Illuminating Disparities of ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) Accreditation Gaps at Historically Black Colleges and Universities

• In Event: Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Insights, Perspectives, and Challenges From Professions Education

Abstract

The proposal explores the accreditation status of engineering programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States. Despite HBCUs constituting 3% of higher education institutions, they have played a vital role in preparing diverse and highly skilled engineers. Levering the theory of racialized organizations, this study investigates the disparities in accreditation rates, considering historical implications and stakeholder perspectives at macro, meso, and micro levels. The research identifies 23 HBCUs with fully accredited engineering programs, but 57% of all engineering degree-granting HBCUs have not achieved accreditation. The findings emphasize the need to address accreditation gaps and strengthen engineering degree programs at HBCUs to enrich the diversity and excellence of the engineering profession.

Authors

• Makayla Headley, Clemson University

• Stephanie Zephir, University of Michigan