| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1879
Type: Public University
Motto: "The measure of a Life is its Service"
Campus Size: 316 acres
Colors: Orange and White
Mascot: Sammy Bearkat
Athletics: Competes in NCAA Division I, as part of the Conference USA (C-USA).
Nickname: Bearkats
SHSU is named after Sam Houston, a key figure in Texas history and the first President of the Republic of Texas. The university has a rich heritage and is recognized for its leadership in criminal justice, education, and business programs.
SHSU offers over 90 undergraduate programs, 60 master's programs, and 10 doctoral programs through its eight academic colleges:
College of Business Administration
College of Criminal Justice
College of Education
College of Arts and Media
College of Health Sciences
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
College of Science and Engineering Technology
College of Osteopathic Medicine
Criminal Justice: SHSU’s criminal justice program is nationally recognized and among the top in the USA.
Business Administration: Accredited by AACSB, the business programs are well-regarded for their quality and rigor.
Education: Known for preparing outstanding teachers and school administrators.
Health Sciences: Programs like nursing, public health, and health administration are highly sought after.
Computer Science & Engineering: Emerging as a strong focus area with programs in cybersecurity, data science, and software engineering.
Ranked among the Top Public Universities in the USA by U.S. News & World Report.
Recognized for its online education programs, particularly for criminal justice and business.
Named one of the best universities for social mobility, helping first-generation and underprivileged students achieve academic and career success.
Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Enrollment: Over 21,000 students, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students.
Student Organizations: SHSU offers more than 250 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, service organizations, and recreational clubs.
Greek Life: Active fraternities and sororities provide opportunities for leadership and community engagement.
Sports & Recreation: Intramural sports, fitness programs, and outdoor adventure trips are popular among students.
Cultural Events: The university hosts art exhibitions, theater productions, music concerts, and guest lectures.
Main Campus: Located in Huntsville, Texas, SHSU's campus combines historic architecture with modern facilities.
Sam Houston Museum: Located on campus, it celebrates the life and legacy of Sam Houston.
Newton Gresham Library: Offers state-of-the-art resources, study spaces, and research support.
Woodlands Center: A satellite campus in The Woodlands, Texas, catering to commuter students in the Houston area.
College of Osteopathic Medicine (Conroe): A modern facility focused on training physicians to serve underserved communities.
On-Campus Housing: SHSU provides traditional residence halls, suite-style housing, and apartments. Living on campus fosters a strong sense of community among students.
Dining: Multiple dining options, including cafeterias, food courts, and popular chains like Chick-fil-A and Starbucks, are available on campus.
Undergraduate Admissions:
Application Requirements:
Completed application via ApplyTexas or Common App.
Official high school transcripts.
SAT/ACT scores (optional for many programs).
Personal statement (optional but encouraged).
Acceptance Rate: Approximately 83%, making it moderately selective.
Tuition:
In-State: Approx. $10,444 per year.
Out-of-State: Approx. $23,362 per year.
Graduate Admissions:
Application Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
GRE/GMAT (required for specific programs).
Tuition for graduate programs varies depending on the field of study.
SHSU offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options:
Merit-Based Scholarships: Automatically awarded based on academic performance.
Bearkat Promise: Covers tuition for Texas residents from low-income families.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Offered for fields like criminal justice, education, and nursing.
Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to access need-based aid.
SHSU graduates are highly employable and enjoy strong placement rates:
Career Services: Provides resume workshops, career fairs, and networking opportunities with employers.
Top Employers: Law enforcement agencies, healthcare organizations, public schools, tech firms, and Fortune 500 companies regularly recruit SHSU graduates.
Internship Opportunities: SHSU emphasizes internships, especially in programs like criminal justice, business, and healthcare.
Alumni Network: A robust network that helps students with mentorship and job opportunities.
