Forbes Ranks Bowie State Among Nation’s Top Public HBCUs

Forbes recognizes BSU as one of the nation’s top public HBCUs, reflecting its strong student outcomes, academic excellence and commitment to access and affordability. President Dr. Aminta H. Breaux said the ranking affirms the university’s mission to prepare students for lifelong success and leadership.

Bowie State Ranked Among Top Five Online HBCUs by Forbes for 2026

BSU is ranked No. 5 in recognition of the quality, accessibility and student-focused design of online academic programs. The honor highlights Bowie State’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities through affordable, flexible degree and certificate offerings while maintaining strong academic outcomes and prioritizing student support.

Maryland's First Ph.D. in Nursing Education Launched at BSU

This historic milestone is designed to prepare experienced nurses for careers in academia, research and leadership, and help address the nationwide shortage of nursing faculty. The inaugural cohort will be welcomed to campus in fall 2026.

Bowie State Introduces a New Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence

The new degree advances workforce development, innovation and student success in one of the nation’s fastest-growing fields. The 120-credit program will be offered on campus, preparing graduates to lead in an increasingly AI-driven economy.

Two Faculty Members Selected for 2026-27 USM Generative AI Pedagogy Fellows Program

Dr. Renee Foose, chair of the Department of Educational Studies & Leadership, and Dr. Michael Geuss, professor in the Department of Psychology, are among 14 academics selected to serve as champions for the thoughtful integration of generative AI across the University System of Maryland.

From Bowie to the Big Screen: Alum Tico Wells Comes Full Circle

Professional actor Tico Wells credits Bowie State with helping him boldly overcome the challenge of being a first-generation college student, a journey that ultimately launched his successful career. His new documentary highlights a nonprofit that has guided generations of students toward college opportunities and financial aid resources.

Dr. Jolisa Williams Earns Women Leaders in Sports Resilience Award

As BSU's interim vice president for intercollegiate athletics and recreation, Dr. Williams was recognized for her perseverance, leadership and impact. She will be honored at the 2026 Women Leaders in Sports National Convention in Chicago, where more than 1,400 sports industry leaders will gather to celebrate those who advance the profession.

Move-In Week Full of Spirit and Excitement for New Academic Year

More than 100 student volunteers and alumni greeters kicked off the new academic year by assisting freshmen and returning students during Move-In Week. Welcome activities, including orientation, a Class of 2030 pep rally and One-Stop Shop services, helped students and families settle in, connect with campus resources and start the year with Bulldog pride.

Faculty Institute Explores Innovative Teaching Methods, Emerging Technologies

The University opened the 2026-27 academic year with its annual Faculty Institute, where faculty and staff explored innovative teaching strategies, emerging technologies and student retention initiatives while aligning their work with the university’s Boldly Forward Strategic Plan.

Bulldogs Explore Complex Issues Through Summer Research

Thirty-six students conducted original research on topics ranging from social justice to quantum computing and food rescue. Through faculty mentorship, students gained valuable skills and experience.

Bowie State Scholars Gain Hands-On Experience in Biomedical Research

Seven undergraduate students spent the summer conducting research, developing technical skills and exploring careers in the growing biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries. The Biomedical Research initiative also connected students with alumni and industry-focused training to prepare them for future opportunities in science.

Milan Love ’27 arrived at Bowie State with two passions: music and a desire to help children learn. Today, she thrives in both pursuits as a trombonist in the Symphony of Soul Marching Band and as an Early Childhood and Special Education major.

Bowie State Extracted Her Potential. Now Dr. Rita Dill Is Paying It Forward

She enrolled at Bowie State with little understanding of HBCUs or a career plan. But Dill quickly discovered a passion for research that led her to earn a doctorate in chemistry, secure NASA-funded projects and return to BSU as a postdoctoral researcher. She's mentoring the next generation of Bulldog scientists and credits the university for her bold transformation.

Tune In: "A Bold Take" Podcast

A new episode from Alumni Relations just dropped! Discover "Back to Bowie," a dynamic conversation that explores legacy and community beyond campus and across generations of Bulldogs.

Fall Matriculation Convocation

Sep. 9, 2026
Martin Luther King, Jr. Center Auditorium

Join us as we officially welcome the Freshman Class of 2030 into the Bowie State University family!

One Yard: The HBCU Experience

Akwasidae USA 2026

Hidden Heroes: 9/11 Day of Remembrance Service & Panel

Fall Wellness Series: Walk & Nature Reflection

Football Game BSU Bulldogs at Alabama A&M University

15th Annual Bulldog Golf Classic

Bowie State mixed-use, transit development takes step forward

July 21, 2026
The Daily Record

Bowie State University’s MARC station-area redevelopment advanced with the selection of development partners for nearly 100 acres surrounding the campus. The mixed-use, transit-oriented project is expected to bring housing, jobs and commercial growth, while improving campus connectivity.

Hip-Hop Pioneer MC SHA-ROCK Is Teaching the Next Generation at Bowie State University

July 16, 2026
HBCU Buzz

MC SHA-ROCK, hip-hop’s first female MC and a founding member of Funky 4 + 1, teaches in Bowie State University’s Hip-Hop Studies & Visual Culture program, bringing firsthand knowledge of the culture’s origins to students. She will be inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame in October 2026.

Bowie State University Receives $541,075 NSF Grant to Expand Global Undergraduate Food Security Research

July 24, 2026
Baltimore Times

The grant will expand the university's international undergraduate food security research program with Kenya’s Egerton University. Led by Dr. Anne Osano, the initiative will support 24 students through 2028, providing hands-on research in sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and global food security.

America's Top HBCUs

Aug. 1, 2026
Forbes

Bowie State University was ranked No. 7 among the nation’s top public HBCUs in Forbes’ inaugural ranking, recognized for its growth in computer science, cyber operations engineering, software engineering, data analytics, and bioinformatics.

Bowie State University to launch bachelor's degree in artificial intelligence this fall

Aug. 6, 2026
WUSA9

Bowie State University will launch a 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence this fall, preparing students for careers in AI, machine learning, data analytics and intelligent systems.