A Closer Look at HBCUs

Shauntya Cox, Staff Writer

Before 1914, black slave education was stated as a criminal endeavor. Time ahead of the Reconstruction Era, free black associations made efforts to create schooling. Although only few African Americans earned knowledge, there were places they could go to conduct an education. The framework was not the best, nor did they have good finances or attention. Jim Crow laws in the 1870’s made it legal to segregate schools. The first colored school architecture was built in 1890 in Winter Park. HBCUs or historically black colleges and universities allow students to earn degrees, collect an education for an affordable price, and will prepare students for the real world. 

College degrees have different levels of intensity and the retained amount of education. 

There are many different types, for example, B.A., Bachelor of Arts and B.S., Bachelor of Science. Some major degrees include, M.A., Master of Arts, and M.S., Master of Science. To receive an undergraduate associate’s degree consists of going to college for two years, and the undergraduate bachelor’s degree incorporates going to college for four years. 

HBCU  tuition prices vary depending on which one you are attending and what you are majoring in.  The number one HBCU is A & T State University in Greensboro, North Carolina. It is also the largest HBCU and includes 117 undergraduate degree programs, 58 master degree programs and 3 PhD programs. If you’re in North Carolina the tuition averages around $6, 657 and out of state tuition averages around $20, 167. Howard is the number six school which also offers many different degree programs. Their tuition averages at about $24, 966. Tuition varies relying on the degree program you attend.

The different HBCUs offer diverse opportunities preparing students for adulthood. They teach students how to tell the truth, promote leadership, legal rights, and empowerment. A sophomore, Zion Rainey, says,“I was thinking about going to Morehouse (if the Lord is willing) because it just seemed like a very educated school.” A person’s first choice does not always consume the best benefits for their future occupation.

“As of right now I’m going to N.C A&T. This college stood out by their track and majorette teams, and kinesiology major. After attending a free New Balance Nationals track meet at their track I knew I had to attend. On campus visuals are a big influence on whether or not that is the college for you.

— Spirit Cooper, Senior

Overall, HBCUs are a great choice for students of color. They provide many different things you will need for the future. There are 107 HBCUs in the United States of America today; 56 of them are privately owned while the other 51 are public. The majority of the  HBCUs in the United States are located in Alabama, but North Carolina is a close second.