Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) is a historically black college or university (HBCU) located in Daytona Beach, Florida. The campus is situated on approximately 82 acres of land and is home to a diverse student body of over 3,800 students. Founded in 1904 by Mary McLeod Bethune, the university has a rich history and has played a significant role in the education and empowerment of African Americans.
History of the Campus
The Bethune-Cookman University campus has undergone significant transformations over the years. Initially, the school was founded as the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls, with a focus on providing education and vocational training to African American girls. In 1923, the school merged with the Cookman Institute of Jacksonville, Florida, and became the Daytona-Cookman Collegiate Institute. The university continued to grow and expand, and in 1931, it became a four-year college, offering degrees in various fields.
Academic Programs and Facilities
Today, Bethune-Cookman University offers over 40 undergraduate and graduate degree programs through its six colleges and schools. The campus is home to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Performing Arts Center, which features a 1,000-seat auditorium and is used for various cultural events and performances. The university’s science and technology facilities are equipped with modern laboratories and equipment, providing students with hands-on experience in fields such as biology, chemistry, and physics.
The campus also features a range of recreational facilities, including a fitness center, a swimming pool, and athletic fields. The Wilson Athletic Center is home to the university's basketball and volleyball teams, and features a 2,500-seat arena. The campus is also surrounded by several student housing facilities, which provide a safe and supportive living environment for students.
| College/School | Academic Programs |
|---|---|
| College of Arts and Humanities | Music, Theater, English, History, and more |
| College of Business and Entrepreneurship | Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, and more |
| College of Education | Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Special Education, and more |
| College of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics | Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, and more |
| College of Nursing | Nursing, Health Sciences, and more |
| College of Online and Professional Studies | Online degree programs, Professional studies, and more |
Research and Community Engagement
Bethune-Cookman University is committed to research and community engagement, with a focus on addressing the needs of the local community. The university’s research initiatives include projects in fields such as health sciences, environmental science, and education. The university also partners with local organizations and businesses to provide students with opportunities for internships and job placement.
The university's community outreach programs include initiatives such as the Bethune-Cookman University Community Development Center, which provides resources and support to local residents. The university also offers summer camps and programs for children and youth, providing them with educational and recreational activities during the summer months.
Student Life and Activities
Bethune-Cookman University offers a range of student organizations and clubs, providing students with opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities and develop their leadership skills. The university’s student government association plays a key role in representing the interests of students and promoting student engagement on campus.
The university's athletic teams compete in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I, and have a strong reputation for excellence in sports such as football, basketball, and track and field. The university's marching band is also a source of pride, performing at events such as football games and parades.
What is the history of Bethune-Cookman University?
+Bethune-Cookman University was founded in 1904 by Mary McLeod Bethune as the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls. The school merged with the Cookman Institute of Jacksonville, Florida, in 1923, and became the Daytona-Cookman Collegiate Institute. The university continued to grow and expand, and in 1931, it became a four-year college, offering degrees in various fields.
What academic programs are offered at Bethune-Cookman University?
+Bethune-Cookman University offers over 40 undergraduate and graduate degree programs through its six colleges and schools. The university’s academic programs include fields such as business, education, health sciences, and more.
What are the university’s research initiatives?
+Bethune-Cookman University’s research initiatives include projects in fields such as health sciences, environmental science, and education. The university partners with local organizations and businesses to provide students with opportunities for internships and job placement.
