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U.S. News #181 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Bethune-Cookman University

Daytona Beach, Florida · www.cookman.edu

中文

U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027

#181

Acceptance rate

88.2%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$14,794

$25,190 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

2,738

Student-faculty ratio 17:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

17.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 34.7%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Bethune-Cookman University (BCU), located in Daytona Beach, Florida, is a historically Black university founded in 1904 by the renowned educator and civil rights leader Mary McLeod Bethune. The university is committed to providing a high-quality education and cultivating an environment that fosters personal growth and academic achievement among its diverse student body. BCU emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating liberal arts with professional studies, which prepares students for leadership roles in various fields. The university's motto, "Enter to Learn; Depart to Serve," reflects its mission to develop students not only academically but also as responsible citizens ready to contribute positively to society.

The campus culture at Bethune-Cookman University is vibrant and inclusive, encouraging student engagement through a variety of organizations and activities. With numerous clubs, Greek life, and cultural events, students have ample opportunities to connect with peers and celebrate their heritage. Additionally, BCU boasts a strong athletic program, with teams competing in the NCAA Division I Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, fostering school spirit and camaraderie among students. The university's commitment to community service is also evident, as students frequently participate in outreach programs that benefit the local community. With a dedicated faculty and a supportive environment, Bethune-Cookman University is a place where students can thrive academically and socially, preparing them for successful futures.

Analysis of Key Trends at Bethune-Cookman University

Bethune-Cookman University, a private institution, has seen notable trends in several critical areas. One significant aspect is the fluctuation in student enrollment numbers. In 2013, the undergraduate student population was 3,486, which increased to 3,992 by 2018. However, this upward trend reversed in subsequent years, with the number dropping to 2,513 in 2022. This decline in enrollment may indicate challenges in attracting new students, potentially due to rising tuition costs or competition from other institutions.

Tuition fees have remained relatively stable for in-state undergraduate students, holding around $14,410 from 2014 to 2017, but have seen a gradual increase since then, reaching $14,794 by 2024. This steady rise in costs could deter potential students and contribute to decreasing enrollment figures. For graduate students, tuition was consistent at approximately $14,100 from 2019 through 2024, which suggests a strategic pricing approach but may still present affordability issues for prospective students.

Another critical metric is the graduation rate. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates fluctuated over the years, peaking at 27.5% in 2017 but dropping to around 13.7% by 2023. This decline may reflect the difficulties students face in completing their degrees, possibly exacerbated by financial strains or inadequate support services.

Retention rates also present a mixed picture, with a high of 73.2% in 2021 but falling to 51.4% in 2023. This disparity indicates that while students may initially enroll, retaining them through to graduation remains a challenge.

In summary, Bethune-Cookman University faces significant challenges in student enrollment, retention, and graduation rates, coupled with rising tuition costs. Addressing these issues will be vital for the institution to improve its appeal and support to current and prospective students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
In Daytona Beach
Nearest international airport
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), about 30 mi
Daytona Beach, Florida
Also known as
Bethune-Cookman, Bethune-Cookman College, Bethune, Cookman, BCC, B-CC, B-CU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
Dr. Albert Mosley (President)
Phone
3864812000
City
Daytona Beach, Florida
Address
640 Dr Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114-3099

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
85.3%
Women
89.6%

In 2020: men 82.7%, women 84.6%.

U.S. News Liberal Arts Colleges · last 10 years
#181Ranked #181 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Bethune-Cookman University

The admission data for Bethune-Cookman University reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. Notably, the male admission rate peaked at approximately 99.77% in 2022, indicating a highly inclusive approach during that period. In contrast, the admission rates for females have consistently remained high, with a notable peak of 99.87% in the same year.
However, the data also shows an interesting trend in the number of applicants being denied admission. The number of denials reached a staggering 2,927 in 2023, despite a relatively stable enrollment figure of 965 students. This disparity suggests that while the university is accepting a higher proportion of applicants, the overall applicant pool has significantly increased, leading to a higher number of denials.
The enrollment numbers have shown a declining trend from 2010 to 2015, where the total number of enrolled students reached a low of 896 in 2012. However, there has been a rebound in enrollment numbers in recent years, with 965 students enrolled in 2023. This could indicate the university's successful efforts in attracting more students, possibly through enhanced recruitment strategies or improved academic offerings.
Overall, while Bethune-Cookman University demonstrates a commitment to increasing access to education, the rising number of applicants also points to a growing demand for higher education. The admissions trends signify a need for continuous evaluation of enrollment strategies to maintain a balance between accessibility and academic standards.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 46% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total830–990Peer median 1220
SAT Reading
430–510
600700800
SAT Math
400–480
600700800

