Maryland's oldest HBCU, founded 1865, empowering leaders in STEM, business, arts, and education.
Bowie State offers comprehensive programs across four colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, and Professional Studies. The university provides 30+ undergraduate majors, 21+ master's degree programs, 3 doctoral programs, and 18+ specialty certificates with emphasis on STEM, business, education, and related disciplines. Notable facilities include the Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Nursing with research labs and nursing simulation, and an all-Steinway Fine and Performing Arts Center. The university pioneered overseas graduate programs for military personnel (1992) and was the first HBCU to offer a bachelor's degree in paedology.
The 338.5-acre suburban campus features 23 buildings totaling 988,897 square feet. Key facilities include the $71 million Fine & Performing Arts Center, $17.6 million Center for Business and Graduate Studies, and the Bowie State Satellite Operations Control Center (joint venture with Honeywell and NASA). Seven residence halls house 23% of students on campus. The university is conveniently served by MARC Train and Metrobus transit. Student life includes Greek organizations, academic clubs, marching band (Symphony of Soul), and NCAA Division II athletics competing in the CIAA.
Bowie State welcomes undergraduate, graduate, international, and military students. The university offers regular admissions pathways and fast-track options. As a Military Friendly School since 2019, it provides dedicated support for veterans and active military members through the Military Resource Center and Army ROTC. The university emphasizes accessibility and affordability as part of the University System of Maryland mission.
Bowie State generated $351.3 million in economic impact (UNCF 2024 HBCU Impact Report). According to The Economist's 2015 college ratings, BSU ranked #61 nationally and #1 in Maryland for alumni earnings above expectation. The university has received major philanthropic support, including $25 million from MacKenzie Scott in 2020 and $50 million in 2025 (largest single gift in BSU history). Notable alumni include actor Myles Frost (Tony Award winner), teacher-astronaut Christa McAuliffe, and multiple Maryland state legislators.