2023 America’s Top HBCUs

Looking for a truly diverse college experience filled supported by incredible faculty and empowering atmosphere?

Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are an opportunity to find all of this and more while also attending some of the best universities in the country.

Here are some of the top HBCUs for 2022.

1.   Spelman College

Located in Atlanta, Spelman College is a small private not-for-profit institution providing a liberal arts education to women.

It’s a great fit for students who are looking for a small campus and an equally small student to faculty ratio (11:1). Although it’s student body is just north of 2,000, there is still plenty to do on campus. With over 80 student organizations, there’s something for everyone and a way to get to know other students from all walks of life.

Spelman is not only one of the best HBCUs in the country, but it was also ranked as the #3 school in the Students’ Top Schools for Inspiration list by The Wall Street Journal.

2.   Howard University

Howard is one of the oldest and best-known HBCUs. Founded in 1867, the school is a historically black college but accepts students of all races and genders to create a full student body of over 10,000 in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Howard University is a good fit for post-graduates and anyone looking to continue their academic career beyond their four-year degree because the university produces more black doctorate recipients than any other non-profit institution. The business school has also been ranked in the top spot of the schools for opportunities for minority students by the Princeton Review.

3.   Morehouse College

Arguably the most famous HBC, Morehouse College was the academic home of Civil Rights hero and legendary activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr as well as many other civil rights leaders. It is also one of only two HBCUs to produce Rhodes Scholars.

Morehouse has an enrollment of over 2,000 students, making it the largest men’s college in the United States. The small student body allows for an impressive student-faculty ratio of 13:1. Though it’s a small college, Morehouse, along with Spelman College, are part of the Atlanta University Center, ensuring access to wider shared resources.

4.   Hampton University

Looking for a small town college experience at one of the HBCUs in the country? Look no further than Hampton University.

Based in Hampton, Virginia, this school offers a small-town experience with a good size student body of over 4,000. The student-faculty ratio reflects both the small size of the school at 19:1. Although it’s small, there’s plenty of opportunity for high-level sports: Hampton is home to both NCAA Division I and II sports teams.

Are you attending a HBCU next year? What universities made your list? Share your stories in the comments below.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts

Some of the best universities in the country can be found in Massachusetts. Private and public institutes of higher education in the Bay State command serious respect in academia.

Many large and small schools make the grade for the 2022 best colleges and universities in Massachusetts, and this list begins with the biggest campuses. 

Harvard University – Founded in 1636 and one of eight Ivy League campuses, Harvard ranks second among universities nationwide. Getting accepted at this private school isn’t easy; Harvard is one of the most selective schools in the United States, but it also has a 97% retention rate among freshmen. A best-value campus, the annual tuition and fees will run $50,420.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology – MIT ranks fifth in national universities, and some of the best minds in science, engineering and technology can be found here. MIT is home to the Sloan School of Management. The acceptance rate is 7%. Tuition and fees are approximately $51,832.

Tufts University – This school offers more than 70 majors, and it’s well-known for its School of Medicine and the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. Your tuition and fees here will be approximately $56,382 each year.

Brandeis University – The curriculum focus here is a unique combination of liberal arts embedded with research, and students are encouraged to participate in the many extracurricular activities that the school provides. Freshmen and sophomores live on campus.  Tuition and fees are $50,395 annually.

Northeastern University – Also in the top 40 of national colleges and universities, Northeastern is well-known for getting their students hands-on work experience through internships.

Two top liberal arts schools rise above the others:

Amherst College – A top-ranked liberal arts college, Amherst attracts students from around the world because of its academic offerings. Tuition and fees here are $56,426 annually.

Wellesley College – Known for its academic rigor, this all-female school encourages women to dream big and achieve their goals. Wellesley has cross-registration agreements with schools like MIT. Tuition and fees are $53,732 each year.

Not all the schools in Massachusetts are behemoths in size, but they offer just as rigorous a curriculum as larger universities. One example of this is the University of Massachusetts-Lowell. This school offers more than 100 bachelors degrees, as well as masters and doctoral degrees, and students are encouraged to participate in community service. Tuition and fees at this school are $15,180 annually.

