Huston-Tillotson University
Acceptance rate
39.1%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$26,709
$35,178 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
1,024
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
24.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 31.7%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Huston-Tillotson University, located in Austin, Texas, is a historically Black university that offers a rich blend of academic rigor and a commitment to social justice. Founded in 1875, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the state and has a profound legacy of uplifting the African American community. The university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve," which reflects its dedication to producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also socially conscious and ready to contribute positively to society.
The campus culture at Huston-Tillotson is vibrant and inclusive, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to engage in various extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service. The university is known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and community involvement, providing students with numerous opportunities for internships and hands-on experiences that enhance their employability. The faculty at Huston-Tillotson is composed of dedicated professionals who are committed to mentoring students and assisting them in achieving their educational and career goals. With a strong focus on STEM programs as well as liberal arts, Huston-Tillotson University prepares its students for a wide range of career paths, making it a significant contributor to the educational landscape in Texas.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Huston-Tillotson University
Huston-Tillotson University, a private institution, shows significant trends across various metrics that warrant discussion. One of the most notable aspects is the tuition costs. Over the years, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has seen a gradual increase, starting from approximately $13,494 in 2014 to $14,703 in 2024. This represents an increase of around 9% over a decade, which aligns with national trends of rising college costs. However, the tuition for graduate students has experienced a dramatic shift, escalating to $28,230 in 2021, which is a stark jump from around $10,000 prior. This sharp rise might impact enrollment numbers for graduate programs, as prospective students often consider financial feasibility when making educational decisions.
Student enrollment also reflects fluctuations, particularly in undergraduate numbers which increased from 926 in 2014 to a peak of 1,119 in 2019, before slightly declining to 991 by 2023. This trend could suggest a growing interest in the university followed by a stabilization or slight decrease, possibly influenced by rising tuition costs or other external factors such as the pandemic's impact on higher education choices.
Retention rates have shown a positive trend, climbing from approximately 57% in 2013 to about 69% in 2023. This increase indicates improvements in student satisfaction and support services, which are crucial for institutions seeking to maintain and grow their student body. Higher retention rates often correlate with better academic and social experiences, making it a critical metric for the university's reputation.
Lastly, graduation rates have seen a substantial uptick, particularly the on-time graduation rate which jumped to 21.4% by 2023, up from just 11.5% in 2013. This improvement suggests that the university is enhancing its academic support and advising services, thus helping students to complete their degrees more successfully.
Overall, while Huston-Tillotson University faces challenges with rising tuition and fluctuating enrollment, the positive trends in retention and graduation rates reflect a commitment to student success that could serve the institution well in the long term.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Austin
- Nearest international airport
- Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), about 6 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Multiple Protestant Denomination
- President
- Dr. Melva K. Wallace (President & CEO)
- Phone
- 5125053000
- Address
- 900 Chicon St, Austin, TX 78702-2795
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 60.0%, women 64.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Huston-Tillotson University
The admission data for Huston-Tillotson University reveals significant variations in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. The male and female acceptance rates have fluctuated, with male acceptance peaking at approximately 94.7% in 2011, while female acceptance reached its highest at about 97.7% in the same year. This indicates a very accommodating admission policy during that period, likely reflecting the university's efforts to boost enrollment amidst competitive pressures.
However, the years following 2011 exhibit a troubling trend, with both male and female acceptance rates declining sharply. Notably, by 2018, the male acceptance rate had plummeted to around 27.9%, and the female rate was at approximately 30.9%. This drastic reduction in acceptance rates could suggest a strategic shift in the university's admission policies or increasing competition from other institutions, possibly exacerbated by economic factors or changes in demographic trends.
Enrollment figures also exhibit a similar narrative, with the highest enrollment of 270 in 2011 followed by a significant decrease in subsequent years. The number of denied applications rose sharply, particularly in the years leading up to 2018, when the university denied almost 3,000 applicants, reflecting a tightening of admission standards.
The data also indicates a consistent trend of deferred admissions, which may suggest that the university is managing its enrollment more strategically, allowing for flexibility while still maintaining standards. As educational institutions continue to adapt to changing economic climates and student needs, tracking these trends will be crucial for understanding Huston-Tillotson University's positioning in the broader educational landscape.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 5% submitted SAT, 6% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Data at Huston-Tillotson University
The admission test data from Huston-Tillotson University over the years reflects significant trends in the academic performance and testing participation of prospective students. Notably, the number of SAT test-takers fluctuates over the years, peaking in 2010 with 185 submissions, while the participation rates also show variation, ranging from a low of 27% in 2008 to a high of 79% in 2020. This suggests that external factors, such as changes in university policies or the broader educational landscape, may influence students' decisions to submit these standardized tests.
