| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1971
Type: Public Community College
Campuses: Multiple locations across Houston, including Central, Southwest, Northwest, Northeast, Southeast, and Coleman College for Health Sciences
Programs: Offers associate degrees, workforce certificates, continuing education, and transfer programs to four-year universities
Enrollment: Over 50,000 students annually
Tuition: Affordable compared to four-year universities, with special rates for in-district, out-of-district, and international students
Accreditation: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Business & Accounting
Healthcare & Nursing
Engineering & Technology
Computer Science & IT
Culinary Arts
Automotive & Skilled Trades
Creative Arts & Media
Affordable tuition with financial aid options
Transfer agreements with universities like the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and others
Workforce training programs for career development
Flexible learning options, including online, hybrid, and in-person classes
Diverse student population with international student support
1. Business & Accounting
Accounting
Business Administration
Marketing
Human Resource Management
International Business
2. Healthcare & Medical
Nursing (LVN, RN)
Medical Assistant
Dental Hygiene
Pharmacy Technician
Radiologic Technology
Health Information Technology
3. Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)
Computer Science
Cybersecurity
Data Science
Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)
Biotechnology
4. Information Technology & Digital Media
Web Development
Software Development
Game Design & Simulation
Graphic Design
Digital Communication
5. Arts, Design & Media
Music & Audio Engineering
Film & Video Production
Interior Design
Fashion Design
Theatre & Performing Arts
6. Skilled Trades & Manufacturing
Welding Technology
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning)
Electrical Technology
Automotive Technology
Construction Management
7. Public Safety & Law
Criminal Justice
Paralegal Studies
Fire Protection Technology
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
8. Education & Social Sciences
Early Childhood Education
Teaching (Associate Degree for University Transfer)
Psychology
Sociology
9. Hospitality & Culinary Arts
Culinary Arts
Hotel & Restaurant Management
Travel & Tourism
Associate Degrees (AA, AS, AAS) – Typically 2 years, can be transferred to a university
Certificate Programs – Short-term training for specific skills
Workforce & Continuing Education – Career-focused training programs
Bachelor’s Degree Program |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (In-District) |
Out-of-District/International Tuition (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Applied Technology in Artificial Intelligence & Robotics |
4 years |
$3,600 - $4,500 |
$7,200 - $8,000 |
|
Bachelor of Applied Science in Healthcare Management |
4 years |
$3,600 - $4,500 |
$7,200 - $8,000 |
|
Bachelor of Applied Technology in Cybersecurity |
4 years |
$3,600 - $4,500 |
$7,200 - $8,000 |
Affordable Tuition Fees – Lower than four-year universities in the U.S.
University Transfer Programs – Easy transfer to major universities like University of Houston, Texas A&M, and University of Texas.
Diverse & Inclusive – Students from 100+ countries study at HCC.
Flexible Learning Options – In-person, online, and hybrid courses available.
Student Support Services – Free tutoring, career counseling, and academic advising.
English Language Support – ESL (English as a Second Language) programs available.
Associate Degrees (AA, AS, AAS) – 2-year programs that can transfer to a university for a bachelor's degree.
Bachelor’s Degrees (Limited Fields) – Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and Healthcare Management.
Certificate Programs – Short-term technical and career-focused programs.
ESL (English as a Second Language) – Improve English skills before starting college-level courses.
1 Online Application – Apply through the HCC website.
2 Application Fee – Around $75 (non-refundable).
3 High School Transcripts – Must be officially translated into English.
4 English Proficiency – TOEFL (minimum 71 iBT), IELTS (minimum 6.0), or Duolingo (minimum 95) required.
5 Financial Proof – Bank statement showing at least $22,000 for one year of study.
6 Passport Copy – Valid for the duration of study.
7 F-1 Visa Application – Required to study in the U.S.
HCC does not have on-campus housing, but students can find affordable housing nearby in apartments, homestays, or shared housing. Rent in Houston typically ranges from $600 - $1,200 per month, depending on location and roommates.
1 Choose Your Program
HCC offers Associate Degrees, Bachelor’s Degrees (limited fields), Certificate Programs, and ESL (English as a Second Language) courses.
Visit to check available courses.
2 Complete the Online Application
Apply online through the ApplyTexas website: N/A
Select Houston Community College as your school.
Pay the non-refundable application fee:
$75 for international students
No application fee for U.S. residents
3 Submit Required Documents
For U.S. Citizens & Residents
High School Diploma or GED Certificate
Placement Test (TSI Assessment, SAT, or ACT Scores) – Required unless exempt.
Proof of Texas Residency (for in-state tuition benefits)
For International Students (F-1 Visa Applicants)
Official High School Transcripts – Must be translated into English.
English Proficiency Test Scores (One of the following):
TOEFL: Minimum 71 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 95
If you don’t meet these requirements, you may need to take an ESL (English as a Second Language) course at HCC.
Proof of Financial Support – A bank statement showing at least $22,000 USD to cover tuition and living expenses.
