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List of NCAA Division II football programs

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Map of NCAA Division II football programs, 2024

This is a list of the schools in Division II of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in the United States that have football as a varsity sport. In the 2024 season,[1] there are a total of 162 Division II football programs – one fewer than 2023. Changes from last season were:

NCAA Division II football programs

[edit]
  • Reclassifying institutions in yellow.
  • Departing institutions in red.
School Common name Nickname City State[a] First
Division II
season
Conference[b] Stadium Cap. Note
Adams State University Adams State Grizzlies Alamosa Colorado 1990[D2 1] RMAC Rex Stadium 6,000
Albany State University Albany State Golden Rams Albany Georgia 1976 SIAC Albany State University Coliseum 11,000
Allen University Allen Yellow Jackets Columbia South Carolina 2021 SIAC Westwood High School Stadium

(Blythewood, SC)

Varies
American International College American International[c] Yellow Jackets Springfield Massachusetts 1974 NE-10 Ronald J. Abdow Field 4,000
Anderson University Anderson Trojans Anderson South Carolina 2024 SAC Spero Financial Field 5,000
Angelo State University Angelo State Rams San Angelo Texas 1981 LSC LeGrand Stadium at 1st Community Credit Union Field 5,670
Arkansas Tech University Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys Russellville Arkansas 1997 GAC Thone Stadium at Buerkle Field 6,500
University of Arkansas at Monticello Arkansas–Monticello Boll Weevils Monticello Arkansas 1997 GAC Willis Convoy Leslie Cotton Boll Stadium 5,000
Ashland University Ashland Eagles Ashland Ohio 1980 G-MAC Jack Miller Stadium 6,000
Assumption University Assumption Greyhounds Worcester Massachusetts 1993 NE-10 Greyhound Stadium 1,200
Augustana University Augustana (SD) Vikings Sioux Falls South Dakota 1973 NSIC Kirkeby-Over Stadium 6,500
Barton College Barton Bulldogs Wilson North Carolina 2021 SAC Electric Supply Company Field 4,000 [D2 2][D2 3]
Bemidji State University Bemidji State Beavers Bemidji Minnesota 1979 NSIC Chet Anderson Stadium 4,000
Benedict College Benedict Tigers Columbia South Carolina 2002 SIAC Charlie W. Johnson Stadium 11,000
Bentley University Bentley Falcons Waltham Massachusetts 1993 NE-10 Bentley Athletic Field 3,100
Black Hills State University Black Hills State Yellow Jackets Spearfish South Dakota 2011 RMAC Lyle Hare Stadium 4,200
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania Bloomsburg Huskies Bloomsburg Pennsylvania 1980 PSAC Robert B. Redman Stadium 4,775
Bluefield State University Bluefield State Big Blues Bluefield West Virginia 2021 CIAA Mitchell Stadium 10,000
Bowie State University Bowie State Bulldogs Bowie Maryland 1980 CIAA Bulldog Stadium 2,964
Pennsylvania Western University California [D2 4] California (PA) Vulcans California Pennsylvania 1973 PSAC Hepner-Bailey Field at Adamson Stadium 6,500
Carson–Newman University Carson–Newman Eagles Jefferson City Tennessee 1991 SAC Burke-Tarr Stadium 5,500
Catawba College Catawba Indians Salisbury North Carolina 1991 SAC Shuford Stadium 4,500
University of Central Missouri Central Missouri Mules Warrensburg Missouri 1973 MIAA Audrey J. Walton Stadium 10,000
University of Central Oklahoma Central Oklahoma Bronchos Edmond Oklahoma 1988[D2 5] MIAA Chad Richison Stadium 12,000
Central State University Central State Marauders Wilberforce Ohio 2008[D2 6] SIAC McPherson Stadium 7,000
Central Washington University Central Washington Wildcats Ellensburg Washington 1998[D2 7] LSC Tomlinson Stadium 4,000 [D2 8]
Chadron State College Chadron State Eagles Chadron Nebraska 1990 RMAC Elliot Field 3,800
University of Charleston Charleston[d] Golden Eagles Charleston West Virginia 2003 MEC University of Charleston Stadium 18,500
Chowan University Chowan Hawks Murfreesboro North Carolina 2007 GSC Garrison Stadium 5,000 [D2 9][D2 3]
Pennsylvania Western University Clarion [D2 10] Clarion Golden Eagles Clarion Pennsylvania 1973 PSAC Memorial Stadium 5,000
Clark Atlanta University Clark Atlanta Panthers Atlanta Georgia 1980 SIAC Panther Stadium 6,000
Colorado Mesa University Colorado Mesa Mavericks Grand Junction Colorado 1990[D2 11] RMAC Ralph Stocker Stadium 8,000
Colorado School of Mines Colorado Mines Orediggers Golden Colorado 1974 RMAC Harry D. Campbell Field 4,000
Colorado State University Pueblo CSU Pueblo ThunderWolves Pueblo Colorado 2008[D2 12] RMAC Neta and Eddie DeRose ThunderBowl 6,500
Concord University Concord Mountain Lions Athens West Virginia 1993 MEC Callaghan Stadium 5,000
Concordia University, Saint Paul Concordia[e] Golden Bears St. Paul Minnesota 2002 NSIC Sea Foam Stadium 3,500
Davenport University Davenport Panthers Grand Rapids Michigan 2017 GLIAC Meyering Field 2,300
Delta State University Delta State Statesmen Cleveland Mississippi 1973 GSC Parker Field at McCool Stadium 8,000
