Does Idaho Have an HBCU? No, But These States Do

Are you an Idaho resident who is interested in attending a historically Black college or university (HBCU)? If so, you may be wondering if there are any of these schools in your state.

Idaho doesn't have any HBCUs, as these schools are primarily located in the southern and eastern parts of the U.S.

Read on to learn more about the states closest to Idaho that have HBCUs. We'll also talk about some questions you may have about HBCUs and how to choose the right degree program.

Alternatives to HBCUs in Idaho

As noted above, most national HBCUs are in eastern and southern states. With this in mind, let's take a look at the five states geographically located closest to Idaho that have at least one HBCU.

1. Arkansas

Arkansas has four historically black colleges and universities. One of them is a public school, while the other three are private.

The HBCUs in Arkansas are as follows:

• University of Arkansas - Pine Bluff
• Philander Smith University
• Arkansas Baptist College
• Shorter College

These schools offer a wide variety of degree programs, many of which can be completed entirely online from anywhere in the country.

Many of the schools in Arkansas, including those listed above, are known for having affordable tuition rates, and, in most cases, out-of-state students studying online pay the same low rates as in-state students.

2. Louisiana

Louisiana has six Historically Black Colleges and Universities. These schools are an even mix of public colleges and private institutions.

Louisiana's HBCUs are:

• Xavier University of Louisiana
• Grambling State University
• Dillard University
• Southern University and A&M College
• Southern University - New Orleans
• Southern University - Shreveport

Most of these schools offer at least some online degree programs and courses, though the options may be limited.

To find out whether your degree program of choice is available online at a specific school, check with that school's website.

3. Missouri

There are two Historically Black Colleges and Universities in Missouri: Harris-Stowe State University and Lincoln University.

Both of these are public schools that charge out-of-state tuition prices for nonresident students. That said, tuition costs are significantly lower than the national average for out-of-state students.

Both schools offer various online degree programs, making it easy for out-of-state students to earn their degree from the comfort of their own homes and on their schedule.

4. Oklahoma

There is just one historically Black university in the state of Oklahoma: Langston University. This is a public school that was founded in 1897.

Tuition for out-of-state students is about double what in-state students pay. However, tuition costs are still significantly lower than the national average for nonresidents.

A variety of degree programs are available at the associate, bachelor's, and master's levels, as well as one doctoral program. A few of these programs can be completed fully online.

5. Texas

As you might expect, Texas has more historically black colleges and universities than any other state on this list.

There are nine HBCUs in Texas, some private and some public. These schools are:

• Texas Southern University
• Texas College
• Wiley University
• Southwestern Christian College
• Jarvis Christian University
• St. Philip's College
• Prairie View A&M University
• Huston-Tillotson University
• Paul Quinn University

You will find a wide range of graduate and undergraduate degree programs and certificates at these schools, some of which offer fully online options for remote students.

Tuition costs vary from one institution to the next but are generally lower than average for both in-state and out-of-state students.

Benefits of Attending a Predominantly Black Institution

There are many benefits to attending a historically Black college or university or a Predominantly Black Institution (PBI).

These schools are often culturally and racially diverse, with supportive professors and advisors who cater to the needs of historically underrepresented students.

Because of this cultural diversity, students from minority groups, including black Americans, often find that HBCUs and PBIs are more supportive and provide a safer learning environment.

What's more, these schools usually charge lower tuition rates than other public and private universities, making them more affordable even for out-of-state students.

Tips on Choosing the Right College Program

Are you wondering how to choose a college degree or certificate program? Wondering how to pick the right one for your interests and career goals?

It's a good idea to take some time and figure out what your educational priorities are.

If you want to enter the workforce as soon as possible and have high pay and job security, you may want to take a short-term career or training program. These programs prepare you to enter specific, in-demand vocations.

If you're interested in a particular field but have not yet narrowed down the specific degree you want, explore the various careers in that field. Once you start getting an idea of the career you want, you'll be able to determine which degree program provides the best pathway to that career.

Look for job shadowing opportunities to learn more about the careers that interest you. Find out what degree you will need to pursue a career in that field.

Finally, if you're still not sure which degree is best, it's okay to pursue a broad program with a lot of professional opportunities, such as a liberal arts or general studies degree.

What Is the Difference Between an HBCU and a PBI?

HBCUs and PBIs were created for different purposes, at different times. Historically Black Colleges and Universities were created for the express purpose of educating Black Americans before the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Predominantly Black Institutions are schools that were either formed after 1964 or were not specifically designed to educate African Americans, but which enroll a large percentage of black students.

Despite these differences, both HBCUs and PBIs are known for providing a diverse and supportive environment to help students of all races and backgrounds succeed.

Find a Historically Black College or University Near You

If you live in Idaho, there are no HBCUs in your state. However, many of these schools are available in other states, such as Missouri, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana.