4 Best HBCUs in Atlanta
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The value of receiving an education from a historically Black college and university (HBCU) in Atlanta has a unique advantage. Not only does the city's vibrant Black community provide a rich cultural environment, giving students a sense of belonging and empowerment, but Atlanta also serves as a hub for HBCU employers, offering ample internship, job, and networking opportunities.
Atlanta is home to four of the nation's top HBCUs, all less than a mile apart from each other. The Morehouse School of Medicine excels in healthcare education. Spelman College and Morehouse College both offer comprehensive liberal arts programs, while Clark Atlanta University is a renowned research institution that provides many disciplines to choose from.
One interesting HBCU fact is that all are members of The Atlanta University Center Consortium, the world's oldest and largest association of HBCUs. Among the member benefits is cross registration, meaning students can enroll in courses at any of these institutions. There are also shared community partnerships, resources, and engagement.
4 Best HBCUs in Atlanta, Georgia
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Morehouse School of Medicine
Atlanta, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM) is a top medical school — particularly in the fields of primary care and community health — that offers an education rooted in service. Founded in 1975, it emphasizes the importance of giving back and making a positive impact in underserved urban and rural communities.
MSM also has many student organizations that promote personal and professional growth. These include the Student National Medical Association — which supports Black and minority medical students — and specialty groups focused on specific areas of study.
Situated in the West End neighborhood of Atlanta, this area has a thriving healthcare ecosystem, with many hospitals, research facilities, and medical organizations. This gives MSM students access to clinical experiences, residencies, and potential job opportunities.
The West End neighborhood is a blend of historic significance and appealing modern options. It is home to excellent restaurants and cultural attractions, and the Malcolm X Festival takes place at West End Park every year.
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.
Spelman College
Atlanta, GA - 4 years
- Campus
Spelman College is a prestigious, highly selective liberal arts school for women. Established in 1881, Spelman is known for its commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and social justice.
Spelman has a supportive and close-knit community, emphasizing sisterhood, mentorship, and intellectual growth. After graduation, 30% of students go onto grad school, notably in STEM and medical fields, earning terminal degrees such as doctorates.
Spelman students can join sororities, religious clubs, or special interest organizations. The famed glee club is known for being one of the top musical groups on campus. Additionally, there are numerous academic, service-oriented, and leadership-based clubs.
The neighborhood boasts a thriving arts and music scene, with venues like the Fox Theatre and the High Museum of Art nearby. Additionally, Atlanta's rich history and role in the Civil Rights Movement offer valuable learning experiences for students interested in racial justice.
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.
Morehouse College
Atlanta, GA - 4 years
- Campus
Morehouse College — founded in 1867 — is a renowned liberal arts college for men that promotes brotherhood and academic achievement. The HBCU is known for its commitment to helping students go on to make an impact in their communities and contribute to social change.
Morehouse produces more Rhodes Scholars than any other HBCU. Additionally, more Black men go on to earn doctorates from Morehouse than from any other school. Popular majors include STEM and business. Of the 60 academic clubs at Morehouse, of note are the debate team and the pre-law society (the latter in a partnership with Spelman).
Morehouse's world-famous glee club, marching band, and other musical groups give students options for artistic expression. There are also plenty of leadership and service-oriented organizations that promote personal growth and engagement.
Atlanta is home to renowned attractions such as the Atlanta History Center and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. The city also provides numerous internship and job opportunities thanks to its thriving business sector.
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.
Clark Atlanta University
Atlanta, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Clark Atlanta University (CAU) is the biggest school in the Atlanta University Center Consortium. Founded in 1988 through the merger of Clark College and Atlanta University — the latter the first school to award graduate degrees to Black students — CAU is known for providing students with a well-rounded college experience.
You can earn over 40 different degrees on the undergraduate and graduate levels at this research-focused HBCU. Notably, the school of social work is especially high-profile, while biology, mass media, and business administration are among the most popular majors.
Students can join numerous clubs, organizations, and extracurricular groups at CAU. From academic societies and performing arts groups to social justice organizations and Greek life, there is something for everyone — though the marching band and the dance line are most popular.
One of the major draws of attending CAU is its location in the heart of Atlanta near The Roxy and The Tabernacle. The city is home to many Fortune 500 companies, startups, and more, providing students with ample job opportunities.
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.
Additional Resources for Atlanta HBCU Students
Atlanta HBCU Alumni Alliance
This organization brings together alumni from different HBCUs to promote networking, professional development, and community engagement. It offers mentorship programs and job opportunities and hosts social events that connect students with successful alumni.
National Society of Black Engineers - Atlanta Chapter
The NSBE provides support for Black professionals or graduate students pursuing careers in STEM. The Atlanta chapter hosts service-minded networking events, career fairs, and leadership workshops that HBCU students can participate in to develop professionally.
Urban League of Greater Atlanta Young Professionals
The ULGA-YP supports young professionals, including HBCU students, in Atlanta. It offers leadership development, community service opportunities, and networking events that guide college students and grads to enhance their personal and professional growth.
The Big Homecoming
The Big Homecoming is an annual festival in Atlanta celebrating the music and culture of HBCUs. It provides a platform for students to showcase talent, connect with industry professionals, and participate in helpful workshops that sharpen various life skills.
Atlanta HBCU Arts and Culture Collective
This incubator at Spelman College facilitates the creative and curatorial development of HBCU art and museum students. The art collective hosts events, allowing students to develop professionally and connect with the larger arts community.
Frequently Asked Questions About HBCUs in Atlanta
Are there HBCUs in Georgia?
Yes, there are 10 HBCUs in Georgia: Albany State University, Clark Atlanta University, Fort Valley State University, Interdenominational Theological Center, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Paine College, Savannah State University, Spelman College, and Morris Brown College.
What is the largest HBCU in Atlanta?
Clark Atlanta University is the largest HBCU in Atlanta, with over 4,000 enrolled students. It is also the biggest of the 37 colleges and universities in the United Negro College Fund consortium.
How many HBCUs are in Atlanta?
Of the 10 total HBCUs in the state of Georgia, six of them are located in Atlanta: Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Spelman College, Interdenominational Theological Center, and Morris Brown College.
The other four are spread throughout other cities and towns in the state.
