University of Houston-Downtown
The Vibe Check
University of Houston-Downtown pulses with an urban, commuter-friendly energy where students are laser-focused on balancing academics with real-world responsibilities. It feels like a launchpad for Houston's workforce, where diverse, non-traditional students bring life experience into the classroom, fostering a collaborative and pragmatic atmosphere. The campus itself is a modern hub nestled in the heart of the city, buzzing with the constant motion of professionals and learners alike.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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Academics & Majors
UHD's academic strengths lie in its career-aligned programs, particularly in Business & Marketing, Criminal Justice, and Computer Science, which are designed to meet the needs of the Houston job market. The faculty, often industry professionals themselves, prioritize practical, hands-on teaching over abstract theory, ensuring students graduate with applicable skills. While research opportunities are more focused on undergraduate engagement and community-based projects rather than large-scale lab science, they provide valuable experience.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Houston
Student life is deeply integrated with the city of Houston, offering endless opportunities from Astros games to the Theater District and world-class museums. Students often explore the diverse food scene in nearby Midtown and Montrose, or take advantage of Houston's extensive park system for a break from the urban pace. With the METRORail and bike shares, the entire city becomes your campus playground.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($53,551):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The UHD campus is located in a bustling downtown area with a visible security presence and well-lit pathways. Students should remain aware of their surroundings like in any major city center, but the campus itself is generally considered safe with standard urban precautions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Extremely affordable tuition, especially for Texas residents.
- ✓ Prime downtown location provides direct access to internships and jobs.
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes it an accessible option for many students.
- ✓ Strong, career-oriented programs in business, tech, and criminal justice.
Cons
- ✗ The 32% graduation rate is significantly below the national average.
- ✗ As a commuter campus, traditional dorm life and residential community are limited.
- ✗ The 67% retention rate suggests many students transfer or leave after the first year.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UHD is known for being a highly accessible, urban university that provides affordable, career-focused education to the diverse population of Houston. It excels in practical, applied programs like Business, Criminal Justice, and Computer Science that directly serve the local industry. Its identity is deeply tied to its commuter student body and its role as a launchpad for working adults and first-generation students.
No, it is not hard to get into. UHD has a very high acceptance rate of 90.64%, making it an accessible option for most applicants. The average SAT score is around 1041, but the open admissions policy means the university is focused on providing opportunity rather than exclusivity. A complete application is typically sufficient for admission.
Campus life at UHD is active but revolves around a commuter student population, meaning the experience is more focused on academics and less on residential activities. The campus is a modern, urban hub where students attend classes, utilize study spaces, and participate in student organizations before heading to work or home. Student life is enriched by Houston itself, with students engaging in the city's cultural and entertainment offerings rather than a self-contained campus bubble.
For Texas residents, UHD is an excellent financial value, with in-state tuition under $8,000 and an average net price that is manageable for many families. The 10-year median earnings of $53,551 for graduates indicate a solid return on investment, particularly for those entering fields like business and tech in the Houston market. However, prospective students should be aware of the low graduation rate, which could impact the long-term value if a degree is not completed.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 15,483
- In-State Tuition $7,708
- Out-of-State $17,788
- Zip Code 77002
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an in-state tuition under $8,000 and a high Pell Grant rate of over 51%, UHD offers a pathway to a degree for students from all economic backgrounds. The 10-year median earnings of $53,551 provide a solid return on investment, especially considering the relatively low cost of attendance. For Houston residents seeking a high-value, career-focused education without massive debt, this institution presents a compelling financial case.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.