The Battle at Home: African American Veterans in Higher Education

Abstract

The G.I. Bill had the potential to aid the progress of African American veterans after World War II. While this benefit made it possible for veterans to pursue higher education, this paper will look at some of the obstacles they had to overcome to enroll in and ultimately graduate from college. After World War II, most veterans attended historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), because of discrimination. This paper will provide an historical overview of African American veterans in higher education; examine the factors that impact their enrollment and success; and explore for-profit colleges and universities (FPCUs) and their dependence on G.I. Bill money.