Coppin State University Profile

Coppin State University, a historically significant institution located in Baltimore, Maryland, is an exemplary model of urban, residential liberal arts education. As part of the University System of Maryland, Coppin State is committed to providing an affordable, high-quality education to its diverse student body. Rooted in the principles of access and inclusion, the university strives to meet the educational needs of its students while simultaneously contributing to the growth and development of its local and global communities. Coppin State University has earned its place as a respected institution of higher learning, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, each designed to prepare students for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

The university was founded in 1900 as a teacher’s training institution, making it one of the oldest historically black universities (HBCUs) in the country. Since its inception, Coppin State has played a vital role in the education and empowerment of African Americans, particularly in the Baltimore region. Today, Coppin State University stands as a beacon of opportunity, offering programs that are designed to foster academic excellence, leadership, and social responsibility among its students. The university’s mission to prepare graduates who are not only academically proficient but also socially conscious and civically engaged is reflected in its ongoing commitment to addressing the challenges of urban education and community development.

Coppin State University is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, a prestigious accrediting body that ensures the university’s academic programs meet the highest standards of quality and rigor. In addition to institutional accreditation, several of Coppin’s specialized academic programs hold accreditation from relevant professional organizations, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to enter their chosen professions. For example, the Helene Fuld School of Nursing at Coppin State University is an agency member of the Council of Baccalaureate and Higher Degree Programs of the National League for Nursing. This accreditation attests to the quality of Coppin’s nursing programs, which prepare students to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving healthcare environment. The nursing programs at Coppin, including both undergraduate and graduate degrees, are recognized for their commitment to excellence in teaching, clinical practice, and patient-centered care.

Coppin State University’s academic offerings are further distinguished by the accreditation of its teacher education programs by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). These programs are also approved by the Maryland State Department of Education, providing a rigorous foundation for students aspiring to become educators. The university’s teacher preparation programs are designed to develop the skills necessary to work in diverse and challenging educational settings. The programs incorporate both theory and practice, ensuring that graduates are prepared to meet the needs of students from various backgrounds and to create inclusive, equitable learning environments.

The university also takes pride in its Social Work Program, which is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Social work students at Coppin State receive the knowledge and practical skills necessary to work in a variety of settings, including social service agencies, healthcare institutions, schools, and non-profit organizations. Through its accreditation, the Social Work Program at Coppin ensures that students are prepared to address the complex social issues facing communities and individuals, and are equipped to make a positive difference in the lives of those they serve.

Another key area of focus at Coppin State University is its Rehabilitation Counselor Education Program, which holds accreditation from the Council on Rehabilitation Counseling Education. This program prepares students to work with individuals facing disabilities and other life challenges, providing them with the tools needed to support and empower people to lead fulfilling, independent lives. The rehabilitation counseling program is one of many examples of Coppin State’s commitment to addressing the needs of underserved populations, offering students opportunities to make meaningful contributions to society.

Beyond these specific programs, Coppin State University offers a diverse array of academic options across a variety of fields. The School of Management Science and Economics (SMSE), for example, provides students with the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in management science, with concentrations in fields such as accounting, banking and finance, economics, management, marketing, and management information systems. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in business principles and practices, preparing them for careers in management and related fields. In addition to traditional business management, the university offers a Bachelor of Science degree in entertainment management, with concentrations in general entertainment management and music entertainment management. This program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic and ever-evolving entertainment industry.

Coppin State University’s commitment to preparing students for success is also reflected in its extensive support services, which are designed to help students navigate the challenges of higher education and maximize their academic potential. The university offers a variety of academic resources, including tutoring, counseling, career services, and mentorship programs. These services are designed to support students as they work toward achieving their academic goals, while also providing them with the tools they need to succeed in the workforce after graduation.

Coppin State University’s contributions to the community extend far beyond the classroom. The university actively engages with the local community through a variety of outreach programs, service-learning opportunities, and partnerships with local organizations. By fostering a culture of service and civic engagement, Coppin State encourages students to apply their knowledge and skills to address the real-world challenges facing the city of Baltimore and beyond. This commitment to community service is consistent with the university’s broader mission to cultivate socially responsible leaders who are dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities.

The university’s commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and service is reflected in its ranking profile. In US News & World Report's 2012 rankings, Coppin State University was placed in Tier 2 in the category of "Regional Universities (North)", affirming its position as a respected institution within the region. The university’s Tier 2 ranking places it among the top regional institutions, further underscoring the quality of education and services provided to its students. While Coppin State is still working to increase its visibility and national reputation, the university’s commitment to maintaining high academic standards, fostering a diverse and inclusive community, and providing students with access to valuable resources ensures that it is on the right path toward continued success.

Coppin State University has also produced a number of notable alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions in their fields and communities. For example, Bishop L. Robinson made history as the first African American Police Commissioner of Baltimore City. Stephanie Ready, the first female head coach in professional men's basketball, broke barriers in the sports world, while Larry Stewart, a former NBA player for the Washington Bullets and Seattle SuperSonics, achieved success at the highest level of basketball. Additionally, Margaret "Peggy" Murphy, the first African American woman to chair the Baltimore City Delegation, demonstrated the political leadership and civic engagement that Coppin State strives to instill in its graduates.

Through its rigorous academic programs, commitment to community engagement, and nurturing environment, Coppin State University offers students the opportunity to receive a transformative education that prepares them to succeed in a global society. With its emphasis on social responsibility, leadership, and service, Coppin State remains dedicated to providing students with the tools they need to address the challenges of today’s world. Whether through the arts, sciences, business, or education, Coppin State University continues to be a vital institution that contributes to the development of its students, the city of Baltimore, and the broader community.