A convening at Howard University brought HBCU researchers and justice practitioners together to shape a causal research agenda and connect with funders.
Leaders from HBCUs and justice advocates met to expand higher-ed opportunities for incarcerated citizens and strengthen reentry pathways
North Carolina A&T opened graduate programs to grow research capacity and diversify the justice research pipeline at a leading public HBCU.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office connected HBCU students and faculty with Department of Justice programs, internships, and research-related pathways.
A city–HBCU partnership to place HBCU grads in public-sector roles, building pipelines for data-informed public safety and community development.
Hands-on forensic fieldwork opportunity for SUNO students/researchers exemplifies cross-institution collaboration and skill-building in evidence science.
Research
At the HBCU Criminal Justice Collective, research is at the heart of our mission to advance knowledge, equity, and innovation in the field of criminal justice. Our work spans areas such as law enforcement practices, community policing, criminal justice policy, reentry programs, and social justice initiatives, with a particular emphasis on issues affecting Black and underserved communities. By conducting rigorous, data-driven research and fostering collaboration among HBCU scholars, we aim to generate actionable insights that inform policy, enhance public safety, and promote equity. This research not only strengthens academic scholarship but also empowers our students, faculty, and community partners to drive meaningful change in criminal
justice systems nationwide.
Did you know?
Rising Number of Criminal Justice Degrees Awarded
Between 1997 and 2022, HBCUs saw a 39% increase in degrees awarded in vocational fields, notably in criminal justice and social work. This growth underscores the expanding role of HBCUs in preparing students for careers in law enforcement, legal studies, and public policy.
Lincoln University Pioneers HBCU Police Academy
Lincoln University in Pennsylvania established the nation’s first HBCU-based police academy, the Lincoln University Law Enforcement Training Academy (LULETA), in 2021. This initiative aims to diversify law enforcement by training minority officers committed to community-focused policing.
High Graduation Rates Among HBCU Criminal Justice Students
A study by Brown University and a 2024 White House fact sheet revealed that Black students are 40% more likely to earn their bachelor’s degrees at HBCUs compared to other institutions. This statistic highlights the supportive environment HBCUs provide.
HBCUs Contribute Significantly to Black Professionals
Despite comprising only 3% of U.S. colleges, HBCUs produce nearly 20% of all Black American graduates. They play a pivotal role in cultivating Black professionals across various sectors, including criminal justice, law, and public policy.