Rankings / National

Best HBCUs

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$42,343

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

38%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,821

Avg. Net Price

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Graduates from the University of the Virgin Islands earn $38,681. This figure highlights the potential financial return for families investing in higher education.

Families searching for the best HBCUs are likely weighing the balance between education costs, potential earnings, and graduation rates. The data reveals significant disparities in outcomes, driven by factors like debt and the school’s support system.

Consider Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. It has a 53% graduation rate and $44,349 in earnings. In contrast, Fayetteville State University has a 37% graduation rate and $40,144 in earnings. These differences can shape a student’s future significantly.

Key Findings

University of the Virgin Islands has a net price of $7,469 and a debt of $16,800.

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

West Virginia State University shows a $40,492 earning potential but has a lower graduation rate of 36%.

Average earnings across these HBCUs are $42,132, with an average graduation rate of 38%.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $42,343

Avg. graduation rate 38%

Avg. net price $16,821

Avg. median debt $26,742

How We Ranked

Composite score for historically Black colleges and universities

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 →

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, NC

Graduation37%

Earnings$40,144

Net Price$7,892

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC · 1,975 students · Public

Elizabeth City State University serves 1,975 students in a supportive environment. The school has a graduation rate of 46%, which reflects its focus on helping students succeed. Graduates report median earnings of $40,026 after ten years, making it a strong choice for those looking to enter the workforce with a competitive salary.

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 has a student body of 7,582 and a graduation rate of 53%. With a 21% acceptance rate, it attracts students who are serious about their education. Graduates earn a median of $44,349 after ten years, reflecting the quality of the education provided here.

21% accepted 53% graduate $44,349 earnings

Florida's full profile

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, NC · 5,762 students · Public

Fayetteville State University has 5,762 students and a graduation rate of 37%. This school cultivates a community where students can grow and learn together. Graduates earn a median of $40,144 after ten years, positioning them well in the job market with competitive earnings.

82% accepted 37% graduate $40,144 earnings

Fayetteville's full profile

Xavier University of Louisiana

New Orleans, LA · 2,628 students · Private nonprofit

Xavier University of Louisiana has a student population of 2,628 and an acceptance rate of 69%. Graduates earn a median salary of $52,184 after ten years, which is competitive for a private nonprofit institution. This university may appeal to first-generation college students looking for a supportive environment.

69% accepted 49% graduate $52,184 earnings

Xavier's full profile

Virginia State University

Petersburg, VA · 5,074 students · Public

Virginia State University has a graduation rate of 40%, offering a supportive environment for its 5,074 students. Located in Petersburg, VA, the university has a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence. Graduates earn a median income of $45,543 after ten years, showcasing the potential for a solid return on educational investment.

89% accepted 40% graduate $45,543 earnings

Virginia's full profile

North Carolina A & T State University

Greensboro, NC · 12,182 students · Public

With 12,182 students, North Carolina A&T State University has a diverse student body and a 56% graduation rate. The median earnings ten years after graduation is $44,440, indicating strong career prospects for graduates. The campus culture likely fosters a sense of community, especially among the 52% of students receiving Pell Grants who may benefit from additional support networks.

50% accepted 56% graduate $44,440 earnings

West Virginia State University

Institute, WV · 1,321 students · Public

West Virginia State University serves 1,321 students and has a graduation rate of 36%. The school’s 96% acceptance rate makes it a welcoming environment for many. Graduates earn a median income of $40,492 ten years after graduation, indicating solid career opportunities for alumni.

96% accepted 36% graduate $40,492 earnings

Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem, NC · 4,170 students · Public

Winston-Salem State University has 4,170 students and a graduation rate of 48%. Graduates report median earnings of $45,344 after a decade, which reflects decent earning potential. The net price of $13,479 makes it a financially accessible choice, particularly for the 65% of students who receive Pell Grants.

78% accepted 48% graduate $45,344 earnings

Winston-Salem's full profile

Lincoln University

Lincoln University, PA · 1,539 students · Public

Lincoln University in Pennsylvania has a graduation rate of 48%, which reflects the commitment of both students and faculty. With a smaller student population of 1,539, it fosters a close-knit community. The median earnings for graduates are $43,167 after ten years, indicating a steady return on investment for students entering the workforce.