Massachusetts offers a variety experiences in higher education, and this state consistently proves that their colleges and universities are some of the best in the nation.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Michigan

Michigan is home to ninety-three small public and private schools, and it’s also home to one of the biggest universities in the country. Many of the institutes of higher learning have earned places among the top-ranked schools in the region as well as the nation.

Here’s a look at some of the 2022 best colleges and universities in Michigan.

Calvin College – A liberal arts school with a Christian focus, Calvin College focuses on helping their students find employment within nine months of their graduation date. Expectations are high, and excellence is the norm. This college is considered #1 in the Midwest region, has excellent undergraduate teaching and is considered a best-value school. Annual tuition and fees cost $34,600. The average financial aid package is $18,198 /year.

University of Detroit Mercy – In addition to providing a rigorous academic program, this private Catholic school encourages students to participate in community service opportunities. The university is an excellent choice for veterans, and it’s also considered a best-value school. It’s also #25 in the Midwest region. Tuition and fees are approximately $28,000 annually.

Adrian College – Although this is a small private school, Adrian College knows how to go big in everything it does. A rigorous curriculum, vibrant student life, well-supported athletic programs, and passion for service learning make up the Adrian experience. This and more have earned this college the rank of #3 among innovative schools. Expect to pay approximately $37,087 in tuition and fees.

Kettering University – Kettering involves students in hands-on learning experiences that help them gain relevant expertise in their chosen fields of study. As a result, freshmen gain valuable work experience that enhances their learning. By the time students graduate from Kettering, they are more prepared to innovate in their careers than many of their peers who graduate from other universities. Annual tuition and fees are $42,490.

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor – With an enrollment of nearly 46,002 students, this university is among the largest in the nation, and it ranks #27 in universities across the country and has outstanding undergraduate instruction. The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor is also a good choice for veterans. The campus has a 27% acceptance rate. In-state students pay $15,262 annually in tuition and fees.

Colleges and universities in Michigan are part of the Midwest Student Exchange Program, which allows students to pay in-state tuition and fees.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Missouri

Forty-seven colleges and universities make up the higher education landscape in Missouri, and several of these schools have earned regional and national respect for their programs of study and value to students.

Many of the 2022 best colleges and universities can be found in St. Louis.

Washington University in St. Louis – Coming in at #19 in the United States, Washington is comprised of four undergraduate schools and four graduate schools. They offer programs in social work, business, law, medicine, arts, engineering, applied science, and education. Annual tuition and fees are $53,399.

Webster University – Webster represents the best of the Midwest, but it also maintains an international presence with campuses in Europe and Asia. Students are encouraged to study abroad, especially if studying global journalism or international business. This school is ranked #23 in the Midwest, and it is a best-value school. Expect to pay $27,900 for tuition and fees.

Fontbonne University – With less 1,375 students, Fontbonne provides an individualized higher education experience for students seeking a liberal arts degree or professional program in a Christian environment. The school ranks 72nd among Midwestern colleges, and it is also a best-value college opportunity.

St. Louis University – Although the school was founded on Jesuit principles, it welcomes students of any faith. The college is ranked #106 of universities in the United States, and it is also a best-value school. This school also has the distinction of being the first public institution of higher education west of the Mississippi. The university has a 64% acceptance rate. Annual tuition and fees average $43,996.

Maryville University of St. Louis – Currently ranked #177 in national universities, U.S. World News & Report has also identified Maryville as an over-performing university. This private school offers 90-plus degrees, and the annual tuition and fees are $28,470.

Of course, not all colleges and universities in Missouri are located in St. Louis. One of the most unique schools can be found in Point Lookout.

College of the Ozarks – College of the Ozarks makes higher education accessible to those least able to afford it. This small, private, Christian school is ranked #5 in the Midwest. It is #1 in affordability, largely due to the work program on campus, and it is also #1 in innovation. In addition, the undergraduate teaching program is the fourth best in the nation. There is no charge for tuition; students must demonstrate an educational need to attend this school.

These colleges and universities make Missouri an optimal place for exploring higher education.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Mississippi

If you’re considering attending college in Mississippi, you’ll have plenty of schools from which to choose. Many of the smaller private institutions of higher learning are faith-based, and most of the public colleges boast small undergraduate populations.

