South Texas College of Law Houston
About
South Texas College of Law Houston (STCL Houston) is a distinguished institution located in the heart of Houston, Texas. Established in 1923, the law school prides itself on its commitment to providing a practical legal education that prepares students for successful careers in law. One of the school's defining features is its strong emphasis on experiential learning. STCL Houston offers a variety of clinical programs and externships that allow students to gain real-world experience while still in school. The school boasts a diverse curriculum where students can explore specialties such as intellectual property law, litigation, and alternative dispute resolution. This blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application equips graduates with the skills necessary to excel in various legal environments.
Another notable aspect of STCL Houston is its vibrant community and supportive culture. The law school fosters an inclusive atmosphere that encourages collaboration among students, faculty, and staff. The campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the learning experience, including modern classrooms, a comprehensive law library, and dedicated spaces for student organizations. Additionally, the school's location in Houston, one of the largest and most diverse cities in the United States, provides students with ample opportunities for networking and professional development. With a strong alumni network and connections to local law firms, students benefit from a wealth of resources that aid in securing internships and job placements after graduation. Overall, STCL Houston stands out as a leading law school committed to excellence in legal education and community engagement.
Analysis of Student Demographics and Enrollment Trends
The data from South Texas College of Law Houston provides insight into enrollment trends, particularly focusing on graduate students and gender ratios over the years. One notable observation is the steady decline in the number of graduate students from 2013 to 2018, where it dropped from 1,225 to 936. However, a slight recovery can be noted in the following years, with the student count reaching 1,003 by 2023. This fluctuation could indicate changing interest in legal education in the region or broader economic factors influencing enrollment decisions.
In terms of gender demographics, the proportion of male graduate students has seen a gradual decrease from approximately 56.2% in 2014 to about 45.6% by 2023, indicating a shift toward greater gender parity in the graduate program. Conversely, the percentage of female graduate students has increased from around 43.8% to 54.4%. This trend is significant as it reflects a broader societal change towards inclusivity and diversity within professional fields, particularly in law, which has historically been male-dominated.
Moreover, the retention rates and graduation statistics, while not explicitly provided in the data, are critical for assessing the overall health of the academic program. A consistent retention rate is vital for maintaining a strong academic environment and ensuring that students complete their degrees successfully. The increase in female representation along with the slight recovery in enrollment suggests a positive trend in the student experience, which could lead to improved retention and graduation rates moving forward.
Overall, while the college faces challenges concerning enrollment numbers, the positive shifts in gender ratios are promising indicators of a more balanced and inclusive academic environment. The trends observed could potentially attract a more diverse student body, enhancing the college's reputation and effectiveness in preparing future legal professionals.
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
- Reynaldo Valencia (President and Dean)
- Phone
- 7136598040
- Address
- 1303 San Jacinto Street, Houston, TX 77002-7006
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
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Law School13 programs#128▲10
- Trial Advocacy#6▲6
- Dispute Resolution#24▼1
- Legal Writing#36▲15
- Contracts Law#108▲10
- Business/Corporate Law#124▲35
- Health Care Law#125▲3
- Clinical Training#128▼3
- Constitutional Law#135▼19
- Tax Law#145▼27
- International Law#156▼8
- Environmental Law#162▼6
- Criminal Law#166▼1
- Intellectual Property Law#166▼6
- Full Law School ranking ›
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
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
Popular graduate programs
- Law · Doctoral325 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from South Texas College of Law Houston
The graduation data from South Texas College of Law Houston reveals some intriguing insights into the academic landscape of the institution. Notably, there are no graduates in the bachelor's or master's categories, suggesting a focused offering primarily in advanced degrees. This aligns with the institution's reputation as a law school, where the primary emphasis is on the doctorate in law.
A striking feature of the data is the significant number of doctorate graduates, totaling 283. This indicates a robust program for aspiring legal professionals, reflecting a commitment to producing highly qualified lawyers. The presence of one international doctorate student further suggests that the institution attracts global talent, enhancing its diversity and academic rigor.
The absence of bachelor's and master's graduates may indicate a strategic decision to concentrate on postgraduate education, catering to individuals who are already committed to pursuing a career in law. This trend is consistent with broader movements in higher education, where many institutions are focusing on specialized programs that offer advanced qualifications rather than undergraduate degrees.
Moreover, the lack of international bachelor and master graduates might reflect the competitive nature of law programs, which often require rigorous prior academic preparation. It also raises questions about accessibility and the pathways available for international students in entering legal education.
