Historically Black Colleges and Universities in Baton Rouge, LA

According to the Higher Education Act of 1965, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were established before 1964.

The goal of these institutions was to provide African Americans with academic opportunities when they were unable to attend other colleges due to segregation.

Some think that HBCUs only educate black students, but this isn't true. Historically Black Colleges and Universities serve all students regardless of their racial background.

If you think an HBCU might be right for you, keep reading to find HBCUs in Baton Rouge.

List of HBCUs in Baton Rouge, LA

This list of schools highlights the Historically Black Colleges and Universities in Baton Rouge, LA, and their academic offerings.

1. Southern University and A&M College

Southern University and A&M College was founded to provide all students ?and especially Black Americans ?with the opportunity to attend an institution of higher learning.

The school has gone on to become a five-campus university system with more than 30 academic programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.

Enrollees can choose from undergraduate programs like political science, social work, sociology, and psychology.

Graduate programs include public policy, social science, public administration, and criminal justice.

HBCUs Near Baton Rouge, LA

Are you still looking for HBCUs? Consider these Historically Black Colleges and Universities located within 100 miles of Baton Rouge.

Xavier University of Louisiana

Xavier University of Louisiana, the nation's only Historically Black, Catholic University, is located in New Orleans ?about 80 miles from Baton Rouge.

The university has been recognized as one of the best HBCUs in the nation and earned high marks for social mobility and affordability.

More than 50 majors are available at undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree levels.

Areas of study include mathematical and physical sciences, business, social behavior sciences, education and counseling, and biological and applied health sciences.

Dillard University

New Orleans is also home to Louisiana's oldest HBCU ?Dillard University.

Students can choose from more than 20 degrees and certificates in areas of study that include nursing, business administration, social sciences, STEM, and population and health sciences.

Degree programs include computer science, criminal justice, film studies, and mass communication.

Attendees can also study accounting, chemistry, mathematics and actuarial science, urban studies and public policy, theatre arts, and political science.

What's the Average Cost of an HBCU Degree Program?

The average cost of attending an HBCU varies based on several factors.

Students who attend private HBCUs might pay different rates than students attending public schools.

The cost of attending might also be impacted by a student's course load. Some schools charge on a per-credit basis and others charge part-time and full-time study differently.

HBCU attendees might even notice different rates for in-state vs. out-of-state residency.

While all schools differ in cost, the rate for attending the sole HBCU in Baton Rouge ?Southern University and A&M ?is $4,961 per semester in-state.

Tips for Lowering HBCU Tuition Costs

If you encounter HBCU costs that fall outside of your budget, consider options for lowering your tuition.

For instance, you can apply for private scholarships with businesses and nonprofits and at your school of choice to make tuition more affordable.

You can also fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to qualify for federal grants, student loans, and the Federal Work-Study Program.

Students who work while enrolled can seek financial assistance via their employer's tuition reimbursement program.

Active military members and veterans can look to the GI Bill as well as military tuition reduction programs, scholarships, and grants.

How To Choose the Right HBCU

Selecting the best HBCU for you is not always easy. There are a lot of tough decisions to make. Fortunately, you can simplify the selection process.

Start by narrowing down HBCUs to those that offer your academic program at the correct level (ex. MBA or BS in Engineering).

Next, check the cost of tuition. While you don't have to eliminate pricier schools, make sure the HBCUs you choose have good financial aid options.

If you plan to live on-campus, visit the school to check out their living arrangements. If you want to live off-campus, check on transportation options.

It's also a good idea to meet with faculty and staff at the school, particularly in your academic department, to gain more insight into your future educational experience.

Are There Online HBCUs?

Yes, some Historically Black Colleges and Universities offer online academic programs.

You might encounter fully online programs ?or programs delivering a handful of online courses.

In Baton Rouge, Southern University and A&M provide four-year, professional, graduate, and doctoral degrees.

Areas of study include psychology, nursing, criminal justice, business administration, public administration, and interdisciplinary studies.

Xavier University also offers online options like its 100% online Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Find a Historically Black College or University Near You

If attending a Historically Black College and University is right for you, consider these HBCUs in Baton Rouge and surrounding cities.

You'll find great programs designed to get you on the right track to your dream career.