Most of the 2022 best colleges and universities in Mississippi offer small class sizes that allow students to get the most from their undergrad experiences.

Blue Mountain College – One of the tiniest private liberal arts schools, Blue Mountain has a total enrollment of 601 students. Academic studies include a Christian-centered focus. The college is ranked #8 in the South and is considered a best-value. Tuition and fees cost $12,584 annually.

Mississippi College – This school offers liberal arts and science programs in a Christian environment. Students who are admitted to the private college have demonstrated excellence in academics and seek to integrate their faith into their studies. The college is ranked #32 in the South and is a best-value school. Expect to pay approximately $18,026 annually in tuition and fees.

William Carey University – This private school with a Baptist affiliation teaches leadership and service in addition to academics. Students accepted into a program here will find themselves in small class sizes averaging thirteen students. William Carey accepts 38% of its applicants and is ranked #39 in the South. Tuition and fees here cost $12,600 annually.

Mississippi University for Women – MUW was the first public college for women in the United States, and the student population is 80% female. Nursing, business administration, and liberal arts make up the top three programs. It has earned the distinction of being #58 among regional schools in the South, and it is a best-value. The university is tied for nineteenth place as a top public school. Students at this college can expect to pay $6,940 annually in tuition and fees.

Belhaven University – This private college ranks #65 among southern institutions of higher learning. Belhaven offers a Christian liberal arts education that will buoy graduates throughout their lives. Tuition and fees cost approximately $25,300 a year.

University of Mississippi – With an undergraduate enrollment of almost 23,136 students, Ole Miss offers a big college experience in a small university town. The school is ranked #152 nationwide, and it is considered a best-value university, as well as a best-value for veterans. The acceptance rate is 84%, and the annual tuition is $8,290.

Mississippi is one of fifteen states participating in the Academic Common Market.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Minnesota

Minnesota offers college candidates diverse opportunities to study at small, mid-sized and large campuses across the state. There are plenty of public and private schools from which to choose, and many of the private schools are faith-based.

We’ll explore some of the top 2022 best colleges and universities in Minnesota. 

Carleton College – Carlton has achieved the distinction of being ranked 5th among liberal arts universities nationwide. Students benefit from small classes, and 96% of freshmen report being satisfied with their educational experience here. This private school ranks first in undergraduate teaching, is a best-value school, and in the top dozen innovative schools in the nation. Annual tuition and fees are approximately $54,759.

Bethel University – The focus at Bethel is on Christian principles in every one of the programs of study offered at the college. Business, nursing, and education are popular majors, and students learn how to become servant leaders. Annual tuition is $37,300. Bethel is tied for 17th in the Midwest.

St. Catherine University – St. Kate’s ranks thirteenth in the Midwest region, and it’s also considered a best-value school. This school is known for its programs in nursing public health, and social work. Women make up 96% of the student body. The acceptance rate here is 70%, and tuition and fees are $39,669 annually.

Hamline University – This college is the oldest institute of higher learning in Minnesota. This small school has big ideas about college studies, and it encourages students to study abroad, participate in co-curricular activities, and make the most of their time spent in small class sizes. If bachelor’s degree candidates do not graduate in four years, Hamline pays for the additional semesters until graduation. Annual tuition is $41,473.

Macalester College –Macalester focuses on creating a personalized experience for its students. The school mascot is the Scots, and bagpipe lessons are free.  This small college has earned distinction as a top liberal arts school, a best-value, and it offers an excellent undergraduate program. Tuition and fees are $54,348.

Bigger universities in Minnesota have also achieved recognition for their academic programs.

University of Minnesota – Duluth – This institute of higher education ranks 45th in the Midwest region of the United States and students can choose from 93 programs of study. Tuition and fees run $13,367 annually.

Winona State University – Winona State is recognized among colleges in the Midwest as a respected Midwest school and a best-value college. The school offers more than 80 programs. In-state tuition and fees are $9,379 a year.