East Central University East Central Tigers Ada Oklahoma 1998 GAC Norris Field 5,000
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania East Stroudsburg Warriors East Stroudsburg Pennsylvania 1973 PSAC Eiler-Martin Stadium 6,000
Eastern New Mexico University Eastern New Mexico Greyhounds Portales New Mexico 1985 LSC Greyhound Stadium 5,200
Pennsylvania Western University, Edinboro [D2 13] Edinboro Fighting Scots Edinboro Pennsylvania 1973 PSAC Sox Harrison Stadium 6,000
Edward Waters University Edward Waters Tigers Jacksonville Florida 2021 SIAC Community Field and Athletic Stadium 3,000
Elizabeth City State University Elizabeth City State Vikings Elizabeth City North Carolina 1973 CIAA Roebuck Stadium 6,500
Emory and Henry University Emory & Henry Wasps Emory Virginia 2021 SAC Fred Selfe Stadium at Nicewonder Field 5,500
Emporia State University Emporia State Hornets Emporia Kansas 1990 MIAA Francis G. Welch Stadium 7,000
Erskine College Erskine Flying Fleet Due West South Carolina 2021 GSC J. W. Babb Stadium 4,000 [D2 14][D2 3]
Fairmont State University Fairmont State Fighting Falcons Fairmont West Virginia 1993[D2 15] MEC Duvall-Rosier Field 5,000
Fayetteville State University Fayetteville State Broncos Fayetteville North Carolina 1973 CIAA Luther "Nick" Jeralds Stadium 5,520
Ferris State University Ferris State Bulldogs Big Rapids Michigan 1977 GLIAC Top Taggart Field 6,200
University of Findlay Findlay Oilers Findlay Ohio 2000 G-MAC Donnell Stadium 7,500
Fort Hays State University Fort Hays State Tigers Hays Kansas 1988 MIAA Lewis Field Stadium 6,100
Fort Lewis College Fort Lewis Skyhawks Durango Colorado 1990[D2 16] RMAC Ray Dennison Memorial Field 4,000
Fort Valley State University Fort Valley State Wildcats Fort Valley Georgia 1981 SIAC Wildcat Stadium 10,000
Franklin Pierce University Franklin Pierce Ravens Rindge New Hampshire 2019 NE-10 Sodexo Field 1,000
Frostburg State University Frostburg State Bobcats Frostburg Maryland 2019 MEC Bobcat Stadium 4,000
Gannon University Gannon Golden Knights Erie Pennsylvania 1993 PSAC Gannon Field 2,500
Glenville State University Glenville State Pioneers Glenville West Virginia 1993 MEC Morris Stadium 5,500
Grand Valley State University Grand Valley State Lakers Allendale Michigan 1976 GLIAC Lubbers Stadium 10,700
Harding University Harding Bisons Searcy Arkansas 1997 GAC First Security Stadium 6,500
Henderson State University Henderson State Reddies Arkadelphia Arkansas 1992 GAC Carpenter-Haygood Stadium at Ruggles Field 9,600
Hillsdale College Hillsdale Chargers Hillsdale Michigan 1984[D2 17] G-MAC Frank "Muddy" Waters Stadium 8,500
Indiana University of Pennsylvania IUP Crimson Hawks Indiana Pennsylvania 1973 PSAC Frank Cignetti Field at George P. Miller Stadium 6,000
University of Indianapolis Indianapolis Greyhounds Indianapolis Indiana 1976 GLVC Key Stadium 5,500
Johnson C. Smith University Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls Charlotte North Carolina 1973 CIAA Irwin Belk Complex 4,500
Kentucky State University Kentucky State Thorobreds Frankfort Kentucky 1973 SIAC Alumni Field 5,000
Kentucky Wesleyan College Kentucky Wesleyan Panthers Owensboro Kentucky 1993 G-MAC Steele Stadium 3,000
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Kutztown Golden Bears Kutztown Pennsylvania 1980 PSAC University Field at Andre Reed Stadium 5,600
Lake Erie College Lake Erie Storm Painesville Ohio 2010 G-MAC Jack Britt Memorial Stadium 2,500
Lane College Lane Dragons Jackson Tennessee 1993 SIAC Rothrock Stadium 3,500
Lenoir–Rhyne University Lenoir–Rhyne Bears Hickory North Carolina 1989 SAC Moretz Stadium 8,500
Limestone University Limestone Saints Gaffney South Carolina 2014 SAC The Reservation 8,250
Lincoln University Lincoln (MO) Blue Tigers Jefferson City Missouri 2001 GLVC Dwight T. Reed Stadium 3,000
Lincoln University Lincoln (PA) Lions Lower Oxford Pennsylvania 2011 CIAA Lincoln Stadium 2,600
Livingstone College Livingstone Blue Bears Salisbury North Carolina 1973 CIAA Alumni Memorial Stadium 5,500
Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania Lock Haven Bald Eagles Lock Haven Pennsylvania 1980 PSAC Hubert Jack Stadium 3,500
Mars Hill University Mars Hill Lions Mars Hill North Carolina 1991 SAC Meares Stadium 5,000
University of Mary Mary Marauders Bismarck North Dakota 2007 NSIC MDU Resources Community Bowl 6,000 [10]
McKendree University McKendree Bearcats Lebanon Illinois 2012 GLVC Leemon Stadium 2,000
Michigan Technological University Michigan Tech Huskies Houghton Michigan 1973 GLIAC Sherman Field 3,000
Midwestern State University Midwestern State Mustangs Wichita Falls Texas 1997 LSC Memorial Stadium 14,500
Miles College Miles Golden Bears Fairfield Alabama 1988 SIAC Albert J. Sloan-Alumni Stadium 8,500
Millersville University of Pennsylvania Millersville Marauders Millersville Pennsylvania 1980 PSAC Biemesderfer Stadium 6,500
