FAMU's online bachelor’s programs in criminal justice and global security, sociology, psychology, and international affairs have earned national recognition from Forbes Magazine ranking them among the best offered by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The accolade underscores FAMU’s strengths in affordability, student success, and post-graduation outcomes.
Forbes highlighted FAMU’s high student retention rate, low in-state tuition costs—the second-lowest among ranked HBCUs—and the lowest student loan default rate of alumni in the evaluation. The university also scored well for its overall graduation rate and median annual earnings of alumni a decade after graduation, reinforcing its commitment to long-term student success.
The magazine said, FAMU's online offering provide blend asynchronous coursework with synchronous learning and hands-on fieldwork opportunities, catering to working professionals and traditional students alike.
In addition to degree programs, FAMU partners with Ed2go to offer open-enrollment online career training courses, expanding access to specialized skills development in high-demand industries.
“This recognition reflects our dedication to delivering quality, accessible education that prepares graduates to thrive in critical fields,” said a FAMU spokesperson. The university’s standout metrics—particularly its low default rates and competitive tuition—position it as a leader in mitigating student debt burdens while fostering career-ready alumni.
Forbes said, FAMU balances academic rigor with affordability and real-world impact.
Forbes' assessment aside, FAMU's online programs is an area that lacks depth and visibility and is a critical area for growth for the university. Given this, the university seeks to expand its digital footprint with the recent appointment of Kelley Bolden Bailey, as dean of FAMU Online in February 2024 a strategic response to these challenges. Her leadership is expected to prove transformative in aligning FAMU’s online infrastructure with its academic mission, addressing both current limitations and future opportunities in virtual learning.