Copy of Passport
Transfer Form (if transferring from another U.S. school)
4 Apply for a Student Visa (For International Students)
Once accepted, HCC will issue an I-20 Form (required for an F-1 Student Visa).
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350) at.
Schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Attend your interview and receive your F-1 Visa.
5 Take Placement Tests (If Required)
Some students need to take the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment to determine their readiness for college courses.
If you have SAT, ACT, or previous college coursework, you may be exempt.
6 Register for Classes & Pay Tuition
Once admitted, log in to HCC Student Portal and register for classes.
Pay tuition online through HCC MyEagle Portal or set up a payment plan.
7 Attend Orientation & Start Classes
Orientation is mandatory for new students. It helps you understand the campus resources, academic policies, and student services.
Classes start as per the academic calendar.
Semester |
Application Deadline |
Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester (August Start) |
June 1 |
Late August |
|
Spring Semester (January Start) |
October 1 |
Mid-January |
|
Summer Semester (June Start) |
March 1 |
Early June |
International students are advised to apply early to allow time for visa processing.
Educational Qualification:
High school diploma or GED (General Education Diploma)
Official transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL: 71 (iBT)
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo English Test: 95
Students who do not meet the English requirement may enroll in HCC’s ESL (English as a Second Language) program.
Placement Test (If Required):
Some students may need to take the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment unless exempted by SAT/ACT scores.
HCC offers limited bachelor’s programs in Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and Healthcare Management.
Educational Qualification:
Associate degree (AAS) or equivalent coursework in a related field
Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
English Proficiency (For International Students):
Same requirements as Associate Degree programs
Additional Requirements:
Some programs may require work experience or prior training in the field.
No formal education requirements for most technical certificate programs.
Some programs may require a high school diploma or GED.
English proficiency is recommended but not required for all courses.
For students who need to improve English skills before taking college courses.
No TOEFL/IELTS required for admission.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
HCC Foundation Scholarships |
Open to all HCC students (U.S. & International) with a minimum GPA of 2.5 |
$500 - $2,500 per semester |
March 15 & October 15 |
|
HCC Eagle Promise Program |
For Texas residents with financial need (must complete FAFSA/TASFA) |
Covers full tuition & fees for eligible students |
N/A |
|
Work-Study Program |
U.S. citizens/permanent residents; must demonstrate financial need |
Earn up to $4,000/year while working on campus |
Open Year-Round |
|
International Student Scholarships |
For F-1 visa students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 |
$1,000 - $2,000 per semester |
March 15 & October 15 |
|
STEM Scholarships |
For students in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) fields |
Up to $3,500 per year |
N/A |
|
Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG) |
Need-based grant for in-state, out-of-state, & international students |
Up to $1,500 per semester |
Open Until Funds Are Depleted |
|
HCC Chancellor’s Scholarship |
High-achieving students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher |
$1,000 - $2,500 |
March 15 & October 15 |
Campus Name |
Location |
Main Programs Offered |
|---|---|---|
|
Central Campus |
Midtown Houston |
Business, IT, Healthcare, STEM |
|
Northwest Campus |
Katy & Spring Branch |
Engineering, Science, Technology |
|
Northeast Campus |
North Houston |
Automotive, Construction, Welding |
|
Southeast Campus |
East Houston |
Aviation, Public Safety, Manufacturing |
|
Southwest Campus |
Stafford & West Loop |
Arts, Media, Digital Communication |
|
Coleman College for Health Sciences |
Texas Medical Center |
Nursing, Dental, Pharmacy, Radiology |
Each campus has modern facilities, libraries, student lounges, and support services for students.
Since HCC does not provide on-campus dorms, students need to arrange off-campus housing. Below is a table with estimated accommodation costs.
Accommodation Type |
Location |
Estimated Cost Per Month (USD) |
Estimated Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 roommates) |
Near HCC Campuses |
$500 - $800 |
$6,000 - $9,600 |
|
Studio Apartment (Single) |
Houston Downtown |
$900 - $1,300 |
$10,800 - $15,600 |
|
1-Bedroom Apartment |
Midtown/West Houston |
$1,200 - $1,800 |
$14,400 - $21,600 |
|
Homestay with Meals |
Host Family |
$800 - $1,200 |
$9,600 - $14,400 |
|
Student Housing (Private Providers) |
Near HCC Campuses |
$600 - $1,000 |
$7,200 - $12,000 |
Rent varies based on location, amenities, and whether utilities (electricity, internet, water) are included.
HCC has 100+ student clubs and organizations that cater to various interests, including:
Cultural & International Clubs – African Student Association, Latin American Student Organization, Asian Culture Club
Academic & Professional Groups – Business Club, Engineering Society, Cybersecurity Club
Arts & Media Organizations – Theatre Club, Film Production Club, Music & Dance Groups
Health & Wellness Clubs – Yoga & Meditation Club, Fitness Club
Community Service & Leadership – Student Government Association (SGA), Volunteer Programs
Joining a club is a great way to meet new friends, gain leadership skills, and enhance your resume.
