About Bowie State University
Bold From the Start
Founded in 1865, Bowie State is the oldest Historically Black College/University in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. It is also a diverse university whose students, along with faculty and staff, represent many ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Bowie State University provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities for students with ambitions to achieve and succeed. In addition to its 30+ undergraduate majors, Bowie State offers 21 master's degree programs, 16 specialty certificates and three doctoral programs with specific focus on science, technology, business, education and related disciplines. A supportive academic environment empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society.
Bowie State’s Center for Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Nursing includes research and instructional laboratories, flexible classrooms, a nursing simulation wing and a fully enclosed greenhouse. Bowie State is also home to an all-Steinway Fine and Performing Arts Center, equipped with the latest technologies for digital media arts and music production.
As a member institution of the University System of Maryland, Bowie State upholds the system’s mission of providing high-caliber, accessible and affordable educational opportunities.
Bowie State is in the midst of one of the nation's most exciting metropolitan areas, within easy reach of Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. At the same time, it boasts a serene campus on a 300-acre suburban wooded tract. With seven residence halls, the University is a hub of 24/7 undergraduate life, yet it also offers convenient evening classes and online courses to serve employed professionals seeking to move ahead in their careers.
Take a closer look at Bowie State: you will like what you see.
Our History
Bowie State University is Maryland’s first HBCU and one of the oldest in the nation. What began as a small school dedicated to educating newly emancipated citizens has grown into a comprehensive university driven by research, innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit.
Research and Graduate Education
Bowie State University has elevated its research profile by earning the prestigious “Research College and University” designation in the 2025 Carnegie Classification, a recognition that reaffirms its commitment to expanding faculty scholarship, attracting external funding, and enhancing graduate-level inquiry. Through its Division of Research & Innovation, BSU supports this mission with infrastructure like the Office of Research & Sponsored Programs—which provides pre- and post-award support for grants—and the Office of Economic Development & Strategic Engagement, which builds partnerships to drive innovation and workforce development.
The Graduate School continues to strengthen graduate education with a robust catalog of offerings that prepare students to lead in key fields such as cybersecurity, counseling and computer science. Central to cultivating research and academic success is the Graduate Research Center, which provides graduate students with tailored support through writing services, advising, fellowship opportunities and spaces equipped for research and academic development.
Why Choose an HBCU?
HBCUs have shaped generations of leaders, innovators and changemakers. As Maryland’s first HBCU, Bowie State carries this legacy forward by advancing cutting-edge research, expanding graduate education and preparing scholars to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
Snapshot of University Initiatives
At Bowie State, you’ll find a welcoming campus, a supportive academic environment and countless ways to get involved. You’ll build lifelong friendships, discover your passions and gain the confidence to lead whether that’s through a research project or continuing education in graduate school. Explore more about the Bowie State experience and see how you can make your mark.
Entrepreneurship Innovation Center
Discover how the Entrepreneurship Innovation Center brings your ideas to life
Research
Get empowered through hands-on research in labs like cybersecurity, genomics, virtual reality and beyond.
Graduate Academics
Dive into our graduate offerings, all designed with research, innovation and your professional growth in mind.
Upcoming Events at Bowie State
Our Community
If you are a mentor, educator or community member, we invite you to discover our programs and resources. Share Bowie State’s opportunities with your network and help us empower the next generation of bold thinkers and leaders.
Explore Our Campus
Visiting our campus is the best way to experience the Bowie Bold spirit. Schedule a tour with ease and see firsthand the energy, innovation and community that set us apart.
At a Glance
Get a quick overview of Bowie State—our programs, community, and impact—all in one place.
Signature Events
Discover the rich traditions that unite our community, from Founders’ Day to Commencement and Homecoming.
Support Our Mission
Support our mission to provide accessible, high-quality education. When you give to Bowie State, you help open doors for talented students and invest in a bold future for our community.
Keep Exploring Bowie State
There’s so much more to explore at Bowie State University. Dive into our programs, connect with our community and discover all the ways you can be Bowie Bold.
