s and has featured speakers like Pope John Paul II and Barack Obama.

Xavier University of Louisiana enrolls about 3,400 students, of which 79.6% identify as Black or African American. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The university is ranked the sixth HBCU by U.S. News and World Report and the third HBCU by Times Higher Education.

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

The cost of a program at an HBCU depends on several factors, including:

  • whether the institution is a public university or private university
  • whether the institution is a two-year or four-year college
  • the degree you're seeking
  • the state of the institution
  • the state in which you live

According to the Education Data Initiative, the average annual cost of tuition at a public college for in-state students is $9,349.

Many HBCUs are part of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, which offers scholarships to students of color. Additionally, many HBCUs offer their own scholarships as well.

How To Choose the Right HBCU

Choosing the right college or university can be tough. Ask yourself questions like:

  • Which colleges or universities are best for my major?
  • Which colleges or universities are most conveniently located?
  • Which colleges or universities offer programs in my preferred learning format (on campus or online)?
  • Which colleges or universities have extracurricular activities that interest me?
  • Which colleges or universities are in my budget?
  • Which colleges or universities have financial aid opportunities for me?

Are There Online HBCUs?

Yes, many HBCUs now offer online and hybrid degree options, making them more accessible to students nationwide. These programs combine affordability with flexibility, allowing learners to pursue degrees while balancing work or family responsibilities. Examples include:

  • Morgan State University
  • Florida A&M University (FAMU)
  • Howard University
  • Delaware State University
  • North Carolina Central University
  • Fayetteville State University
  • Alcorn State University
  • Prairie View A&M University
  • Southern University at New Orleans
  • University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Financial Aid and Scholarships at HBCUs

HBCUs remain some of the most accessible institutions in higher education thanks to generous financial aid opportunities. Students attending accredited HBCUs are eligible for federal aid, including Pell Grants and federal work-study programs. Many schools also offer institutional scholarships based on academic merit or financial need.

National programs like the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund provide additional scholarships specifically for HBCU students. Together, these resources help lower the cost of attendance and reduce reliance on student loans, making HBCUs a financially realistic choice for many families.

Career Outcomes for HBCU Graduates

HBCUs consistently prepare graduates for meaningful careers across industries. According to federal data, HBCUs produce a significant share of Black professionals in teaching, law, healthcare, and STEM fields. For example, many Black doctors, engineers, and judges are HBCU alumni, showing the far-reaching impact of these institutions.

Employment outcomes are strong, with graduates finding roles in education, public service, business, and science. The combination of rigorous academics and strong alumni networks gives students an edge in the workforce. 

FAQs About the Best HBCUs in the U.S.

Students often want to know how HBCUs compare in terms of admissions, affordability, and long-term value. Here are answers to some of the most common questions.

Are HBCUs Only for Black Students?

While HBCUs were founded to serve Black students during segregation, today they welcome learners of all races and backgrounds. Their mission continues to focus on inclusivity, cultural pride, and academic excellence. Diversity on HBCU campuses has grown, and students from many communities benefit from the supportive environments these colleges provide.

Are HBCUs Affordable Compared to Other Colleges?

Yes, HBCUs are generally more affordable than many private or out-of-state public universities. Tuition is often lower, and schools provide scholarships and aid tailored to their students. Combined with federal programs like Pell Grants, HBCUs offer competitive financial support that makes higher education more accessible.

Which HBCU Has the Highest Graduation Rate?

Spelman College and Howard University consistently report some of the highest graduation rates among HBCUs. High graduation rates often reflect strong academic support and student engagement, making these schools attractive for students who want clear pathways to finishing their degree on time.

Do HBCUs Offer Online Degrees?

Yes, many HBCUs have expanded to include online and hybrid programs. Options range from undergraduate to graduate degrees in fields like business, education, and healthcare. These flexible formats make HBCUs more accessible to working adults and out-of-state students.

What Is the Most Prestigious HBCU?

Howard University, Spelman College, and Morehouse College are often cited as the most prestigious HBCUs because of their history, academic programs, and notable alumni. However, the “best” HBCU depends on your personal goals, desired major, and preferred campus environment.

Find a Historically Black College or University Near You

There are many excellent HBCUs across the United States. Check out the programs listed above to find the perfect fit for you today, or select a state below to narrow your search.

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