Minnesota also participates in the Midwest Student Exchange Program, which allows students in nearby states to access higher education through in-state tuition costs.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Vermont

Vermont offers college students spectacular scenery, plenty of invigorating outdoor activities, and excellence in higher education opportunities.

It’s time to take a look at the 2022 best colleges and universities in Vermont.

Middlebury College – The #5 liberal arts college in the nation offers studies in the environment, sciences, literature and international topics. The campus is home to the Bread Loaf Writer’s’ Conference, and attendance at Bread Loaf is a highly sought-after honor. Middlebury is in the top ten of best undergraduate teaching schools, and it is also a best-value choice. The acceptance rate is 17%. The annual tuition and fees run $54,450.

Vermont Technical College – This school ranks #19 in the North among similar colleges and is the only technical college in the state. It’s considered an excellent choice for veterans and anyone else looking for good value in a public school. The school turns away 37% Expect to pay approximately $15,510 in in-state tuition and fees.

Castleton University – Ranked at #30 among regional colleges in the North, Castleton is a public school that focuses on the individual and challenges his or her thinking. In-state tuition and fees run approximately $11,970 annually.

Lyndon State College – Lyndon State has earned the rank of #36 among northern universities. The school offers degrees in liberal arts and education. Annual tuition and fees here are approximately $12,000.

Norwich University – The school prides itself on teaching American thought in a global world to cadets and civilians. The school is a best-value choice and has a recognized engineering program, and it is #74 among national universities. The annual tuition and fees are $40,016.

Bennington College – Ranking at #95 in national liberal arts colleges, this private school encourages traditional learning and hands-on activities that add relevance to the college experience. The annual tuition and fees run $53,860.

Champlain College Champlain is another private institution of higher education, and it ranks #81 regionally among northern universities. Half the students here also study abroad, encouraged by frequent classroom discussions of world travels. This school is not only a best-value choice, but it is also tied for second place in innovation. The school charges $41,010 in tuition and fees each year.

The University of Vermont – Coming in at #96 in among national universities, this school is a popular choice among four-year degree candidates. Veterans will find that the university caters to their needs, and it’s also a best-value choice. The in-state tuition and fees cost $18,276 annually.

The New England Regional Student Program allows students in several states to pay in-state tuition and fees when attending colleges and universities in Vermont.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Utah

Most people are familiar with the name Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, but there are another 33 colleges and universities worthy of consideration if you are seeking a college degree in the Beehive State.

Several of these institutions of higher education have earned regional and national recognition. The 2022 best colleges and universities in Utah are categorized here accordingly.

Best in the Western United States Region:

Westminster College – This private, liberal arts school promotes independent thinking and community service. It has earned 20th place among regional universities in the West. The college partners with local business to offer internships that allow for hands-on experiences. Currently, Westminster offers nearly 40 undergraduate degree programs and twelve graduate degree programs. The McNair Scholars program, which prepares disenfranchised students for college life, is located here. The college is veteran-friendly and a best-value choice among similar schools. Tuition and fees at Westminster cost $34,000 annually.

Southern Utah University – Coming in at #81 in the region, this university is made up of four colleges, two schools (Business and Integrative and Engaged Learning), and a graduate and online school. There are also opportunities for studying abroad. The annual tuition and fees are $6,770.

Weber State University – Weber State is #96 in the Western region, and it is known for its school of business and or engineering. It’s also a top public school that offers 225 degree and certificate programs as well as thirteen graduate degrees. This university has a 100% acceptance rate. The annual tuition and fees are $5,850.

Best in the Nation:

Brigham Young University – Provo – This nationally recognized university has been ranked #66 in the nation. The school is affiliated with the Mormon Church of Latter Day Saints, and religion plays a prominent part in all studies and activities. BYU is a leader in teaching more than 50 languages, and 75% of the students at this school speak at least one other language. The acceptance rate is 52%, and the university ranks nationally at #11 in best value. In-state tuition costs less than $5,620 annually.

University of Utah – Known as The U, this university offers well-regarded programs of study in business, education, engineering, and law. The only place in Utah to study medicine is at The U’s School of Medicine. The University of Utah is ranked #119 nationally, and #133 in value. This school is also considered the best party school in Utah. Annual tuition and fees cost approximately $9,222.

