by Anton Polouektov

When the time comes for selecting which higher education institution to attend, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are often forgotten, ignored, or viewed as second-rate in comparison with more traditional schools. Parents and prospective students alike are sometimes reluctant to consider these colleges, which they may view as homogeneous, rigid, and dogmatic. The truth, however, is that today’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities are highly dynamic, progressive, and diverse institutions of higher learning that offer academic and extracurricular programs on par or exceeding those offered on comparable “traditional” campuses.

Not to mention, these colleges generally provide a high quality of education at affordable prices at undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels and tend to represent better overall value than similarly-ranked traditional colleges. Complementing their academic credentials are these schools’ rich historical backgrounds and their unique social and cultural environments. It’s difficult to measure the impact of the “Black experience”  for the alumni of the 100+ HBCUs in the country but it’s safe to say that these schools foster a high level of fellowship and camaraderie, helping students to not only establish life long connections but to also enhance a sense of cultural identity.

To illustrate Historically Black colleges’ academic prominence, The Atlanta Post has compiled a list of the top ten HBCUs, along with their 2009-2010 tuition and fee information (not necessarily including room and board).

10.     North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC.

2009-2010 Tuition and Fees: $13,414 (out of state); $3,670 (instate)

The only public college in this top-ten list, North Carolina Central University represents an unbeatable opportunity for prospective students to receive a high quality education at only a tiny fraction of the price of other similarly-ranked institutions. With a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, professional, and doctorate degree tracks, NCCU has something to appeal to everyone, including Business and Law programs and ample hands-on research opportunities. Overall, North Carolina Central University offers an unparalleled cost-benefit ratio among HBCUs, making it an attractive option for anyone reluctant to accrue large debts yet not wanting to compromise education quality.

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