Every year, college rankings get people talking about who made the list and who got snubbed. Forbes’ latest ranking of the nation’s top historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) recognized several standout institutions, as we previously told you. But it didn’t include every school making a real impact. The truth is, some HBCUs are quietly excelling without the same national buzz.
As our students start to return to their campuses this fall, we’re taking a closer look at the hidden gems around the country that are making history and supporting Black students in full. From one-of-a-kind academic programs to rising enrollment and investments in the future of Black success, these HBCUs deserve some love, too!
Alcorn State University (Mississippi)
Alcorn State doesn’t always dominate the headlines, but it’s definitely making moves. The nation’s oldest public HBCU recently climbed in all four U.S. News & World Report ranking categories, showing steady progress across the board. On several other lists, including Niche, Alcorn State breaks into the top five HBCU rankings. If you’re looking for a school with deep HBCU history and an upward trajectory, this school deserves a look.
Fort Valley State University (Georgia)
Fort Valley State University keeps proving that bigger isn’t always better. The university has been named Georgia’s top public HBCU for eight straight years while also earning recognition for social mobility. Translation? It consistently helps students turn a college degree into a real economic opportunity – exactly what higher education is supposed to do.
RELATED: The Rising HBCU Enrollment: 15 Largest Black Schools Ranked by Size
Norfolk State University (Virginia)
Norfolk State University is betting big on the future. The university has invested millions into cybersecurity while offering one of only three ABET-accredited optical engineering programs in the country, according to the school. For Black students looking to break into high-paying STEM careers, Norfolk State is building a serious pipeline.
Fayetteville State University (North Carolina)
Fayetteville State University has become one of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets. It’s ranked No. 6 among HBCUs on Niche and enrolls more military-connected students than any other HBCU in the country, the university reported. That means a campus built around support, flexibility and helping students – especially first-generation and military families – graduate with confidence.
Elizabeth City State University (North Carolina)
Elizabeth City State proves you don’t need a massive campus to make a major impact. Known for its close-knit community, growing enrollment and strong aviation, STEM and education programs, ECSU gives students personalized attention while preparing them for careers where Black professionals are still underrepresented.
St. Philip’s College (Texas)
St. Philip’s College became the nation’s largest HBCU after reaching nearly 20,000 students in 2025, according to the college. It’s also one of the few schools recognized as both an HBCU and a Hispanic-Serving Institution, making it a powerful example of what access, affordability and student support can accomplish.
Dillard University (Louisiana)
Dillard University has long been one of New Orleans’ academic gems. Its intimate campus gives students the best of both worlds: a liberal arts education with strong pre-health, business and STEM programs. Add in the city’s culture and the university’s commitment to producing Black leaders, and it’s easy to see the appeal.
Talladega College (Alabama)
Talladega College may be small, but its history is mighty. As Alabama’s first private liberal arts HBCU, the school offers students a personalized education in an environment where professors know their name. It’s a great fit for students who want strong academics without feeling like just another number.
Bennett College (North Carolina)
Everybody knows Spelman College in Atlanta, but Bennett College deserves some love too! There are only two all-women’s HBCUs in the country, and Bennett is one of them. With a 7:1 student-faculty ratio, Bennett is all about leadership, mentorship and creating spaces where Black women can thrive academically and personally. Bennett was originally co-ed, but became an institution for women in 1926, according to the website.
Tuskegee University (Alabama)
Tuskegee’s legacy speaks for itself, and its academics are just as impressive today. It’s home to the only fully-accredited Doctor of Veterinary Medicine professional degree program directly on an HBCU campus, making it a destination for aspiring Black veterinarians. Add its research reputation and legendary alumni, and Tuskegee continues to punch well above its weight.
Oakwood University (Alabama)
For those looking to deepen their faith while in college, Oakwood University offers a unique balance. The Seventh-day Adventist institution centers its mission around its motto, “God First,” while preparing students for careers in healthcare, business and ministry. While many schools struggle with retention and graduation rates, Oakwood was in the top 20 of U.S. News & World Report’s ranking for HBCUs with the highest graduation rates.
Delaware State University (Delaware)
Delaware State University is growing– and for good reason! According to a 2023 report released by the university, enrollment has increased more than 20 percent since 2020 as the university continues to expand its academic offerings and research opportunities. Students get the benefits of a thriving HBCU community with Division I athletics and a campus that’s on the rise.
University of the Virgin Islands
Want the HBCU experience without staying on the mainland? The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) is literally one of one. As one exception on this list, UVI ranked No. 5 on the 2026 Forbes list. Still, as the nation’s only HBCU in the Caribbean, most folks don’t even know it exists. Students get small classes, ocean views and a global perspective. It’s a unique opportunity to earn a degree while experiencing Black culture through a different lens.
Morgan State University (Maryland)
Morgan State doesn’t just offer degrees – it offers programs you can’t find at most colleges. It’s the only HBCU with a transportation and urban infrastructure studies program. It’s also only the second university in Maryland to offer landscape architecture, the other being the University of Maryland, College Park. If you’re interested in designing the future of cities and communities, Morgan should be on your shortlist.
Winston-Salem State University (North Carolina)
If you’re looking for a nursing program, Winston-Salem State belongs on your list. The university is home to the region’s only nursing program that offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. That’s a major advantage for students looking to become advanced healthcare providers while studying at an HBCU.
