This qualitative study employs three theoretical frameworks as the source of its foundation, covering literature from Acting White, Stereotype Threat and Campus Climate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the perceptions of Racial Climate as perceived by African American college students attending a University with a Diverse Student Body (UDSB) in order to support the retention and success rates of Black students attending UDSBs. Participants attended a large, urban, university located on the West Coast of North America, and is known for its diversity. Using a 65 item interview guide, driven by the theoretical frameworks, 5 African American females and 5 African American males, with a matriculation status of Junior or higher, were interviewed individually. Participant selection was conducted through the assistance of the university's black student union. Findings revealed that there is a burden to being a Black student. Black students sought to avoid confirming any stereotypes, or being negatively viewed while on campus. Participants perceived that other Black students chose their majors due to ease of the coursework, or to uncover social injustices, yet reported they selected their own majors because of personal goals. This study helps to uncover the perceptions of Black college students, and reveals areas of growth and change that must be implemented by universities in order to promote the retention and success rates of Black students attending UDSBs. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]