Washington Monthly ranks WSSU as Southeast’s Top HBCU for ‘Bang for the Buck’
Washington Monthly Magazine has ranked Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) the No. 1 historically Black college and university (HBCU) in the Southeast on its list of America’s Best Bang for the Buck Colleges.
The rankings highlight institutions that help students from modest backgrounds earn degrees that lead to strong career opportunities at affordable costs.
Washington Monthly evaluates schools based on three key areas:
- Access: how well colleges enroll and support students from low- to middle-income families, including Pell Grant recipients.
- Affordability: the true cost for families earning under $75,000 and the amount of debt students carry after graduation.

- Outcomes: how graduates perform after college, tracking factors such as graduation rates, early-career earnings, and the number of alumni who earn doctoral degrees.
University leaders said the recognition underscores WSSU’s mission to expand opportunity.
“At Winston-Salem State University, we are dedicated to fostering upward social and economic mobility for all our students,” the university said in a statement. “Our high rankings reflect our commitment to quality, affordability and student success, empowering students to reach their full potential.”
WSSU offers affordable tuition, strong academic programs, extensive student support services, and robust career placement resources, helping graduates thrive after college.
Click here for a full list of WSSU top rankings.