Growing Reputable Academic Departments Act

Growing Reputable Academic Departments Act or the GRAD Act

This bill expands eligibility for the Masters Degree Programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the Masters Degree Programs at Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). These programs provide grants to select HBCUs and PBIs to improve graduate opportunities for Black Americans in certain subject areas (e.g., mathematics, physical or natural sciences, and information technology).

First, the bill expands eligibility for the Masters Degrees at HBCUs program. Currently, only 18 institutions are eligible for the program. This bill expands eligibility to any HBCU that offers a qualified masters degree program.

Second, the bill expands eligibility for the Masters Degrees at PBIs program. Currently, only five institutions are eligible for this program. This bill expands eligibility to any PBI that offers a qualified masters degree program.