University of Minnesota Duluth Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs Duluth Minnesota 1973 NSIC Griggs Field at James S. Malosky Stadium 4,000
Minnesota State University, Mankato Minnesota State Mavericks Mankato Minnesota 1978[D2 18] NSIC Blakeslee Stadium 7,500
Minnesota State University Moorhead Minnesota State–Moorhead Dragons Moorhead Minnesota 1993[D2 19] NSIC Alex Nemzek Stadium 5,000
Minot State University Minot State Beavers Minot North Dakota 2011 NSIC Herb Parker Stadium 4,500
Mississippi College[D2 20] Mississippi College Choctaws Clinton Mississippi 2014[D2 21] GSC Robinson-Hale Stadium 8,500
Missouri University of Science and Technology Missouri S&T Miners Rolla Missouri 1973 GLVC Allgood-Bailey Stadium 8,000
Missouri Southern State University Missouri Southern Lions Joplin Missouri 1988 MIAA Fred G. Hughes Stadium 7,000
Missouri Western State University Missouri Western Griffons St. Joseph Missouri 1988 MIAA Spratt Stadium 7,500
Morehouse College Morehouse Maroon Tigers Atlanta Georgia 1981 SIAC B. T. Harvey Stadium 9,850
University of Nebraska at Kearney Nebraska–Kearney Lopers Kearney Nebraska 1988 MIAA Ron & Carol Cope Stadium 6,000
University of New Haven New Haven Chargers West Haven Connecticut 2009[D2 22] NE-10 Ralph F. DellaCamera Stadium 3,500
New Mexico Highlands University New Mexico Highlands Cowboys Las Vegas New Mexico 1991[D2 23] RMAC Perkins Stadium 5,000
Newberry College Newberry Wolves Newberry South Carolina 1990 SAC Setzler Field 4,000
University of North Carolina at Pembroke UNC Pembroke Braves Pembroke North Carolina 2007 MEC Grace P. Johnson Stadium 2,500 [D2 24][D2 3]
North Greenville University North Greenville Trailblazers Tigerville South Carolina 2003 GSC Younts Stadium 5,000 [D2 25][D2 3]
Northeastern State University Northeastern State RiverHawks Tahlequah Oklahoma 1998 Independent Doc Wadley Stadium 8,300 [D2 26]
Northern Michigan University Northern Michigan Wildcats Marquette Michigan 1973 GLIAC Superior Dome 8,000
Northern State University Northern State Wolves Aberdeen South Dakota 1993[D2 27] NSIC Golden Eagle Field 6,000
Northwest Missouri State University Northwest Missouri State Bearcats Maryville Missouri 1973 MIAA Bearcat Stadium 6,500
Northwestern Oklahoma State University Northwestern Oklahoma State Rangers Alva Oklahoma 2012 GAC Ranger Field 6,000
Northwood University Northwood Timberwolves Midland Michigan 1992[D2 28] G-MAC Hantz Stadium 3,000
Ohio Dominican University Ohio Dominican Panthers Columbus Ohio 2011 G-MAC Panther Field 1,750
Oklahoma Baptist University Oklahoma Baptist Bison Shawnee Oklahoma 2015 GAC Crain Family Stadium 2,500
Ouachita Baptist University Ouachita Baptist Tigers Arkadelphia Arkansas 1997 GAC Cliff Harris Stadium 5,225
Pace University Pace Setters Pleasantville New York 1993 NE-10 Pace Field 1,500
Pittsburg State University Pittsburg State Gorillas Pittsburg Kansas 1988 MIAA Carnie Smith Stadium 8,344
Post University Post Eagles Waterbury Connecticut 2022 NE-10 Municipal Stadium 6,000 [D2 29]
Quincy University Quincy Hawks Quincy Illinois 2012[D2 30] GLVC Flinn Stadium 4,000
Roosevelt University Roosevelt Lakers Chicago Illinois 2024 GLIAC Morris Field [D2 31]
Saginaw Valley State University Saginaw Valley State Cardinals University Center Michigan 1981 GLIAC Wickes Memorial Stadium 6,800
Saint Anselm College Saint Anselm Hawks Goffstown New Hampshire 1999 NE-10 Grappone Stadium 4,500
Savannah State University Savannah State Tigers Savannah Georgia 2019[D2 32] SIAC Theodore A. Wright Stadium 8,500
Seton Hill University Seton Hill Griffins Greensburg Pennsylvania 2008 PSAC Offutt Field 5,000
Shaw University Shaw Bears Raleigh North Carolina 2003 CIAA Durham County Stadium 8,500
Shepherd University Shepherd Rams Shepherdstown West Virginia 1990 PSAC Ram Stadium 5,000
Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania Shippensburg Red Raiders Shippensburg Pennsylvania 1976 PSAC Seth Grove Stadium 7,700
Shorter University Shorter Hawks Rome Georgia 2012 Independent Barron Stadium 6,500 [D2 33][D2 3]
University of Sioux Falls Sioux Falls Cougars Sioux Falls South Dakota 2012 NSIC Bob Young Field 5,400
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania Slippery Rock The Rock[f] Slippery Rock Pennsylvania 1979 PSAC N. Kerr Thompson Stadium 10,000
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology South Dakota Mines Hardrockers Rapid City South Dakota 2011 RMAC Dunham Field at O'Harra Stadium 4,000
Southeastern Oklahoma State University Southeastern Oklahoma Savage Storm Durant Oklahoma 1998 GAC Paul Laird Field 9,000
Southern Arkansas University Southern Arkansas Muleriders Magnolia Arkansas 1997 GAC Wilkins Stadium 6,000
Southern Connecticut State University Southern Connecticut Owls New Haven Connecticut 1973 NE-10 Jess Dow Field 6,000
Southern Nazarene University Southern Nazarene Crimson Storm Bethany Oklahoma 2012 GAC SNU Stadium 2,500
Southwest Baptist University Southwest Baptist Bearcats Bolivar Missouri 1986 GLVC Plaster Stadium 2,500
