Best Black Colleges: Ranking the Top Public and Private HBCUs in 2018

Last Updated on August 13, 2018

School Ambassadors welcome new students to Oakwood University one of the Best Black Colleges.
Photo credit: Oakwood University

BestColleges.com, a leading provider of independent college rankings and higher education trend reports, has released their rankings of the Best Black Colleges (HBCUs) for 2018. The ranking highlights accredited, not-for-profit colleges and universities who have historically worked to serve the African American community and who continue to celebrate social and academic diversity.

Of the 101 active HBCUs in America, 30 schools were recognized on the ranking based on affordability, academic quality, and student support and outcomes. “Historically black colleges and universities are unique in the higher education environment in that they combine academics, community, tradition, African-American studies, and social justice initiatives into a successful formula for students seeking alternative educational opportunities. Our list seeks to honor and recognize HBCUs that have maintained excellent academic programs while continuing to develop and adhere to their historical legacy of social empowerment for all,” says Stephanie Snider, General Manager at BestColleges.com.

Best Black Colleges Ranking Methodology

The BestColleges.com ranking uses a methodology grounded in data compiled from the National Center for Education Statistics. It objectively assesses quality based on academic outcomes, affordability, and the breadth and depth of online learning opportunities.

In addition to the HBCU ranking, the updated page includes a short guide to help prospective students understand the benefits of attending a HBCU and helps them choose the right college for their personal needs. Interviews from a HBCU faculty member and student accompany the guide for added student perspectives.

Here are the 10 Best Black Colleges for 2018:

10. Spelman College

  • Location: Atlanta, GA
  • Ranking Score: 70.14
  • Graduation Rate: 77%

9. North Carolina Central University

  • Location: Durham, NC
  • Ranking Score: 70.24
  • Graduation Rate: 43%

8. Oakwood University

  • Location: Huntsville, AL
  • Ranking Score: 70.81
  • Graduation Rate: 47%

7. Fayetteville State University

  • Location: Fayetteville, NC
  • Ranking Score: 71.0
  • Graduation Rate: 32%

6. Winston-Salem State University

  • Location: Winston-Salem, NC
  • Ranking Score: 73.14
  • Graduation Rate: 47%

5. Delaware State University

  • Location: Dover, DE
  • Ranking Score: 74.36
  • Graduation Rate: 43%

4. Howard University

  • Location: Washington, DC
  • Ranking Score: 74.86
  • Graduation Rate: 61%

3. Bowie State University

  • Location: Bowie, MD
  • Ranking Score: 78.26
  • Graduation Rate: 37%

2. North Carolina A & T State University

  • Location: Greensboro, NC
  • Ranking Score: 78.81
  • Graduation Rate: 43%

1. Florida A & M University

  • Location: Tallahassee, FL
  • Ranking Score: 80.24
  • Graduation Rate: 41%

About BestColleges.com

BestColleges.com helps prospective students find the school that best meets their needs through proprietary research, user-friendly guides, and hundreds of unique college rankings. They also provide a wide array of college planning, financial aid, and career resources to help all students get the most from their education and prepare them for the world after college.

View the complete ranking at:
http://www.bestcolleges.com/features/top-30-historically-black-colleges/

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