In conclusion, the data points to South Texas College of Law Houston as a specialized institution dedicated to cultivating legal expertise at the highest levels, while also indicating potential areas for growth in attracting undergraduate international students.
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 | Doctor |
|---|---|---|
| Law. | $85,930 |
Students
1,089 students in 2025
- Graduate students 1,089
Data insights
Student Demographics at South Texas College of Law Houston in 2023
The student body composition at South Texas College of Law Houston presents an insightful look into the diversity and gender representation within the institution. As of 2023, the law school boasts a total of 1,003 graduate students, with a relatively balanced gender distribution. Males constitute approximately 45.6% of the graduate population, while females represent a slightly larger segment at 54.4%. This indicates a continuing trend of female representation in law schools, which has been on the rise over the past few decades.
Diving deeper into the ethnic and racial breakdown of the student body, the data reveals that among the graduate students, 507 are identified as White, accounting for nearly half of the population. The remainder consists of various other ethnic groups, although specific numbers for each subgroup are not provided. This composition reflects a growing awareness and effort towards inclusivity in legal education, aligning with national trends that emphasize the importance of diverse perspectives in the field of law.
Overall, the statistics from South Texas College of Law Houston underscore a significant advancement in gender balance and a varied racial composition, which is crucial for fostering a more equitable and comprehensive legal environment. Such diversity not only enriches the learning experience but also prepares students to address complex societal issues in their future legal practices. As law schools continue to evolve, it is essential to monitor these demographics to ensure that they reflect the society they serve.
Age Composition of South Texas College of Law Houston Students
The age distribution among students at South Texas College of Law Houston reveals interesting trends in the demographics of the legal education sector. The majority of students fall within the 22-24 and 25-29 age brackets, indicating that younger adults predominantly pursue legal studies, aligning with national trends where younger individuals are increasingly entering professional fields earlier in their careers.
Notably, the graduate male population peaks in the 25-29 age group with 176 students, while the female counterpart is slightly higher with 185 students. This trend suggests that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees in law, reflecting broader societal shifts toward gender equality in professional domains. The data shows that the 22-24 age group is also significant, with a total of 388 students, marking this as a critical age for those entering the legal profession.
Interestingly, as we look at older age groups, there is a gradual decline in student numbers. The 30-34 age group has 63 males and 55 females, while those aged 35-39 show 27 males and 30 females. This decline could suggest that individuals in these age brackets might be more established in their careers or face different life responsibilities, making a career change to law less common.
The representation of students aged 50-64 is particularly low, with only four males and five females, indicating that legal education attracts primarily younger individuals. This pattern emphasizes the importance of early career development within the legal field, as younger professionals often possess a fresh perspective and adaptability in an evolving legal landscape. Overall, the data highlights the shifting dynamics of student demographics in law schools, reflecting broader societal changes and the increasing importance of diversity in legal education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 25 private law schools in the U.S.
15 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Graduate Student Enrollment at South Texas College of Law Houston
The data from South Texas College of Law Houston reveals some intriguing trends regarding the enrollment of international graduate students over the years. Notably, the percentage of international students in the graduate programs has shown a gradual increase from 0.23% in 2010 to 0.60% in 2023. This upward trend indicates a growing appeal of the institution to international students, possibly reflecting broader changes in the global landscape of legal education.
The fluctuation in the total number of graduate students, which decreased from 1,278 in 2010 to 975 in 2020, could be attributed to various factors, including economic conditions and shifts in immigration policies. However, the notable rise in the proportion of international students, particularly the jump to 0.90% in 2015, suggests that even amidst declining overall enrollment, there was a specific interest from international applicants during that time.
The COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly impacted international student mobility, as seen in the low enrollment figures in 2020 and 2021, where only 0.10% of graduate students were from abroad. However, the subsequent increase in 2022 and 2023, where the percentage rose to 0.41% and 0.60% respectively, indicates a rebound as institutions adapt to new circumstances and international students seek opportunities abroad once again.
Overall, these trends reflect the resilience and adaptability of South Texas College of Law Houston in attracting international talent, which is vital for enriching the academic environment and fostering a diverse legal community. As the world continues to navigate post-pandemic challenges, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics evolve in the coming years.
