Rankings / HBCU

Best HBCUs for Visual

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 24 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$41,835

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

37%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$19,886

Avg. Net Price

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Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) play a critical role in shaping the future of students pursuing careers in the visual and performing arts. With 24 institutions on this list, each provides unique opportunities for students to develop their talents and build a successful career in creative fields. Understanding the options available at these schools is key for students and families making important decisions about education and future earnings.

What sets the top HBCUs apart in this ranking is not just their focus on visual and performing arts, but also their outcomes in terms of earnings, graduation rates, and student debt. These metrics provide insight into how well each school prepares its graduates for life after college. Below, you’ll find schools ranked by their ability to deliver value in these areas, helping you identify the best fit for your academic and financial goals.

Take Elizabeth City State University and Bowie State University, for example. Elizabeth City State has an average earning of $40,026 and a graduation rate of 46%. In contrast, Bowie State offers higher average earnings at $54,537 but has a lower graduation rate of 38%. These differences highlight that while earning potential is crucial, graduation rates and program support are also vital considerations when choosing a school.

Key Findings

Elizabeth City State University graduates earn an average of $40,026, with a graduation rate of 46%.

Bowie State University has the highest average earnings at $54,537 but a lower graduation rate of 38%.

Coppin State University offers the lowest net price at $9,977, which may appeal to budget-conscious students.

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University has a graduation rate of 53%, the highest among the top five schools.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 24

Avg. earnings at 10yr $41,835

Avg. graduation rate 37%

Avg. net price $19,886

Avg. median debt $27,435

How We Ranked

HBCUs ranked by outcomes and program concentration in Visual & Performing Arts

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC

Graduation46%

Earnings$40,026

Net Price$6,364

View full profile →

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Tallahassee, FL

Graduation53%

Earnings$44,349

Net Price$13,739

View full profile →

Dillard University

New Orleans, LA

Graduation44%

Earnings$39,196

Net Price$22,094

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC · 1,975 students · Public

With a welcoming campus in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, this school serves nearly 2,000 students and has a strong commitment to accessibility, reflected in its 64% acceptance rate. The university is particularly supportive of students from diverse backgrounds, with 54% of its student body receiving Pell Grants, making it an inviting choice for those seeking an inclusive educational environment.

64% accepted 46% graduate $40,026 earnings

Elizabeth's full profile

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Tallahassee, FL · 7,582 students · Public

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee is a vibrant hub with over 7,500 students, known for its rich history and dedication to academic excellence. The 21% acceptance rate signifies a selective admissions process, which helps foster a focused and motivated student body that thrives in a competitive environment, particularly in fields related to agriculture, engineering, and business.

21% accepted 53% graduate $44,349 earnings

Florida's full profile

Dillard University

New Orleans, LA · 1,063 students · Private nonprofit

Dillard University, nestled in the heart of New Orleans, is a private nonprofit institution that offers a unique blend of cultural richness and academic opportunity. With 70% of its students receiving Pell Grants, Dillard is dedicated to serving students from diverse economic backgrounds while maintaining a welcoming campus atmosphere where community and mentorship thrive.

42% accepted 44% graduate $39,196 earnings

Dillard's full profile

Norfolk State University

Norfolk, VA · 5,392 students · Public

Located in Norfolk, Virginia, Norfolk State University has a diverse enrollment of over 5,300 students and a welcoming atmosphere with an 88% acceptance rate. The school emphasizes accessibility and academic support, particularly for first-generation college students, making it a great choice for those seeking a nurturing educational environment.

88% accepted 36% graduate $44,666 earnings

Norfolk's full profile

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Pine Bluff, AR · 1,807 students · Public

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers a strong educational foundation in a smaller setting, making it an appealing option for students looking for personalized attention. With an acceptance rate of 41%, the university attracts a diverse range of students, including 70% who receive Pell Grants, highlighting its commitment to accessibility and support for lower-income families.

