Acceptance Rate
97%
Avg. SAT
1000
75th percentile
“A historic Houston hub where grit meets opportunity at an accessible HBCU with deep community roots.”
Houston, TX
Location
Texas Southern University, founded in 1927 as the Houston Colored Junior College, emerged from a pressing need for higher education access for African American students in Texas. It evolved over decades, becoming a four-year institution in 1934 and later a state-supported university in 1951, reflecting a legacy of resilience and advocacy for equity in education. Nestled in Houston’s Third Ward, TSU carries a proud identity as a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), fostering a tight-knit community where students often feel a profound sense of belonging and purpose. The surrounding area buzzes with the energy of one of America’s largest cities, offering cultural richness, internships, and urban experiences just beyond campus borders.
This isn’t a place for everyone, though. If you thrive on personalized attention or a small, rural campus vibe, TSU’s larger student body of over 6,500 undergraduates and its urban setting might feel overwhelming. But if you’re self-motivated, eager to connect with a diverse network, and ready to embrace a legacy of overcoming barriers, you’ll find a home here among peers who share that drive. The university attracts students who value affordability—with in-state tuition under $7,000 a year—and a chance to make their mark in a supportive, history-rich environment.
Houston itself is a double-edged sword. You’ll have access to a sprawling metropolis with endless professional and cultural opportunities, from the Texas Medical Center to the Museum District. However, the city’s size and traffic can be daunting, and the hot, humid climate might test your patience if you’re not used to sticky summers or sudden downpours. TSU’s identity shines brightest for those who see challenges as fuel for growth and who want to be part of a storied community.
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
At Texas Southern University, you’ll encounter a learning environment that prioritizes practical skills and professional preparation, especially in fields tied to public service and community impact. The university is well-regarded for its programs in law through the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, which has a reputation for training attorneys who advocate for justice and equity. Other strong areas include business, education, and pharmacy, with the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences often praised for preparing students for critical roles in healthcare. You can expect a curriculum that blends theoretical learning with real-world application, often through partnerships in Houston’s vast professional landscape.
Classroom experiences vary widely here. Some introductory courses might feel crowded, especially in popular majors, which can make it harder to get one-on-one time with professors. However, if you’re proactive, you’ll find faculty who are passionate about mentoring, particularly in smaller upper-level classes or specialized programs. Research opportunities exist, especially in health sciences and social justice fields, though they may require initiative to seek out as TSU isn’t primarily a research-heavy institution. The academic culture rewards persistence—students who advocate for themselves often uncover unique internships or projects tied to the city’s resources. The tradeoff is that some niche or highly competitive fields might have limited offerings compared to larger research universities.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
6,844 undergrad • 1,860 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
2%
Black / African American
82%
Hispanic / Latino
9%
Asian
2%
Other / Multi-racial
6%
Campus Life
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at Texas Southern University pulses with a vibrant, family-like atmosphere that’s deeply rooted in HBCU traditions. You’ll find a social scene anchored by events like Homecoming, where the energy of alumni and students collides in celebrations featuring the Ocean of Soul marching band, a powerhouse known for its dynamic performances. Greek life and student organizations play a big role, offering countless ways to connect over shared interests or causes. Whether it’s a step show or a community service project, there’s a constant hum of activity, and you can expect most weekends to offer something to join, from on-campus parties to off-campus explorations in Houston.
Living on campus, especially in the early years, immerses you in this community, though housing can fill up quickly, so applying early is wise. The hot, humid Houston weather is a persistent challenge—walking between classes in the summer can leave you drenched—and the urban location means noise and bustle are part of daily life. Offsetting that, the cost of living in Houston is more manageable than in many major cities, though it’s still higher than rural areas. Socially, TSU thrives on camaraderie, but if you’re looking for a quiet, insular campus bubble, the city’s distractions and the outgoing nature of student life might feel like too much. This is a place for those who want to be active participants in a lively, engaged community.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Southwestern Athletic Conf.
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
Yes
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
66%
4 Years Graduation Rate
31%
6 Years Graduation Rate
46%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$38,924
66% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Texas Southern University and return in the fall. 31% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 46% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
31%
4-5 years
15%
6-8 years
2%
Non-grad
52%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$6,941
Acceptance
97%
Undergrads
6,844
4-Year Grad Rate
31%
Endowment
$86M
Houston, TX 77004
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