Cost
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$48.9M
Expenses$41.8M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 25 private law schools 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
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University of St. Thomas (TX)Houston · 2.1 mi
U.S. News #202
-
University of HoustonHouston · 2.6 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Rice UniversityHouston · 3.3 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Texas A & M University-College StationCollege Station · 83.3 mi
U.S. News #59
-
The University of Texas at AustinAustin · 146.6 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Southwestern UniversityGeorgetown · 150.3 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Texas State UniversitySan Marcos · 154.8 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 162.0 mi
U.S. News #90
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Trinity UniversitySan Antonio · 188.3 mi
Liberal Arts #38
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding South Texas College of Law Houston:
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Rice University - Ranked 17th, Rice University is a prestigious private research university located in Houston, Texas. Known for its strong programs in science, engineering, and the humanities, it offers a rich academic environment with a low student-to-faculty ratio.
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University of Houston - The University of Houston, ranked 133rd, is a public research university that boasts a diverse student body and a wide range of academic programs. It is particularly known for its business, law, and engineering schools.
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Texas A & M University-College Station - This university is ranked 47th and is one of the largest and most respected institutions in Texas. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research initiatives and strong alumni network.
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The University of Texas at Austin - Ranked 32nd, UT Austin is a leading public university known for its outstanding academic programs, vibrant campus life, and strong research output. It offers a wide array of disciplines, including engineering, business, and liberal arts.
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Southern Methodist University - With a ranking of 89, SMU is a private university in Dallas, Texas, known for its strong programs in business, law, and the arts. The university emphasizes research and community engagement.
These institutions offer a variety of academic opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields, making them significant educational hubs in Texas.
Peer median 0.0 · all 25 private law schools 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 Data at South Texas College of Law Houston
The crime statistics from South Texas College of Law Houston reveal a relatively low crime rate over the years, indicating a generally safe environment for students. From 2013 to 2022, the data shows a few instances of recorded offenses, with only four years reporting any crime at all. In 2015, 2016, and 2017, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students was low, peaking at just over 2 in 2017 and 2019, indicating that while crimes did occur, they were infrequent and not severe in nature.
Notably, the crimes recorded primarily involved gun arrests, with no instances of more severe crimes such as robbery, assault, or domestic violence reported during several of these years. This suggests that while there is a presence of minor offenses, the campus has been effective in maintaining safety and addressing issues as they arise.
The absence of crime reports in many years, particularly from 2014 to 2018 and from 2020 to 2021, further underscores a commitment to campus safety. However, the rise of two reported incidents in both 2019 and 2023 may warrant further investigation to understand the circumstances and ensure that measures are in place to prevent future occurrences.
Overall, the data suggests that South Texas College of Law Houston provides a secure educational environment, with a low crime rate that should be reassuring to current and prospective students. For those interested in understanding crime rates further, the calculation method can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of South Texas College of Law Houston include Dan Rather (Veteran broadcast journalist and former news anchor), Madalyn Murray O'Hair (Founder of American Atheists) and John Culberson (Republican politician and former US representative).
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Dan Rather 1931–
Veteran broadcast journalist and former news anchor
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Madalyn Murray O'Hair 1919–1995
Founder of American Atheists
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John Culberson 1956–
Republican politician and former US representative
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Robert R. Casey 1915–1986
Former U.S. representative from Texas
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Jon Lynn Christensen 1963–
Former US Representative from Nebraska
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Chris Bell 1959–
Politician, attorney and former journalist
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Richard H. Anderson 1955–
Lawyer and business executive
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Gene Wu 1978–
Texas state representative and House minority leader
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Joan Huffman 1956–
Texas state senator
More alumni (12, by field)
Politics and law
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David M. Medina 1958–
Former Justice of the Texas Supreme Court
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Charles Holcomb 1933–2020
Judge on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals
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John H. Hannah, Jr. 1939–2003
Federal district judge in Eastern District of Texas
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Sam W. Russell 1945–2014
Texas lawyer and politician
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John P. Devine 1958–
Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas
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Jim Sharp 1952–
American judge and lawyer
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Don Garrison 1925–2018
American lawyer and politician
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Pat Lykos 1942–
Former District Attorney of Harris County, Texas
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Eva Guzman 1961–
Former Texas Supreme Court justice
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Charlie Baird 1955–
Texas judge promoting restorative justice
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Reed O'Connor 1965–
Chief US district judge, Northern District of Texas
Other fields
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Joseph Gutheinz 1955–
Attorney and founder of the Moon Rock Project
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.