Best HBCUs in Florida
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
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.
Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Tallahassee, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,152
- Out-of-state$14,524
- In-State$8,019
- Out-of-state$22,108
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate33%
- Students Enrolled9,184
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment98%
- AccreditationYes
- In-State$12,576
- Out-of-state$12,576
- In-State$16,708
- Out-of-state$16,708
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance Rate38%
- Students Enrolled928
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
- In-State$13,844
- Out-of-state$13,844
- In-State$13,500
- Out-of-state$13,500
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate98%
- Students Enrolled2,845
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
- In-State$14,878
- Out-of-state$14,878
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate54%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled2,273
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
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.
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