Southwest Minnesota State University Southwest Minnesota State Mustangs Marshall Minnesota 1993[D2 34] NSIC Mattke Field at the Regional Events Center 3,500
Southwestern Oklahoma State University Southwestern Oklahoma State Bulldogs Weatherford Oklahoma 1998 GAC ASAP Energy Field at Milam Stadium 8,600
Sul Ross State University Sul Ross Lobos Alpine Texas 2024 LSC Jackson Field 4,000 [D2 35]
Texas A&M University–Kingsville Texas A&M–Kingsville Javelinas Kingsville Texas 1980 LSC Javelina Stadium 15,000
Thomas More University Thomas More Saints Crestview Hills Kentucky 2023 G-MAC Republic Bank Field [D2 31]
Tiffin University Tiffin Dragons Tiffin Ohio 2002 G-MAC Frost-Kalnow Stadium 4,500
Truman State University Truman Bulldogs Kirksville Missouri 1973 GLVC Stokes Stadium 4,000
Tusculum University Tusculum Pioneers Tusculum Tennessee 1998 SAC Pioneer Field 3,500
Tuskegee University Tuskegee Golden Tigers Tuskegee Alabama 1973 SIAC Abbott Memorial Alumni Stadium 10,000
Upper Iowa University Upper Iowa Peacocks Fayette Iowa 2005 GLVC Eischeid Stadium 3,500
University of Texas Permian Basin UT Permian Basin[g] Falcons Odessa Texas 2016 LSC Ratliff Stadium 19,302
University of Virginia's College at Wise UVA Wise Cavaliers Wise Virginia 2013 SAC Carl Smith Stadium 3,100
Valdosta State University Valdosta State Blazers Valdosta Georgia 1982 GSC Bazemore-Hyder Stadium 11,211
Virginia State University Virginia State Trojans Ettrick Virginia 1973 CIAA Rogers Stadium 7,909
Virginia Union University Virginia Union Panthers Richmond Virginia 1973 CIAA Hovey Field 10,000
Walsh University Walsh Cavaliers Canton Ohio 2012 G-MAC Larry Staudt Field
Washburn University Washburn Ichabods Topeka Kansas 1988 MIAA Yager Stadium at Moore Bowl 7,250
Wayne State University Wayne State (MI) Warriors Detroit Michigan 1973 GLIAC Tom Adams Field 6,000
Wayne State College Wayne State (NE) Wildcats Wayne Nebraska 1988 NSIC Memorial Stadium 3,500
University of West Alabama West Alabama Tigers Livingston Alabama 1974 GSC Tiger Stadium 7,000
West Chester University of Pennsylvania West Chester Golden Rams West Chester Pennsylvania 1973 PSAC John A. Farrell Stadium 7,500
University of West Florida West Florida Argonauts Pensacola Florida 2016 GSC Pen Air Field 4,000
West Liberty University West Liberty Hilltoppers West Liberty West Virginia 1991 MEC West Family Stadium 3,200
West Texas A&M University West Texas A&M Buffaloes Canyon Texas 1992[D2 36] LSC Buffalo Stadium 8,500
West Virginia State University West Virginia State Yellow Jackets Institute West Virginia 1997 MEC Lakin Field 5,000
West Virginia Wesleyan College West Virginia Wesleyan Bobcats Buckhannon West Virginia 1993[D2 37] MEC Cebe Ross Field 3,000
Western Colorado University Western Colorado Mountaineers Gunnison Colorado 1990[D2 38] RMAC Mountaineer Bowl 4,000
Western New Mexico University Western New Mexico Mustangs Silver City New Mexico 1994[D2 39] LSC Ben Altamirano Memorial Stadium 3,000
Western Oregon University Western Oregon Wolves Monmouth Oregon 2001 LSC McArthur Field 2,500 [D2 40]
Wheeling University Wheeling Cardinals Wheeling West Virginia 2019 MEC Bishop Schmitt Field 2,200 [13]
William Jewell College William Jewell Cardinals Liberty Missouri 2012 GLVC Greene Stadium 7,000
Wingate University Wingate Bulldogs Wingate North Carolina 1991 SAC Irwin Belk Stadium 3,000
Winona State University Winona State Warriors Winona Minnesota 1978 NSIC Maxwell Field at Warrior Stadium 3,500
Winston-Salem State University Winston-Salem State Rams Winston-Salem North Carolina 2010[D2 41] CIAA Bowman Gray Stadium 22,000
  1. ^ Adams State was previously a Division II member during the 1983 season.
  2. ^ Barton - SAC affiliate member / Primary: Conference Carolinas.[7]
  3. ^ a b c d e f Joining football in its full-time home of the Conference Carolinas, which adds football in 2025.
  4. ^ Institutional name changed from California University of Pennsylvania in July 2022. The athletic program continues to be known as California, typically referred to by media as "California (PA)" to distinguish from the D-I program of the University of California, Berkeley, known simply as "California".
  5. ^ Central Oklahoma, known then as Central State, was previously a Division II member between 1976 and 1978.
  6. ^ Central State was previously a Division II member between 1973 and 1986.
  7. ^ Central Washington was previously a Division II member between 1973 and 1975 and then again between 1982 and 1983.
  8. ^ Central Washington - LSC affiliate member / Primary: Great Northwest Athletic Conference.[8]
  9. ^ Chowan - Primary affiliation: Conference Carolinas. GSC football-only affiliate in 2023 and 2024 seasons.
  10. ^ Institutional name changed from Clarion University of Pennsylvania in July 2022. The athletic program continues to be known as Clarion.
  11. ^ Colorado Mesa, known then as Mesa State, was previously a Division II member between 1982 and 1983.
