HBCUs to Keep on Your Radar if College is on the Horizon

When people hear the term HBCU, they immediately think of Howard University in Washington, DC, or Spelman or Morehouse in Atlanta. And yes, these schools are well-known; many historically Black colleges don’t receive the same hype. HBCUs were founded in the 1800s as a way to allow Black students access to higher education. This was a time when most colleges were unavailable to Black students during segregation. These schools are safe havens and important socially, economically, and culturally. Today, they offer a sense of legacy, purpose, and pride. For many students, attending an HBCU is about being seen and celebrated. It’s important to remember, though, that there are several options beyond the “big schools.” It’s not always go big or go home; sometimes the best choice isn’t the most popular. Here are 5 lesser-known HBCUs to keep on your radar.

HBCUs to Keep on Your Radar 

Xavier University of Louisiana, New Orleans

Located in Mid-City, NOLA, Xavier University is the only Black, Catholic university in the country. It’s known for both STEM, pharmacy, and nursing. Approximately 3,000 students attend Xavier each year with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio.  Students can expect a variety of culturally-based clubs, a social-justice focus, and a strong community feel. Nearby students can experience the French Quarter, the WWII Museum, and, for fans of the great outdoors, Bayou St. John is perfect for water sports. 

Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL

Founded by Booker T. Washington, Tuskegee University is 2,800 strong each year and offers over 60 degree programs, including agricultural and veterinary studies. This is significant as veterinary medicine is lacking in diversity; less than 3% of the veterinarians in the U.S. are Black.  Fraternities and Sororities are popular here, and students who attend can expect a variety of organizations and clubs to fit every interest. 

The area is rich in history and significance as it’s home to sites like the George Washington Carver Museum, the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site, the Tuskegee Human & Civil Rights Center, and many others.  

South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC

South Carolina State University is a public HBCU known for programs like engineering and agribusiness. Around 2,600 students attend SCSU each year, and the campus’s proximity to the Edisto River, gardens, and Santee State Park makes it a great school for those with a love of the outdoors. The school is also about an hour away from both Charleston and Columbia, so there’s always plenty to do in the area. 

North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC

Durham, North Carolina, is home to North Carolina Central University. NCCU School of Law is an affordable, accredited law school with a finger on the pulse of what is going on in the nation. The school has a strong handle on civil rights and social justice issues. It’s also a powerhouse academically for students interested in criminal justice and public health, with special programs in homeland security, forensic science, and public administration.  

Claflin University, Orangeburg, SC

Located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, Claflin University has a slightly smaller student population. Claflin, however, is a historic HBCU with strong business, education, and science academic programs. The school has a welcoming vibe as well as access to a variety of cultural and outdoor activities. This includes the nearby Arthur Rose Museum and the Edisto Memorial Gardens. Claflin has high student retention rates. The school also offers a professional development program that assists students from their freshman year through job placement. 

Why You Should Keep Lesser-Known HBCUs In Mind 

These Black colleges may not be posted on social media. They might not receive viral shout-outs throughout the year. However, they’re important HBCUs to keep on your radar because they’re quietly delivering consistent results year after year. In some cases, they’re even outperforming the big hitters. 

HBCUs are often underfunded. That said, they still manage to support their students from the first day through graduation. Often, they go above and beyond graduation. There are numerous reasons for your child to consider attending a smaller HBCU. They may be drawn to the smaller student-to-teacher ratio. Perhaps they want instructors who remember their name. Plus, these lesser-known HBCUs offer more close-knit networking opportunities. 

When choosing a school, be sure to visit campuses. Ask questions about career placement and internship opportunities. If you’re applying for financial aid, ask about that as well.  Sometimes the best school for your needs and goals isn’t the most popular. Students and parents just need to do the work to find the right one.