Historically Black Dillard University in New Orleans has designated the majors of physics and film as “signature programs.” The university’s signature programs are majors that “epitomize Dillard’s mission and define its distinctiveness in the local, state, and national marketplace.”
Dillard University is the second-highest producer of undergraduates who go on to earn Ph.D.s in physics. Over the past 30 years, five of the 42 African American women who have earned Ph.D.s in physics have been graduates of Dillard University.
The film program at Dillard is one on the few at HBCUs nationwide. There are 20 students majoring in film and 20 in the minor degree program. New Orleans has become a major center of the film industry and Dillard students have been able to intern on several major motion pictures.
University officials say the signature programs will receive additional faculty and staff positions, endowed chairs, and additional equipment. It is possible that more extensive financial aid will be offered to students who major in signature programs.
