Bowie State University Ranks No. 5 in Forbes’ 2025 Top Online HBCUs List

Recognition Highlights University’s Excellence in Accessible, High-quality Online Education

(BOWIE, Md.) — Bowie State University has been recognized as one of the nation’s leading Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for online education, securing the No. 5 spot in Forbes’ 2025 ranking of the Best HBCUs With Online Degrees. The achievement underscores Bowie State’s commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible education for online learners.  

“At Bowie State, we are committed to meeting students where they are and providing the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world,” said Dr. Aminta H. Breaux, president of Bowie State University. “This recognition affirms our dedication to academic excellence and student achievement.”  

Forbes evaluated 95 accredited, nonprofit colleges in the categories of student outcomes, affordability, the student experience, credibility and the application process, highlighting schools that excel in online learning while maintaining strong academic standards. A rigorous 18-point methodology was employed to rank the 10 best HBCUs that offer online bachelor’s degrees.  

To qualify for consideration, schools were required to offer at least five online bachelor’s degree programs and demonstrate excellence in student retention, graduation rates and other criteria. Reviewers also assessed accreditation, online course quality and student support services, placing extra weight on value and post-graduation success.  

Bowie State offers a variety of online undergraduate, graduate and certificate options that prepare students for success. The university’s online bachelor’s degree programs include Computer Science, Computer Technology, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. Learn more about Bowie State University’s online programs here.

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the ‘Research College and University’ designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT: Kelly Alexander, kalexander1@bowiestate.edu, 301-860-6017