At the time of their establishment, historically black colleges and universities were the only option for African Americans who desired to pursue higher education. Thus, their principle purpose was to educate black students. Today, students from every race and background have equal access to higher education, so the mission of HBCUs has evolved. Today, HBCUS have the unique challenge of honoring their past and traditions while simultaneously encouraging and embracing diversity. Historically black colleges and universities have become increasingly diverse over the years. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that 21% of students attending HCBUs were non-Black students. This is up from 15% in 1976.

There are many reasons to consider attending one of the more than 100 historically black colleges and universities in the United States, and for many prospective students, it is a very personal decision. Many African American students enjoy the comradery of living and studying among fellow black students while others attend HCBUs to honor their culture and ancestry. Many prestigious African Americans have attended historically black colleges, including celebrities, famous athletes, and of course, civil rights leaders. Many students who choose to attend HBCUs enjoy knowing that they are studying on the same campus as these leaders and role models did in days long gone.

All students can benefit from the exceptional sense of community perpetuated by many HCBUs, though. Moreover, some historically black colleges and universities tend to promote more activism than traditionally white institutions of higher education. Students are often passionate and enthusiastic about a wide range of social issues, not only those that specifically affect African Americans.

Generally speaking, historically black colleges and universities have exceptionally close-knit and active student organizations. Many of the students in this ranking, for instance, have more than 100 student clubs and organizations on campus for students to choose from. Some of these organizations seek to honor African American culture. Some examples of such clubs and organizations are listed below.