Coppin State University Ranks Among Top Five HBCUs for Alumni Earnings
Coppin graduates earn a median annual income of $63,359 four years after completion, placing the University fourth among HBCUs in a recently published ranking.
BALTIMORE — Coppin State University has been ranked No. 4 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for alumni earnings, according to a ranking published by Always College citing the 2026 College Scorecard.
The ranking reports median annual earnings of $63,359 for Coppin State graduates four years after completion, placing the University among the nation's top five HBCUs for alumni earnings, alongside Howard University, Tuskegee University, Bowie State University, and Morgan State University.
The recognition underscores Coppin State's commitment to academic excellence, career readiness, and expanding economic opportunities for its graduates.
“At Coppin State University, we believe the true value of higher education is measured not only by the degrees we award, but by the opportunities our graduates create for themselves, their families, and their communities,” said Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D., president of Coppin State University. “This recognition reflects our commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers, financial independence, and lifelong success. We are proud that a Coppin education continues to open doors and change lives.”
As Baltimore's Hometown University, Coppin continues to invest in academic programs, workforce development, experiential learning, and student success initiatives that prepare graduates to compete in today's evolving workforce.
“Access to higher education is important, but what matters equally is what students are able to achieve after graduation,” said Beryl Harris, director of Institutional Research, Planning and Assessment at Coppin State University. “These earnings data provide a meaningful measure of how higher education can translate into economic opportunity and long-term financial stability. At Coppin State University, where approximately 64% of our incoming first-time and transfer students are first-generation college students, we recognize that a college degree represents more than an academic achievement. It is an opportunity to change the economic trajectory of individuals, families, and communities.”
The recognition is particularly significant given the University's commitment to educational access. Approximately 64% of incoming first-time and transfer students identify as first-generation college students, highlighting Coppin's important role in expanding educational opportunities and creating pathways to economic mobility.
The ranking also comes amid a period of significant institutional momentum. Coppin recently reported a 30.1% increase in enrollment for Fall 2026, the highest percentage growth among University System of Maryland institutions.
Together, these achievements highlight Coppin State's growing impact in providing accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students for professional success while helping transform lives, families, and communities.
Source: Always College, Top 20 HBCUs Where Graduates Earn the Most (2026), citing the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard.