Data insights

Analysis of Academic Performance Trends at Bethune-Cookman University

The data from Bethune-Cookman University over the years reveals significant fluctuations in standardized test performance and submission rates. Notably, while the number of students submitting SAT scores peaked in 2011 at an impressive 92%, it has seen a sharp decline in recent years, dropping to 52% in 2023. This trend may indicate a shift in the admissions landscape, where students are increasingly opting for test-optional policies or alternative pathways to college admission.

The SAT reading scores have shown a noteworthy improvement from 2007 to 2020, with the 25th percentile starting at 360 and ending at 440 in 2020. However, the scores appear to have stabilized since then, suggesting a possible plateau in academic achievement or a need for strategic interventions to enhance student performance.

The ACT scores have also reflected a similar pattern, with the 25th percentile scores fluctuating over the years. The highest reported total ACT score was in 2009, with a starting score of 460 and ending at 530, which indicates a robust academic foundation for that cohort.

Overall, these trends raise questions about the effectiveness of academic programs and support systems in place at the university. With a declining submission rate and fluctuating scores, there may be a pressing need for Bethune-Cookman University to assess its academic strategies and enhance student engagement with standardized testing. This is particularly relevant in the current educational climate, where competitive admissions and academic performance are critical for institutional reputation and student success.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

10,994 applicants in 2025, 88.2% admitted

9,701 admitted 1,293 not admitted Yield 10.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's3240 international (0.0%)
Master's280 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies
78
Psychology, General
57
Business Administration and Management, General
45
Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other
21
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
21
Mass Communication/Media Studies
16
Political Science and Government, General
13
Speech Communication and Rhetoric
10
Sociology, General
10
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
8

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Organizational Behavior Studies · Master's16 (0% international)
  • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, Other · Master's3 (0% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's3 (0% international)
  • Religion/Religious Studies · Master's2 (0% international)
  • Athletic Training/Trainer · Master's2 (0% international)
  • Environmental Science · Master's1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Data from Bethune-Cookman University

The graduation data from Bethune-Cookman University for 2023 reveals notable trends within various academic disciplines. A significant number of students graduated with bachelor's degrees in Liberal Arts and Sciences, Psychology, and Business Administration, with the highest counts of 64, 44, and 39 graduates respectively. This indicates a strong interest in these foundational fields, which are crucial for developing critical thinking and communication skills.

Interestingly, while the university has a robust bachelor’s degree program, the data shows a lack of international students graduating at the bachelor level. This raises questions about the university's international appeal and recruitment strategies, particularly in a time when global education is becoming increasingly competitive. On the master's level, the Business Administration and Psychology disciplines also show promise, with 9 and 7 graduates respectively. This could suggest an emerging trend towards advanced studies in these areas, perhaps driven by the growing demand for skilled professionals in the business and mental health sectors.

Moreover, the absence of doctoral graduates highlights a potential gap in research opportunities or advanced academic offerings within the university's framework. As higher education institutions increasingly emphasize research and doctoral programs, this could be an area for Bethune-Cookman to explore for future growth.

Overall, the data sheds light on the university's strengths in undergraduate education while highlighting areas for potential development, particularly in attracting international students and expanding graduate programs. As the job market evolves, aligning educational offerings with industry demands will be crucial for preparing students for successful careers.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Liberal arts has 78 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$33,477
Businesshas 70 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$39,670
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Organizational Behavior Studies.-
Psychology has 60 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$29,489
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology, Other.-
Communication has 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-
Mass Communication/Media Studies.-
Social sciencehas 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.-
Sociology, General.-
Homeland security has 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Corrections and Criminal Justice, Other.$39,222
Parks, recreation, leisure has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Visual and Performing artshas 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Music, General.-
Music Technology.-
Computer and information sciencehas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Information Science/Studies.-
Computer Science.-
Biologyhas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Health professionshas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Philosophy has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Religion/Religious Studies.-
History has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Educationhas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Music Teacher Education.$31,625
Physical scienceshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Gerontology.-
Natural resources has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Science.-
Engineeringhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer Engineering, General.-

Students

2,853 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 61.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,738)

