TEXAS — Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU) have played a foundational role in molding many notable Black figures before predominantly white institutions allowed Black people to attend. In Texas, there are nine HBCUs that offer culture, community and high-ranking academic programs.
The history and roots of all HBCUs are all unique but are strongly intertwined with Black churches. Black churches have historically been pillars within the Black community. Many churches pioneered these institutions of higher education currently operating.
HBCUs remain pivotal for low-income Black and ethnic minorities to receive higher education. According to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), HBCUs have reduced race and income inequality and created equality in educational opportunities. Today, many people of all backgrounds have benefit from the nurturing environment, cultural contributions and founding principles HBCUs offer.
Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) is recognized as the second-oldest public institution of higher education in Texas and the first state-supported college in the state for Black students. According to the institution, in its nearly 150-year history more than 46,000 degrees have been awarded. Faculty and students endearingly refer to the campus as “The Hill” because it’s said to be on the highest elevation point of Waller County. Today, the college is internationally recognized for its agricultural research, architecture, biology, business, education, engineering, juvenile justice and nursing programs. According to PVAMU, its nursing graduates average a 100% passing rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). Moreover, the university’s division 1 athletics program and membership in the Southwestern Athletic Conference have gained mass attention in recent years.
Built upon 150 acres, Texas Southern University (TSU) is one of the largest HBCU campuses and is a centralized hub in Third Ward, a predominantly Black area in Houston. The university is instrumental to the culture and community of Houston. TSU upholds a rigorous academic curriculum offering over 120 baccalaureate, master's and doctoral degree programs, notably the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, which was created following the Sweatt v. Painter lawsuit. According to the institution, its College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences produces one-third of the Black pharmacists practicing across the nation. Texas Southern University also has a division 1 athletics program, but the school band, “Ocean of the Soul,” always steals the show. Famous alumni include Barbara Jordan, Yolanda Adams, Megan Thee Stallion, Mickey Leland and more.
Huston-Tillotson University (HT) is the oldest institution of higher learning in Austin. The private HBCU was originally two separate colleges, Samuel Huston College and Tillotson College, located less than one mile apart. The institutions enjoyed a healthy competition and relationship, but due to lack of resources, they agreed to a merger. HT’s curriculum is known for its required diversity-focus class, and three of the classes must have a focus within the African diaspora. Aside from academics, HT was the home of the legendary Jackie Robinson, who was head of the athletics department before his rise to fame. Notable alumni include Lucille Elizabeth Bishop Smith, Fredrick D. Patterson, Volma Overton and Dr. Connie Yerwood Connor.
Jarvis Christian University (JCU) enjoys a tranquil rural community about 100 miles south of Dallas. The private university is heavily affiliated with the Christian Church and was modeled after the Southern Christian Institute of Edwards, Mississippi. It is the only HBCU that remains of the 12 schools founded by the Disciples of Christ Church. The institution is recognized for its wide range of teacher certification programs. Additionally, people enjoy a visit to the East Texas Natural History Collection on Jarvis’ campus.
Wiley College is a private liberal arts college established in 1873 by the Freedman’s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Located in Marshall, Texas, the college has upheld a faith-based, liberal arts education system for almost 150 years. Wiley College has been a part of pivotal points in Black history. The college’s debate team gained national attention when it beat the University of Southern California in 1935. This inspired the film “The Great Victory” starring Denzel Washington. This also includes creating foundation of the first sorority and fraternity organizations in the Southwest, including The Beta Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc established on Wiley’s campus. This was the second chapter to be established in the nation. The college recently rebranded to university and announced new graduate programs.
Southwestern Christian College
Southwestern Christian Community College (SWCC) is a private university established by the Churches of Christ to implement a holistic educational program that incorporates spiritual values. According to the university, in its foundation there was a desire to prepare students for effective “Christian Living.” This principle encourages sincere spiritual development, and daily reading of God’s revelation in the bible is fundamental for students. The HBCU is most recognized for its degree programs in pastoral and youth ministry, music, business, behavioral sciences and English. SWCC’s campus is home to a historical landmark, the Robert A. Terrell home, one of the last octagonal houses left in the state.
Texas College is a private college located 100 miles east of Dallas in Tyler. It’s nestled in the downtown area with much to do, see and enjoy. The college was founded in 1894 by Christian Methodist Episcopal Church ministers and upholds their values and affiliation with the church. The college offers 12 bachelor’s degrees, most notable are their business and liberal arts programs. Texas College has athletic membership with National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), Division 1, the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC), and the central State Football League (CSFL).
Paul Quinn College was initially founded in Austin by the African Methodist Episcopal Church. It has now relocated to Dallas and is the only HBCU in the metropolitan area. Paul Quinn faced a long period of ruin with plunging enrollment, vacant buildings and a battle for accreditation. However, in 2007 the newly appointed president, Michael J. Sorrell, began to change the narrative. The We Over Me farm was established to grow agriculture for the school and community, and in 2011 the college was recognized as HBCU of the Year. According to the college, in 2015 they created the “Urban Work College Model,” giving students paid work opportunities, aiming to provide the resources and education for students to rise out of poverty.
St. Phillips College (SPC) was founded in 1898 in San Antonio. Its establishment was prompted by a need to educate emancipated slaves to sew and cook. Today, it has grown to become the only college in the nation recognized as both an HBCU and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). According to SPC, it has gained distinction for its academic success within the arts and science fields. Jessica’s Project is a service-learning initiative to engage the community in STEM topics that affect them. Students of the college are well recognized for such civic engagement programs, which also include Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and their participation in the annual Juneteenth Parade.