University of Houston-Downtown
Acceptance rate
90.0%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$17,434
In-state $7,582
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
12,622
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
13.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 30.9%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is a vibrant urban institution located in the heart of Houston, Texas. Established in 1974, UHD has grown to become one of the largest universities in the Houston area, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university's mission emphasizes accessibility and inclusion, making higher education attainable for a broad spectrum of students, particularly those from underrepresented communities. With a strong focus on experiential learning, UHD encourages students to engage with the city through internships, community service, and research opportunities, thereby enriching their educational experience while contributing to the local community.
UHD is known for its dedicated faculty and small class sizes, which foster a supportive learning environment. The university prides itself on its commitment to student success, offering various resources such as academic advising, tutoring centers, and career services. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, computer labs, and study spaces that enhance the learning experience. Additionally, UHD's location in downtown Houston provides students with unique opportunities to connect with leading industries, cultural institutions, and a diverse population. The university also boasts a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations, clubs, and events that promote a sense of community among students. Overall, the University of Houston-Downtown stands out as an inclusive institution dedicated to preparing its graduates for successful careers in an ever-evolving global landscape.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention at University of Houston-Downtown
The data from the University of Houston-Downtown reveals significant trends in tuition, graduation rates, and student retention over recent years. Firstly, tuition fees have steadily increased, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from $5,278 in 2014 to $7,450 in 2023, marking an increase of 41%. This trend mirrors the national pattern of escalating higher education costs, which can place a financial burden on students and their families.
In terms of academic success, the graduation rates for undergraduate students show a notable improvement. The on-time graduation rate increased from just over 1% in 2013 to approximately 9% in 2023, while the 150% graduation rate saw a leap from 12.4% to nearly 30%. This suggests that the institution may be enhancing its support systems, aiding students in completing their degrees more efficiently, which is essential for their career prospects and overall satisfaction.
Moreover, student retention has seen fluctuations, with a retention rate of 67% in 2013 dipping to around 65% in 2023. This slight decrease highlights the challenges universities face in keeping students engaged and committed to their studies, especially as financial pressures rise. Retention is critical as it not only affects graduation rates but also influences the institution's reputation and funding.
Overall, while the university is experiencing a rise in tuition and improved graduation outcomes, maintaining student retention remains a challenge. These metrics are vital for prospective students and stakeholders who evaluate the educational quality and financial viability of their investment in higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Houston
- Nearest international airport
- George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), about 15 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Loren J. Blanchard (President)
- Phone
- 7132218000
- Address
- 1 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002-1014
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 86.6%, women 90.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at the University of Houston-Downtown
The admission trends at the University of Houston-Downtown reveal significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. Notably, in 2014, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants were exceptionally high, at approximately 95% for males and 95% for females. However, as the years progressed, these rates saw a sharp decline, reaching about 78% for males and 77% for females in 2016. This indicates a growing competitiveness in the admission process, which could be attributed to an increase in applications or a strategic shift in the university's enrollment policies.
In terms of enrollment, the university experienced a peak in 2020 with 1,467 new students, coinciding with a more favorable acceptance rate of around 87% for males and 90% for females. The subsequent years, particularly 2021 and 2022, maintained relatively high enrollment figures while showing an increase in the number of deferred applications, suggesting that applicants may be opting to delay their education amidst ongoing uncertainties in the global landscape, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
The data also indicates a notable rise in the number of students denied admission, particularly in 2016 and 2019, which raises questions about the university's capacity and the demand for higher education in the region. As the institution navigates these trends, it may need to consider the implications of these changes on its reputation and student diversity. Overall, the University of Houston-Downtown's admission statistics reflect broader trends in higher education, including increasing competition and evolving student preferences.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School2 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 41% submitted SAT, 4% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at University of Houston-Downtown
The data from the University of Houston-Downtown reveals significant trends in the admission scores and the percentage of applicants submitting standardized test scores over the years. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has remained relatively high, with rates fluctuating between 86% to 91% from 2014 to 2019, and a slight decline to 43% in 2023. This decrease may reflect a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to disruptions in standardized testing.
The SAT reading and math scores show a gradual increase in the minimum and maximum scores achieved by the middle 50% of admitted students from 2014 to 2023. For instance, in 2014, the 25th percentile score for reading started at 380, while by 2023, it had risen to 480. Similarly, the upper ranges have seen improvements, indicating that the university is attracting more competitive applicants over time.
This pattern is indicative of a broader shift in the educational landscape, where universities are striving to enhance their academic profiles by admitting students with higher standardized test scores. Additionally, with the rise of alternative admissions criteria, such as holistic reviews, the focus is shifting from solely test scores to a more comprehensive evaluation of a student's capabilities and potential contributions to the university community.
Overall, the data suggests a positive trajectory for the University of Houston-Downtown in terms of the quality of admitted students, but it also raises questions about the future role of standardized testing in higher education admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
6,551 applicants in 2025, 90.0% admitted
5,893 admitted 658 not admitted Yield 20.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's230 (6% international)
- Data Analytics, General · Master's51 (27% international)
- Accounting · Master's47 (0% international)
- Securities Services Administration/Management · Master's47 (2% international)
- Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management · Master's21 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's17 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Programs at University of Houston-Downtown
The data from the University of Houston-Downtown indicates a diverse range of graduate programs with varying numbers of graduates. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program stands out, with a significant number of graduates at both the bachelor's and master's levels, totaling 355 and 12 respectively. This trend aligns with the growing demand for business professionals in various sectors, reflecting the importance of business acumen in today's economy.
The psychology program also shows a healthy number of graduates at the bachelor's level, with 239 students completing their degree. This suggests a robust interest in mental health and human behavior, which is particularly relevant given the increasing focus on mental health awareness and support in society.
Interestingly, the data reveals a minimal representation of international students in most programs, especially at the bachelor’s level, where only a few international students graduated. This may reflect broader immigration trends and policies impacting international students' ability to study in the U.S. The limited numbers could also indicate potential areas for growth in attracting international talent, which is vital for fostering a more diverse academic environment.
Moreover, the absence of graduates in several categories, particularly in the fields of education and various interdisciplinary studies, suggests that these programs may require reevaluation or promotional efforts to attract more students. Overall, the data provides valuable insights into the academic landscape at the University of Houston-Downtown, highlighting areas of strength and potential growth.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $58,421 | ||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $55,949-$80,660 | ||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $55,949-$80,660 | ||
| Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. | $55,949-$80,660 | ||
| Accounting. | $57,075 | ||
| Finance, General. | $56,883 | ||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | $42,594 | ||
| Management Information Systems, General. | $63,015 | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $48,141 | ||
| Insurance. | $70,256 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | ||
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | $50,752 | ||
| Data Science, General. | - | ||
| Data Analytics, General. | $91,443 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $43,188-$70,563 | ||
| Securities Services Administration/Management. | $43,188-$70,563 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $42,448 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Curriculum and Instruction. | $63,323 | ||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $62,664 | ||
| Artificial Intelligence. | $62,664 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $41,030 | ||
| Biotechnology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $41,130 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Aspects of Health. | $39,900 | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $99,177 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | $47,739 | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $51,648 | ||
| Sociology, General. | $50,849 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $47,207 | ||
| Communication Management and Strategic Communications. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $42,381 | ||
| Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing. | $46,513 | ||
| Rhetoric and Composition. | $46,513 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | $65,918 | ||
| Industrial Safety Technology/Technician. | $54,928 | ||
| Computer Engineering Technology/Technician. | $79,102 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $46,413 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | $52,996 | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | $49,314 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | $28,831 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $51,063 | ||
| Applied Statistics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | $43,844 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $35,371 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
Students
13,730 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 38:62 · Freshman retention 67.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 9,218
- First-year undergraduates 857
- Graduate students 1,108
- Transfers and others 2,547
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (12,622)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Demographic Insights of University of Houston-Downtown Students in 2023
The demographic composition of the University of Houston-Downtown in 2023 reveals significant insights into the student population. Among the undergraduate newcomers, there are 1,373 students, with a notable gender distribution of 45.6% male and 54.4% female, indicating a slightly higher enrollment of female students in this category. The trend continues with undergraduate continuing students, where 9,385 individuals are enrolled, and the gender ratio shifts to 36.2% male and 63.8% female, highlighting a pronounced female majority.
For undergraduate transfer students, the figures show 1,994 students with 35.3% male and 64.7% female, reinforcing the pattern of higher female representation in the undergraduate demographics. Graduate students number 1,352, again with a majority of 37.5% male and 62.5% female.
The racial and ethnic diversity among these groups, although not fully detailed in the data provided, showcases an important aspect of the university's commitment to inclusivity. The composition includes various ethnic backgrounds, such as White, Asian, Latinx, and others, indicating a multicultural environment that is essential for fostering diverse perspectives in academic settings.
This gender and ethnic diversity aligns with broader educational trends in the U.S., where female enrollment in higher education institutions has consistently outpaced male enrollment in recent years. As universities like the University of Houston-Downtown continue to attract a diverse student body, it is crucial to examine the implications for campus culture and academic success, ensuring that all students receive equitable support and opportunities for growth.
Age Demographics at University of Houston-Downtown
The age distribution of students at the University of Houston-Downtown reveals intriguing insights into the student body's composition. Notably, the largest group of undergraduate males falls within the 18-19 age range, accounting for approximately 36% of all undergraduate males. This suggests a strong influx of traditional-age students entering college right after high school.
Undergraduate females follow a similar trend, with a staggering 40% of them also in the 18-19 category. When combined with the younger age groups, it becomes clear that the university primarily attracts younger students, with almost 50% of the total undergraduates aged 22 or younger. This aligns with national trends where a significant portion of college attendees are recent high school graduates.
Interestingly, the age group of 25-29 shows a strong representation among both male and female graduate students, indicating that a considerable number of individuals pursue further education after gaining some professional experience. The presence of students aged 30 and above further emphasizes the university's accessibility for non-traditional students, who are increasingly seeking higher education to enhance their career prospects.
