Bethune-Cookman University

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Bethune-Cookman University

  • Overview & Academics

    Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) is a private, historically Black university in Daytona Beach, Florida, founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. The university is known for its commitment to academic excellence, civic engagement, and fostering leadership in its students. B-CU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, providing certificates, bachelor’s, postbaccalaureate certificates, and master’s degrees. Areas of study include arts and humanities, business, education, engineering, health sciences, social sciences, and STEM fields.

  • Admissions

    • Application: Online via the university website; Common App accepted
    • Rolling admissions policy
    • Requirements typically include high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT optional for some applicants), recommendation letters, and personal essays.
    • Emphasis on holistic review and community involvement
  • Cost

    • Undergraduate Tuition (2023-2024): Approximately $14,794 per year
    • Graduate Tuition: Varies by program; generally around $14,000 per year
    • Fees, Room & Board: Additional $10,000 – $12,000 annually
    • Financial Aid: Offered via federal, state, and institutional grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans
  • Student Population

    • Total Enrollment: Approx. 2,500-3,000 students
    • Demographics: Predominantly African-American, with growing representation of Hispanic, White, and International students
    • Undergraduate to graduate ratio: Majority undergraduates
  • Rankings & Distinctions

    • Recognized as a top HBCU nationally
    • Noted for community engagement programs and STEM initiatives
    • Consistently ranked for value and social mobility among regional universities
    • Legacy of influential alumni across education, government, business, and the arts
  • Campus & Culture

    • Location: 82-acre main campus in the heart of Daytona Beach
    • Historic buildings and modern facilities, including science labs, performance venues, and residence halls
    • Museum and memorial sites honoring the university’s founder and HBCU legacy
    • Vibrant campus life with traditions celebrating B-CU’s heritage and multicultural spirit
  • Athletics & Traditions

    • NCAA Division I – Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC)
    • Signature sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Track & Field, Volleyball
    • The B-CU Marching Wildcats band and Wildcat cheerleaders are central to campus spirit
    • Annual Homecoming festivities, Greek life, and founder’s day celebrations
  • Mission, Leadership & Current Developments

    Bethune-Cookman University’s mission is to develop global leaders committed to service, integrity, and academic excellence, inspired by the vision and legacy of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. The university embraces diversity, innovation, and social responsibility. Leadership includes a Board of Trustees and a President. Recent years have seen campus infrastructure upgrades, new program launches (especially in STEM and nursing), and partnerships to expand career readiness.

  • Programs

    • Bachelor’s: Biology, Business Administration, Computer Engineering, Criminal Justice, Education, Mass Communications, Nursing, Psychology, and more
    • Master’s: Biomedical Sciences, Counseling, Integrated Environmental Science, Organizational Leadership, Transformative Leadership
    • Certificates: Health Science, Environmental Policy, Urban Education, and others
  • Campus Life

    • Residential community offering traditional and suite-style living
    • On-campus dining, student health center, and wellness resources
    • Regular cultural events, lectures, and performing arts series
    • Resource centers dedicated to academic support, career counseling, and diversity initiatives
  • Student Organizations

    • Over 60 student-led groups and clubs
    • Active Greek life with prominent NPHC fraternities and sororities
    • Academic, cultural, and professional societies
    • Volunteer and faith-based organizations fostering campus service and engagement
  • Admission Stats

    • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 98%
    • Average Enrolled Freshman GPA: 2.8 – 3.3
    • Test Scores (middle 50%): SAT 810-970, ACT 15-18 (test-optional for many applicants)
    • Application Deadline: Rolling; priority consideration for financial aid if applying early

Website: https://www.cookman.edu/
Address: 640 Dr Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114-3099