“Diamond in the Rough”: The Impact of a Remedial Program on College Access and Opportunity for Black Males at an Historically Black Institution

Abstract

Researchers, policymakers, and administrations have shown great concern over the efficacy of college remediation, which has prompted some states to eliminate remedial programs from public 4–year institutions. However, research suggests that eliminating these programs may have unintended consequences on college access and opportunity for underrepresented minority students, particularly African Americans. This study explores the impact of a remedial program on 11 African-American male students at a public 4–year historically Black institution. Findings illuminate the importance of college remediation in promoting college access and opportunity for underprepared Black male students, and how remedial programs increase academic and social integration for these students.