Rankings / HBCU

Best HBCUs for Data Science

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 41 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$40,015

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

34%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$17,007

Avg. Net Price

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The best historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) for data science are more than just places to earn a degree; they represent communities and opportunities for many students. With a growing demand for data professionals, these institutions are stepping up to prepare graduates for a competitive job market. The average earnings for graduates in this field across our list is around $40,015, highlighting the potential for solid financial returns.

What sets the top HBCUs apart from the rest is their performance in key areas such as graduation rates, earnings, and student debt. For example, some schools on this list have graduation rates as high as 56%, while others hover around 28%. As you review the rankings below, pay attention to these metrics—they indicate not just the quality of education, but also the long-term financial health of graduates.

Consider the University of the Virgin Islands and Bowie State University. The University of the Virgin Islands has an average earning of $38,681, along with a lower graduation rate of 28%. In contrast, Bowie State University graduates earn significantly more at $54,537, even though its graduation rate is 38%. This difference highlights the trade-off students may face between earning potential and completion rates, making it essential to weigh these factors carefully.

Key Findings

Bowie State University graduates earn $54,537, the highest among the top schools.

Elizabeth City State University has a 46% graduation rate, significantly above the average of 34%.

The University of the Virgin Islands has the lowest debt at $16,800, but also the lowest graduation rate at 28%.

Morgan State University students face an average debt of $27,250, paired with earnings of $50,698.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 41

Avg. earnings at 10yr $40,015

Avg. graduation rate 34%

Avg. net price $17,007

Avg. median debt $27,993

How We Ranked

HBCUs ranked by outcomes and program concentration in Computer Science & IT

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 →

North Carolina A & T State University

Greensboro, NC

Graduation56%

Earnings$44,440

Net Price$10,846

View full profile →

Virginia State University

Petersburg, VA

Graduation40%

Earnings$45,543

Net Price$15,840

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC · 1,975 students · Public

Elizabeth City State University is a vibrant public institution that embraces diversity, with 64% of students gaining admission. A graduation rate of 46% reflects a commitment to student success, and the campus culture encourages collaboration and community engagement among peers, which can enhance the overall college experience.

64% accepted 46% graduate $40,026 earnings

Elizabeth's full profile

North Carolina A & T State University

Greensboro, NC · 12,182 students · Public

North Carolina A & T State University is a prominent public institution that champions diversity and innovation, welcoming 50% of applicants. With a graduation rate of 56%, the university promotes a strong academic community where students can thrive, benefiting from numerous resources and a supportive network of peers and faculty.

50% accepted 56% graduate $44,440 earnings

Virginia State University

Petersburg, VA · 5,074 students · Public

Virginia State University has a vibrant community of over 5,000 students, and it plays a key role in promoting access to education for underrepresented groups. With 72% of its students receiving Pell Grants, the university is dedicated to supporting those who need it most, making it a place where diverse perspectives flourish.

89% accepted 40% graduate $45,543 earnings

Virginia's full profile

Lincoln University

Lincoln University, PA · 1,539 students · Public

Lincoln University in Pennsylvania is home to 1,539 students and holds a strong commitment to accessibility, with a 66% acceptance rate. With a graduation rate of 48%, it presents a solid choice for students aiming to complete their degrees and enter the workforce, where they can expect median earnings of $43,167 ten years after graduation.

66% accepted 48% graduate $43,167 earnings

Lincoln's full profile

Kentucky State University

Frankfort, KY · 1,309 students · Public

Kentucky State University, situated in the heart of Frankfort, offers a close-knit campus experience with just over 1,300 students. The university's high acceptance rate of 96% indicates its commitment to welcoming a diverse student body, creating an environment that encourages personal growth and academic exploration.

96% accepted 30% graduate $36,382 earnings

Kentucky's full profile

Norfolk State University

Norfolk, VA · 5,392 students · Public

Norfolk State University is a vibrant institution with more than 5,000 students in Norfolk, Virginia, dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. The university’s acceptance rate of 88% reflects its mission to provide educational opportunities for students from various backgrounds, creating a campus culture that values diversity and community.

88% accepted 36% graduate $44,666 earnings

Norfolk's full profile

Fort Valley State University

Fort Valley, GA · 2,684 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 66%, Fort Valley State University attracts a diverse student body, including 73% Pell Grant recipients. The school focuses on providing a supportive environment for students to thrive, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.

66% accepted 43% graduate $36,666 earnings

Howard University

Washington, DC · 10,108 students · Private nonprofit

Howard University, located in Washington, DC, is a larger private nonprofit institution with over 10,000 students. It boasts a graduation rate of 69%, which is notably high, and graduates can expect median earnings of $63,066 within ten years of completing their education, underscoring the school's potential for impactful career success.

