Bowie State University logo

Bowie State University

Bowie, MD

publicHBCUgraduate

Quick Facts

5,207
Total Students
$9K
Tuition (In-State)
$20K
Tuition (Out-State)
$19K
Avg Net Price
84%
Acceptance Rate
38%
Graduation Rate
6-year
70%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Bowie State University

Maryland's oldest HBCU, Bowie State University empowers futures through education and innovation.

Nestled in Maryland, Bowie State University stands as the state's pioneering Historically Black University, with a rich legacy dating back to 1865. Born from a profound commitment to educational equity, it was founded by the Baltimore Association for the Moral and Educational Improvement of the Colored People. Initially serving as a vital teaching school, it empowered African Americans to become educators, shaping generations of students and leaders.

From its humble beginnings in space provided by the African Baptist Church and later a dedicated facility on Saratoga Street, the institution quickly evolved. In 1910, it found its permanent home on a sprawling 187-acre campus in Prince George's County, fostering a close-knit community that initially housed around 60 students in an old farmhouse. This move marked a significant step in its journey to becoming a cornerstone of higher education.

Bowie State’s academic journey reflects a continuous commitment to growth and excellence. What began with foundational teaching programs expanded significantly over the decades. By 1925, it offered a two-year professional degree, progressively adding three-year, and then comprehensive four-year programs for elementary, junior high, and secondary school teachers by 1961. This steady expansion underscored its role in developing a highly skilled educational workforce.

Today, Bowie State University continues its tradition of fostering intellectual curiosity and professional development. Its history is a testament to resilience, adaptation, and an unwavering dedication to providing quality education, making it an inspiring choice for prospective students seeking a vibrant learning environment with deep historical roots and a forward-looking vision.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1865, it is Maryland's oldest Historically Black University (HBCU).
  • Began as a teaching school dedicated to educating African American teachers.
  • Moved to a 187-acre campus in Prince George's County in 1910.
  • Expanded its academic offerings to include comprehensive four-year degree programs by 1961.
  • Initially provided education and housing for approximately 60 students on its new campus.

Timeline

1865
Founded by the Baltimore Association for the Moral and Educational Improvement of the Colored People as a teaching school.
1867
Formally named the Baltimore Normal School for Colored Teachers.
1883
Reorganized as the Baltimore Normal School.
1908
Became a state institution, redesignated as Normal School No. 3.
1910
Moved to the Jericho Farm, a 187-acre campus in Prince George's County.
1914
Renamed Maryland Normal and Industrial School at Bowie.
1925
Added a two-year professional degree program.
1935
Added a four-year program for elementary school teachers; renamed Maryland Teachers College at Bowie.
1951
Added a four-year program for junior high school teachers.
1961
Added a four-year program for secondary school teachers.

Find Scholarships at Bowie State University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search