Southern University has a proud tradition as one of the most impactful HBCUs in the country. Located on the scenic Bluff along the Mississippi River, Southern is the only HBCU university system in the United States. The university graduates more Black engineers than nearly any school in the country, solidifying its place as a top producer of Black engineers nationwide. It’s also home to The Human Jukebox, a world-renowned marching band that brings energy and pride to every performance. Southern’s commitment to accessibility and excellence extends to its academic offerings, including the region’s only part-time, evening law school, which allows mid-career professionals to upskill without leaving their current roles. Adding to its accolades, the Southern University School of Nursing was recently voted the Best Nursing School in the United States by Nurse.org. From its groundbreaking nursing program to its leadership in engineering and its vibrant campus culture, Southern University continues to shape futures and empower communities, proving why it remains a cornerstone of excellence in the Capital Region’s higher education landscape.

Franciscan University (FranU) integrates faith, reason, and service into a holistic education, with a strong focus on healthcare—one of the fastest-growing industries. Offering programs like Nursing, Physical Therapist Assistant, Radiologic Technology, and Respiratory Therapy, FranU combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experiences. The university also provides unique pathways in fields such as Theology, Biology, and Business Administration, including online options. Graduate programs, including Family Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, and Applied Behavior Analysis, emphasize ethical, patient-centered care. With state-of-the-art facilities like the Simulation Environment Teaching Hospital (SETH) and a commitment to Franciscan values, FranU prepares students to excel in their careers while serving their communities.