The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) formed in 2015 through the merger of the University of Texas-Pan American and the University of Texas at Brownsville, creating the first major university fully serving the Rio Grande Valley region. As part of the University of Texas System, it operates multiple campuses in Edinburg (main), Brownsville, Harlingen, and South Padre Island, with a student body exceeding 31,000, over 90% Hispanic, making it one of the largest Hispanic-Serving Institutions in the U.S.

UTRGV embodies a practical, community-rooted personality, prioritizing access for first-generation and low-income students from the border region. It fosters a resilient, bilingual environment where collaboration across cultures is the norm. Students who thrive here are often local Valley residents or those drawn to its unique binational context—hardworking, family-oriented individuals motivated by regional challenges like healthcare disparities and economic growth.

The university's focus on real-world impact suits those eager to stay connected to their roots while gaining skills for broader opportunities.