66% accepted 48% graduate $43,167 earnings

Lincoln's full profile

#10

Hampton University

Hampton, VA · 3,727 students · Private nonprofit

Hampton University has a median earning of $59,159 for graduates ten years after enrollment. With 56% of students graduating, the campus culture emphasizes academic success and career readiness. Students can expect a close-knit community with a significant number of Pell Grant recipients at 39%.

62% accepted 56% graduate $59,159 earnings

Hampton's full profile

#11

Spelman College

Atlanta, GA · 3,414 students · Private nonprofit

25% accepted 77% graduate $59,993 earnings

Spelman's full profile

#12

Kentucky State University

Frankfort, KY · 1,309 students · Public

Kentucky State University has a small student body of 1,309 and a graduation rate of 30%. Median earnings for graduates are $36,382. This public institution emphasizes accessibility, highlighted by a 96% acceptance rate, which invites a diverse range of students to apply.

96% accepted 30% graduate $36,382 earnings

Kentucky's full profile

#13

North Carolina Central University

Durham, NC · 6,081 students · Public

North Carolina Central University has a graduation rate of 44%, serving a diverse student body of 6,081. Located in Durham, NC, it offers a vibrant campus atmosphere and numerous resources for students. Graduates earn a median income of $42,968 after ten years, highlighting the university's role in preparing students for the job market.

87% accepted 44% graduate $42,968 earnings

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Pine Bluff, AR · 1,807 students · Public

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff has a student population of 1,807 and a graduation rate of 40%. The median earnings for graduates are $35,550 ten years after graduation. This public university offers a chance for students to engage in a tight-knit community while pursuing their degrees.

41% accepted 40% graduate $35,550 earnings

University's full profile

#15

Norfolk State University

Norfolk, VA · 5,392 students · Public

Norfolk State University has an 88% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many students. Despite a graduation rate of 36%, the university supports a significant number of Pell Grant recipients at 65%. The culture here fosters inclusivity and community engagement.

88% accepted 36% graduate $44,666 earnings

Norfolk's full profile

#16

Fort Valley State University

Fort Valley, GA · 2,684 students · Public

Fort Valley State University has a total enrollment of 2,684 students and a graduation rate of 43%. With 73% of its students receiving Pell Grants, this school caters to those who may need extra financial support. It's a welcoming environment for first-generation college students seeking a degree.

66% accepted 43% graduate $36,666 earnings

Howard University

Washington, DC · 10,108 students · Private nonprofit

Howard University has 10,108 students and a graduation rate of 69%. Graduates earn a median of $63,066 ten years after entering the workforce. This combination of size and strong outcomes makes it a vibrant community for students seeking a supportive environment.

41% accepted 69% graduate $63,066 earnings

Howard's full profile

#18

Tuskegee University

Tuskegee, AL · 2,630 students · Private nonprofit

Tuskegee University has 2,630 students and a graduation rate of 56%. This private nonprofit school has a strong emphasis on academic achievement, as evidenced by its higher graduation rate compared to many HBCUs. With 58% of students receiving Pell Grants, it remains accessible for those from low-income backgrounds.

49% accepted 56% graduate $49,641 earnings

Tuskegee's full profile

#19

Tennessee State University

Nashville, TN · 4,848 students · Public

Tennessee State University has a larger student body of 4,848, with a graduation rate of 33%. The acceptance rate is 70%, indicating a welcoming environment for many prospective students. The campus is known for its commitment to creating opportunities, especially for first-gen students.

70% accepted 33% graduate $42,730 earnings

Tennessee's full profile

#20

Philander Smith University

Little Rock, AR · 751 students · Private nonprofit

Philander Smith University, located in Little Rock, Arkansas, has a small student body of 751. With a graduation rate of only 31%, the school highlights a need for additional support for its students. It also has a high percentage of Pell Grant recipients at 68%, indicating a focus on helping low-income students succeed.

31% graduate $38,427 earnings

Philander's full profile

#21

Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Cheyney, PA · 617 students · Public

Cheyney University has a small student body of 617, creating an intimate atmosphere for learning. With 66% of students receiving Pell Grants, it serves a largely underserved population, focusing on accessibility and support for those who may not otherwise attend college.

