Best HBCUs in Florida

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.

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.

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.

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.