3 NC HBCUs Rank Among Nation’s Top 10 Public Universities

Three North Carolina historically Black colleges and universities are being recognized among the nation’s best after earning spots in Forbes‘ list of the top 10 public universities.

North Carolina A&T State University, Winston-Salem State University and Elizabeth City State University all made the publication’s inaugural ranking of the nation’s top public historically Black colleges and universities.

The list highlights schools based on student success, graduation rates, return on investment and career outcomes.

North Carolina A&T claimed the No. 1 spot, adding another milestone to the nation’s largest HBCU.

Forbes noted the Greensboro university’s strong return on investment, competitive graduation rate and graduates’ earning potential. The university is also nationally known as the leading producer of Black engineers at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Winston-Salem State University ranked No. 8 on the list. The university has built a reputation for preparing graduates in health sciences, education and business while continuing to expand enrollment and student success initiatives.

Elizabeth City State University rounded out the rankings at No. 9, earning recognition for providing affordable education and creating opportunities for students across northeastern North Carolina.

The recognition reinforces North Carolina’s long-standing leadership in HBCU education. The state is home to 11 historically Black colleges and universities, more than any state except Alabama.

Those institutions continue to play a vital role in preparing students for careers in education, engineering, health care, business and public service.

Forbes created the rankings using data that measures affordability, graduation and retention rates, alumni salaries and post-graduate success. The publication said the goal is to recognize HBCUs that provide strong educational value and help students build successful careers after graduation.