  12. ^ CSU Pueblo, known then as Southern Colorado, was previously a Division II member between 1974 and 1984.
  13. ^ Institutional name changed from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania in July 2022. The athletic program continues to be known as Edinboro.
  14. ^ Erskine - GSC affiliate member / Primary: Conference Carolinas.[9]
  15. ^ Fairmont State was previously a Division II member between 1978 and 1979.
  16. ^ Fort Lewis was previously a Division II member between 1973 and 1984.
  17. ^ Hillsdale was previously a Division II member between 1976 and 1978.
  18. ^ Minnesota State, then known as Mankato State, was previously a Division II member between 1973 and 1976.
  19. ^ Moorhead State was previously a Division II member between 1973 and 1982.
  20. ^ Mississippi College will drop its football program after the 2024 season.[11]
  21. ^ Mississippi College was previously a Division II member between 1973 and 1996.
  22. ^ New Haven was previously a Division II member between 1975 and 1976 and then again between 1981 and 2003.
  23. ^ New Mexico Highlands was previously a Division II member between 1982 and 1984.
  24. ^ UNC Pembroke - MEC affiliate member / Primary: Conference Carolinas.
  25. ^ North Greenville – GSC affiliate member / Primary: Conference Carolinas.
  26. ^ Northeastern State - Independent / Primary: MIAA.[12]
  27. ^ Northern State was previously a Division II member between 1980 and 1981.
  28. ^ Northwood was previously a Division II member between 1981 and 1987.
  29. ^ Post - NE-10 affiliate member / Primary: Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference.
  30. ^ Quincy was previously a Division II member between 1993 and 1994 and then again between 1996 and 2003.
  31. ^ a b Transitioning from the NAIA.
  32. ^ Savannah State was previously a Division II member between 1981 and 2000.
  33. ^ Shorter - Independent / Primary: Conference Carolinas.
  34. ^ Southwest Minnesota, known then as Southwest State, was previously a Division II member between 1978 and 1983.
  35. ^ Transitioning from Division III.
  36. ^ West Texas A&M, then known as West Texas State, was previously a Division II member between 1986 and 1990.
  37. ^ West Virginia Wesleyan was previously a Division II member between 1973 and 1980.
  38. ^ Western Colorado, then known as Western State, was previously a Division II member between 1973 and 1978 and then again between 1982 and 1985.
  39. ^ Western New Mexico was previously a Division II member in 1983.
  40. ^ Western Oregon - LSC affiliate member / Primary: Great Northwest Athletic Conference.[8]
  41. ^ Winston-Salem State was previously a Division II member between 1973 and 2005.

Future Division II football programs

[edit]
School Nickname City State Future
conference
Stadium Cap. Note Begins
play
Ferrum College Panthers Ferrum Virginia Carolinas W. B. Adams Stadium 5,500 [F2 1] 2025
University of Jamestown Jimmies Jamestown North Dakota NSIC Rollie Greeno Field [F2 2] 2025[F2 3]
  1. ^ Transitioning from Division III.
  2. ^ Transitioning from the NAIA.
  3. ^ Jamestown was previously a Division II member from 1982 to 1983.

Former Division II football programs

[edit]

School names and nicknames reflect those last in use while each institution played D-II football. Name changes that do not reflect a complete change of identity (e.g., "College" to "University") are not included.

School Nickname City State/
province
First
Division II
season
Last
Division II
season
Current
level
Abilene Christian University Wildcats Abilene Texas 1981 2012 Division I FCS
Alabama A&M University Bulldogs Normal Alabama 1973 1998 Division I FCS
Alabama State University Hornets Montgomery Alabama 1973 1981 Division I FCS
State University of New York at Albany Great Danes Albany New York 1995 1998 Division I FCS
Alcorn State University Braves Lorman Mississippi 1973 1976 Division I FCS
Alderson Broaddus University Battlers Philippi West Virginia 2013 2022 University closed
University of Akron Zips Akron Ohio 1973 1979 Division I FBS
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Golden Lions Pine Bluff Arkansas 1973 1982 Division I FCS
Arkansas State University Indians[h] Jonesboro Arkansas 1973 1974 Division I FBS
Austin Peay State University Governors Clarksville Tennessee 1973 1979 Division I FCS
Azusa Pacific University Cougars Azusa California 2012 2019 Program dropped
Ball State University Cardinals Muncie Indiana 1973 1974 Division I FBS
Boise State University Broncos Boise Idaho 1973 1977 Division I FBS
Boston University Terriers Boston Massachusetts 1973 1977 Program dropped
Brevard College Tornadoes Brevard North Carolina 2008 2016 Division III
Bryant University Bulldogs Smithfield Rhode Island 1999 2008 Division I FCS
Bucknell University Bison Lewisburg Pennsylvania 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Butler University Bulldogs Indianapolis Indiana 1973 1992 Division I FCS
University of California, Davis (UC Davis) Aggies Davis California 1973 2004 Division I FCS
University of California, Riverside (UC Riverside) Highlanders Riverside California 1973 1975 Program dropped
University of California, Santa Barbara (UC Santa Barbara) Gauchos Santa Barbara California 1991 1991 Program dropped
California Lutheran University Kingsmen Thousand Oaks California 1985 1990 Division III
California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly or Cal Poly SLO) Mustangs San Luis Obispo California 1973 1993 Division I FCS
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) Broncos Pomona California 1973 1982 Program dropped
California State University, Chico (Chico State) Wildcats Chico California 1978 1996 Program dropped
California State University, Hayward[i] Pioneers Hayward California 1973 1993 Program dropped
California State University, Fullerton Titans Fullerton California 1973 1974 Program dropped
California State University, Los Angeles Golden Eagles Los Angeles California 1973 1977 Program dropped
California State University, Northridge Matadors Los Angeles California 1973 1992 Program dropped
Cameron University Aggies Lawton Oklahoma 1988 1992 Program dropped
University of Central Arkansas Bears Conway Arkansas 1992 2005 Division I FCS
