About Bowie State University

Founded in 1865, Bowie State University. is a Public college. Located in Maryland, which is a city setting in Maryland, the campus itself is Suburban. The campus is home to 4,711 full time undergraduate students, and 958 full time graduate students.

The Bowie State University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 16:1. There are 222 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Bowie State University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.

Quick Facts

Acceptance Rate41%
Application Deadline
Application Fee40
SAT Range780-940
ACT Range15-19

Admissions at BSU are considered More Selective, with ,66% of all applicants being admitted.

In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 14 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.

0% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 0% were in the top quarter, and 0% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.

STUDENT LIFE Reviews

We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Bowie State University.

5%
“We”re apathetic”
22%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
12%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
6%
“We save it for the classroom”
29%
“Sometimes, but not often”
42%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
22%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
6%
“I only go out in groups”
38%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
55%
“I feel extremely safe”
1%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
14%
“We bought the gear”
85%
“We live for the big game”
12%
“It”s not really our thing”
12%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
50%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
27%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
8%
“Available in class”
62%
“They keep regular office hours”
24%
“They”re always available”
1%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
14%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
74%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
10%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
18%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
49%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
19%
“We only party on weekends”
14%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
31%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
45%
“There might be people who do”
18%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
6%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
5%
“We”re apathetic”
22%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
12%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
6%
“We save it for the classroom”
29%
“Sometimes, but not often”
42%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
22%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
6%
“I only go out in groups”
38%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
55%
“I feel extremely safe”
1%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
14%
“We bought the gear”
85%
“We live for the big game”
12%
“It”s not really our thing”
12%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
50%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
27%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
8%
“Available in class”
62%
“They keep regular office hours”
24%
“They”re always available”
1%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
14%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
74%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
10%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
18%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
49%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
19%
“We only party on weekends”
14%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
31%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
45%
“There might be people who do”
18%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
6%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
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  • How would you rate on-campus housing?

    163 Students rated on-campus housing 3 stars. 10 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate off-campus housing?

    123 Students rated off-campus housing 2.9 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus food?

    177 Students rated campus food 3.2 stars. 14 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus facilities?

    184 Students rated campus facilities 3.7 stars. 23 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate class size?

    184 Students rated class size 4.3 stars. 48 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate school activities?

    184 Students rated school activities 3.8 stars. 36 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate local services?

    184 Students rated local services 3.8 stars. 36 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate academics?

    186 Students rated academics 4 stars. 38 % gave the school a 5.0.

Bowie State University REVIEWS

What's your overall opinion of Bowie State University?

96 Students rated Bowie State University

India - 10/03/2024

Bowie State is a very great historical black college that I've seen care about their students. There are so many different events, activities, classes, get togethers every day on campus so there is never a dull moment. Everyone is like family because its always someone that knows someone. We all are their for our own purpose but we all share that Bowie State connection with each other.

Jocelyn - 07/02/2024

Bowie State University (BSU) is more than just a campus; it's a community where students discover themselves amidst like-minded peers. Nestled in a cozy setting, BSU offers an environment where every individual is seen and heard, creating a sense of familiarity and camaraderie. At BSU, enjoyment is woven into the fabric of daily life. Whether through social events, campus activities, or simply gathering on a sunny day, there's always an opportunity to connect and have fun. The small size of the school ensures that you're not just a face in the crowd; here, everyone knows each other's stories, which fosters a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. Friendliness and helpfulness characterize BSU's community spirit. From classmates to faculty members, there's a genuine eagerness to assist with any need that arises. The accessibility of support is a hallmark of BSU's culture, where peers rally around each other and faculty members are readily available to mentor and guide. While the campus comes alive in warm weather, the sense of community thrives year-round. Whether you're seeking academic advice, career guidance, or simply a friendly conversation, BSU's faculty and staff are there to lend a helping hand. The dedication to student success is evident across departments, although navigating financial aid may present challenges. In essence, BSU offers more than just an education; it provides a nurturing environment where personal growth is supported by a tight-knit community. From the Fraternities and Sororities, to the band and theatre clubs, here, you'll find not only academic enrichment but also lasting friendships and a sense of belonging that defines the BSU experience.

Joe - 03/23/2024

I think Bowie State, needs to reduce the pressure of tuition on international students struggling without jobs, at least give us the benefit of the doubt and credit us the tuition if anything. Because they would prefer to kick you out of school and out of school means paying your tuition before attending or even selecting classes . In summary let them allow student to build credit with the institution.

Sydney - 12/12/2023

My opinion about visiting Bowie State University was very proactive because we've explored the whole campus, and their tour guide showed us why Bowie State University is a great school for transfer students who want to pursue their dreams and goals on how to be successful.

Bowie State University FAQS

  1. What is the Acceptance Rate at Bowie State University?

    The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Bowie State University is 41%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020 , _____ students were offered admission. The number of males who applied was _____ vs the number of females which was _____.

