Howard University is a private, historically Black university (HBCU) located in Washington, D.C. Established in 1867, it is one of the most prestigious HBCUs in the United States, known for its commitment to academic excellence, research, and social justice. Here are some key aspects of Howard University:
1. History: Howard University was founded by an Act of Congress shortly after the end of the Civil War, with the goal of providing education to newly freed African Americans. The university is named in honor of General Oliver Otis Howard, a Civil War hero and the institution's founding president.
2. Campus: The main campus of Howard University is located in the northwest quadrant of Washington, D.C., covering 256 acres. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including academic facilities, residence halls, and research centers.
3. Academics: Howard offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs through its various schools and colleges. These include the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Communications, the School of Divinity, the School of Education, the College of Engineering and Architecture, the Graduate School, the School of Law, the College of Medicine, the College of Dentistry, the College of Pharmacy, the School of Social Work, and the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences.
4. Faculty: Howard University has a distinguished faculty committed to teaching, research, and mentorship. Many faculty members are experts in their fields and contribute to the university's strong academic reputation.
5. Research: Howard is a research-intensive institution, with a focus on addressing pressing social, economic, and health disparities affecting the African American community and other minority populations. The university is home to numerous research centers and institutes, such as the Howard University Cancer Center, the Center for Sickle Cell Disease, and the Center for Urban Progress.
6. Student Life: Howard has a diverse and engaged student body, with over 150 student clubs and organizations catering to various interests, including academic, cultural, social, and community service groups. The university also offers a wide range of support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring.
7. Athletics: Howard University's athletic teams, known as the Bison, compete in the NCAA Division I as part of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). The university offers a variety of sports for both men and women, including basketball, soccer, track and field, and swimming and diving, among others.
8. Financial Aid: Howard is committed to making education accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The university offers need-based financial aid packages, which may include grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Merit-based scholarships are also available for eligible students.
9. Notable Alumni: Howard University has produced many notable graduates who have made significant contributions to various fields. Some distinguished alumni include author and social activist Ta-Nehisi Coates, actress Taraji P. Henson, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, and former Mayor of Atlanta and UN Ambassador Andrew Young.
10. Rankings: Howard consistently ranks well in various college ranking publications, such as U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, and The Princeton Review. The university is particularly known for its strong programs in law, medicine, social work, and communications, as well as its commitment to social justice and the empowerment of the African American community.
