UC-HBCU Initiative
The University of California's reputation as a premier research and teaching institution rests on its capacity to attract and retain students and scholars who reflect the rich diversity of California and the nation. At the graduate level, African Americans/Blacks are the most underrepresented group in relation to their U.S. population, averaging only 2.5% of UC's academic doctoral program enrollment from 2006-2010. The UC-HBCU Initiative seeks to improve the representation of this population in UC graduate programs, particularly Ph.D. programs, by investing in relationships and efforts between UC faculty and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Historically Black Colleges and Universities have long played a distinct role in providing educational opportunities for those previously excluded from education. The first HBCU was established in 1837, with most other institutions established after the American Civil War. Currently there are 105 HBCUs serving more than 300,000 students. HBCUs are a diverse resource for intellectual collaborations and partnerships and offer great potential for enhancing the diversity of UC graduate application and enrollment pools. For a complete list of HBCUs, please visit the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
The University of California recognizes the unique and important contributions that Historically Black Colleges and Universities make to the academy, our nation and the world. Through the UC-HBCU Initiative, the Office of the President encourages UC faculty to actively engage in collaboration and cooperation with faculty and students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Such efforts will serve to strengthen and enrich our mission of teaching, research and public service. In 2011-12, 11 of the 33 submitted proposals were selected for funding. Thirty-six HBCU students are expected to participate in summer research internships at UC campuses in 2012.
For information on deadlines, eligibility and proposal requirements, see Call for Proposals. For information on last year’s awards, and award terms and administration, see Awards & Administration.