Bowie State University Profile

Bowie State University, founded in 1865, is a historically significant institution, being the oldest historically black university (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the United States. As part of the University System of Maryland, the university has played a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape for African American students in the state and has built a reputation for academic rigor and a commitment to the service of its community.

From its inception, Bowie State University was dedicated to providing a higher education to African American students during a time when such opportunities were rare. Over the years, it has evolved from a small teacher training school into a comprehensive institution offering a range of programs in various disciplines. The university’s academic structure is divided into several colleges and departments, each contributing to the educational mission of the institution in different ways. These include the College of Education, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Professional Studies, and the College of Business.

The College of Education at Bowie State University is one of the key pillars of the institution, playing an important role in preparing the next generation of educators. The department offers several programs, including counseling, educational leadership, and teaching, learning, and professional development. The university's teacher preparation programs are accredited by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), a recognition that underscores the quality and effectiveness of its education and training for future teachers. In addition to this, the programs are also approved by the Maryland State Department of Education, further affirming the university’s standing as a provider of high-quality education in the region.

The College of Arts and Sciences is the largest academic unit at Bowie State, encompassing a wide range of disciplines. Within the college, there are numerous departments that serve the university’s diverse student body. These include departments in communications, computer sciences, English and modern languages, fine and performing arts, history and government, mathematics, military science, and natural sciences. Through these programs, the College of Arts and Sciences offers a comprehensive liberal arts education that equips students with the critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills necessary to succeed in an array of professional fields. The programs in the sciences, in particular, have earned recognition for their quality, and the university has been designated as a Model Institution of Excellence by the National Science Foundation (NSF). This recognition is a testament to the university’s strong commitment to advancing science, engineering, and mathematics education, particularly for historically underrepresented groups.

The College of Professional Studies is another central component of Bowie State University, with departments in behavioral sciences and human services, nursing, psychology, and social work. These programs provide students with the practical and theoretical knowledge they need to enter professions in healthcare, social services, and mental health. The Department of Nursing, which is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, prepares nurses for clinical practice in various healthcare settings, emphasizing both academic excellence and clinical competence. Similarly, the Social Work program is accredited by the National Council on Social Work Education, which guarantees that graduates are equipped with the skills needed to make meaningful contributions to the social welfare field.

The College of Business is another important academic division at Bowie State University, offering programs in accounting, finance, economics, management, marketing, and public administration. The College of Business is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), ensuring that its programs meet the highest standards of business education. These programs are designed to prepare students for careers in the private, public, and non-profit sectors, focusing on the practical application of business principles and fostering leadership and management skills in its graduates.

Bowie State University is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, which ensures that the university adheres to the high standards expected of accredited institutions in the U.S. This accreditation guarantees that the academic programs offered at the university meet the rigorous requirements for quality and excellence. In addition, the university’s specialized programs have earned individual accreditations, which are a testament to the high caliber of education provided in those fields. The Department of Computer Science, for example, has earned accreditation from the Computer Science Accreditation Commission of the Computing Sciences Accreditation Board (CSAB), ensuring that the university’s computer science program meets the highest standards of quality and rigor. Such specialized accreditations help ensure that students graduate with credentials recognized by professionals and employers in their respective fields.

In recent years, Bowie State University has received recognition for its ongoing contributions to higher education and the community. The National Science Foundation (NSF) acknowledged the strength of the university’s science, engineering, and mathematics programs by naming it one of six Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to be designated as a Model Institution of Excellence. This recognition highlights the university’s exceptional contributions to the development of STEM education, particularly among underrepresented groups. It also underscores the university’s role in advancing diversity in the STEM fields, a mission that has become increasingly important in today’s educational and professional landscapes.

In addition to its academic achievements, Bowie State University has also been recognized for its role in preparing students for professional success in a variety of fields. In 2011, the university was ranked in Tier 2 of the "Regional Universities (North)" category by U.S. News & World Report. While Bowie State is not ranked among the top-tier universities in the nation, this recognition places the university within a competitive category, highlighting its status as one of the best regional institutions in the North. This ranking reflects the university’s dedication to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in the workforce.

Bowie State’s reputation as a leader in providing a high-quality education to African American students is also reflected in its role as a historic institution for black students. As one of the oldest HBCUs in the country, Bowie State has served as an important educational institution for African Americans for more than 150 years. Today, the university continues to fulfill its mission of providing opportunities for students from all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented and disadvantaged groups. The university is committed to providing a transformative education that helps students realize their full potential and prepare for meaningful careers and leadership roles in society.

Bowie State University’s historical significance as an HBCU is matched by its ongoing commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. The university’s legacy as a provider of higher education for African Americans in Maryland is a powerful reflection of its dedication to social justice and educational equity. The programs at Bowie State continue to reflect this commitment, offering students the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. Whether pursuing careers in business, education, healthcare, the arts, or the sciences, students who graduate from Bowie State University are equipped with the skills and experiences necessary to become leaders in their respective fields.

In conclusion, Bowie State University stands as a beacon of higher education in Maryland, providing its students with a diverse and comprehensive educational experience. As the oldest historically black university in the state, it has a rich legacy of serving African American students and continues to play a vital role in shaping the educational and professional futures of its students. With its strong academic programs, committed faculty, and robust support services, Bowie State University offers an environment in which students can thrive, grow, and succeed. The university's ongoing recognition as a leader in education, particularly in STEM and social work, further establishes its place as an important institution within the state of Maryland and the broader higher education landscape.