Black
1,488 · 54.3%
Unknown
1,007 · 36.8%
Hispanic
146 · 5.3%
International
51 · 1.9%
Two or more races
37 · 1.4%
White
5 · 0.2%
Asian
1 · 0.0%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
2.1%
18–19
49.6%
20–21
31.0%
22–24
13.3%
25 and over
3.5%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
40.9%
25–29
19.1%
30–34
15.7%
35 and over
24.3%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Bethune-Cookman University in 2023

In 2023, Bethune-Cookman University reveals a diverse student body across various classifications. The data indicates that among first-year undergraduate students, there is a notable gender disparity, with females comprising 66.2% and males only 33.8%. This trend continues with returning undergraduate students, where the female percentage is 62.8%, compared to 37.2% for males. Such a significant representation of female students speaks to ongoing societal shifts towards female empowerment in higher education.

However, the scenario changes slightly with transfer students, where male students make up 57.8%, showcasing a more balanced gender ratio. In the graduate category, females again dominate with 63.6%, indicating a consistent pattern of female enrollment at the university.

Examining the ethnic composition, it is essential to note the limited representation of white students across all categories, with only two first-year students identified as white. This suggests a strong presence of minority groups, particularly among the first-year and returning student populations. The emphasis on diversity aligns with national trends in higher education, where institutions strive to enhance inclusivity and representation.

Overall, these statistics reflect Bethune-Cookman University’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The varying gender ratios across student classifications highlight the complexity of enrollment trends, which could be influenced by broader societal factors and institutional efforts to support different student demographics. The university's landscape in 2023 presents both opportunities and challenges as it navigates these dynamics in higher education.

Analysis of Age Composition at Bethune-Cookman University in 2023

The age distribution data of students at Bethune-Cookman University reveals some interesting insights into the demographics of the student body. A significant concentration of students falls within the 18-19 age group, with 387 male undergraduates and 721 female undergraduates. This indicates that the university attracts a large number of recent high school graduates, particularly among females, showcasing a trend that may reflect broader societal patterns of higher female enrollment in higher education.

The 20-21 age group also exhibits a notable number of students, with 291 male undergraduates and 500 female undergraduates. This trend continues into the 22-24 age range, where the student population remains robust, particularly among females. The transition from high school to college appears to be a critical age, with the university serving as a pivotal institution for young adults.

In contrast, the number of students in older age brackets, such as 25-29 and 30-34, is significantly lower. This may suggest that the majority of students at Bethune-Cookman University are traditional-age college students, with fewer non-traditional students pursuing higher education later in life. However, it is worth noting that the presence of graduate students, especially in the 22-24 age range, indicates that some individuals are returning to school for advanced degrees.

Overall, the data reflects a youthful demographic, which may influence campus culture, academic programming, and support services. As educational institutions continue to evolve, understanding the age dynamics of their student populations will be crucial for addressing their unique needs and fostering an inclusive environment.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates1.9%

51 in 2025 · 2.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.4%2017: 2.1%2018: 1.8%2019: 1.7%2020: 3.1%2021: 1.8%2022: 1.9%2023: 2.9%2024: 1.9%2025: 1.9%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students3.5%

4 in 2025 · 2.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 2.0%2017: 3.6%2018: 3.3%2019: 3.9%2020: 7.3%2021: 2.0%2022: 2.7%2023: 5.1%2024: 5.9%2025: 3.5%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Bethune-Cookman University

The data reveals a notable decline in the international student population at Bethune-Cookman University over the years, particularly at the undergraduate level. From a peak of 156 international undergraduates in 2004, the numbers have stagnated, with only 77 international students recorded in 2023, representing a decrease in the percentage of international students from 5.58% to 2.93%. This trend suggests challenges in attracting and retaining international students, which could be attributed to various factors including changing immigration policies, global economic conditions, and competition from other institutions.

On the graduate level, while there were fluctuations, the percentage of international students has also seen a downward trend. The peak was in 2010 when 15% of graduate students were international. In 2023, this percentage was reduced to 5.05%, indicating a potential decline in the university's appeal to graduate students from abroad.

The overall decline in international enrollment could have significant implications for the university, as international students often contribute to the diversity of the campus community and provide economic benefits. As many institutions are working to bolster their international student recruitment strategies in the post-pandemic era, Bethune-Cookman University may need to reassess its outreach and support systems to enhance its attractiveness to prospective students from other countries.

