NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has been named one of the nation’s Top 10 Public Historically Black Colleges and Universities by Forbes, earning national recognition for delivering exceptional student outcomes and preparing graduates for long-term success.
The recognition comes as part of Forbes’ inaugural ranking of the nation’s Top 20 Historically Black Colleges and Universities, which features 10 public and 10 private institutions that are helping students thrive academically while positioning them for successful careers after graduation. According to Forbes, the rankings highlight institutions that combine academic quality, affordability, and strong graduate outcomes, recognizing colleges and universities that provide students with a meaningful return on their educational investment.
“Being recognized by Forbes as one of the nation’s top public HBCUs is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the outstanding work taking place across Tennessee State University every day,” said President Dwayne Tucker. “This distinction affirms our commitment to academic excellence, student success, and preparing graduates to lead in their careers and communities. As we continue reimagining Tennessee State University for the future, this national recognition reinforces the excellence that has long defined our institution, and that our students are receiving an education that equips them to compete and succeed at the highest levels.”
The distinction places the university among an elite group of public HBCUs recognized nationally for creating pathways to student success and delivering an education that prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions in their professions and communities.
Forbes highlighted the university’s distinguished alumni, including media mogul Oprah Winfrey and Olympic champion Wilma Rudolph, whose accomplishments reflect the enduring impact of a TSU education. The recognition also reflects the university’s continued commitment to expanding opportunities that foster student success, innovation, and academic excellence.
The latest recognition adds to a growing list of national accolades for TSU. In 2025, Forbes Advisor recognized TSU as one of the nation’s top HBCUs for online degree programs, highlighting the university’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality education through innovative and flexible learning opportunities.
As Tennessee’s only public land-grant HBCU and an R2 research institution, TSU continues to distinguish itself through academic excellence, impactful research, and transformative student experiences. Across eight colleges and schools, students benefit from faculty mentorship, undergraduate research, leadership development, internships, and experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for success after graduation. The Forbes recognition reflects TSU’s enduring legacy of excellence and its continued commitment to expanding opportunity, advancing innovation, and preparing the next generation of leaders. To read the Forbes list in full, visit Top HBCUs: 20 Historically Black Colleges That Set Grads Up For Success