University of Central Florida[j] Golden Knights[k] Orlando Florida 1982 1989 Division I FBS
Central Michigan University Chippewas Mount Pleasant Michigan 1973 1974 Division I FBS
Central Connecticut State University Blue Devils New Britain Connecticut 1973 1992 Division I FCS
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania Wolves Cheyney Pennsylvania 1973 2017 Program dropped
University of Connecticut[l] Huskies Storrs[m] Connecticut 1973 1977 Division I FBS
Davidson College Wildcats Davidson North Carolina 1977 1977 Division I FCS
University of Delaware Fightin' Blue Hens Newark Delaware 1973 1979 Division I FCS
University of the District of Columbia Firebirds Washington District of Columbia 1973 1975 Program dropped
Dixie State University[n] Trailblazers St. George Utah 2008 2019* Division I FCS
East Tennessee State University Buccaneers Johnson City Tennessee 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Eastern Illinois University Panthers Charleston Illinois 1973 1980 Division I FCS
Eastern Kentucky University Colonels Richmond Kentucky 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Eastern Michigan University Hurons[o] Ypsilanti Michigan 1973 1975 Division I FBS
Eastern Washington University Eagles Cheney Washington 1978 1983 Division I FCS
Elon University Fighting Christians[p] Elon North Carolina 1991 1998 Division I FCS
University of Evansville Purple Aces Evansville Indiana 1978 1988 Program dropped
Florida A&M University Rattlers Tallahassee Florida 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Florida Institute of Technology Panthers Melbourne Florida 2013 2019 Program dropped
Franklin College Grizzlies Franklin Indiana 1979 1985 Division III
Gardner-Webb University Runnin' Bulldogs Boiling Springs North Carolina 1991 2001 Division I FCS
Grambling State University Tigers Grambling Louisiana 1973 1976 Division I FCS
Georgetown College[q] Tigers Georgetown Kentucky 1980 1982 NAIA
Hampton University Pirates Hampton Virginia 1973 1994 Division I FCS
Hardin-Simmons University Cowboys Abilene Texas 1993 1993 Division III
Howard Payne University Yellow Jackets Brownwood Texas 1981 1986 Division III
Howard University Bison Washington D.C. 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Humboldt State University[r] Lumberjacks Arcata California 1973 1973 Program dropped
1980 2018
Idaho State University Bengals Pocatello Idaho 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Illinois State University Redbirds Normal Illinois 1973 1975 Division I FCS
University of the Incarnate Word Cardinals San Antonio Texas 2009 2012 Division I FCS
Indiana State University Sycamores Terre Haute Indiana 1973 1975 Division I FCS
Jackson State University Tigers Jackson Mississippi 1973 1976 Division I FCS
Jacksonville State University Gamecocks Jacksonville Alabama 1973 1994 Division I FBS
James Madison University Dukes Harrisonburg Virginia 1974 1976 Division I FBS
Knoxville College Bulldogs Knoxville Tennessee 1989 1989 Program dropped
Lafayette College Leopards Easton Pennsylvania 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Lambuth University Eagles Jackson Tennessee 2010 2010 University closed
Lehigh University Engineers[s] Bethlehem Pennsylvania 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Liberty University Flames Lynchburg Virginia 1981 1987 Division I FBS
Lindenwood University Lions St. Charles Missouri 2011 2021 Division I FCS
C. W. Post Campus of Long Island University Pioneers Brookville New York 1973 1973 Division I FCS[t]
1978 1984
1993 2018
Louisiana Tech University Bulldogs Ruston Louisiana 1973 1974 Division I FBS
University of Maine Black Bears Orono Maine 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Malone University Pioneers Canton Ohio 2013 2018 Program dropped
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania Mountaineers Mansfield Pennsylvania 1980 2006 Program dropped[u]
University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks Princess Anne Maryland 1973 1979 Program dropped
University of Massachusetts Amherst Minutemen Amherst Massachusetts 1973 1977 Division I FBS
University of Massachusetts Lowell River Hawks Lowell Massachusetts 1993 2003 Program dropped
McMurry University War Hawks Abilene Texas 2012 2014 Division III
McNeese State University Cowboys Lake Charles Louisiana 1973 1974 Division I FCS
United States Merchant Marine Academy Mariners Kings Point New York 1978 1981 Division III
Mercyhurst University Lakers Erie Pennsylvania 1993 2023 Division I FCS
Merrimack College Warriors North Andover Massachusetts 1996 2018 Division I FCS
Middle Tennessee State University Blue Raiders Murfreesboro Tennessee 1973 1977 Division I FBS
University of Minnesota Crookston Golden Eagles Crookston Minnesota 2000 2019 Program dropped
University of Minnesota Morris Cougars Morris Minnesota 1993 2004 Division III
Mississippi Valley State University Delta Devils Itta Bena Mississippi 1973 1979 Division I FCS
University of Montana Grizzlies Missoula Montana 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Montana State University Bobcats Bozeman Montana 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Morehead State University Eagles Morehead Kentucky 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Morgan State University Bears Baltimore Maryland 1973 1985 Division I FCS
Morningside University Mustangs Sioux City Iowa 1973 2000 NAIA
Morris Brown College Wolverines Atlanta Georgia 1973 2000 Program dropped
Murray State University Racers Murray Kentucky 1973 1977 Division I FCS
University of Nebraska Omaha[v] Mavericks Omaha Nebraska 1973 2010 Program dropped
University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Rebels Las Vegas[w] Nevada 1973 1977 Division I FBS
University of Nevada, Reno Wolf Pack Reno Nevada 1973 1977 Division I FBS
University of New Hampshire Wildcats Durham New Hampshire 1973 1977 Division I FCS
New York Institute of Technology Bears New York City New York 1974 1983 Program dropped
Nicholls State University Colonels Thibodaux Louisiana 1973 1979 Division I FCS
Norfolk State University Spartans Norfolk Virginia 1973 1996 Division I FCS
University of North Alabama Lions Florence Alabama 1973 2017 Division I FCS
North Carolina A&T State University Aggies Greensboro North Carolina 1973 1977 Division I FCS