Utah participates in the Western Undergraduate Exchange; students living in Utah may attend colleges in the exchange and pay in-state prices.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in South Carolina

Some of the best 2022 colleges and universities in South Carolina take top honors among southern institutions of higher education. Nearly half the schools in the Palmetto State have earned recognition among similar colleges and universities.

The following schools have earned recognition among southern colleges and universities.

The Citadel  – Also known as the Military College of South Carolina, the Citadel has a strong academic and leadership focus, and the college requires all students to live on campus. There are no Greek societies on campus, but there are plenty of co-curricular activities. This school is the second best in the nation for veterans, and it also ranks high as a best-value school. In-state tuition is $12,516 annually.

Coker College – At #5 among regional colleges in the south, Coker is a private school that encourages lively discussion and hands-on learning that prepares students for their lives ahead. The college is a best-value choice. Tuition and fees here run $29,550

College of Charleston – This school made it to eleventh place among southern regional colleges, and the academic programs follow a liberal arts and sciences curriculum that thrives on the synergy created by community partnerships and collaborative learning. The annual tuition here is just under $13,000.

Lander University – Lander has been ranked #21 among southern regional colleges. This public school offers liberal arts degrees and business, education, and professional nursing programs for certification. Annual tuition and fees here cost $11,700.

Nationally ranked universities include the following:

Furman University – This liberal arts college school comes in at #51 in the United States among similar schools. The school is committed to teaching undergraduates; this is the primary goal of every faculty member at the university. Furman has been recognized for its value and innovation. Annual tuition and fees are approximately $49,532.

Clemson University – Clemson, the school with a long rivalry with the Citadel, is ranked #66 among national universities. Clemson is a research institution that accepts 47% of applicants. The university offers rigorous academics and rich co-curricular activities. It’s an excellent choice for veterans and identified as a best-value choice. The annual in-state tuition is $14,970.

South Carolina has earned a well-deserved place of respect among southern and national colleges and universities.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Tennessee

Tennessee, the sixteenth state admitted to the United States, has contributed significantly to the development of America, and it’s also a huge contributor to higher education, with almost 100 colleges and universities.

The 2022 best colleges and universities in Tennessee are some of the best in their region and the nation. Many of these schools are unique to the industry for which Nashville is known – music production.

Belmont University – Belmont is a private Christian school devoted to outstanding undergraduate teaching; Belmont is fourth place in this category, and it ranks #6 among regional universities in the south. This university is also veteran-friendly and confers degrees in music and music production. Annual tuition and fees at this private school are $34,310.

Tennessee Wesleyan University – At # 16 among southern colleges, this school offers a Christian atmosphere and strong academics in teacher education, business, and nursing. Veterans will find that this school caters to their unique needs, and the university is a best-value choice. Annual tuition and fees cost $24,300.

Milligan College – Ranked at #23 among southern universities, Milligan, a Christian liberal arts school, requires that every student participates in its Spiritual Formation Program. Many Milligan graduates go on to earn advanced degrees. The annual tuition and fees are $33,700.

Welch College – This small, private school has a student enrollment of 366 students and has placed #13 among southern region colleges. Formerly known as the Free Will Baptist Bible College, the campus attracts students from a variety of Christian backgrounds. It has continued some of its original traditions, including prohibiting alcohol on campus. Annual tuition and fees run $19,012

Two universities earned national recognition in 2018:

Vanderbilt University – This private university ranks #14 among schools across the United States. Ten colleges make up Vanderbilt, and several of these have earned national distinction, including the prestigious Peabody College of Education and Human Development. Not surprisingly, the school has also been recognized for its undergraduate teaching. Expect to pay slightly less than $49,816 annually in tuition and fees.

The University of Tennessee is ranked #116 among national universities. The colleges at this school offer more than 110 degrees, and each program has an honor track. UT is an excellent choice for veterans, and it is also recognized as a best-value school. This school is slightly less than $13,000 annually for tuition and fees.

Tennessee colleges and universities are rising stars in higher education for their quality of teaching and excellent value.

Click here to learn more about the ranking methodology that we used to compile this list.

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