HCC offers fitness facilities and sports activities at various campuses. Students can access:
Gym & Fitness Centers (available at select campuses)
Basketball & Soccer Teams
Yoga & Group Fitness Classes
Intramural Sports & Tournaments
Staying active helps students balance academics with a healthy lifestyle.
Each HCC campus has a modern library with:
Study rooms & quiet zones for focused learning
Computer labs & free Wi-Fi for research and assignments
Academic support & tutoring services
Students can also access online research databases for coursework.
HCC campuses are located in Houston, a city known for its amazing food scene. While the college does not have full-service dining halls, students can find:
On-campus cafés & vending machines for quick snacks
Nearby restaurants & food courts with international cuisines
Student discounts at select eateries around campus
Many students bring their own meals or explore local food spots with friends.
HCC provides strong career development support to help students transition into the workforce. Services include:
Internships & Co-op Programs – Hands-on work experience in top industries
Career Fairs & Networking Events – Meet potential employers and industry professionals
Resume Workshops & Mock Interviews – Get guidance on job applications
On-Campus & Part-Time Jobs – Work-study programs and student employment opportunities
International students on an F-1 visa can also apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to gain work experience.
HCC hosts various events throughout the year, including:
Welcome Week & Orientation – Helps new students settle in
Cultural Festivals & International Day – Celebrates diversity on campus
Guest Lectures & Workshops – Learn from industry experts
Music, Dance, & Art Exhibitions – Showcases student talents
These events help students connect, learn, and have fun while studying.
HCC ensures students have access to essential support services, such as:
Counseling & Mental Health Services – Free guidance and support
Academic Advising – Helps with course selection and degree planning
International Student Support – Visa guidance, cultural adaptation assistance
Disability Support Services – Ensures an inclusive learning environment
Diverse & Inclusive Community – Students from 100+ countries
Affordable Living & Tuition – Lower costs than universities
Vibrant Campus Culture – Clubs, sports, and events year-round
Great Location in Houston – A major U.S. city with career opportunities
HCC’s Career & Job Placement Services assist students with:
Resume Writing & Interview Preparation – Personalized coaching to help students stand out.
Internships & Work-Based Learning Programs – Hands-on experience in real-world work environments.
Job Fairs & Employer Networking Events – Connects students with recruiters from top companies.
Career Counseling & Job Search Support – Helps students explore career options and apply for jobs.
Workforce Training & Certifications – Short-term programs to enhance employability.
HCC works closely with employers across various industries in Houston, including business, healthcare, IT, and engineering.
HCC graduates find job opportunities in Houston’s leading industries, such as:
1 Business & Finance
JPMorgan Chase
Wells Fargo
Bank of America
2 Healthcare & Medical
Houston Methodist Hospital
Texas Children’s Hospital
MD Anderson Cancer Center
3 Information Technology & Cybersecurity
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
IBM
Dell Technologies
4 Engineering & Manufacturing
ExxonMobil
Halliburton
Schlumberger
5 Skilled Trades & Construction
Turner Construction
KBR Inc.
McDermott International
HCC’s location in Houston—a major economic hub—offers strong job prospects for graduates.
HCC partners with local businesses and multinational corporations to offer students:
Paid & Unpaid Internships – Gain industry experience while studying.
Co-op & Apprenticeship Programs – Earn while you learn in technical fields.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) & Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for International Students – Work authorization programs for F-1 visa students.
Internships are available in various fields, including IT, business, healthcare, and engineering.
Houston Community College (HCC) has an open admissions policy, meaning it accepts nearly all applicants who meet the basic eligibility requirements.
Acceptance Rate: 100% (Open Admission)
Who Can Apply? Any student with a high school diploma (or equivalent, like a GED) can be admitted.
No SAT/ACT Required: Unlike universities, HCC does not require standardized test scores for admission.
For Domestic Students: High school diploma or GED is required.
For International Students: Must meet English proficiency requirements (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo) and visa requirements.
Placement Tests: Some students may need to take the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment for course placement.
Campus Name |
Location |
Key Programs Offered |
|---|---|---|
|
Central Campus |
1300 Holman St, Houston, TX 77004 |
Business, IT, Engineering, Arts, Science |
|
Northwest Campus |
1550 Foxlake Dr, Houston, TX 77084 |
STEM, Engineering, Computer Science |
|
Northeast Campus |
555 Community College Dr, Houston, TX 77013 |
Automotive, Welding, Construction, Manufacturing |
|
Southeast Campus |
6815 Rustic St, Houston, TX 77087 |
Aviation, Public Safety, Manufacturing |
|
Southwest Campus |
5601 West Loop S, Houston, TX 77081 |
Arts, Media, Digital Communication |
|
Coleman College for Health Sciences |
1900 Pressler St, Houston, TX 77030 |
Nursing, Pharmacy, Dental, Medical Technology |
Each campus is well-equipped with libraries, computer labs, career services, and student support centers.
