Historical Context and Mission
Established in 1867, Howard University has a rich history as the nation’s preeminent Black research university. Its mission has always been to provide quality education and prepare students for leadership roles in various fields. Over the years, Howard has made significant contributions to society, producing renowned graduates who have left an indelible mark on the world.

Enrollment Statistics
As of the fall of 2022, Howard University had an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 10,000 students and a graduate enrollment of close to 5,000 students. This brings the total student body to around 15,000 individuals.
Student Body Profile
Demographics:
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Race/Ethnicity:
- Black or African American: 82%
- White: 10%
- Asian: 3%
- Hispanic: 3%
- Other: 2%
-
Gender:
- Female: 60%
- Male: 40%
Geographic Distribution:
- Mid-Atlantic Region: 45%
- South: 25%
- Northeast: 15%
- Midwest: 10%
- West: 5%
Academic Background:
- Average GPA: 3.5
- Average SAT Score: 1250
- Average ACT Score: 29
Faculty Profile
Howard University boasts a distinguished faculty of over 1,200 individuals, including renowned scholars, researchers, and thought leaders. The university’s faculty is highly diverse, with representation from various backgrounds and fields of expertise.
Academic Programs
Howard offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.)
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Research and Innovation
Howard University is a major research institution with a strong commitment to innovation. The university has numerous research centers and institutes that conduct cutting-edge research in various fields, including:
- Health Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Engineering
- Arts and Humanities
Recent Notable Research:
- Discovery of a new gene linked to autism: Howard researchers identified a gene mutation that is associated with an increased risk of autism.
- Development of a novel therapy for sickle cell disease: Howard scientists developed a new drug that has shown promise in treating sickle cell disease.
- Creation of a new algorithm for artificial intelligence: Howard researchers created a new machine learning algorithm that has improved the accuracy of facial recognition systems.
Student Life
Howard University offers a vibrant and diverse student life experience. The university has over 300 student clubs and organizations, ranging from academic groups to cultural associations. Howard also has a strong athletic program, with teams competing in various NCAA Division I sports.
Notable Alumni
Throughout its history, Howard University has produced a remarkable number of influential alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields. Some notable graduates include:
- Frederick Douglass, abolitionist and statesman
- W.E.B. Du Bois, sociologist and civil rights leader
- Toni Morrison, Nobel Prize-winning author
- Thurgood Marshall, first African American Supreme Court Justice
- Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States
Conclusion
Howard University continues to be a beacon of excellence in higher education. With its diverse student body, distinguished faculty, and cutting-edge research, Howard is well-positioned to prepare the next generation of leaders and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and society as a whole.