Historically Black Colleges and Universities, commonly referred to as HBCUs, have played a significant role in providing access to higher education for African Americans in the United States. In Texas, there are nine HBCUs that continue to offer educational opportunities to students from diverse backgrounds.
The first HBCU founded in Texas was Paul Quinn College in Waco, established in 1872. Since then, several other institutions have emerged across the state, each with a unique history and mission. Prairie View A&M University, founded in 1876, is the second oldest HBCU in the state and one of the most recognized HBCUs in the nation. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as agriculture, architecture, engineering, nursing, and business.
Another prominent HBCU in Texas is Texas Southern University, founded in 1927 in Houston. The university has grown to become one of the largest HBCUs in the country and the only public HBCU in Houston. Texas Southern University offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including law and pharmacy programs.
Other HBCUs in Texas include Huston-Tillotson University, founded in 1877 in Austin, and Bishop College, which closed in the 1980s but played an important role in providing higher education to African American students in East Texas. Additionally, there are four historically black community colleges – Houston Community College Northeast, Eastfield College, Cedar Valley College, and El Centro College, all part of the Dallas County Community College District.
HBCUs in Texas have faced numerous challenges throughout their history, including segregation-era policies that limited educational opportunities for African Americans. However, these institutions have persevered and continue to provide high-quality education to students, including those from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds.
In recent years, the role of HBCUs has gained renewed attention and emphasis, particularly as the COVID-19 pandemic shed light on the disparities impacting communities of color. The Biden Administration has proposed significant funding for HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions, recognizing the important role these institutions play in promoting equity and access to higher education.
In conclusion, HBCUs in Texas have a long and important history and continue to provide vital educational opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. As these institutions face new challenges and opportunities, it is clear that they will continue to play a crucial role in promoting equity and access in higher education.