41% accepted 69% graduate $63,066 earnings

Howard's full profile

Bowie State University

Bowie, MD · 5,043 students · Public

Bowie State University in Maryland attracts a diverse student body, with a robust acceptance rate of 72%. While the graduation rate sits at 38%, the university emphasizes a nurturing environment, aiming to improve student outcomes through various support services and programs tailored to help students succeed academically and personally.

72% accepted 38% graduate $54,537 earnings

University of the Virgin Islands

Charlotte Amalie, VI · 1,518 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 99%, the University of the Virgin Islands in Charlotte Amalie is a great choice for students seeking a supportive environment. Despite a graduation rate of 28%, the school fosters a strong sense of community, making it easier for students to connect and support one another throughout their college journey.

99% accepted 28% graduate $38,681 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Tennessee State University

Nashville, TN · 4,848 students · Public

Tennessee State University offers a vibrant educational experience in Nashville, a city known for its rich culture and opportunities. The school has a solid acceptance rate of 70% and is particularly appealing to students who value community and support, with 51% of its students receiving Pell Grants.

70% accepted 33% graduate $42,730 earnings

Tennessee's full profile

#12

Philander Smith University

Little Rock, AR · 751 students · Private nonprofit

Philander Smith University, located in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a small, private nonprofit institution that prioritizes student engagement and success. With around 751 students, the university cultivates a close community where individual attention is key, making it an appealing choice for those who thrive in a personalized educational setting.

31% graduate $38,427 earnings

Philander's full profile

#13

University of the District of Columbia

Washington, DC · 3,351 students · Public

Located in the heart of Washington, DC, the University of the District of Columbia serves a diverse student body of 3,351. While the graduation rate sits at 30%, students can expect to earn a median income of $44,236 within a decade of completing their studies, showcasing the potential for positive career outcomes despite the challenges of finishing on time.

30% graduate $44,236 earnings

University's full profile

#14

South Carolina State University

Orangeburg, SC · 2,934 students · Public

With a robust acceptance rate of 83%, South Carolina State University in Orangeburg is an accessible option for students seeking a supportive environment. The campus serves around 2,934 students, fostering a close-knit community that encourages engagement and personal growth. Many students here receive Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to supporting those who need financial assistance. The university's focus on education for all means that diverse voices contribute to its vibrant student life.

83% accepted 33% graduate $38,262 earnings

Dillard University

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

Dillard University, located in the heart of New Orleans, offers a unique blend of academic rigor and cultural richness, making it a compelling choice for students looking to explore both education and community. With a smaller student body of 1,063, Dillard fosters personal connections and individualized attention from faculty. The university’s focus on social justice and community service resonates with many students, particularly those who want to make a difference in the world around them.

42% accepted 44% graduate $39,196 earnings

Dillard's full profile

#16

Rust College

Holly Springs, MS · 467 students · Private nonprofit

Rust College, located in Holly Springs, MS, may be smaller with around 467 students, but it promotes a strong sense of community and support. The focus on nurturing relationships among students, many of whom are Pell Grant recipients, can help foster a sense of belonging and encourage academic success.

49% accepted 17% graduate $32,275 earnings

Virginia Union University

Richmond, VA · 1,203 students · Private nonprofit

Virginia Union University, located in Richmond, is a private nonprofit institution that cultivates a rich legacy of African American education. With an acceptance rate of 98%, it provides a welcoming entry point for many students seeking higher education.

98% accepted 39% graduate $38,275 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#18

Savannah State University

Savannah, GA · 2,833 students · Public

Savannah State University, located in the historic city of Savannah, offers a unique opportunity for students who appreciate a blend of tradition and modernity. With an acceptance rate of 68% and a notable 68% of students receiving Pell Grants, this institution actively supports those from diverse economic backgrounds.

27% graduate $37,981 earnings

Savannah's full profile

#19

Fisk University

Nashville, TN · 1,035 students · Private nonprofit

Fisk University, a private nonprofit in Nashville, serves 1,035 students and emphasizes a liberal arts education. Although the graduation rate is 35%, the median earnings of $45,454 for graduates ten years after they leave suggest that those who do complete their degrees are well-positioned for success in the job market.

37% accepted 35% graduate $45,454 earnings

Clark Atlanta University

Atlanta, GA · 3,603 students · Private nonprofit

Clark Atlanta University, nestled in Atlanta, GA, is home to a diverse student population of 3,603. With a graduation rate of 48%, the school is committed to helping students navigate their academic journeys and achieve their goals, particularly for the 70% of students receiving Pell Grants who benefit from its supportive resources.