SHSU offers 90+ undergraduate degree programs across a variety of disciplines. Below are the key fields and popular courses:
Accounting (BBA)
Economics (BBA/BA/BS)
Finance (BBA)
International Business (BBA)
Management (BBA)
Marketing (BBA)
Criminal Justice (BS)
Victim Studies (BS)
Homeland Security Studies (BS)
Elementary Education (BS)
Secondary Education (BS)
Special Education (BS)
Early Childhood Education (BS)
Animation (BFA)
Digital Media Arts (BFA)
Graphic Design (BFA)
Mass Communication (BA/BS)
Photography (BFA)
Music (BA/BM)
Nursing (BSN)
Public Health (BS)
Kinesiology (BS)
Health Sciences (BS)
Healthcare Administration (BS)
Psychology (BA/BS)
Sociology (BA/BS)
Political Science (BA/BS)
English (BA)
History (BA/BS)
Philosophy (BA)
Biology (BS)
Chemistry (BS)
Computer Science (BS)
Cybersecurity (BS)
Engineering Technology (BS)
Environmental Science (BS)
Mathematics (BS)
Physics (BS)
SHSU offers 60+ master’s degree programs for students seeking advanced education. Some of the most popular programs are listed below:
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Accounting (MS)
Project Management (MS)
Criminal Justice Leadership and Management (MS)
Homeland Security Studies (MS)
Victim Services Management (MS)
Curriculum and Instruction (MEd)
Educational Leadership (MEd)
Special Education (MEd)
School Counseling (MEd)
Instructional Design and Technology (MS)
Digital Media Production (MA)
Band Conducting (MM)
Art (MFA)
Nursing (MSN - Family Nurse Practitioner Track)
Public Health (MPH)
Dietetics (MS)
Clinical Psychology (MA)
Sociology (MA)
Political Science (MA)
History (MA)
Communication Studies (MA)
Data Science (MS)
Computer Science (MS)
Information Assurance and Cybersecurity (MS)
Biology (MS)
Environmental Science (MS)
SHSU offers 10+ doctoral degree programs, preparing students for advanced research and leadership roles:
Clinical Psychology (PhD)
Criminal Justice (PhD)
Educational Leadership (EdD)
Developmental Education Administration (EdD)
Forensic Science (PhD)
Information Science (PhD)
Literacy (EdD)
Higher Education Leadership (EdD)
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (In-State / Out-of-State) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting (BBA) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Business Administration (BBA) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Finance (BBA) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Marketing (BBA) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Criminal Justice (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Homeland Security Studies (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Elementary Education (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Kinesiology (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Public Health (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Biology (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Environmental Science (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Chemistry (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Physics (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Computer Science (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Cybersecurity (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Engineering Technology (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Psychology (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Sociology (BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Political Science (BA/BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Mass Communication (BA/BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Animation (BFA) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Graphic Design (BFA) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
Music (BA/BM) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
History (BA/BS) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
|
English (BA) |
4 years |
$11,444 (In-State) / $23,326 (Out-of-State) |
Master’s Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (In-State / Out-of-State) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Accounting (MS) |
1.5-2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Project Management (MS) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Criminal Justice (MS) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Homeland Security Studies (MS) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Victim Services Management (MS) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Public Health (MPH) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Nursing (MSN) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Biology (MS) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Data Science (MS) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Computer Science (MS) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Cybersecurity (MS) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Environmental Science (MS) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Clinical Psychology (MA) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
History (MA) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Political Science (MA) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Communication Studies (MA) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Curriculum and Instruction (MEd) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Educational Leadership (MEd) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
School Counseling (MEd) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Instructional Systems Design and Technology (MS) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Sociology (MA) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
English (MA) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Art (MFA) |
3 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
Band Conducting (MM) |
2 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
PhD/Doctorate Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (In-State / Out-of-State) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Criminal Justice |
4-5 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
PhD in Clinical Psychology |
5 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
PhD in Counselor Education |
3-4 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
PhD in Forensic Science |
4-5 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
PhD in Information Science |
4-5 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
PhD in Instructional Systems Design and Technology |
3-4 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
EdD in Educational Leadership |
3-4 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
EdD in Higher Education Leadership |
3-4 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
EdD in Developmental Education Administration |
3-4 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
|
EdD in Literacy |
3-4 years |
$10,976 (In-State) / $20,776 (Out-of-State) |
Affordable Tuition: Compared to many U.S. universities, SHSU offers competitive tuition rates, making it an attractive option for international students.