24% graduate $37,837 earnings

Cheyney's full profile

#22

University of the Virgin Islands

Charlotte Amalie, VI · 1,518 students · Public

1,518 students attend the University of the Virgin Islands. With a 99% acceptance rate, it's accessible for many. Graduates earn a median of $38,681 ten years after starting their careers, which offers a solid return on investment for students seeking stability in their future.

99% accepted 28% graduate $38,681 earnings

University's full profile

#23

University of the District of Columbia

Washington, DC · 3,351 students · Public

With 30% of students graduating, the University of the District of Columbia presents a unique challenge for those considering their journey here. The campus, located in the heart of Washington, DC, offers access to a vibrant city filled with opportunities. Graduates earn a median income of $44,236 after ten years, which reflects the potential for career growth within the metropolitan area.

30% graduate $44,236 earnings

University's full profile

#24

Morehouse College

Atlanta, GA · 2,844 students · Private nonprofit

Morehouse College has a graduation rate of 56%. This means more than half of the students complete their degrees, a significant factor for future opportunities. Located in Atlanta, the college is known for its commitment to developing leaders in the African American community.

44% accepted 56% graduate $52,889 earnings

Morehouse's full profile

#25

Texas Southern University

Houston, TX · 6,844 students · Public

97% accepted 21% graduate $38,924 earnings

Dillard University

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

Dillard University graduates earn a median income of $39,196 after ten years. The school emphasizes personal development alongside academic achievement. Located in New Orleans, it fosters a close-knit community among its 1,063 students.

42% accepted 44% graduate $39,196 earnings

Dillard's full profile

#27

Claflin University

Orangeburg, SC · 1,706 students · Private nonprofit

Claflin University has a graduation rate of 50%, which is higher than many peers. With 73% of students receiving Pell Grants, it shows a commitment to helping those from lower-income backgrounds succeed in higher education.

65% accepted 50% graduate $40,304 earnings

Claflin's full profile

#28

Albany State University

Albany, GA · 5,956 students · Public

Albany State University enrolls 5,956 students, but only 27% graduate, signaling challenges in student support and retention. The university has a high percentage of Pell Grant recipients at 69%, indicating that many students come from lower-income backgrounds. This dynamic shapes the campus experience and the support services available.

27% graduate $40,674 earnings

Albany's full profile

#29

Central State University

Wilberforce, OH · 2,620 students · Public

After financial aid, Central State's net price is $13,096. Graduates see median earnings of $33,267 after ten years. With a median debt of $30,739, students may find the debt manageable, especially given the 99% acceptance rate that draws many individuals to the university.

99% accepted 24% graduate $33,267 earnings

Central's full profile

#30

South Carolina State University

Orangeburg, SC · 2,934 students · Public

With 2,934 students, South Carolina State University has a vibrant campus atmosphere. The school also has a 33% graduation rate, which may raise questions about student support and resources available to help students succeed.

83% accepted 33% graduate $38,262 earnings

Savannah State University

Savannah, GA · 2,833 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 27%, Savannah State University creates a supportive environment for its 2,833 students. The campus is home to a diverse population, with 68% of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating a strong commitment to serving those with financial need.

27% graduate $37,981 earnings

Savannah's full profile

#32

Clark Atlanta University

Atlanta, GA · 3,603 students · Private nonprofit

64% accepted 48% graduate $42,712 earnings

Mississippi Valley State University

Itta Bena, MS · 1,439 students · Public

Mississippi Valley State University has a 92% acceptance rate, making it an accessible option for many students. The graduation rate is 24%, indicating a challenging environment, but the university aims to provide opportunities for growth and development for those who persist.

92% accepted 24% graduate $31,919 earnings

Mississippi's full profile

#34

Rust College

Holly Springs, MS · 467 students · Private nonprofit

49% accepted 17% graduate $32,275 earnings

Langston University

Langston, OK · 1,742 students · Public

17% graduate $33,261 earnings

Langston's full profile

#36

Prairie View A & M University

Prairie View, TX · 8,877 students · Public

At Prairie View A&M University, 8,877 students are part of a vibrant community. The graduation rate is 43%, reflecting a commitment to helping students achieve their academic goals and thrive in their fields of study.

79% accepted 43% graduate $45,411 earnings

Prairie's full profile

#37

Southern University at New Orleans

New Orleans, LA · 1,055 students · Public

With a graduation rate of just 16%, Southern University at New Orleans faces hurdles in student retention. This low figure could signal difficulties for some students. The university serves a diverse population, including many first-generation college students.