The scores indicate a gradual improvement in the 25th to 75th percentile range for both reading and math sections of the SAT, particularly from 2018 onward, where the scores seem to stabilize around higher marks, reflecting an upward trend in student preparedness for college-level work. For example, the reading section's range improved from a low of 330-440 in 2013 to 420-500 in 2023. This could suggest enhanced educational resources or outreach efforts by the university to attract high-achieving candidates.
Moreover, the ACT participation is notably lower than the SAT, which might reflect regional trends where SAT is more popular among applicants. The consistency in maintaining a substantial percentage of applicants providing test scores is encouraging, as it indicates a committed applicant pool.
Overall, these data points reveal a dynamic picture of Huston-Tillotson University's admissions landscape, highlighting the importance of standardized test scores in assessing student readiness and the shifting patterns in test participation over time. As the university continues to adapt to these trends, it will be crucial to maintain its focus on academic excellence and support for incoming students.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 4 in 10
3,190 applicants in 2025, 39.1% admitted
1,247 admitted 1,943 not admitted Yield 23.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's5 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Numbers at Huston-Tillotson University for 2023
The data from Huston-Tillotson University for the year 2023 reveals some intriguing trends in graduate numbers across various disciplines. Notably, Business Administration and Management emerged as a significant area of focus, with seven master's degree graduates, indicating a strong demand for professionals in this field. This aligns with the ongoing growth of the business sector, which has seen a surge in opportunities for skilled graduates.
Another area worth highlighting is Psychology, where a total of 29 bachelor's degrees were awarded, showcasing the increasing interest in mental health and well-being. This trend is particularly relevant in the context of global discussions surrounding mental health, especially post-pandemic, where awareness and understanding have been amplified.
Interestingly, the data reflects limited international student participation in several programs, particularly in the bachelor's and master's categories, with most international graduates concentrated in Computer and Information Sciences. This could suggest that there are barriers to entry for international students in other fields or a lack of outreach and support for those interested in enrolling.
Furthermore, the absence of graduates in engineering and sciences indicates potential gaps in these critical fields, which are essential for fostering innovation and addressing societal challenges. It raises questions about the university's ability to attract students to these programs, especially given the increasing importance of STEM education in today’s job market.
Overall, the graduate data from Huston-Tillotson University highlights both the strengths and areas for improvement in its academic offerings, reflecting broader trends in higher education and workforce needs.
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 | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
1,059 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 58.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 651
- First-year undergraduates 289
- Graduate students 35
- Transfers and others 84
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,024)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Composition at Huston-Tillotson University in 2023
In 2023, Huston-Tillotson University showcased a diverse student body with a total of 1,025 students across various classifications. The undergraduate freshmen comprised 190 students, with a gender distribution of 53.2% male and 46.8% female. This slight male majority reflects a trend in many universities where freshmen often exhibit diverse backgrounds and interests.
The undergraduate juniors represented the largest group with 706 students, characterized by a notable female majority at 59.1%. This shift could indicate an increasing engagement of women in higher education, particularly in institutions that have historically catered to underrepresented communities. Similarly, the transfer students totaled 95, maintaining a balanced gender ratio with 41.1% male and 58.9% female, suggesting a welcoming environment for students transitioning from different institutions.
Graduate students, though the smallest group with only 34 individuals, displayed a significant female dominance at 70.6%. This statistic is reflective of a broader national trend where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, contributing to a more educated workforce.
The demographic breakdown of students by race highlights the university's commitment to diversity, although detailed statistics on specific racial categories were not fully available. The representation of different ethnic groups in student populations is crucial for fostering an inclusive campus culture that benefits all students.
Overall, Huston-Tillotson University appears to be a vibrant community investing in diversity and gender representation, which is essential for preparing students for a global society.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Huston-Tillotson University
The age composition of students at Huston-Tillotson University reveals interesting trends regarding the demographics of both undergraduate and graduate populations. The largest age group is between 18-19 years, where the number of undergraduate males is 117 and undergraduate females is 126, indicating a healthy balance of gender in this youthful cohort. This aligns with national trends showing that younger students are more likely to enroll in higher education immediately after high school.
As students progress in age, the number of undergraduate males gradually decreases, particularly in the 22-24 age range, where the figures drop to 84. Interestingly, the number of undergraduate females in this group also declines, but not as dramatically, highlighting a potential trend where older males may be less likely to pursue undergraduate studies compared to their female counterparts.
Furthermore, the data shows that there is a small representation of graduate students, especially among males, suggesting that the university might serve a predominantly undergraduate population. The 25-29 age group exhibits a slight increase in graduate females, which could indicate that more women are returning to education for advanced degrees later in life, a trend that has been observed nationally with women increasingly pursuing graduate studies.
