Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are institutions of higher education established primarily for the education of African Americans in the United States. These universities have played a crucial role in the education and empowerment of the black community for over a century. Several HBCUs offer programs in English, a subject that has been central to the liberal arts curriculum since the inception of these universities. In this article, we present some of the best HBCUs for studying English.
Located in Washington, D.C., Howard University is one of the oldest and most prestigious HBCUs in the country. The university’s Department of English and Foreign Languages offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in English, including literature, creative writing, linguistics, and theater. The department is known for its rigorous curriculum, distinguished faculty, and innovative research. Howard’s English graduates have gone on to successful careers in writing, publishing, journalism, and academia.
Spelman College is a private liberal arts college exclusively for women, located in Atlanta, Georgia. The college’s English department offers majors in English, Comparative Women’s Studies, and Theatre & Performance. Students can also minor in creative writing, linguistics, or film studies. The college has a strong focus on community engagement and social justice, making it an ideal choice for students interested in pursuing careers in activism or advocacy through the lens of literature and language.
Morehouse College is a private, all-male HBCU located in Atlanta, Georgia. The English department offers majors in English and Writing, and minors in both fields. Morehouse’s English program emphasizes critical thinking, diversity, and social consciousness. Students are encouraged to explore the intersections of language, culture, and society in their coursework and research. Graduates of Morehouse’s English program have gone on to pursue careers in law, education, business, and writing.
Fisk University, located in Nashville, Tennessee, is a small, private, liberal arts college with a strong tradition of excellence in the arts and humanities. The English department offers majors in English and African American Studies, as well as a minor in English. The department’s faculty are known for their expertise in African American literature, literary theory, and comparative literature. Students at Fisk benefit from small class sizes, individualized attention, and a supportive learning community.
Tuskegee University, located in Tuskegee, Alabama, offers a comprehensive English program through its Department of English and Modern Language Studies. The department offers majors in English, Mass Communication, and Professional Writing. Students can also minor in English or Creative Writing. Tuskegee’s English department emphasizes writing, critical thinking, and leadership, making it an ideal choice for students looking for a well-rounded liberal arts education.
In conclusion, these HBCUs offer some of the best English programs in the country, providing students with a rigorous and supportive learning environment, distinguished faculty, and a commitment to social justice and diversity. Choosing any of these colleges will give students the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers and make a positive impact on society.
