Best HBCUs in Florida
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Editor & Writer
Writer
Editor & Writer
The best HBCUs in Florida happen to be some of the best colleges in Florida. For Black and African American students, in particular, HBCUs provide many benefits.
As a student at an HBCU, you can gain access to more specialized support services and mentors. You can surround yourself with culturally relevant student organizations and programs. You might also enjoy targeted HBCU employment and scholarship opportunities.
In Florida, students have four HBCUs to choose from. On this page, we explore these schools in more detail.
4 Best HBCUs in Florida
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Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) opened in 1887 with just 15 students. Several name changes and many decades later, the school enrolls nearly 10,000 students in about 100 programs. Along with following the school's successful athletics programs, FAMU learners have access to Tallahassee's budding art scene.
FAMU has over 300 student organizations, and a student union committed to advocating for student rights, opportunities, and co-curricular events and activities. The school received nearly $60 million in federal research and development funding in 2021-22, which tops among all non-medical HBCUs. FAMU was also one of only 19 schools named a Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader.
Florida Memorial University
Miami Gardens, FL - 4 years
- Campus
Beginning as the Florida Baptist Academy in 1879, Florida Memorial University runs over 30 programs for over 1,100 students. Home to several nationally recognized programs, Florida Memorial and its cybersecurity center earned NSA recognition as a National Center of Academic Excellence.
Florida Memorial's campus offers students easy access to local beaches and entertainment, over 40 student clubs and organizations, and an athletics program with a history of national champions.
The school supports its students through intercultural workshops, counseling, and university engagement programming. Florida Memorial also offers financial support, providing financial aid to more than 90% of students. The university even runs pre-college outreach programs to impact the surrounding community.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Bethune-Cookman University
Daytona Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) was founded as the Daytona Literary and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls in 1904. In 1923, the school merged with the Cookman Institute, one of the state's first colleges for Black and African American students. More than a century later, B-CU enrolls over 2,700 students in more than 45 programs.
Through its connection to the United Methodist Church, B-CU offers over 400 faith-based activities, programs, and services. The school is also a chartered member of the United Negro College Fund and the Black College Fund, giving learners access to numerous financial aid opportunities.
Despite its growth and reach, B-CU maintains a small feel. The school has a 15-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio and strives to deliver a personalized experience for every learner. B-CU celebrates African American culture through its events and over 80 student organizations.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Edward Waters College
Jacksonville, FL - 4 years
- Campus
Founded in 1966, Edward Waters University (EWU) was the first private university and the first HBCU in Florida. Closely connected to the African-Methodist Episcopal church, which it founded, EWU enrolls nearly 1,200 students. The school continues to grow by developing new programs in high-demand fields, including public health, forensic science, and cybersecurity.
EWU has many student organizations and activities that celebrate Black and African American students. Home to 16 Division II athletics programs, the school has many options for fans and athletes. This United Negro College Fund member institution also offers many private and school scholarships based on merit and need.
ROI Value Score: Medium
We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.
We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.
Frequently Asked Questions About HBCUs in Florida
How many HBCUs does Florida have?
Florida has four HBCUs: Edward Waters University, Bethune-Cookman University, Florida Memorial University, and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. According to the UNCF, these four schools have an economic impact of over $800 million in Florida.
Which cities in Florida are home to HBCUs?
The four HBCUs in Florida are located in the following cities: Edward Waters University in Jacksonville, Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens, and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee.
What is the largest HBCU in Florida?
With just under 10,000 students, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) has the largest student body among all HBCUs in Florida. In fact, FAMU enrolls more than the other three HBCUs combined.
As a result, FAMU also has the most program offerings, the most student organizations, and the largest HBCU athletics program.
What is the most affordable HBCU in Florida?
While most of the HBCUs in Florida have similar tuition rates, FAMU has the lowest for in-state undergraduate students. Learners pay $2,277 per semester, compared to over $6,000 for the other schools.
A promising HBCU statistic shows that, on average, HBCUs awarded $9,738 in grants in 2020-2021.
Which HBCUs in Florida have nursing programs?
Both FAMU and B-CU have nursing programs. B-CU has a BSN program, while FAMU has pre-nursing, BSN, and RN-to-BSN programs. FAMU's nursing program is the oldest HBCU nursing program in Florida.
The other two schools do not have standalone nursing programs. Florida Memorial has a joint nursing program with Florida International University (FIU) and the University of Miami (UM). EWU has a nursing pathway program with the University of Florida.
Additional Resources for Florida HBCU Students
United Negro College Fund
The UNCF is a leader in providing HBCU student scholarships, supporting HBCUs financially, and advocating for African American students.
Thurgood Marshall College Fund
TMCF represents HBCUs, Predominantly Black Institutions, and African American students. The organization has provided over $300 million to support students and schools and developed a nationally recognized internship program.
Common Black College Application
The CBCA helps students complete their college and scholarship applications. Over 300,000 students have completed the CBCA, with 97% getting accepted to at least one school.
HBCU First
This student-led organization assists HBCU students with their education and careers through internships and mentorships.
National Association of HBCU Students and Alumni
This organization supports HBCU students with scholarships, mentorships, and professional development programs.