Overall, the age distribution suggests that Huston-Tillotson University is successfully attracting a diverse student body, particularly among younger populations, while also accommodating older students who seek further education. These dynamics are essential for the university to consider as they plan future programs and resources to support their varied student demographics.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
191 in 2025 · 3.5% in 2016
11 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Data at Huston-Tillotson University
The data reflects a fluctuating trend in the enrollment of international students at Huston-Tillotson University over the years. Starting from 2004, the number of international undergraduate students was relatively low, peaking at 44 in 2015, yet showing a significant decline in subsequent years, particularly from 2019 to 2021. This decline corresponds with broader trends in the educational sector, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely impacted international student mobility worldwide.
Interestingly, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate cohort has seen a notable increase recently, rising to 4.34% in 2023. This figure suggests a renewed interest or recruitment drive aimed at attracting international students, potentially in response to previous declines. The growth in the percentage indicates that even with a stable or slightly reduced overall undergraduate population, the university is successfully increasing the share of international students.
Data for graduate students is less comprehensive, but the available numbers indicate a very low presence of international graduate students, with only one reported in the recent years. This raises questions about the university's appeal and support systems for graduate-level international students, which may require strategic improvements to enhance recruitment and retention.
Overall, the international student landscape at Huston-Tillotson University appears to be in a transitional phase. The institution might benefit from implementing targeted marketing strategies and support mechanisms to strengthen its position in the competitive landscape of higher education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$35,178
- Undergraduate tuition
- $26,709
- Room and board
- $8,469
- Graduate tuition
- $25,538
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 86% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 12%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$30.0M
Expenses$31.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Gulf Coast Athletic Conference
Gulf Coast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 32 | 20 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 20 | 15 |
| Basketball | 18 | 12 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 27 | 20 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 20 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 12 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 19 | 26 |
| Soccer | 28 | 12 |
| Baseball | 36 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 12 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
The University of Texas at AustinAustin · 1.6 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Southwestern UniversityGeorgetown · 25.8 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Texas State UniversitySan Marcos · 29.1 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of Texas-San AntonioSan Antonio · 71.5 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Trinity UniversitySan Antonio · 71.7 mi
Liberal Arts #38
-
Texas A & M University-College StationCollege Station · 86.1 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 95.5 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Rice UniversityHouston · 143.9 mi
U.S. News #16
-
University of St. Thomas (TX)Houston · 144.0 mi
U.S. News #202
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Huston-Tillotson University:
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The University of Texas at Austin - Ranked 32nd in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Rice University - With a ranking of 17, Rice University is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to undergraduate education in a research-intensive environment.
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Texas A & M University-College Station - This large public university is ranked 47th and is known for its traditions, research contributions, and strong engineering programs.
-
University of Houston - Ranked 138th, the University of Houston offers a diverse range of programs and is noted for its contributions to research and workforce development.
-
Southern Methodist University - With a ranking of 89, this private university is well-regarded for its strong business, law, and arts programs, as well as its vibrant campus culture.
These institutions provide a variety of academic programs and opportunities for students in the Austin area.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges 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
Trends in Campus Crime at Huston-Tillotson University
The crime statistics from Huston-Tillotson University over the years reveal some significant trends that merit attention. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was 2.18, which notably increased to 6.17 in 2014. This spike could indicate a period of heightened concern regarding safety on campus, potentially influenced by broader societal factors, such as increased awareness and reporting of campus crimes during that time.
However, following this peak, the statistics show a fluctuating pattern with a sharp decline to 0.97 in 2015, suggesting a possible improvement in student safety or a decrease in criminal activity. Interestingly, the years 2021 and 2022 recorded zero incidents, a remarkable achievement that could reflect effective crime prevention measures or enhanced community engagement.
The presence of crimes such as gun arrests, drug-related offenses, and alcohol-related incidents showcases the multifaceted nature of campus safety concerns. The absence of reported incidents in recent years may also suggest that students and faculty alike have become more proactive in creating a safe educational environment.
Overall, while the university has faced challenges, the recent years of low crime rates are promising. Continuous efforts in community awareness and safety programs will be essential in maintaining this positive trend. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can visit this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Huston-Tillotson University include Ahmed Johnson (Former WWF professional wrestler), Christia Adair (Texas civil rights activist and suffragist) and Bobby Bradford (Jazz trumpeter, cornetist and composer).
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Ahmed Johnson 1963–
Former WWF professional wrestler
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Christia Adair 1893–1989
Texas civil rights activist and suffragist
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Bobby Bradford 1934–
Jazz trumpeter, cornetist and composer
-
Azie Taylor Morton 1936–2003
Treasurer of the United States under Carter
-
Connie Yerwood Connor 1908–1991
First black doctor at the Texas Department of Health
-
Maud A. B. Fuller 1868–1972
Educator and Baptist leader, founder of Woman's Helper
-
Lucille Elizabeth Bishop Smith 1892–1985
Entrepreneur and chef who invented hot biscuit mix
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Herman A. Barnett 1926–1973
Surgeon and pilot; first Black graduate of UT Medical School
-
James Andrew Harris 1932–2000
Nuclear chemist who helped discover elements 104 and 105
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.