64% accepted 48% graduate $42,712 earnings

Morgan State University

Baltimore, MD · 9,019 students · Public

With a student body of over 9,000, Morgan State University is a vibrant hub of learning in Baltimore. The school has a diverse community, with 57% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and support for those from lower-income backgrounds.

82% accepted 41% graduate $50,698 earnings

Morgan's full profile

#22

Grambling State University

Grambling, LA · 4,164 students · Public

Grambling State University, located in Grambling, LA, has a vibrant student community of 4,164 students. Known for its rich cultural heritage and strong sense of identity, it promotes a spirit of resilience, particularly among its 75% Pell Grant recipients who often find a supportive home here.

45% accepted 34% graduate $41,109 earnings

Grambling's full profile

#23

Southern University at New Orleans

New Orleans, LA · 1,055 students · Public

Southern University at New Orleans, located in a vibrant city known for its music and culture, presents a unique option for students looking to blend education with a lively atmosphere. With a notable acceptance rate of 79%, the university welcomes a diverse student body, though it faces challenges with a graduation rate of just 16%. The community is rich in diversity, offering students opportunities to learn from one another in a dynamic setting.

79% accepted 16% graduate $34,042 earnings

Southern's full profile

#24

Delaware State University

Dover, DE · 4,398 students · Public

Delaware State University offers a welcoming environment with a diverse student population of 4,398. The campus culture embraces inclusion, making it a great choice for students seeking a sense of belonging while pursuing their academic goals.

47% accepted 39% graduate $49,307 earnings

Delaware's full profile

#25

Jackson State University

Jackson, MS · 4,600 students · Public

Jackson State University, located in Jackson, Mississippi, is a public institution that embraces diversity with a student body of 4,600. Its graduation rate of 41% indicates that while some students find their path successfully, others may need additional support to navigate their college experience. The campus culture is vibrant, and with 72% of students receiving Pell Grants, there’s a community dedicated to uplifting each other.

93% accepted 41% graduate $39,060 earnings

Jackson's full profile

#26

Shaw University

Raleigh, NC · 875 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 80%, Shaw University in Raleigh is an inviting place for students seeking a supportive environment. The school has a strong commitment to serving its community, which is reflected in its 66% of Pell Grant recipients. This indicates that many students come from low-income backgrounds, which fosters a strong sense of solidarity and shared experience among the student body.

80% accepted 21% graduate $34,409 earnings

Florida Memorial University

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

Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens is a warm community for its 1,183 students, with an acceptance rate of 85%. The university has a rich tradition and commits to fostering success among its diverse student population. With a graduation rate of 31%, it's clear that while many students strive for their degrees, the journey can be tough, requiring a strong support system and perseverance from students.

85% accepted 31% graduate $36,624 earnings

Florida's full profile

#28

Bluefield State University

Bluefield, WV · 1,042 students · Public

At Bluefield State University, students find a close-knit community in a small-town environment. With only 1,042 students, the intimate campus atmosphere fosters strong connections between peers and faculty, helping many feel right at home.

97% accepted 36% graduate $38,217 earnings

Bluefield's full profile

#29

Huston-Tillotson University

Austin, TX · 1,005 students · Private nonprofit

Huston-Tillotson University, nestled in Austin, TX, offers a vibrant environment with a diverse student population of about 1,005. The college prides itself on fostering an inclusive atmosphere where students can explore their interests and develop their potential, particularly benefiting those who are Pell Grant recipients.

39% accepted 35% graduate $42,937 earnings

Huston-Tillotson's full profile

#30

Johnson C Smith University

Charlotte, NC · 1,244 students · Private nonprofit

With a vibrant campus in Charlotte, North Carolina, Johnson C. Smith University is known for its commitment to developing leaders in the community. The student body of 1,244 is a tight-knit group, which fosters strong relationships among students and faculty, enhancing the educational experience.

45% accepted 34% graduate $42,680 earnings

Johnson's full profile

#31

Livingstone College

Salisbury, NC · 924 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Salisbury, North Carolina, Livingstone College is dedicated to fostering a sense of community and cultural heritage. With a student population of 924, this private nonprofit institution creates a personal atmosphere where students can engage deeply with their education.

59% accepted 26% graduate $32,600 earnings

Livingstone's full profile

#32

Oakwood University

Huntsville, AL · 1,153 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Huntsville, Alabama, Oakwood University draws students looking for a faith-based education combined with a strong academic foundation. With a graduation rate of 47%, the university supports its students in achieving their goals, fostering a sense of community that encourages collaboration and personal development. The smaller campus of 1,153 students allows for meaningful interactions and relationships with peers and professors alike, enhancing the overall educational experience.

