Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have long served as educational sanctuaries for black and minority students. Although most HBCUs are located in the southern part of the United States, they are recognized for their exceptional educational programs in various fields, including social sciences, history, and political science. With the current political climate, studying East Europe and its relationship with the United States has become a necessary and highly relevant field.

For students who wish to study or research East European studies, the following HBCUs have been identified as the best in the country:

1. Howard University, Washington D.C.

Howard University has been ranked as the best overall HBCU in the United States. It’s a member of the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area and has partnered with Georgetown University to offer graduate degrees in East European studies. Howard University also has a strong and growing study abroad program in Eastern Europe.

2. Spelman College, Atlanta, Georgia

Spelman College is a highly prestigious liberal arts institution that is well known for its programs in social sciences, humanities, and history. It has a long-standing partnership with the Department of History at Georgia State University to offer a program in East European studies. The college also offers an interdisciplinary minor in Russian and East European studies, which includes courses in Russian language, literature, and history.

3. Morehouse College, Atlanta, Georgia

Morehouse College is a liberal arts institution that is known for its focus on critical thinking, cultural competency, and STEM education. The college offers an interdisciplinary minor in Russian and East European studies, which includes courses in Russian language, culture, history, and contemporary politics. Students who choose this minor will also have the opportunity to study in Russia and other Eastern European countries.

4. Fisk University, Nashville, Tennessee

Fisk University is a private HBCU that is recognized for its small class sizes, personalized education, and strong liberal arts programs. The university offers a minor in Russian and East European studies, which is designed to provide students with an understanding of the cultural, historical, and political forces that shape Eastern Europe. The program includes courses such as Russian language, culture, history, and contemporary politics.

5. Hampton University, Hampton, Virginia

Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a private university that is recognized for its exceptional academic programs in the liberal arts, sciences, and humanities. Hampton offers a minor in Russian and East European studies, which is designed for students who wish to pursue careers in international affairs, diplomacy, or academia. The program includes courses in Russian language, culture, history, and contemporary politics.

Conclusion

Studying Eastern Europe and its relationship with the United States has become increasingly relevant, especially with the current political climate. HBCUs offer some of the best educational programs in the country, especially in the field of social sciences, history, and political science. The above-listed institutions are the top five HBCUs that offer programs in Russian and East European studies. Students interested in pursuing their career in international affairs, diplomacy, or academia should consider studying at these institutions.