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2024 Best HBCU Schools in America

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About This List

The 2024 Best Historically Black Colleges and Universities ranking is based on key statistics and student reviews using data from the U.S. Department of Education. The top-ranked HBCU schools are not only leading academic institutions but also offer an exceptional student experience. This year's rankings have introduced an Economic Mobility Index, which measures the economic status change for low-income students. ACT/SAT scores have been removed from rankings to reflect a general de-emphasis on test scores in the college admissions process. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

Where Niche Grades come from and how Niche calculates rankings.

    The Best HBCU Schools in America

    No matter your race, an HBCU might be the right college for you. While HBCUs were founded to expand academic and career opportunities for Black students, these top-notch schools educate students of all ethnicities. They give students an excellent education and a singular experience informed by rich histories and traditions.

    What is an HBCU?

    HBCU stands for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, all founded before the Civil Rights Act and desegregation.

    Starting in the early 19th century, the history of HBCUs began with the need to establish institutions dedicated to providing Black men and women with opportunities that had been denied to them.

    After the Civil War, HBCUs spread across the country. Decades later, new federal legislation required states to provide Black students with an education. More HBCUs were created in response.

    While these schools were called universities, many initially focused on primary and secondary education. Later, other schools emerged to fill these needs, and HBCUs transitioned into institutions of higher learning.

    How many HBCUs are there?

    There are 107 HBCUs, although three have closed in the last decade. Most of these are located in the southern United States, but there are some in other areas of the country.

    Why might you consider an HBCU?

    There are a lot of good reasons to consider an HBCU. For one thing, they tend to be less expensive than traditionally white institutions.

    The support networks at HBCUs are particularly strong, too. Students report high investment levels from their teachers and thriving communities that extend into life after graduation.

    Statistics about the achievements of HBCU graduates testify to the excellent education and mentorship that students can receive at these schools. For example, did you know that 75% of Black people with doctorate degrees earned their undergraduate degree from an HBCU?

    HBCU traditions contribute to unique, inclusive campus cultures. While a growing number of students are non-Black, countless Black students have benefitted from these schools’ nurturing environments. They provide safety and affirmation for all but specifically celebrate Black history and experience.

    What famous people attended HBCUs?

    HBCUs have contributed notable alumni to all professions. These famous people represent only a few of their stars:

    • Toni Braxton, singer-songwriter (Bowie State University)
    • Ta-Nehisi Coates, National Book Award winner (Howard University)
    • Sean “Diddy” Combs, CEO of Bad Boy Records (Howard University)
    • Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States (Howard University)
    • Reverend Jesse Jackson, civil rights activist (North Carolina A&T State University)
    • Spike Lee, film director, producer, writer (Morehouse College)
    • Charles Oakley, retired NBA athlete (Virginia Union University)
    • Wanda Sykes, comedian, writer, and actress (Hampton University)

    You can add figures such as W.E.B. DuBois, Langston Hughes, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Thurgood Marshall to the list.

    If the idea of walking the same halls as these world-changers appeals to you, you might consider one of the colleges on Niche’s list of the best HBCUs. More importantly, you’ll experience the best teachers and programs within a warm and supportive environment.