  2. What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

    I learned that I have to learn things on my own and should not expect the teachers to teach me. I learned that you have to find out everything for yourself and don't expect anyone to give you the tools that you need to succeed. You can pay for an education, but don't expect one in return. This school has made my outlook of HBCU's very bad. I attended the University of MD, College Park before this school. College Park was great and fun. There were always things to do, the teachers and staff were friendly and caring, and I felt welcome there. I always had a place to study and a good meal to choose from. Bowie has already gone through 2 Provost in less than 8 months. I choose not to participate on campus simply because I can't stand having to be there just to go to class. I am in the Honors Program, and if it wasn't for that, I would never participate in any school events. I am not a negative person, but this school has made me have very negative feelings on a daily basis. Do not go there, please.

    Read all 162 answers

  3. Describe the students at your school.

    My classmates are caring and very helpful.

    Read all 37 answers

  4. What's unique about your campus?

    There are many things I like about my school such as the beauty of the environment and the buildings, the students and teachers, but what I consider the best thing about my school is the sizes of the classrooms. When applying for college, I choose schools that had a small amount of students, about 3500 to 5000 students, with classes that where small enough for the students to easily interact with the teacher. Personally, I feel that students interacting with their teacher is the best way to learn.

    Read all 33 answers

  5. What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

    The school should not even have accredidation because it is worthless. I do not know how it has been open this long and I am embarresed to tell people that I go there. I sometimes lie about where I go to school because I really don't want people to know. I don't know what the money from the tuition goes towards besides the salaries. I can only get wireless internet access in 2 buildings on the entire canpus.

    Read all 29 answers

  6. What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

    I wish I had know that campus life isn't exciting at all and that the food isn't that great. I also wish i knew that the cafeteria hours were early, which isn't a good thing because sometimes many of us students get hungry after hours.

    Read all 28 answers

  7. Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

    Bowie State University is a treasure trove of support, education, and resources for students who wish to suceed.

    Read all 27 answers

  8. What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

    The most frustrating at Bowie State would be the parking because there is plenty of space but that can cause traffic at times.

    Read all 26 answers

  9. What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

    The worst thing about my school in my opinion is the fact that the campus is so small. It bothers me because I feel like I've met everyone in such a short period of time. I enjoy meeting new people everyday, but at Bowie the campus is so small you can meet everyone in one day.

    Read all 23 answers

  10. Describe your favorite campus traditions.

    The heritage that the campus holds.

    Read all 22 answers

  11. What kind of person should not attend this school?

    The type of person that should not attend this school is someone looking to get a more diverse experience. You should not attend this school if you plan on joining some type of fraternity or sororiety.

    Read all 20 answers

  12. What kind of person should attend this school?

    If you are a determined individual who enjoys learning, increasing your social networks, and expanding your mind, this school is for you. Keep in mind, this is a HBCU, so make sure you are open to engaging and learning about other cultures, if this is not your own.

    Read all 18 answers

  13. Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

    Bowie State University is a school where everyone is considered family. Which is what tempted me to apply. All the schools I applied to were out-of-state institutionsl; if I went there I would have to completely start over. At Bowie there is a chance that you will know some, so that you will not feel alone during this exciting transition.

    Read all 15 answers

  14. Describe a day on campus you'll never forget.

    The day we have Hill Harper as a guest speaker. He address students in such a motivational manner. Here is always an opportunity to meet talented people!

    Read all 1 answers

  15. Tell us about the sports scene on campus.

    They are very involve in different sport categories!

    Read all 1 answers

  16. Tell us about the food and dining options.

    In the new student center you will find a nice cafeteria with different healthy options!

    Read all 1 answers

  17. When you step off campus what do you see?

    Different cities in the DC, VA, MD area!

    Read all 1 answers

  18. Why did you decide to go to this school?

    It offered me the opportunities I am looking in a graduate program.

    Read all 1 answers

  19. What do people really wear to class?

    Comfortable.

    Read all 1 answers

  20. Describe your school to someone who's never heard of it.

    It's and HBCU that welcomes international students an has a very diverse campus. It's well know for its programs on Nursing, Technology Science, Communications and Human Resources among others.

    Read all 1 answers

  21. Do you feel like you changed a lot?

    Everybody changes when we learn. You know better!

    Read all 1 answers

Student Body

Students

62%

female

38%

male

4,711

Total Undergrad Enrollment

958

Total Grad Students

7%

Out-Of-State

92%

In-State

1%

International

Organizations

71

Student Organizations

6

Fraternities

5

Sororities

Housing

Yes

On-Campus Housing

25%

of students living on campus

Student Diversity

% American Indian/Alaskan Native
N/A
% Asian/Pacific Islander
1%
% Black or African-American
86%
% Hispanic/Latino
3%
% White or Caucasian
2%

TUITION & AID

All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA. Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.

91% of students attending Bowie State University receive some sort of financial aid. 56% were awarded federal grants. While 72% received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.

Cost Out of State

$18,415

Tuition and fees(Out of state)

$2,200

Books and Supplies

$10,200

Room and Board

30,815

Total On Campus

Actual Cost By Income Level(W/Financial Aid)

Family Income
Cost
$0 - $30K
$10,579
$30 - $48K
$12,978
$48 - $75K
$16,261
$75 - $110K
$19,289
$110K & UP
$20,006

We use student reviews and the most current publicly available data on our school pages. As such, we don't typically remove or edit college information. Sources for school statistics and data include the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Portions of college data include copyrighted material, which is reproduced on this website by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House, a division of Carnegie Communications. © 2009-2016 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

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