University of Houston

Houston's intellectual heart. Global impact.

📍 Houston, United States 🇺🇸

🏆 #132 in United States · QS World #556 · THE World #401 · ARWU #201

Quick Facts about University of Houston

  • Founded: 1927
  • Type: Public
  • Campus: Urban
  • Tuition: $26,000 – $80,500/year
  • Language: English, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Vietnamese, Spanish
  • Intakes: January, May, August, September

About University of Houston

The University of Houston (UH) is a public research university located in Houston, Texas, and is the flagship institution of the University of Houston System. With over 276 degree programs, UH is a diverse and innovative institution that attracts students from around the world. It is recognized as a Tier One research university, offering a dynamic academic environment in one of America's fastest growing economic hubs.

Academics

UH offers a wide array of programs across various colleges, including Engineering, Business, Hotel and Restaurant Management, Health Sciences, Creative Writing, and Law. The Cullen College of Engineering is highly regarded, with strong programs in chemical, civil, industrial, and mechanical engineering, emphasizing real-world applications and industry partnerships. The Bauer College of Business is notable for its entrepreneurship and supply chain management programs, with the Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship consistently ranked among the top nationally. The Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management is also a top-ranked hospitality program, providing hands-on experience through on-campus facilities.

International Students

The University of Houston is a popular destination for international students, with approximately 3,273 international students in 2020, making up about 7% of the student body. The International Student and Scholar Services Office (ISSSO) provides support and resources for international students and scholars. English language proficiency is a requirement for admission, with options to demonstrate this through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or the Duolingo English Test, or by completing the Intensive English Program at UH's Language and Culture Center. The university's diverse environment and location in a global city like Houston contribute to cultural integration.

Campus & Location

The University of Houston's main campus spans 894 acres in Southeast Houston, a historic and culturally rich neighborhood. The campus features numerous green spaces, fountains, and sculptures, with buildings designed by renowned architects. Houston itself is the fourth-largest city in the United States, offering a vibrant city life with diverse cultures, arts, entertainment, and business opportunities. The campus is well-connected, and its location provides access to various attractions and industries.

Career Outcomes

UH graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes, with 91% employed one year after graduation. The university's Career Services offer extensive support, including resume assistance, career counseling, and networking events, connecting students with big-name recruiters. Graduates find employment in diverse industries such as accounting, aviation, consulting, and energy. UH also fosters a strong startup culture, supporting new ventures from faculty, students, and alumni through mentorship, funding, and resources. The university collaborates with Rice University on accelerators like RED Labs to further support entrepreneurship in Houston.

Information for International Students at University of Houston

University of Houston in Houston, United States welcomes international students.

  • Visa support available
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available
  • Teaching languages: English, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Vietnamese, Spanish

Admissions Requirements for University of Houston

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Houston:

  • IELTS minimum: 6.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 79
  • Duolingo minimum: 105
  • GPA minimum: 3
  • Application fee: $90
  • Selectivity: Open (60%+)

Apply to University of Houston →

Programs at University of Houston (7 programs)

University of Houston offers 7 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (3)

  • Architecture (BArch) — 60 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
    This professional degree program prepares students for careers in architecture, focusing on design, history, theory, technology, and professional practice. Students engage in studio-based learning and develop a strong portfolio.
    Field: Architecture
    Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Designer, Construction Manager, Interior Designer
  • Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
    This program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse, covering patient care, health assessment, pharmacology, and clinical practice in various healthcare settings.
    Field: Health Sciences
    Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Administrator
  • Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $11,000/yr
    Students learn about human behavior and mental processes, covering topics such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, developmental psychology, and abnormal psychology. The program emphasizes research methods and critical thinking.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Counseling Assistant, Human Resources Specialist, Market Researcher, Social Worker

Master Programs (2)

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 22 months · English · $30,000/yr
    The MBA program provides advanced business education, focusing on leadership, strategic management, finance, marketing, and operations. It prepares professionals for executive and leadership roles in various industries.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Consultant, Financial Analyst, Marketing Director
  • Creative Writing (MFA) — 24 months · English · $17,000/yr
    This program fosters the development of creative writers in fiction, poetry, and non-fiction, emphasizing workshops, literary theory, and manuscript development.
    Field: Humanities
    Career outcomes: Author, Editor, Creative Writing Instructor

PhD Programs (2)

  • Mathematics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $18,000/yr · STEM
    A rigorous doctoral program focusing on advanced mathematical theories, research, and applications across various fields, including pure and applied mathematics.
    Field: Mathematics
    Career outcomes: Mathematician, University Professor, Quantitative Analyst
  • Chemical Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $18,000/yr · STEM
    The PhD program in Chemical Engineering focuses on advanced research in areas such as catalysis, materials science, process systems engineering, and biomedical engineering. Students conduct original research leading to a dissertation.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, R&D Engineer, Consultant

Scholarships & Tuition at University of Houston

Annual tuition for international students: $26,000 – $80,500/year

✅ University of Houston offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of University of Houston

  • National Ranking: #132 in United States
  • QS World University Ranking: #556
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #401
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #201
  • Ranking tier: Research University
  • Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at University of Houston

  • Student housing available
  • No sports facilities
  • No disability support info
  • Campus type: Urban

Key Highlights

  • Tier One research university
  • Diverse academic programs
  • Top-ranked entrepreneurship
  • Global student body
  • Houston's economic hub
  • Large urban campus

Accreditation

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA)
  • Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP)
  • American Psychological Association (APA)
  • Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA)
  • National Architectural Accrediting Board, Inc.
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
  • Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
  • American Speech, Language, Hearing Association (ASHA), Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
  • Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)
  • National Association of Schools of Music

Notable Alumni

  • Jim Parsons
  • Hakeem Olajuwon
  • Carl Lewis
  • Dennis Quaid
  • Mary Kay Ash

Frequently Asked Questions about University of Houston

What is University of Houston?

University of Houston is a public university located in Houston, United States, founded in 1927. .

How much does it cost to study at University of Houston?

Tuition fees at University of Houston for international students range from $26,000 – $80,500/year. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for University of Houston?

IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 79. Duolingo minimum: 105. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $90. Selectivity: Open (60%+).

What language are courses taught in at University of Houston?

Courses at University of Houston are taught in English and Arabic and Chinese and French and German and Italian and Japanese and Korean and Latin and Vietnamese and Spanish. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.

How many programs does University of Houston offer?

University of Houston offers 7 programs: 3 Bachelor's, 2 Master's, and 2 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is University of Houston ranked?

#132 in United States · QS World #556 · THE World #401 · ARWU #201.

Does University of Houston offer scholarships?

Yes, University of Houston offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does University of Houston provide visa support?

Yes, University of Houston provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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