Education Note: Bethune-Cookman University
Institutional Overview
Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU), located at 640 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, is a private historically Black university founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. Current enrollment stands at approximately 2,415 undergraduate students (fall 2023), with a gender distribution of 36.6% male and 63.4% female students. The institution maintains a 15:1 student-faculty ratio with 65.3% of classes having fewer than 20 students. As a historically Black institution, B-CU's mission focuses on providing quality education through its 38 bachelor's degree programs while maintaining its tradition of service, leadership, and social justice.
Risk Score
Risk Score Analysis Risk Score = (Annual Debt: $31,000 / Expected Salary: $31,700) × (1 - Graduation Rate: 30%) = 0.98 × 0.70 = 0.69
This concerning risk score reflects significant challenges in student outcomes and financial return on investment. The nearly 1:1 debt-to-income ratio indicates graduates may struggle with loan repayment relative to earnings potential. The 30% graduation rate results in a high risk multiplier of 0.70, suggesting substantial challenges with student retention and completion. When compared to peer institutions, B-CU's risk profile indicates need for careful monitoring of student outcomes and financial sustainability.
Strengths
B-CU demonstrates distinctive strengths in its historic mission and supportive academic environment for students of color. The institution maintains strong programs in nursing (ranked #9 in Florida out of 85 nursing schools) and business education. Financial accessibility is evidenced by high financial aid rates, with 97% of students receiving aid and an average need-based scholarship of $15,417 for first-year students. The university's location in Daytona Beach provides unique opportunities for internships and community partnerships. Student reviews consistently praise the supportive community atmosphere and faculty dedication. Recent infrastructure investments and program developments show institutional commitment to improvement.
Weaknesses
B-CU faces significant challenges with its 30% graduation rate, indicating serious concerns about student retention and program completion. Recent financial challenges include significant losses ($28 million over two years) and multiple lawsuits related to construction projects. Administrative turnover and organizational restructuring have led to inconsistent student support services. The institution's high acceptance rate (99%) raises questions about admission standards and student preparation. Limited financial resources constrain the university's ability to invest in facilities and academic programs. Student reviews frequently mention concerns about administrative efficiency and financial aid management.
Bottom Line for Board of Directors
Bethune-Cookman University's risk score of 0.69 and 30% graduation rate indicate critical challenges requiring immediate board attention and strategic intervention. The combination of poor student outcomes, significant financial losses, and pending litigation creates substantial institutional risk. While B-CU maintains important strengths in its historic mission and some academic programs (particularly nursing), comprehensive reforms are needed to ensure long-term sustainability. The board should prioritize three key areas: improving student retention through enhanced support services, stabilizing institutional finances through improved management practices, and strengthening academic standards while maintaining accessibility. Recent accreditation concerns and financial losses of $28 million over two years demand swift action to implement stronger fiscal controls and operational oversight. The institution's future viability depends on balancing its historic mission with sustainable operational practices and improved student outcomes.