HBCU Student Success Project

The Howard University Office of Undergraduate Studies (OUS), launched in 2015, was created to facilitate the successful matriculation of Howard’s undergraduate students. We provide the academic support necessary for Howard's undergraduate population to persist, flourish, and complete their degree programs earning their respective degrees in 4-years or less. OUS serves as the hub of supportive academic services for Howard’s undergraduates with assuming the enterprise of increasing student retention and graduation rates.

For the next two consecutive academic years, OUS’ aim of increasing student retention and graduation rates is partially but largely supported by Lumina's “HBCU Student Success Project”. Howard University was one 3 HBCU’s (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) granted approximately $700,000 to engage in data-informed/evidence-based best practices to support the academic success of their undergraduate populations. The purpose and goals of the HBCU Student Success Project align with the Lumina Foundation’s overarching initiative; Equity Imperative and Goal 2025 where they expect 60% of Americans to hold degrees, certificates or other high-quality postsecondary credentials by 2025. Lumina aims to implement programs and interventions that help to close attainment gaps for under-represented and underserved populations. This initiative in alignment with OUS’ own overarching goals of increasing student retention and attainment, and reducing attainment gaps.