Bethune-Cookman University is a private, historically black university located in Daytona Beach, Florida. It was founded in 1904 by Mary McLeod Bethune, an educator, and civil rights leader. Bethune-Cookman University offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, education, nursing, and liberal arts.
The university’s mission is to provide quality education and to develop leaders who are committed to serving their communities. Bethune-Cookman University has a strong commitment to social justice and community service, and students are encouraged to get involved in a variety of service projects and initiatives.
The university has a diverse student body, with students from various racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds. The university offers a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes academic excellence, personal growth, and leadership development. Students have access to a range of resources, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services.
Bethune-Cookman University has a rich history and a proud legacy of producing successful alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions in their fields. Notable alumni include civil rights leader and politician Andrew Young, former NFL player Nick Collins, and Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter Mary J. Blige. Overall, Bethune-Cookman University is a dynamic institution that offers a unique and enriching educational experience for students seeking to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

Bethune-Cookman University (Wikimedia)
It’s surely a good idea to look at these 29 interesting facts about Bethune-Cookman University to know more about this university.
- Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) was originally founded as a school for African American girls, and it was called the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute for Girls.
- In 1931, the school merged with Cookman Institute, a school for African American boys, and became Bethune-Cookman College.
- The school was granted university status in 2007, and its name was changed to Bethune-Cookman University.
- B-CU is affiliated with the United Methodist Church.
- The university has a diverse student body, with students from over 40 states and 40 countries.
- B-CU offers undergraduate degrees in more than 40 majors, as well as graduate degrees in education.
- The university is known for its strong programs in nursing, criminal justice, and business.
- B-CU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- The university has a student-faculty ratio of 16:1, and the average class size is 18 students.
- B-CU has a strong athletic program, with 14 varsity sports teams competing in the NCAA Division I.
- The university’s mascot is the Wildcat, and the school colors are maroon and gold.
- B-CU has a marching band, known as the Marching Wildcats, that has performed at events such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Honda Battle of the Bands.
- The university has a strong tradition of community service, and students are encouraged to participate in volunteer work.
- B-CU has a number of student organizations, including fraternities, sororities, and academic clubs.
- The university has a strong commitment to sustainability, and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint.
- B-CU has a campus radio station, WELE-1380 AM, that broadcasts music and news programs.
- The university has a student-run newspaper, The Voice, that covers campus news and events.
- The university has a historic chapel, known as White Hall, that was built in 1899 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- B-CU has a museum, known as the Mary McLeod Bethune Home, that is dedicated to the life and legacy of the school’s founder.
- The university has a library, known as the Carl S. Swisher Library, that houses over 200,000 books and other resources.
- B-CU has a number of academic centers, including the Center for Civic Engagement, the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement.
- The university has a student retention rate of 63%, and a graduation rate of 28%.
- B-CU has a number of scholarships and financial aid opportunities available to students.
- The university has a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has implemented a number of initiatives to promote a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.
- B-CU has a number of international partnerships and exchange programs, allowing students to study abroad and engage with global issues.
- The university has a strong alumni network, with over 17,000 graduates around the world.
- B-CU has a notable history of producing leaders in a variety of fields, including education, politics, business, and the arts.
- The university has a student-led gospel choir, known as the Inspirational Voices of Bethune-Cookman University, that has performed at events across the country.
- B-CU has a strong commitment to research, and students have opportunities to engage in research projects across a variety of disciplines.
Bethune-Cookman University is a vibrant and dynamic institution that offers a high-quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment. With a rich history and strong commitment to student success, B-CU is a place where students can develop their skills, explore their interests, and prepare for rewarding careers and fulfilling lives. Whether through its strong academic programs, diverse student organizations, or numerous opportunities for community engagement and research, B-CU is a place where students can thrive and make a meaningful difference in the world.