41% accepted 40% graduate $35,550 earnings

University's full profile

North Carolina Central University

Durham, NC · 6,081 students · Public

With an acceptance rate of 87%, North Carolina Central University in Durham is an accessible option for students looking to pursue higher education. The campus is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusivity, with 59% of students receiving Pell Grants. This indicates a strong support system for those from lower-income backgrounds, fostering a community that values education as a pathway to opportunity.

87% accepted 44% graduate $42,968 earnings

Clark Atlanta University

Atlanta, GA · 3,603 students · Private nonprofit

Clark Atlanta University, situated in Atlanta, GA, serves a diverse student body of 3,603, promoting academic excellence and leadership. With a graduation rate of 48%, it is dedicated to helping students achieve their goals, especially those aiming to make a significant impact in their communities and professions.

64% accepted 48% graduate $42,712 earnings

Morehouse College

Atlanta, GA · 2,844 students · Private nonprofit

Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA, is a historic institution known for its commitment to educating Black men. With an acceptance rate of 44%, it fosters a close-knit community, where students can engage deeply in academics and leadership development, a vital experience for many who aspire to become change-makers in their fields.

44% accepted 56% graduate $52,889 earnings

Morehouse's full profile

Howard University

Washington, DC · 10,108 students · Private nonprofit

Howard University in Washington, DC, is a vibrant hub for students seeking a strong academic and cultural experience. Notably, the university achieves a graduation rate of 69%, reflecting its commitment to student success. The diverse environment and rich history empower students to build lasting networks that extend far beyond the classroom, making it a great place for those who value community engagement and leadership.

41% accepted 69% graduate $63,066 earnings

Howard's full profile

#10

University of the District of Columbia

Washington, DC · 3,351 students · Public

With a vibrant location in Washington, DC, the University of the District of Columbia serves a diverse student body of over 3,300. The school prides itself on its commitment to accessibility, with 36% of students receiving Pell Grants, which supports those from lower-income backgrounds. This focus on inclusivity is evident in its community programs and partnerships throughout the city.

30% graduate $44,236 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Texas Southern University

Houston, TX · 6,844 students · Public

Texas Southern University is situated in Houston and serves a diverse student body of about 6,844. With an acceptance rate of 97%, it opens its doors to a wide range of students, making it an appealing option for those seeking a supportive environment for their education.

97% accepted 21% graduate $38,924 earnings

South Carolina State University

Orangeburg, SC · 2,934 students · Public

In Orangeburg, South Carolina State University offers a welcoming environment for around 2,934 students. The school's commitment to accessibility is reflected in its 83% acceptance rate, making it a viable choice for many aspiring college students looking for a supportive community.

83% accepted 33% graduate $38,262 earnings

Bowie State University

Bowie, MD · 5,043 students · Public

Home to over 5,000 students, Bowie State University in Maryland emphasizes a strong academic community with a commitment to student success despite its lower graduation rate of 38%. The atmosphere here fosters resilience and determination, attracting students who are eager to overcome challenges and make the most of their college experience, particularly in fields like technology and education.

72% accepted 38% graduate $54,537 earnings

Stillman College

Tuscaloosa, AL · 706 students · Private nonprofit

Stillman College, located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, has a strong sense of community, with a student body of just 706. This intimate environment could be ideal for students seeking personalized attention and support during their college journey. Despite its smaller size, Stillman emphasizes academic growth and the importance of a well-rounded education, particularly for its 76% of Pell Grant recipients who represent a significant portion of the student population.

62% accepted 32% graduate $35,421 earnings

Stillman's full profile

#15

Virginia Union University

Richmond, VA · 1,203 students · Private nonprofit

Virginia Union University in Richmond welcomes a diverse student body with an impressive acceptance rate of 98%. The school provides a supportive environment that encourages academic growth, although it has a graduation rate of only 39%. This can be a critical factor for prospective students, as the community offers various resources to help those who may need assistance in reaching their educational goals.

98% accepted 39% graduate $38,275 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#16

Coppin State University

Baltimore, MD · 1,844 students · Public

Coppin State University in Baltimore caters to a tight-knit community of around 1,800 students, though it faces challenges with a graduation rate of just 26%. The smaller campus allows for personalized attention and mentorship, which can be crucial for students needing additional support, especially those from diverse backgrounds, as 54% of the student body receives Pell Grants.

