The Associated Press recently released the results of a survey they conducted concerning the graduation rate of African Americans from HBCU’s nationwide.
The news agency’s analysis of the 83 federally designated four-year HBCUs shows that just 37 percent of Black students earn a degree within six years – roughly 4 percent lower than national college graduation rates. Perhaps the biggest reason for such dismal Black-college graduation statistics, reports AP, is the performance of Black male students, just 29 percent of whom complete their bachelor’s within the six-year period. While a few Black institutions – such as Howard University, and at Spelman and Morehouse colleges – graduate more African-American students than traditionally White campuses, many others are among the worst-performing colleges in America, according to the analysis.
“At 38 HBCUs, fewer than one in four men who started in 2001 had completed a bachelor’s degree by 2007, the data show. At Texas Southern, Voorhees, Edward Waters and Miles College, the figure was under 10 percent,” AP reports.
Do you think the cause is financial, loss of interest or lack of support?
0 responses to “Associated Press Says HBCU’s Graduate Too Few Blacks”
Is this news? I've been hearing this since 1993 when I enrolled at Howard. What I really wonder is how the current economy is going to affect HBCUs and it's students.
This is surprising news to me. When I graduated from FAMU in '90, the statistics were significantly more favorable towards HBCUs graduating more African-American college students nationwide. I still have the articles. I am talking 19 years ago so maybe things have changed. If so, it is uncacceptable, and must be redressed. Typically, the enrollment in the military has INCREASED. I hope there isn't another generational shift to the armed services but I prefer to see African-American men in the military than prison.
We've got to start talking about Alumni participating in recruitment efforts in our local area schools.
I dont buy it. Skimpy article. I would have to see the study
One reason could be the lack of funds, many black students, both men and women work full time jobs while taking a full class load. Some are also supporting families. So what if someone takes 6 years to graduate, at least they graduate. Sarah Palin took six years to graduate because she jumped from school to school looking for the ultimate party. The AP had nothing to say about that. If AP is so concerned why don't they set up a graduation fund, I know some people who could use a little help. Better yet, they could donate a handsome sum to the UNCF earmarked for such a fund. Put up or shut up.