Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

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Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

  • Overview & Academics

    Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is one of the nation’s premier Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), founded in 1887. Located in Tallahassee, Florida, FAMU is a public, land-grant research university. The university offers over 55 undergraduate degree programs, more than 30 master’s degrees, 12 doctoral programs, and several professional certificates. FAMU is renowned for its colleges of Pharmacy, Law, Engineering (in partnership with Florida State University), Business, Education, and the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences.

  • Admissions

    FAMU employs a holistic admissions process considering GPA, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, personal statements, and recommendations. Application is available via the FAMU website and Common App.

    • Application Deadline: June 30 (Regular); Priority deadline is typically November 1.
    • Required Materials: Completed application, official transcripts, SAT/ACT scores (test-optional for some terms/years), essay/personal statement, and application fee.
    • Average High School GPA: Approximately 3.7
    • SAT/ACT Ranges: SAT: 1030–1160; ACT: 19–25 (mid-50% range)
  • Cost

    • In-State Tuition and Fees: Around $5,785 per year
    • Out-of-State Tuition and Fees: Approximately $17,725 per year
    • Room and Board: Estimated at $10,000–$12,000 per year
    • Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study positions are widely available. Over 90% of students receive some form of aid.
  • Student Population

    • Total Enrollment: Approximately 9,000 students

      • Undergraduates: Around 7,400
      • Graduate and professional students: Around 1,600
    • Diversity: FAMU is predominantly African American but supports a diverse, inclusive environment with students from all over the U.S. and several countries.
  • Rankings & Distinctions

    • Consistently ranked as one of the top HBCUs in the United States
    • Top public HBCU by U.S. News & World Report (multiple years, recent #1)
    • One of the leading producers of African American bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees
    • Recognized for programs in pharmacy, journalism, engineering, and business
  • Campus & Culture

    • Urban campus occupying over 420 acres atop the highest of Tallahassee’s seven hills
    • Proximity to the state capital, Florida State University, and state government facilities
    • Facilities include a state-of-the-art pharmacy center, research labs, student union, residence halls, and athletic complexes
  • Athletics & Traditions

    • Athletic teams: FAMU Rattlers (NCAA Division I – Southwestern Athletic Conference, SWAC)
    • Traditions include “The Marching 100” (renowned marching band), Homecoming, Set Fridays, and the Orange & Green spirit
    • Popular sports: Football, basketball, baseball, softball, track & field, volleyball
  • Mission

    FAMU’s mission is to provide an excellent education to a diverse student body, particularly African Americans and other minorities, through high-quality teaching, research, and public service. The university emphasizes leadership, civic engagement, and economic and social mobility.

  • Leadership & Current Developments

    • President: Dr. Larry Robinson (as of 2024)
    • FAMU has recently invested in campus infrastructure, student support initiatives, and research expansion, with a focus on STEM, health sciences, and workforce development.
    • Extensive partnerships with government, industry, and other research institutions
  • Programs

    • Includes Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral (PhD/EdD and professional such as PharmD, JD)
    • Signature programs: Pharmacy, Law, Business Administration, Agriculture, Nursing, Engineering, Journalism, Education, STEM disciplines
    • Online and hybrid degree options available
  • Campus Life

    • Vibrant campus with on-campus housing, dining, recreation, and health/wellness centers
    • Numerous cultural events, guest speakers, and student leadership opportunities
    • Resources for academic support, career development, counseling, and mentoring
  • Student Organizations

    • Over 100 student organizations and clubs, including Greek life, academic honor societies, professional associations, and cultural clubs
    • Student government and leadership development opportunities
    • Active Student Activities Board organizing campus events, service projects, and entertainment
  • Admission Stats

    • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 36% (recent cycles)
    • Yield Rate: Around 34%
    • Freshman Retention Rate: 84%
    • Graduation Rate (6-year): 54%