In summary, the decreasing numbers of international students at Bethune-Cookman University reflect broader challenges that many institutions face in the current global educational landscape, necessitating proactive measures to reverse this trend.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$25,190

Undergraduate tuition
$14,794
Room and board
$10,396
Graduate tuition
$14,100
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 3% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 21%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$88.2M

Government grants and contracts
$28.8M32.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$24.1M27.3%
Tuition and fees
$19.7M22.3%
Gifts and private grants
$7.5M8.5%
Investment return
$6.9M7.9%
Other
$1.2M1.4%

Expenses$88.0M

Auxiliary enterprises
$29.2M33.2%
Instruction
$27.9M31.7%
Institutional support
$17.2M19.6%
Student services
$10.5M12.0%
Academic support
$2.5M2.8%
Research
$676K0.8%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$64,426peers $65,931
Professor
$87,003peers $77,501
Associate professor
$68,245peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$60,610peers $61,725
Instructor
$61,098peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Southwestern Athletic Conference

Southwestern Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division I-FCSMENWOMEN
Football117-
Track and Field (Outdoor)5429
Track and Field (Indoor)5230
Baseball40-
Basketball1615
Cross Country1411
Softball-19
Volleyball-17
Golf-6
Tennis-6
2024
NCAA Division I-FCSMENWOMEN
Football127-
Track and Field (Outdoor)3723
Track and Field (Indoor)3623
Baseball48-
Basketball1814
Softball-22
Cross Country910
Volleyball-17
Golf-8
Tennis-8
2023
NCAA Division I-FCSMENWOMEN
Football87-
Track and Field (Outdoor)3420
Track and Field (Indoor)3122
Baseball37-
Basketball1714
Cross Country1010
Softball-19
Volleyball-16
Golf-5
Tennis-5

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Bethune-Cookman University:

  1. University of Florida - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings.

  2. Florida State University - With a rank of 53, Florida State University is recognized for its vibrant campus life and a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  3. University of South Florida - This university ranks 89th and is praised for its commitment to innovation and research, along with a diverse student body.

  4. University of Central Florida - Ranked 124th, UCF is one of the largest universities in the U.S. and offers a variety of programs and a dynamic campus environment.

  5. Florida International University - Also ranked 124th, FIU is known for its global perspective and commitment to community engagement and research.

  6. University of Miami - Ranked 67th, this private university is recognized for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus in Coral Gables.

These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are excellent options for students in the area.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
62
Dating violence
10
Burglary
7
Aggravated assault
6
Weapons referrals
6
Domestic violence
6

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Bethune-Cookman University

The data from Bethune-Cookman University presents a troubling yet complex picture of campus safety over the years. The average number of crimes per 1,000 students shows fluctuation, with the highest rate recorded in 2018 at 14.00 incidents. This spike could reflect various factors, including heightened reporting, increased awareness of safety issues, or even external societal influences impacting campus dynamics.

While the total crime rates have decreased significantly from 2013 to 2021, the numbers suggest a potential concern for students and faculty alike. For instance, incidents of gun arrests, drug-related arrests, and alcohol-related arrests contribute to the overall climate of safety. The data reveals persistent issues with gun-related arrests, which is alarming, especially in the context of national discussions around gun violence and campus safety.

Interestingly, the year 2021 shows a marked decline in crime rates, which could indicate effective safety measures or a shift in student behavior and campus culture. However, the minor uptick in 2023, with a crime rate of 9.75 per 1,000 students, reminds us that vigilance is necessary to maintain a safe educational environment.

It is essential for the administration to continue evaluating and improving safety protocols and for students to engage in community safety initiatives. The data highlights the importance of fostering a supportive campus atmosphere that prioritizes safety and well-being. For more insights on how to calculate crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Bethune-Cookman University include Eric Cray (Filipino-American sprinter and hurdler), Ronnie Ash (Hurdler specializing in the 110m hurdles) and Monae' Nichols (Long jumper, 2024 World Indoor silver medalist).

See all 24 notable alumni of Bethune-Cookman University →

Recent News at Bethune-Cookman University

Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.

0Updates in the past 12 months
Jul 2022Latest update
Programs & rankingsMost common topic
  1. Awards

    A statue of Mary McLeod Bethune, who founded the school that became Bethune-Cookman University, was unveiled in National Statuary Hall at the U.S. Capitol, representing the state of Florida.

    Source: news.ufl.edu

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.