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Public, 2-year

Texas Southmost College

Brownsville, Texas · www.tsc.edu

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Out-of-state tuition

$4,948

In-state $3,748

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

8,828

Student-faculty ratio 23:1

Peer median 18 : 1

Graduation rate

26.8%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 33.7%

Peer median 33.7%

“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Texas Southmost College (TSC) is a prominent community college located in Brownsville, Texas. Established in 1926, TSC has a rich history of providing quality education and vocational training to students in the region. As a public institution, it focuses on accessibility, affordability, and excellence in education. The college offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate degrees and certifications across various fields such as health sciences, technology, business, and liberal arts. This diverse curriculum is designed to cater to the needs of the local community and equip students with the skills required for today’s job market.

The college is well-known for its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive campus culture. TSC promotes student engagement through various extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations, which help build a vibrant campus life. The college’s state-of-the-art facilities include modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas, enhancing the overall learning experience. Additionally, TSC's dedicated faculty members are highly qualified and committed to the success of their students, providing personalized attention and mentorship. With a strong emphasis on community service and workforce development, Texas Southmost College plays a vital role in the educational landscape of South Texas, empowering students to achieve their academic and career goals.

Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Enrollment

Texas Southmost College has shown significant trends in tuition fees, graduation rates, and student enrollment over the years. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, starting at $4,920 in 2014 and decreasing to $3,748 in 2020, before maintaining that value through 2024. This reduction in tuition is noteworthy, especially considering the rising costs of higher education nationwide. Conversely, out-of-state tuition peaked at $14,744 in 2015 before declining to $4,948 by 2024. This substantial decrease could potentially attract more out-of-state students to the institution.

The graduation rates for undergraduate students also present an interesting narrative. In 2023, the on-time graduation rate reached 27.36%, a significant improvement compared to the 3.66% rate recorded in 2013. This increase suggests effective academic programs and support systems that may have been implemented to enhance student outcomes. The 150% time graduation rate also shows a positive trend, rising from 19.61% in 2013 to 31.19% in 2023, indicating that more students are completing their degrees, even if it takes longer than the traditional timeframe.

In terms of student enrollment, there was a dramatic decline from 12,547 students in 2013 to just 4,029 in 2016, which may have been influenced by various external factors such as economic conditions or institutional changes. However, since 2016, enrollment has gradually increased, reaching 7,648 students in 2023. This resurgence in enrollment reflects a positive response to the college's efforts to enhance its educational offerings and overall campus experience.

Overall, while Texas Southmost College has faced challenges, the trends in tuition, graduation rates, and enrollment suggest a commitment to improving accessibility and student success, which are critical factors in the current educational landscape.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
McAllen, about 50 mi
Nearest international airport
San Antonio International Airport (SAT), about 260 mi
Brownsville, Texas
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Jesus Roberto Rodriguez (President)
Phone
9562953600
City
Brownsville, Texas
Address
80 Fort Brown, Brownsville, TX 78520

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate1,1985 international (0.4%)
Top 10 Associate majors by graduates
General Studies
679
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
107
Business/Commerce, General
77
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
44
Social Work
33
Psychology, General
28
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
24
Architecture
17
Art/Art Studies, General
16
Computer and Information Sciences, General
15

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Texas Southmost College

The graduation data from Texas Southmost College for 2023 reveals a significant focus on associate degree programs, with a total of 534 graduates in General Studies, which stands out as the most populated discipline. This reflects a broader trend in higher education where many students pursue associate degrees as a cost-effective and time-efficient pathway to enter the workforce or further their education.

In the health and medical fields, which are critical in today's job market, the data presents a modest number of graduates, with the highest being 100 in Criminal Justice/Safety Studies and 41 in Social Work. This aligns with the increasing demand for professionals in healthcare and social services, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic that highlighted the need for skilled workers in these sectors.

Interestingly, there are no graduates reported for bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees across all programs, including international students. This could indicate a lack of advanced degree programs available at Texas Southmost College or a potential gap in the educational offerings that may need to be addressed to meet the aspirations of students seeking higher academic qualifications.

