Is There an HBCU in Indiana?

Updated on September 25, 2023

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Looking for an HBCU in Indiana? Our guide highlights Indiana schools that support Black students.

While the state is home to many prestigious colleges, there isn’t a historically Black college or university (HBCU) located in Indiana. However, Indiana is home to Martin University, a predominantly Black institution (PBI) that offers the feel of an HBCU without the official designation.

In order to qualify as a PBI and receive the designation, an institution’s student body must be at least 40% Black students. Like HBCUs, PBIs offer a welcoming learning community with resources specifically tailored toward Black students.

Martin University

Founded in 1977 in Indianapolis, Martin University is too young to be classified as an HBCU. However, the school’s founding vision was to serve low-income, historically excluded students and adult learners. The majority of MU students are Black, female, and over the age of 25.

MU is the only PBI in Indiana. The school’s average annual tuition is $12,840, but around 90% of students receive financial aid.

Academics

MU offers 11 undergraduate programs, including business administration, liberal studies, and early childhood education. The school also offers two master’s programs in community psychology and organizational leadership, along with a graduate certificate in clinical and counseling studies.

Student Support Services

MU offers career development services through its Martin Works program, which helps students gain professional experience at employer apprenticeships with partner businesses. Even online students have access to a supportive community. The school’s online bachelor of business administration uses a cohort format in which learners complete courses with the same peer group.

Exploring Similar Experiences in Indiana

While Martin offers strong professional connections and community for Black students, its small size and non-traditional student body differentiate it from the average four-year college. However, it’s still possible to find a community even if you’re not enrolled at an HBCU in Indiana. These Indiana colleges offer a traditional experience while also providing a strong campus community for Black students.

Indiana State University

A public college based in Terre Haute, ISU serves around 7,800 students annually. Black students make up 14.5% of ISU’s enrollment, which is higher than most Indiana colleges.

ISU is home to several Black student organizations, including the Black Student Union and the Students African American Sisterhood. Six National Pan Hellenic Council fraternities and sororities have active chapters at the school. The Charles E. Brown African American Cultural Center provides academic support, culturally relevant programming, and professional development services. There is also an African and African American Studies program, which offers a bachelor of arts as well as a minor. ISU is ideal if you’re looking for a mid-sized urban campus with plenty of community opportunities.

Indiana University at Bloomington

One of Indiana’s largest public colleges, IU enrolls around 47,000 students annually, with more than 30% of degree candidates identifying as students of color. IU is also one of Indiana’s largest online colleges, offering dozens of online programs at all academic levels.

IU hosts over 20 Black student organizations, including fraternities, sororities, and professional societies. The school is also home to the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center, which offers events and other programming. IU is a great choice for a traditional undergraduate experience, with a lively campus culture and strong college athletics.

HBCUs Near Indiana

While there isn’t technically an HBCU in Indiana, four HBCUs operate within 200 miles of Indianapolis. Two of these schools also offer tuition discounts that make their costs comparable to other Indiana public colleges.

Simmons College of Kentucky

Based in Louisville, Kentucky, Simmons sits just over the border from Indiana. This private college offers the same tuition rate regardless of where you live, making it ideal for Indiana residents. Simmons offers undergraduate degrees in many areas, including business, music, and psychology.

Simmons is a small college with a 9-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. This is an ideal school if you’re looking for an intimate experience and plenty of attention from faculty.

Kentucky State University

A public college in Frankfort, Kentucky, KSU is the oldest HBCU in the state. The school enrolls around 1,700 students annually, offering both undergraduate and graduate programs. KSU’s tuition is only around $2,000 per semester for Indiana residents, making it an affordable option regardless of your state residency status.

KSU offers a variety of academic majors and a robust campus experience, including athletics, social activities, and over 50 student organizations.

Central State University

Ohio’s only public HBCU, CSU operates a main campus in Wilberforce. The school serves over 6,000 students annually and offers 41 academic majors, including education, journalism, and math. Due to a state reciprocity agreement, Indiana residents pay the in-state tuition rate at CSU.

With its larger size, CSU offers a bustling campus atmosphere with sports, arts, and many student organizations. However, the 24-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio means larger classes.

Wilberforce University

A private, liberal arts HBCU also based in Wilberforce, Ohio, WU enrolls under 500 students annually. The school offers bachelor’s degrees in accounting, social work, and computer science, along with a master’s degree in clinical rehabilitation counseling. Wilberforce is the only HBCU owned by African Americans through the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Wilberforce’s small size offers a highly personalized academic experience. However, the school doesn’t offer tuition discounts for Indiana residents. Students can expect to pay almost $15,000 annually in tuition as undergraduates.