Overview of Bethune-Cookman University
Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) is a historically black university (HBCU) located in Daytona Beach, Florida. Founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, an influential African American educator and civil rights leader, the university has a rich history and is known for its commitment to providing quality education to African American students. please note that details may have changed, and it’s advisable to check the university’s official website for the most current information.
Founding and History: Bethune-Cookman University traces its roots to the vision and determination of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. She began the Daytona Literary and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls in 1904 with just five students and a mission to provide education to African American girls. Over the years, the institution expanded and evolved, eventually becoming Bethune-Cookman University. Dr. Bethune’s legacy is deeply embedded in the university’s history and values.
Academic Programs: Bethune-Cookman University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including liberal arts, business, education, science, and more. The university emphasizes academic excellence and aims to prepare students for leadership roles in their chosen fields.
HBCU Heritage: As an HBCU, Bethune-Cookman University plays a crucial role in the African American community’s higher education landscape. HBCUs have historically served as centers for academic achievement, cultural preservation, and activism. B-CU continues this legacy by providing a supportive and culturally enriching environment for its students.
Campus and Facilities: The university’s campus is located in Daytona Beach, providing a vibrant and scenic backdrop for learning. The campus features modern facilities, including academic buildings, libraries, laboratories, and recreational spaces. The physical environment is designed to support a comprehensive educational experience.
Student Life: Bethune-Cookman University fosters a dynamic and inclusive campus life. Students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, including student organizations, clubs, and cultural events. The university places importance on creating a sense of community and belonging among its diverse student body.
Community Engagement: Reflecting Dr. Bethune’s commitment to community service, B-CU encourages students to engage in outreach and service activities. The university values the importance of contributing to the local community and beyond, instilling in students a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement.
Athletics: The Wildcats, Bethune-Cookman University’s athletic teams, compete in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) at the NCAA Division I level. Athletics play a significant role in campus life, contributing to school spirit and providing student-athletes with opportunities for competition and personal development.
Cultural Significance: Bethune-Cookman University holds cultural significance within the African American community and beyond. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s legacy is celebrated, and her impact on education and civil rights is recognized nationally. The university serves as a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and the ongoing pursuit of equality in education.
Legacy of Leadership: B-CU has produced notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, including education, politics, business, and the arts. The university takes pride in the achievements of its graduates and continues to inspire future generations to strive for excellence and leadership.
Admissions and Financial Aid: Bethune-Cookman University typically follows an admissions process that considers factors such as academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and a commitment to the university’s mission. The university provides various scholarships and financial aid options to support students in pursuing their education.
Accreditation: Bethune-Cookman University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in higher education.
Bethune-Cookman University stands as a historically significant institution with a mission rooted in providing education and empowerment to African American students. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s vision continues to shape the university’s commitment to academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and community engagement. It serves as a beacon of inspiration within the HBCU community and the broader landscape of higher education. For the latest and most accurate information, please refer to the university’s official website.
640 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Phone: (800) 448-0228
Email: admissions@cookman.edu
Web site: http://www.bethune.cookman.edu
Rankings: Bethune-Cookman University
Located in Daytona Beach, FL, Bethune-Cookman University is one of the best universities in the state of Florida. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for Bethune-Cookman University in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is Bethune-Cookman University.
Bethune-Cookman University is a historically black university located in Daytona Beach, Florida. The university has consistently been ranked among the top universities in the nation for its academic excellence and commitment to diversity. In 2021, U.S. News & World Report ranked Bethune-Cookman as the 48th best regional university in the South, with an overall ranking of #118 out of more than 1300 colleges and universities nationwide. Additionally, Bethune-Cookman was recognized as one of the Top HBCUs by Washington Monthly for its commitment to social mobility and civic engagement. The Princeton Review also named Bethune-Cookman a “Best Southeastern College” for 2021, highlighting its academic excellence and campus life opportunities.
In addition to these rankings, Bethune-Cookman has recently been featured in several national publications for its impressive student body and vibrant campus life. In 2020, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) recognized Bethune-Cookman as one of the top 25 schools with an “excellent” graduation rate among its student athletes. Additionally, The Princeton Review’s 2021 Guide to Colleges & Universities listed Bethune-Cookman as one of their “Best Schools For African American Students,” noting that it offers a supportive environment with plenty of resources for students from diverse backgrounds. Finally, Forbes Magazine has consistently praised Bethune-Cookman’s academic rigor and affordability throughout the years; they most recently ranked it #142 on their list of America’s Top Colleges in 2020.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 2.8 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 48 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 69.8% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 36.8% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | N/A |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | N/A |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 77 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | N/A |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | N/A |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 16:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 91.0% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 58 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 930-1060 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 10% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 25% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 55.1% |
| Financial resources rank: | 69 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 16 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 18.9% |
Essential Facts: Bethune-Cookman University
Ranking: #52 Regional College South (2012)
Tuition: $13,840 (2019)
School colors: Gold · Maroon
Mascot: Wil D Cat
Founded: 1904
Founder: Mary McLeod Bethune
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 52% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 20% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 25% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 80% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | No |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | 20% |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | No |
| Additional policies and regulations: | class attendance mandatory, dress/hair code, honor code, hazing prohibited, smoking prohibited |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA I |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, tennis, track and field (indoor), track and field (outdoor) |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | basketball, bowling, cross country, golf, softball, tennis, track and field (indoor), track and field (outdoor), volleyball |
| Student activities: | choral groups, concert band, drama/theater, jazz band, marching band, music ensembles, radio station, student government, student newspaper, yearbook |