45% accepted 47% graduate $42,488 earnings

Oakwood's full profile

#33

Harris-Stowe State University

Saint Louis, MO · 960 students · Public

In the heart of Saint Louis, Harris-Stowe State University is a small but impactful institution with a focus on community engagement and social empowerment. With just 960 students and a 74% rate of Pell Grant recipients, it fosters an inclusive atmosphere where students from various backgrounds can connect and grow.

28% graduate $31,088 earnings

Harris-Stowe's full profile

#34

Le Moyne-Owen College

Memphis, TN · 581 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Memphis, Le Moyne-Owen College is known for its commitment to serving a diverse student body, with a remarkable 99% acceptance rate. This college is particularly inviting for Pell Grant recipients, creating opportunities for those who might otherwise face barriers to higher education.

99% accepted 26% graduate $35,594 earnings

Lane College

Jackson, TN · 736 students · Private nonprofit

With a tight-knit student body of 736, Lane College in Jackson, TN, fosters a supportive environment where many students thrive. The school's strong commitment to serving Pell Grant recipients—79% of students—reflects its dedication to accessibility and diversity in education.

18% graduate $31,670 earnings

Talladega College

Talladega, AL · 701 students · Private nonprofit

With an acceptance rate of 85%, Talladega College welcomes a diverse group of students, many of whom are Pell Grant recipients. The college fosters a close-knit community, where students can thrive academically and socially with a supportive environment.

85% accepted 43% graduate $32,229 earnings

Talladega's full profile

#37

Alabama A & M University

Normal, AL · 6,124 students · Public

Situated in Normal, Alabama, Alabama A&M University is a historically Black university that plays a significant role in promoting educational equity. With over 6,100 students, it cultivates a diverse learning environment where everyone can thrive, particularly those who value a close community and cultural engagement.

58% accepted 26% graduate $40,628 earnings

Alabama's full profile

#38

Alabama State University

Montgomery, AL · 3,477 students · Public

Alabama State University in Montgomery, AL, welcomes a diverse student body of 3,477, with an impressive 98% acceptance rate. This openness creates an inclusive atmosphere where students from various backgrounds can thrive, particularly for the 71% of students who receive Pell Grants, ensuring access to higher education for many.

98% accepted 30% graduate $34,502 earnings

Alabama's full profile

#39

Miles College

Fairfield, AL · 1,155 students · Private nonprofit

Miles College, nestled in Fairfield, Alabama, has a small but tight-knit student body of 1,155. With an acceptance rate of 72%, the college creates opportunities for students who are eager to learn. However, it faces challenges with a graduation rate of only 20%, which indicates that many students may struggle to complete their degrees. This situation calls for a strong support network to help students stay on track.

20% graduate $32,627 earnings

Lincoln University

Jefferson City, MO · 1,392 students · Public

Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, provides a unique opportunity for students looking for a smaller, community-driven public university. This school has around 1,392 students, creating an environment where learners can build strong connections with peers and faculty alike.

22% graduate $39,463 earnings

Lincoln's full profile

#41

Benedict College

Columbia, SC · 1,536 students · Private nonprofit

Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, welcomes a diverse student body, with 62% of its 1,536 students receiving Pell Grants. This reflects a commitment to supporting students from low-income backgrounds, creating an inclusive environment that encourages academic growth and community engagement. The college has a 96% acceptance rate, making it an accessible option for many students seeking higher education.

96% accepted 23% graduate $31,902 earnings

Benedict's full profile

One notable pattern emerges when comparing North Carolina A & T State University and Elizabeth City State University. North Carolina A & T boasts a graduation rate of 56%, the highest in our top five, and earnings of $44,440. Meanwhile, Elizabeth City State University has a lower graduation rate of 46% but slightly higher earnings at $40,026. This indicates that while graduation rates are essential, earning potential can still be competitive even with lower completion rates.

After reviewing the data, consider what matters most to you or your student. Are you prioritizing location, campus culture, or the specific data science curriculum? Look beyond the numbers and think critically about how each school aligns with your personal or financial situation. For instance, a lower net price may be appealing, but if it comes with a significantly lower graduation rate, you’ll want to weigh that carefully.

This data illustrates the journey from college to a stable career can be complex. One family's decision to send their child to Bowie State University could lead to higher earnings and better job prospects, while another family might opt for the University of the Virgin Islands for its lower debt. Each choice carries unique implications for future stability, making it crucial to look at both immediate and long-term outcomes.

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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