79% accepted 16% graduate $34,042 earnings

Southern's full profile

#38

Stillman College

Tuscaloosa, AL · 706 students · Private nonprofit

62% accepted 32% graduate $35,421 earnings

Stillman's full profile

#39

Delaware State University

Dover, DE · 4,398 students · Public

Delaware State University has an enrollment of 4,398 students and a graduation rate of 39%. The median earnings for graduates after ten years is $49,307, which is a solid return on investment. With a net price of $13,910 after aid, it could be a manageable option for students, especially those from diverse backgrounds.

47% accepted 39% graduate $49,307 earnings

Delaware's full profile

#40

Bowie State University

Bowie, MD · 5,043 students · Public

Bowie State University, located in Bowie, MD, has a total enrollment of 5,043 students. The graduation rate stands at 38%, suggesting that while some students face challenges, many are finding support to succeed in their academic pursuits.

72% accepted 38% graduate $54,537 earnings

Jackson State University

Jackson, MS · 4,600 students · Public

93% accepted 41% graduate $39,060 earnings

Jackson's full profile

#42

Virginia Union University

Richmond, VA · 1,203 students · Private nonprofit

Virginia Union University, located in Richmond, VA, has an acceptance rate of 98%. With 1,203 students, the atmosphere is inclusive, fostering a sense of belonging. However, the graduation rate is only 39%, indicating some challenges in student retention and completion.

98% accepted 39% graduate $38,275 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#43

Morgan State University

Baltimore, MD · 9,019 students · Public

With 9,019 students, Morgan State University has a diverse campus. The 41% graduation rate tells a story of challenges, but also of support systems in place for students navigating their college journey.

82% accepted 41% graduate $50,698 earnings

Morgan's full profile

#44

Grambling State University

Grambling, LA · 4,164 students · Public

45% accepted 34% graduate $41,109 earnings

Grambling's full profile

#45

Coppin State University

Baltimore, MD · 1,844 students · Public

Coppin State University serves 1,844 students and has a low graduation rate of 26%. Despite this, graduates earn a median income of $46,490 after ten years, suggesting that some students find successful pathways after leaving. The high percentage of Pell Grant recipients, at 54%, indicates that this school attracts many students from lower-income backgrounds.

46% accepted 26% graduate $46,490 earnings

Coppin's full profile

#46

Shaw University

Raleigh, NC · 875 students · Private nonprofit

80% accepted 21% graduate $34,409 earnings

Florida Memorial University

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

85% accepted 31% graduate $36,624 earnings

Florida's full profile

#48

University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Princess Anne, MD · 2,391 students · Public

Thirty-five percent of students graduate from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, a school that welcomes a diverse student body. Located in Princess Anne, MD, it has a 96% acceptance rate, making it accessible to many aspiring students. Earning potential is promising, with a median salary of $47,697 ten years after graduation, which suggests strong career pathways for graduates.

96% accepted 35% graduate $47,697 earnings

University's full profile

#49

Bluefield State University

Bluefield, WV · 1,042 students · Public

Bluefield State University serves a smaller community of 1,042 students. The 36% graduation rate indicates a need for more resources, but the welcoming atmosphere can help students find their footing in college life.

97% accepted 36% graduate $38,217 earnings

Bluefield's full profile

#50

Bethune-Cookman University

Daytona Beach, FL · 2,732 students · Private nonprofit

With 2,732 students, Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach has an 88% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many. A significant 78% of students receive Pell Grants, highlighting the school’s commitment to serving low-income students.

88% accepted 29% graduate $38,518 earnings

Bethune-Cookman's full profile

Graduates from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University earn more at $44,349 compared to Fayetteville State University, which has lower earnings at $40,144 and a smaller graduation rate of 37%. The differences in these metrics indicate that some schools may better prepare students for financial stability post-graduation.

After reviewing 50 schools, it's essential to prioritize what matters most. Are you focused on graduation rates, location, or specific programs? Weigh the financial data against personal circumstances like potential debt and family support. Finding the right fit is crucial beyond just numbers.

This data illustrates the significance of college decisions on long-term financial stability. A choice between schools could mean thousands of dollars in earnings over a lifetime. One family's decision on where to enroll can set the course for economic mobility and opportunity.

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]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

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

[3]

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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