Overview
Established on October 3, 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is a public, historically Black university located in Tallahassee, Florida. As part of the State University System of Florida, FAMU is committed to providing high-quality and accessible education. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and has a rich legacy of fostering student success through robust academic programs and a strong support network.
Campus and Enrollment
FAMU occupies a main campus in Tallahassee spanning approximately 419 acres. It also has several satellite campuses such as the College of Law in Orlando and the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, with locations in Crestview, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami. The university enrolls nearly 10,000 students from various states across the U.S. and more than 70 countries globally.
Academic Excellence and Rankings
Offering 98 degree programs across 14 colleges and schools, FAMU is consistently recognized as a top public historically Black college and university (HBCU). It stands as the third top HBCU nationally according to the U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Colleges rankings. Among its accolades, FAMU is ranked:
- #152 in National Universities,
- #81 in Top Public Schools,
- #87 in Best Value Schools,
- #20 in Social Mobility.
FAMU is recognized for its commitment to research, being named the #1 HBCU for Research and Development by the National Science Foundation and designated as a Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader. The retention rate is 82%, and the acceptance rate is 30%, reflective of FAMU's high academic standards.
Leadership
FAMU is currently under the leadership of Dr. Timothy Beard, who serves as the Interim President following the tenure of Larry Robinson. As part of a strategic 100-day action plan, President Beard has restructured the senior leadership team. Key figures in the administration include:
- Dr. Donald Palm, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President,
- Dr. Allyson Watson, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs,
- Tola Thompson, Chief of Staff.
Additionally, Angela Suggs has been appointed as the Vice President and Director of Athletics. The leadership team is focused on enhancing FAMU's strategic goals, academic offerings, and fostering a dynamic educational environment.
Vision and Values
FAMU aspires to be a leading national public university, known for producing competitive graduates and pioneering research. Its core values—accountability, inclusion, innovation, and integrity—guide the institution in sustaining its historical mission while integrating diversity across the campus and beyond. FAMU is dedicated to creating partnerships and collaborations that advance its mission of empowering communities through transformative education and public service.
Competitor Profiling
Overview
FAMU is positioned competitively among notable institutions like Winston-Salem State University and University of the District of Columbia, aiming for prominence in academia and reputation within historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). FAMU is also targeting a place in the top 100 national public institutions and currently ranks seventh among HBCUs.
Competitors
- Edward Waters University: Located in Jacksonville, Florida, it is a private, historically Black university affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church, offering a variety of baccalaureate programs and participating in NCAA Division II athletics.
- Southeastern University: Based in Lakeland, Florida, it is a private Christian liberal arts university accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, offering over 100 degree programs at different levels.
- Palm Beach Atlantic University: Situated in West Palm Beach, Florida, this private nondenominational Christian university integrates faith within its liberal arts curriculum and emphasizes its community service orientation through the Workship Program.
- Winston-Salem State University: A part of the University of North Carolina system, it is a public institution known for integrating esports into its curriculum and boasting a vibrant community and historical academic prowess as an HBCU.
Key Metrics
FAMU employs approximately 1,800 employees. Financial data highlights that the FAMU College of Law generates an annual revenue of $14.9 million. FAMU maintains a competitive edge among its peers, consistently recognized as a top public HBCU.
Academics and Recognition
FAMU holds a National University ranking of #152 according to the U.S. News & World Report, with an in-state tuition fee of $5,785. It was recently ranked #91 among national public universities by the U.S. News & World Report, underscoring its commitment to academic excellence and growth.
Strategic Objectives
With strategic alliances in academic and athletic circles, FAMU aims to ascend in rankings to become a top 100 national public institution. This progress underscores its commitment to enhancing academic standards and community impact.