Moreover, the demographic representation of students aged 50 and above remains minimal, comprising only about 2% of the total student population. This could reflect broader societal trends, where older adults may face barriers such as financial constraints or changing family responsibilities when considering higher education.
In summary, the student age demographics at the University of Houston-Downtown indicate a diverse mix of traditional and non-traditional students, highlighting the institution's role in accommodating various educational journeys in an evolving workforce landscape.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
227 in 2025 · 5.2% in 2016
53 in 2025 · 3.3% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at University of Houston-Downtown
The data on international student enrollment at the University of Houston-Downtown reveals significant trends over nearly two decades. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has generally increased, peaking at 5.63% in 2019 before experiencing a noticeable drop in recent years. The decline in 2021 and 2023, where the proportion fell to 2.15%, raises concerns, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted global travel and education.
For graduate programs, the international student population has shown more fluctuation, with a peak of 5.39% in 2022. The data also highlights a growing interest in graduate studies among international students, as evidenced by the increase in total graduate enrollment despite the overall challenges faced during the pandemic. The jump from just 1.11% in 2014 to over 5% in recent years suggests that the university is becoming more attractive to international graduate students.
Moreover, as institutions worldwide adapt to the post-pandemic landscape, it will be crucial for universities like Houston-Downtown to implement strategies that sustain and grow their international student body. This includes enhancing support services, ensuring a welcoming environment, and offering programs that meet the evolving demands of a diverse student population. As global education continues to transform, maintaining a robust international presence is vital for enriching the academic community and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$27,610
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $17,434
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $7,582
- Room and board
- $10,176
- Graduate tuition
- $16,509
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 16% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 17%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$208M
Expenses$204M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of St. Thomas (TX)Houston · 2.9 mi
U.S. News #202
-
University of HoustonHouston · 3.3 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Rice UniversityHouston · 4.2 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Texas A & M University-College StationCollege Station · 82.9 mi
U.S. News #59
-
The University of Texas at AustinAustin · 146.7 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Southwestern UniversityGeorgetown · 150.2 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Texas State UniversitySan Marcos · 155.1 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 161.6 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Trinity UniversitySan Antonio · 188.7 mi
Liberal Arts #38
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding the University of Houston-Downtown:
-
Rice University - Ranked 17th in the 2024 US News rankings, Rice University is a prestigious private research university known for its strong emphasis on research and academics.
-
The University of Texas at Austin - With a rank of 32, this public university is renowned for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life, making it one of the leading institutions in the state.
-
Texas A & M University-College Station - Ranked 47th, Texas A&M is known for its research initiatives and strong engineering programs, along with a rich tradition of student involvement.
-
Southern Methodist University - This university ranks 89th and is recognized for its strong business and law programs, as well as its commitment to community service.
-
Baylor University - Holding the 93rd position, Baylor is a private Christian university known for its comprehensive academic programs and vibrant campus culture.
-
Trinity University - Ranked 59th, Trinity is a private liberal arts university that offers a personalized education with a strong focus on undergraduate research.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities, making the area around the University of Houston-Downtown a hub for quality higher education.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at University of Houston-Downtown
The crime data from the University of Houston-Downtown reveals significant fluctuations in the crime rates from 2013 to 2023. Notably, the year 2014 saw a dramatic spike in reported incidents, with a crime rate of 2.40 per 1,000 students, a considerable increase compared to previous years. This peak appears to be an outlier, as subsequent years showed a gradual decline in the rates, except for a brief rise in 2018, which reached 3.18 per 1,000 students.
The types of crimes reported include gun arrests, drug-related offenses, and alcohol-related incidents. Interestingly, incidents of domestic violence and stalking were also recorded, reflecting broader societal issues impacting college campuses. The data suggests a concerning trend where the rates of certain crimes, particularly substance abuse-related arrests, remain prevalent.
By 2022, the crime rate had dropped to 0.81 per 1,000 students, indicating a positive trend towards safer campus conditions. However, the rise again in 2023 to 1.55 per 1,000 students highlights the need for continuous vigilance and effective crime prevention strategies.
Overall, while the data shows improvements in crime rates over the years, the fluctuations signal that the university must remain proactive in ensuring student safety. Engaging the campus community in awareness and prevention initiatives could further enhance the campus environment. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of University of Houston-Downtown include Diana López (Taekwondo athlete, 2008 Olympic bronze medalist), Juan Díaz (Professional boxer and former lightweight champion) and Troy Nehls (U.S. representative from Texas and former sheriff).
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Diana López 1984–
Taekwondo athlete, 2008 Olympic bronze medalist
-
Juan Díaz 1983–
Professional boxer and former lightweight champion
-
Troy Nehls 1968–
U.S. representative from Texas and former sheriff
-
Mario Valentin Gallegos Jr. 1950–2012
Texas Democratic politician and firefighter
-
Mary Ann Perez 1962–
Texas state representative
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.