North Carolina Central University Eagles Durham North Carolina 1973 2007 Division I FCS
University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux[x] Grand Forks North Dakota 1973 2008 Division I FCS
North Dakota State University Bison Fargo North Dakota 1973 2004 Division I FCS
Northeastern University Huskies Boston Massachusetts 1973 1977 Program dropped
Northeast Louisiana University[y] Indians[z] Monroe Louisiana 1973 1974 Division I FBS
Northern Arizona University Lumberjacks Flagstaff Arizona 1973 1977 Division I FCS
University of Northern Colorado Bears Greeley Colorado 1973 2004 Division I FCS
University of Northern Iowa Panthers Cedar Falls Iowa 1973 1980 Division I FCS
Northwestern State University Demons Natchitoches Louisiana 1973 1975 Division I FCS
Notre Dame College Falcons South Euclid Ohio 2010 2023 University closed
Oklahoma Panhandle State University Aggies Goodwell Oklahoma 1999 2016 NAIA
Paine College Lions Augusta Georgia 2014 2015 Program dropped
Portland State University Vikings Portland Oregon 1973 1977 Division I FCS
1981 1997
Prairie View A&M University Panthers Prairie View Texas 1973 1979 Division I FCS
Presbyterian College Blue Hose Clinton South Carolina 1991 2007 Division I FCS
University of Puget Sound Loggers Tacoma Washington 1973 1988 Division III
University of Rhode Island Rams Kingston Rhode Island 1973 1977 Division I FCS
California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento State) Hornets Sacramento California 1973 1992 Division I FCS
Sacred Heart University Pioneers Fairfield Connecticut 1993 1998 Division I FCS
Saint Augustine's University Falcons Raleigh North Carolina 2003 2023 Program suspended
St. Cloud State University Huskies St. Cloud Minnesota 1973 2019 Program dropped
University of St. Francis (IL) Fighting Saints Joliet Illinois 1993 1998 NAIA
Saint Joseph's College Pumas Rensselaer Indiana 1979 2016 Program dropped
Saint Mary's College of California Gaels Moraga California 1981 1992 Program dropped
Saint Paul's College Tigers Lawrenceville Virginia 1973 1986 University closed
2005 2011
Sam Houston State University Bearkats Huntsville Texas 1981 1985 Division I FBS
San Francisco State University Gators San Francisco California 1979 1994 Program dropped
Santa Clara University Broncos Santa Clara California 1973 1992 Program dropped
Simon Fraser University Red Leafs Burnaby British Columbia 2010 2022 Program dropped
Sonoma State University Cossacks Rohnert Park California 1984 1997 Program dropped
South Carolina State University Bulldogs Orangeburg South Carolina 1973 1977 Division I FCS
University of South Dakota Coyotes Vermillion South Dakota 1973 2008 Division I FCS
South Dakota State University Jackrabbits Brookings South Dakota 1973 2004 Division I FCS
Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks Cape Girardeau Missouri 1973 1990 Division I FCS
Southeastern Louisiana University Lions Hammond Louisiana 1973 1979 Division I FCS
Southern University Jaguars Baton Rouge Louisiana 1973 1976 Division I FCS
Southern Oregon University Raiders Ashland Oregon 1981 1983 NAIA
Southern Utah University Thunderbirds Cedar City Utah 1982 1992 Division I FCS
Southwest Missouri State University[aa] Bears Springfield Missouri 1973 1979 Division I FCS
Springfield College Pride Springfield Massachusetts 1973 1994 Division III
Southwest Texas State University[ab] Bobcats San Marcos Texas 1978 1983 Division I FBS
Stephen F. Austin State University Lumberjacks Nacogdoches Texas 1981 1985 Division I FCS
Stillman College Tigers Tuscaloosa Alabama 2005 2015 Program dropped
Stonehill College Skyhawks Easton Massachusetts 1993 2021 Division I FCS
State University of New York at Stony Brook Seawolves Stony Brook New York 1995 1998 Division I FCS
Tarleton State University Texans Stephenville Texas 1994 2019 Division I FCS
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga[ac] Mocs Chattanooga Tennessee 1973 1976 Division I FCS
University of Tennessee at Martin Pacers[ad] Martin Tennessee 1973 1991 Division I FCS
Tennessee State University Tigers Nashville Tennessee 1973 1976 Division I FCS
Tennessee Technological University Golden Eagles Cookeville Tennessee 1973 1977 Division I FCS
Texas A&M University–Commerce[ae] Lions Commerce Texas 1981 2021 Division I FCS
Texas Lutheran University Bulldogs Seguin Texas 1988 1988 Division III
1998 2002
Texas Southern University Tigers Houston Texas 1973 1976 Division I FCS
Towson State University[af] Tigers Towson Maryland 1980 1986 Division I FCS
Troy State University[ag] Trojans Troy Alabama 1973 1992 Division I FBS
Urbana University Blue Knights Urbana Ohio 2009 2019 University closed
Valparaiso University Crusaders[ah] Valparaiso Indiana 1979 1992 Division I FCS
University of Vermont Catamounts Burlington Vermont 1973 1974 Program dropped
Weber State University Wildcats Ogden Utah 1973 1977 Division I FCS
West Virginia University Institute of Technology Golden Bears Montgomery[ai] West Virginia 1993 2005 Program dropped
Western Carolina University Catamounts Cullowhee North Carolina 1973 1976 Division I FCS
University of West Georgia Wolves Carrollton Georgia 1983 2023 Division I FCS
Western Illinois University Leathernecks Macomb Illinois 1973 1980 Division I FCS
Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers Bowling Green Kentucky 1973 1977 Division I FBS
Western Washington University Vikings Bellingham Washington 1998 2008 Program dropped
Westminster College (Pennsylvania) Titans New Wilmington Pennsylvania 1998 2002 Division III
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Eagles La Crosse Wisconsin 1975 1975 Division III
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee[aj] Panthers Milwaukee Wisconsin 1973 1974 Program dropped
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Titans Oshkosh Wisconsin 1973 1974 Division III
Wofford College Terriers Spartanburg South Carolina 1988 1994 Division I FCS
Youngstown State University Penguins Youngstown Ohio 1973 1980 Division I FCS
  1. ^ 16 states (Alaska, Arizona, California, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Louisiana, Maine, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Wisconsin, Wyoming) and Washington, D.C., do not currently have Division II football programs.
