There are 107 colleges in the United States that are officially recognized as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) by the US Department of Education.
It is no secret that America has a dark history we cannot ignore. Black people throughout the country faced discrimination in every area of their lives, and higher education was not the exception. In the face of adversity, the black community did what it has always done, stayed together as a community and fostered their culture by creating pathways to opportunity for Black students.
A History of Resilience
HBCUs are way older than you’d think. In 1837, Richard Humphreys founded the Institute for Colored Youth to educate freed African-Americans to become teachers. That institute became the very first higher education institution and is now known as Cheyney Institute of Pennsylvania. Lincoln University, also founded in Pennsylvania in 1854 and the Wilberforce University of Ohio followed suit in 1856. These institutions are statements of the community’s resilience. Since 1976, female enrollment has been higher than male enrollment, and in 2021 the percentage of female enrollment increased from 53% to 64%. However, general enrollment in HBCUs has decreased from 18% in 1976 to 9% in 2021. This is partially because while Black people used to not have many options besides HBCUs, they now can decide to attend whatever school they choose. Similarly, HBCUs do not limit their student acceptance to Black people, but also often offer education for Hispanics, as well as other non-Black students.
Throughout the years, HBCUs have remained relatively small. In fact, more than 50% of them serve fewer than 2,500 students. Despite this, according to UNCF, they are responsible for the enrollment of 10% of all Black students in the country. The importance of these institutions goes above and beyond. While their roots run deep in history, their current impact is a statement on its own. Every year, HBCUs generate around 134,000 jobs across the United States and a total annual spending of roughly $14.8 billion!
But, why study in an HBCU?
Studying in a Historically Black College or University offers a unique and enriching educational experience for numerous reasons. Firstly, HBCUs provide a supportive and culturally immersive environment that fosters a strong sense of community and belonging. These institutions celebrate and honor African American heritage and history, creating spaces where students not only feel empowered, but also understood. Secondly, HBCUs offer academic programs that prioritize diversity, inclusivity, and excellence. The smaller class sizes often facilitate closer relationships with professors, and encourages personalized learning and mentorship opportunities. After all, networking starts in the class! Thirdly, HBCUs boast a rich tradition of producing influential leaders, innovators, and trailblazers. A legacy that HBCU students continue to maintain alive to this day.
Third, HBCUs are usually softer on your bank account. Compared to non-HBCUs, the cost of attending an HBCU tends to be around 28% less. The national average tuition cost is $20,770 and according to College Data, the majority of HBCUs in the US are able to stay under the national average at $7,117. We know that cost of attendance is, besides the offer of majors, the most important factor when choosing a school, so a smaller COA means more opportunity of being able to attend a higher education institution. Fourth, HBCUs have a strong commitment to social justice and community engagement ingrained in their very nature, encouraging students to become socially conscious and actively involved citizens. These institutions take these values to their core, and implement different ways in which they can make the education field more sustainable and equitable.
Successful HBCU Alumni & The National HBCU Alumni Alliance
HBCUs have nothing to envy from non-HBCUs, and their alumni prove it. Some iconic names include Marquette King Jr., NFL Punter for the Oakland Raiders who graduated from Fort Valley State University; Award-Winning Singer Lionel Richie, who graduated from Tuskegee University; Kamala Harris, a Howard University alum…
Ever heard of Samuel L. Jackson? Well, he graduated from Morehouse College!
The Thurgood Marshall College Fund states that among Black alumni, HBCUs are responsible for graduating 40% of all Congressmen, 40% of Engineers, 50% of Professors at non-HBCUs, 50% of Lawyers and 80% of Judges! The community prepares students for success every step of the way. Additionally, the National HBCU Alumni Alliance is a magnificent opportunity for alumni to sustain connections and relationships. Established in 2004 in Atlanta, GA, the NHBCUAA is a strong network of graduates nationwide, and establishes partnerships both nationally and internationally.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
As we mentioned, the very mission of HBCU is and has always been to make education accessible, inclusive and diverse. While we have made progress in society as a nation, it would be a lie to say that every American has the same level of opportunity. Cost of attendance is an obstacle for many aspiring students, and HBCUs know this. That is why they offer various financial aid and scholarship opportunities tu support students that need a little extra help in pursuing their education. HBCU scholarships, grans, internships and fellowships can make all the difference for a student. Usually, HBCU grants and scholarships do not require repayment, empowering students to succeed. Scholarships can be awarded for different reasons. Some are merit-based, while others are based on financial need. These can also be privately funded or publicly funded, meaning that there are more opportunities in finding one that suits you.
Some big companies offer scholarships specifically aimed for Black students. Microsoft offers the Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship, while Amazon offered the Amazon Black Employee Network Scholarship. Ralph Lauren also offers the Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation Scholarship, and Procter & Gamble had a 2023-2024 BE U Scholarship Program. HBCU scholarships are constantly being offered by numerous companies and institutions, all you have to do is keep an eye open, or follow Supportive Colleges to stay constantly updated with information on all things education!
HBCUs often embrace a holistic approach to education, emphasizing the development of students academically, socially, culturally, and personally. Their comprehensive approach focuses on students beyond their grades, and aims to prepare individuals with the skills, values and experiences they need for success in life. Take Clark Atlanta University, for example. This Georgia-based University recognizes the needs of its students beyond just classes, and offers counseling services provided by the Office of Counseling and Disability Services. They understand that their students might have different needs and contexts, and they tailor their services with the students in mind. From in-person counseling sessions to online appointments, the staff makes everything in their power to make mental health services accessible to students.
A Holistic Approach
The Student Health and Wellness Center provides quality health care services to students of the Atlanta University Consortium Center. They emphasize the holistic approach that many HBCUs celebrate, and encourage growth physically, academically, socially, mentally and emotionally for their students. From nutrition to psychological appointments, they have thought about it all. And best thing is this is found throughout Historically Black Colleges and Universities around the United States!
An HBCU means Opportunity
An HBCU might as well be a synonym for opportunity. They were born as a gateway to education and empowerment, and continue to offer endless possibilities for those that attend. They are more than just an academic institution, and represent winds of change, development and progress. HBCUs provide a nurturing environment where students, regardless of background, race, and economic factors, find support, mentorship and resources to fulfill their potential. HBCUs become a community, and their alumni become role models for generations to come.
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Throughout the article, we delve into the history of HBCUs, exploring their origins, development, and enduring mission to promote education among African Americans. We discuss how these institutions emerged in response to racial segregation and discrimination in traditional educational institutions, offering a safe and supportive environment for Black students to pursue higher education. Today, HBCUs play a bigger role and accept all and every race. After we present HBCUs and their history, we delve into why you might be interested in studying in an HBCU. We discuss financial aid and scholarship opportunities, provide information of successful alumni, and more.
We hope this helps make the article more digestible!!!
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