46% accepted 26% graduate $46,490 earnings

Coppin's full profile

#17

Florida Memorial University

Miami Gardens, FL · 1,183 students · Private nonprofit

Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens, Florida, boasts a vibrant and multicultural campus with a student population of 1,183. The university emphasizes the importance of community and diversity, which is reflected in its 85% acceptance rate. Many students here are Pell Grant recipients, at 69%, showcasing the institution's commitment to accessibility for those from various backgrounds.

85% accepted 31% graduate $36,624 earnings

Florida's full profile

#18

Fisk University

Nashville, TN · 1,035 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Nashville, Fisk University is a private nonprofit institution with a rich history and a commitment to liberal arts education. With a small student body of around 1,035, it fosters close-knit relationships between faculty and students, enhancing the learning experience for those who thrive in a more intimate setting.

37% accepted 35% graduate $45,454 earnings

Tougaloo College

Tougaloo, MS · 639 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Tougaloo, MS, Tougaloo College presents a rich cultural experience and a focus on empowering students from diverse backgrounds. With a 33% graduation rate, the college has a supportive environment that encourages students to find their path, especially for those from underrepresented communities seeking a strong foundation in higher education.

60% accepted 33% graduate $34,724 earnings

Tougaloo's full profile

#20

Alabama State University

Montgomery, AL · 3,477 students · Public

Alabama State University, located in Montgomery, welcomes approximately 3,477 students into its vibrant campus community. With a high acceptance rate of 98%, it caters to a diverse array of students, making it an inviting option for those looking to pursue higher education in a supportive setting.

98% accepted 30% graduate $34,502 earnings

Alabama's full profile

#21

Le Moyne-Owen College

Memphis, TN · 581 students · Private nonprofit

Le Moyne-Owen College, located in Memphis, TN, offers a unique opportunity with a 99% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many students. With just 581 students, the intimate campus setting allows for personalized attention and support, which can be crucial for those who thrive in smaller learning environments.

99% accepted 26% graduate $35,594 earnings

Simmons College of Kentucky

Louisville, KY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Simmons College of Kentucky in Louisville is a small institution with an intimate atmosphere, accepting every student who applies. However, the graduation rate is quite low, at just 24%, indicating that it may not be the right fit for everyone. The college is dedicated to serving students from diverse backgrounds, particularly those who may be facing economic challenges, with 41% of the student body receiving Pell Grants.

100% accepted 24% graduate

Simmons's full profile

#23

Benedict College

Columbia, SC · 1,536 students · Private nonprofit

With a student population of 1,536, Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, offers a diverse environment where students can build connections and friendships. The college's mission to provide access to higher education resonates through its high acceptance rate of 96%, welcoming many students, including 62% who receive Pell Grants. The college fosters a sense of belonging, which can be vital for personal and academic success.

96% accepted 23% graduate $31,902 earnings

Benedict's full profile

#24

Morris Brown College

Atlanta, GA · 432 students · Private nonprofit

Morris Brown College, situated in Atlanta, Georgia, is a smaller institution with a student body of just 432. The college is known for its rich history and strong community ties, which can offer students a unique and personal college experience. With 65% of students receiving Pell Grants, Morris Brown is committed to making education accessible for those who need it most, fostering an inclusive atmosphere on campus.

Morris's full profile

A key pattern emerges when comparing Coppin State University and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. While Coppin State has a lower average earning of $46,490 and a graduation rate of just 26%, Florida A&M stands out with higher earnings of $44,349 and a graduation rate of 53%. This contrast emphasizes the importance of completing a degree, which can significantly impact future earnings.

As you weigh these options, consider how each school aligns with your personal priorities. Think about factors like location, the specific visual arts programs offered, and campus culture. Balancing financial considerations like net price and debt against these aspects can guide you to the right choice for your education and future.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable life hinges on the decisions made today. The data shows that choosing the right HBCU can lead to better earnings and reduced debt, shaping not only individual futures but also the broader community. One thoughtful decision today can set the stage for lifelong success.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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