  2. ^ According to conferences in football, not necessarily a team's primary conference.
  3. ^ Also known as AIC.
  4. ^ Also known as Charleston (WV).
  5. ^ Also known as Concordia–St. Paul.
  6. ^ Unofficial nickname.
  7. ^ Also known as Texas–Permian Basin.
  8. ^ Nickname changed to Red Wolves in 2008.
  9. ^ California State University, East Bay since 2005.
  10. ^ Now athletically branded and academically marketed as UCF, although the legal name has not changed.
  11. ^ Nickname changed to Knights in 2007.
  12. ^ Now athletically branded and academically marketed as UConn, although the legal name has not changed.
  13. ^ UConn's campus is in Storrs, and the Huskies played football on campus until their current home venue, Pratt & Whitney Stadium, opened in East Hartford in 2003.
  14. ^ Utah Tech University since July 1, 2022. The nickname of Trailblazers did not change.
  15. ^ Nickname changed to Eagles in 1991.
  16. ^ Nickname changed to Phoenix in 2000.
  17. ^ Usually referred to in print as "Georgetown (KY)" to distinguish from the Division I FCS Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
  18. ^ California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt (Cal Poly Humboldt) since 2022.
  19. ^ Nickname changed to Mountain Hawks in 1996.
  20. ^ As the LIU Sharks. Long Island University merged the Post athletic program with the Division I non-football program of its other main campus, LIU Brooklyn, in 2019 to create the current LIU Sharks.
  21. ^ Mansfield currently plays sprint football, a variant played under standard college rules but with a strictly enforced player weight limit of 178 pounds (81 kg).
  22. ^ Now athletically branded as "Omaha", though the university's legal name has not changed.
  23. ^ The UNLV campus is not within the City of Las Vegas, but is instead in the unincorporated community of Paradise.
  24. ^ Nickname changed to Fighting Hawks during the 2015 football season.
  25. ^ University of Louisiana at Monroe since 1999.
  26. ^ Nickname changed to Warhawks in 2006.
  27. ^ Missouri State University since 2005.
  28. ^ Texas State University since 2013.
  29. ^ Now athletically branded as "Chattanooga", though the legal name has not changed.
  30. ^ Nickname changed to Skyhawks in 1995.
  31. ^ East Texas A&M University since 2024.
  32. ^ Towson University since 1997.
  33. ^ Troy University since 2004.
  34. ^ Nickname changed to Beacons in 2021.
  35. ^ WVU Tech did not start its move to its current campus in Beckley until 2016. The athletic program did not relocate to Beckley until the campus move was completed in 2017.
  36. ^ The athletic program is now branded as "Milwaukee", though the university's legal name has not changed.

Notes

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Division II Football Institutions". NCAA Directory.
  2. ^ McCray, Vanessa. "University of West Georgia to move to NCAA Division I". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. ISSN 1539-7459. Retrieved 2023-09-08.
  3. ^ "Mercyhurst University marks new era in athletics with move to Division I". Mercyhurst University. April 4, 2024.
  4. ^ Morris, Conor. "Notre Dame College to close its doors at end of spring semester". Ideastream Public Media. Retrieved 2024-02-29.
  5. ^ Gaither, Steven (2024-04-04). "HBCU football program suspended as school fights for survival". HBCU Gameday. Retrieved 2024-04-04.
  6. ^ Smith III, Kennington Lloyd (October 4, 2019). "Anderson University announces football program to start in 2024". Independent Mail. Retrieved October 5, 2019.
  7. ^ "NCAA DII Collegiate Football Is Coming to Barton". Barton.edu. Barton College. January 30, 2018. Retrieved March 18, 2019.
  8. ^ a b "Central Washington, GNAC football members to join Lone Star Conference". Yakima Herald-Republic. November 18, 2021. Retrieved November 18, 2021.
  9. ^ "Erskine Bringing Back Football for 2020 Season". Erskine College. August 24, 2018. Retrieved August 30, 2018.
  10. ^ University of Mary Athletics Department. "MDU Resources Community Bowl". goumary.com.
  11. ^ "Important Message from Mississippi College" (Press release). Mississippi College. November 18, 2024. Retrieved November 18, 2024.
  12. ^ "MIAA makes changes to Football lineup" (Press release). Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association. November 20, 2023. Retrieved November 20, 2023.
  13. ^ "Wheeling Jesuit University to Launch Football Program". Wheeling (Jesuit) University. June 20, 2017. Retrieved June 20, 2017.
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