Moreover, the absence of international students graduating from these programs could suggest that Texas Southmost College might not be attracting a diverse student body at higher academic levels. With a global shift towards remote learning and international collaborations, enhancing graduate programs could not only help increase enrollment but also enrich the educational environment.

Overall, while the college excels in associate degrees, there appears to be an opportunity for growth in advanced degree offerings, which could further enhance its role in the community and support a more comprehensive educational framework.

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

Liberal arts has 679 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
General Studies.$25,152
Homeland security has 107 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$35,626
Businesshas 98 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Business/Commerce, General.$29,774
Accounting.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Health professionshas 71 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Medical Administrative/Executive Assistant and Medical Secretary.-
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).$56,620
Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist.$56,620
Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Sonographer and Ultrasound Technician.$56,620
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.$56,620
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Technician.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$78,015
Educationhas 68 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Secondary Education and Teaching.$29,445
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels.$29,445
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$29,445
Public administrationhas 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Social Work.$30,716
Psychology has 28 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Psychology, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Architecture has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Architecture.-
Visual and Performing artshas 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Construction trades has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Building/Property Maintenance.$29,843
Building/Construction Site Management/Manager.$29,843
Mechanic and repair has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician.-
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician.-
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.-
Legal professionshas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Legal Assistant/Paralegal.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Natural Sciences.-
Engineering technologieshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.-
Agricultural has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Agriculture, General.-
Human science has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociate
Child Care Provider/Assistant.-

Students

8,828 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 67.8%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (8,828)

Hispanic
7,377 · 83.6%
Unknown
1,186 · 13.4%
White
190 · 2.2%
Asian
25 · 0.3%
International
19 · 0.2%
Black
11 · 0.1%
Two or more races
7 · 0.1%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
61.1%
18–19
15.2%
20–21
9.7%
22–24
6.4%
25 and over
7.6%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Texas Southmost College in 2023

In 2023, Texas Southmost College showcases a diverse student body with a total of 4004 students categorized as non-degree seeking. Among the undergraduate students, the new freshmen account for 988, while the returning students represent a significant portion with 2508 individuals. The data reveals a slight gender balance among freshmen, with male students making up 50.1% and female students 49.9%.

However, the returning undergraduate students exhibit a more pronounced gender disparity, with females comprising 57.8% and males only 42.2%. This trend continues among transfer students, where female representation is 60.1% compared to 39.9% for males, indicating a growing engagement of women in higher education, which aligns with national trends showcasing increased female enrollment in colleges in recent years.

The breakdown of ethnicities among the new freshmen indicates a predominantly white demographic at 61.9%, while the representation of other ethnic groups remains relatively low. It’s crucial to note that the data for returning students and transfer students lacks comprehensive details regarding ethnicities, making it challenging to assess demographic shifts or trends in these groups.

Overall, Texas Southmost College reflects broader educational trends, particularly the increasing representation of women in higher education. As the college continues to evolve, it will be essential to promote diversity and inclusivity to enhance the educational experience for all students, ensuring that all backgrounds are represented and supported.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Texas Southmost College

The age distribution of students at Texas Southmost College reveals insightful demographics that can inform educational policies and student engagement strategies. The data indicates a significant representation of younger students, with those under 18 years old making up the largest segment, comprising approximately 39% of the total student body. This trend is consistent with national statistics, which show that many students begin their college education directly after high school.

The 18-19 age group follows closely, accounting for about 25% of the student population. These two age groups together represent a substantial 64% of the total enrollment, highlighting a youthful demographic that may require tailored support services, such as transitional programs that ease the shift from high school to college life.

As we progress through the age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment. The 20-21 age group constitutes roughly 16% of the student body, while students aged 22-24 account for around 9%. The numbers further dwindle for students aged 25 and older, with less than 5% collectively. This pattern may suggest that older students face more significant barriers to enrollment, such as work commitments or family responsibilities.

