In the United States, high school graduates enroll in either a university or a college. A university in the U.S. is a large complex that provides educational, research, and academic activities, conferring bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. In contrast, colleges focus solely on educating students and do not conduct research. Students in colleges have specific majors and graduate with either a bachelor’s or an associate degree.
Higher education in the U.S. is paid for by all students without exception, with annual tuition fees ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. Houston is home to many prestigious colleges and universities that rank highly on national and global academic lists. Here is a selection of some of the best institutions in Houston, featured on houston1.one.
Rice University
Consistently earning top rankings, Rice University is located in the heart of Houston’s Museum District. Founded in 1912, this private research institution attracts talented students worldwide with its vibrant student community, engaging campus life, and pioneering research opportunities.
The university comprises eight academic schools: the Wiess School of Natural Sciences, George R. Brown School of Engineering, School of Social Sciences, School of Architecture, Shepherd School of Music, School of Humanities, Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business, and Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies. Students can also participate in 14 university sports programs.
University of Houston
Founded in 1927, this public research university includes the main and central campuses in Houston and branches in Clear Lake and Pasadena, Texas, along with additional facilities in Cinco Ranch and Sugar Land. Its bachelor’s and master’s programs prepare professionals in fields such as architecture and design, arts, business, education, engineering, public relations, hospitality, social sciences, natural sciences, law, medicine, mathematics, nursing, optometry, pharmacy, and technology.
The institution offers over 300 academic programs and features professional schools such as the Hines College of Architecture, Bauer College of Business, Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management, Law Center, College of Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Optometry, College of Pharmacy, College of Social Work, and Hobby School of Public Affairs.
At the University of Houston, a hands-on, experimental approach to education prepares students for successful careers and inspires them to become global citizens.
University of St. Thomas
Founded in 1947 by the Basilian Fathers, this private Catholic university is named after St. Thomas Aquinas. It offers 36 bachelor’s majors and 10 pre-professional programs (dentistry, engineering, law, medicine, nursing, optometry, and pharmacy), along with 17 master’s degrees, including accounting, business administration, education, faith and culture, finance, humanities, theology, and philosophy. Doctoral degrees include a Ph.D. and a Doctor of Education in Ethical Leadership.
Houston Christian University
Established in 1960 by the Texas Baptist General Convention as Houston Baptist College, this private Baptist university became a university in 1973. It offers a wide range of over 100 undergraduate majors, pre-professional programs, and master’s degrees in disciplines such as biology, chemistry, film, computer science, law, engineering, cybersecurity, finance, graphic design, history, management, marketing, music, nursing, philosophy, and political science.
Programs at this institution are based on career preparation and Christ’s teachings, providing students with the tools necessary to be compassionate and effective leaders in their careers and communities.
Houston Art Institute
Founded in 1965, this private college provides a quality academic environment for students planning creative careers through higher education. Programs are designed for bachelor’s and associate degrees, as well as diploma and certificate programs. The faculty prepares students for entry-level positions in design, media, fashion, and culinary arts.
Bachelor’s programs offer a broader general education than associate programs, fostering critical thinking skills and lifelong learning. These programs usually include elective and advanced courses, often culminating in a final project.
Associate programs are two-year academic programs that award an associate degree. These programs aim to provide students with practical professional knowledge and skills in their chosen field. They often serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree, combining specialized and general education courses.
Diploma and certificate programs do not confer degrees but instead provide diplomas or certificates upon completion, equipping students with specific technical skills for individual professions.
Texas Southern University
Founded in 1927 for African American students, this public university was established when the Houston Independent School District board decided to create separate junior colleges for each race, as Texas was racially segregated in all public institutions.
Texas Southern University offers over 100 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Schools and colleges within the university include the Thomas F. Freeman Honors College; Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs; College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences; Thurgood Marshall School of Law; College of Education; College of Science, Engineering, and Technology; Jesse H. Jones School of Business; School of Communications; College of Liberal Arts and Behavioral Sciences; and College of Transdisciplinary Studies.
College of Biblical Studies
Founded in 1976 to serve Houston’s minority communities, this private, non-profit, non-denominational biblical college focuses on biblical and theological training. Programs include online and campus-based associate degrees in biblical studies in both English and Spanish. Bachelor’s programs offer majors such as biblical studies, biblical counseling, organizational leadership, Christian leadership, and women’s ministry.
Almost 80% of students receive financial aid covering tuition. The College of Biblical Studies is a multicultural institution dedicated to educating and equipping individuals to make an impact for Christ.