HBCU Professional Learning: The Future of Access and Equity
June 2, 2022
Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) historically exist to ameliorate inequities and provide access to advanced learning and professional development. Today, the focus shifts from accessibility alone to development and nurturing of top talent across industries and specializations. The future of HBCUs is on track with these goals. Top universities and the alumni they produce fulfill more professional positions than ever before. However, they also need reliable revenue streams to enable the ongoing push for access and equity in education.
1. HBCUs Are a Vital Source of Diverse Talent
The National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) has pushed for increased government investment and interest in HBCUs since 1969. These schools contribute 60% of Black health professionals, 50% of Black teachers, and over 40% of all Black professionals in the STEM fields [1]. This clear and unequivocal demonstration of the importance of HBCUs when it comes to talented professionals indicates a clear need for increased educational opportunities and funding.
2. HBCUs Must Compete with Other Elite Institutions
Top universities offer a wide range of professional certifications and degree programs. In order to remain competitive, HBCUs must continue to expand their educational choices for Black students seeking equitable access to the best opportunities. The statistics mentioned above show how important these schools are to goal-oriented high schoolers and those already enrolled in certificate programs, Junior colleges, or four-year universities. In a recent LinkedIn study, 79% of learning and development (L&D) specialists shared their expectation of more investment in internet-based training opportunities [2]. Accessibility and flexibility in the post-pandemic world affected these choices considerably.
This type of competitiveness requires two things to improve: exceptional coursework and educational programs and the revenue or funding necessary to support all students in their quest for a brighter future. More specifically, HBCUs need flexible and accessible online course programs that allow more professionals to access the continuing education and training opportunities they need to thrive.
3. HBCUs Critically Need Durable Revenue Streams
While things like government funding improve the ability of HBCUs to develop and implement better coursework and training opportunities, ongoing revenue from alumni networks boosts possibilities even more. Education does not end at graduation. Over 8 million alumni, current students, and higher education faculty members represent the type of diverse talent that comes from HBCUs across the country. These professionals representing diverse degree programs, industries, and career paths thrive with ongoing access to coursework, advanced certifications, and professional training that opens new possibilities and keeps them valuable in their chosen field.
College and university alumni boost school reputation, directly give endowments to their alma maters, and act as a source of additional revenue with mutually beneficial programs. Not to mention, HBCU graduates can expect to earn 56% more in their lifetime than without their HBCU degrees or certificates [3]. Repeatable, scalable solutions like online classes and eLearning certificate programs are exceptional options for HBCUs who want to both nurture their alumni and create long-lasting funding opportunities.
Amesite offers complete ecosystems, including learning solutions, courses, and eCommerce solutions quickly and efficiently. Our recent partnership with Wayne State University demonstrates the possibilities of developing and using turnkey programs that improve retention, boost professional learning opportunities, and help alumni thrive in the auto industry specifically [4]. These are the types of results that can position HBCUs more effectively for talent nurturing and propel them into ever-more successful futures.
Contact Amesite today for demonstrations of its intuitive learning experiences or more specific information about how we can help your organization thrive.