The absence of graduate-level male and female students in this data may indicate a potential area of growth for the institution. By fostering an inclusive environment that attracts diverse age groups, the college can enrich its academic community. Overall, the demographic insights from Texas Southmost College illustrate both challenges and opportunities for enhancing student retention and success.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.2%

19 in 2025 · 4.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.8%2017: 1.0%2018: 0.6%2019: 0.5%2020: 0.3%2021: 0.2%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.2%2024: 0.1%2025: 0.2%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Texas Southmost College

The data reveals significant fluctuations in international student enrollment at Texas Southmost College over the years. Starting in 2004, the number of undergraduate students was 9,753, with only 36 international students, constituting a mere 0.37% of the total. However, a notable increase occurred in subsequent years. By 2010, the undergraduate international student count rose to 753, representing 4.63% of the total undergraduate population. This upward trend peaked in 2012, with 5.06% of undergraduates coming from abroad.

Unfortunately, this growth trend took a drastic turn after 2016. The number of international undergraduates plummeted to just 193 in 2016 and continued to decline sharply in the following years, reaching an alarming low of 1 student in 2022. The data for graduate students appears similarly concerning, with a consistent decline in both total numbers and percentages after 2015.

This decline could be reflective of broader trends affecting international student mobility, including changes in immigration policies, global health crises, or shifting perceptions of studying in the United States. The COVID-19 pandemic particularly disrupted higher education systems worldwide, leading to reduced international enrollments at many institutions.

In summary, while Texas Southmost College once experienced a promising trajectory in attracting international students, recent years have posed significant challenges, indicating a need for strategies to rejuvenate international student interest and enrollment. Addressing these issues could help the college regain its previous growth and diversity.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$17,749

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$4,948
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$3,748
Room and board
$12,801
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose -12% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 106%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$78.9M

Government grants and contracts
$66.7M84.5%
Investment return
$4.0M5.0%
Tuition and fees
$3.2M4.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$795K1.0%
Other
$4.3M5.4%

Expenses$69.4M

Institutional support
$16.1M23.1%
Instruction
$12.6M18.2%
Scholarships
$10.3M14.8%
Student services
$5.5M7.9%
Public service
$4.6M6.6%
Academic support
$4.3M6.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.4M2.0%
Other
$14.7M21.1%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$57,081peers $68,588

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NJCAA
2025
NJCAA Division I MENWOMEN
Soccer3128
Cross Country79
2024
NJCAA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer2925

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable institutions near Texas Southmost College:

  1. Rice University - Ranked 17th in the 2024 US News rankings, Rice University is a prestigious private research university located in Houston, Texas. It is renowned for its strong emphasis on science, engineering, and liberal arts.

  2. Trinity University - This private liberal arts university is ranked 59th in the 2024 US News rankings. Located in San Antonio, Texas, Trinity University is known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  3. The University of Texas at Austin - With a ranking of 32, UT Austin is one of the largest and most respected public universities in the United States, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  4. Texas A & M University-College Station - Ranked 47th, Texas A&M is a prominent public research university known for its strong engineering, business, and agricultural programs.

  5. University of Houston - Ranked 133rd, the University of Houston is a major public research university offering a diverse range of programs and a vibrant urban campus.

These institutions represent a mix of public and private universities, offering various academic programs and opportunities for students in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Domestic violence
4
Stalking
3
Burglary
2
Motor vehicle theft
2
Arson
2
Dating violence
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Texas Southmost College

The crime data at Texas Southmost College over the years presents a noteworthy trend of decreasing incidents on campus. Beginning with a crime rate of 6.23 per 1000 students in 2013, the rates have progressively declined, hitting a remarkable low of 0.00 in 2021. This significant drop reflects effective measures taken by the institution to enhance campus safety and student welfare.

The data reveals that the most common crime type recorded was related to gun arrests, with a peak in 2013, but the numbers have dramatically decreased in subsequent years. By 2022, only a few incidents were reported, indicating a successful reduction in serious offenses. The absence of any recorded incidents in 2021 is particularly striking, suggesting that the college environment may have become safer during that period, potentially due to increased security protocols or community initiatives.

While the overall crime rate has diminished, it is important to maintain vigilance and continue strengthening preventive measures. As campuses nationwide grapple with similar issues, the experience of Texas Southmost College can serve as a model for other institutions aiming to create a safer environment for their students.

It is crucial for college administrations to stay informed about crime trends and to implement appropriate interventions. Continuous engagement with students and local law enforcement can further bolster security efforts, ensuring that the campus remains a place of learning and growth without the shadow of crime. For more details on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

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.