Diverse Programs: With over 90 undergraduate programs, 60+ graduate programs, and 10 doctoral programs, SHSU provides a variety of academic options across disciplines.
Strong International Community: SHSU has students from more than 50 countries, fostering a culturally diverse and inclusive environment.
Location: Situated in Huntsville, Texas, SHSU offers a safe and peaceful environment while being close to major cities like Houston, providing access to job and internship opportunities.
Support Services: SHSU’s Office of International Programs provides visa guidance, academic advising, and cultural adjustment support for international students.
International students can apply to the following programs:
Undergraduate Programs: Business, Criminal Justice, Engineering Technology, Computer Science, Nursing, and more.
Graduate Programs: MBA, Data Science, Public Health, Criminal Justice, Environmental Science, Cybersecurity, and more.
Doctoral Programs: PhD in Criminal Justice, EdD in Educational Leadership, PhD in Forensic Science, etc.
Apply through either:
ApplyTexas, or
SHSU’s online application portal (https://www.shsu.edu/admissions/).
Pay the application fee: $90 (non-refundable for international students) or $50 (for domestic students).
For Domestic Students:
High School Transcript:
Submit an official high school transcript with a minimum GPA.
For transfer students: Submit transcripts from all previously attended colleges/universities.
SAT/ACT Scores (Optional):
SHSU is test-optional for most undergraduate applicants.
If submitted, scores can enhance your application.
SAT code: 6643 | ACT code: 4162.
For International Students:
High School Transcripts:
Must be translated into English and evaluated by an accredited service (e.g., WES or SpanTran).
English Proficiency Scores (for non-native English speakers):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
Financial Documents:
Proof of financial support for tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Term |
Domestic Students Deadline |
International Students Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
August 1 |
June 25 |
|
Spring Semester |
December 1 |
November 12 |
|
Summer Semester |
May 15 |
April 9 |
Once all documents are submitted, SHSU will evaluate your application.
Decisions are typically communicated within 2-4 weeks after submission.
Apply through the SHSU Graduate Admissions Portal (https://www.shsu.edu/admissions/graduate/).
Pay the application fee: $90 (non-refundable for international students) or $50 (for domestic students).
Academic Transcripts:
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
English Proficiency (International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
Program-Specific Requirements:
Some programs may require additional materials:
GRE/GMAT Scores (if required by the program).
Letters of Recommendation (2-3, depending on the program).
Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose (explaining your academic goals and motivation).
Resume/CV (for professional programs like MBA or Public Health).
Deadlines vary depending on the program. Most graduate programs have the following approximate deadlines:
Fall Semester: August 1
Spring Semester: December 1
Summer Semester: May 15
International Students: Deadlines are typically 1-2 months earlier than domestic deadlines.
Once all required documents are submitted, the graduate department will evaluate your application.
Admission decisions are typically made within 4-6 weeks for most programs.
SHSU offers three main intakes for most undergraduate and graduate programs:
Intake |
Application Deadline (Domestic Students) |
Application Deadline (International Students) |
Program Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
August 1 |
June 25 |
Full range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. |
|
Spring Semester |
December 1 |
November 12 |
Limited programs may be available for some disciplines. |
|
Summer Semester |
May 15 |
April 9 |
Fewer programs offered; ideal for short courses or specific programs. |
1. Academic Requirements:
High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have completed high school (or secondary education) with strong academic performance.
GPA Requirements:
Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for high school coursework.
Transfer students need a minimum GPA of 2.0 from prior colleges/universities.
2. Standardized Test Scores:
Test-Optional Policy: SAT or ACT scores are optional for most undergraduate programs.
If submitted:
SAT: Recommended score range is 1010–1180 (middle 50%).
ACT: Recommended score range is 19–23 (middle 50%).
3. English Proficiency (for International Students):
If English is not your native language, you must demonstrate proficiency via one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
SAT/ACT: English section may waive the requirement if certain scores are met.
4. Additional Requirements:
Transcripts:
Must be submitted from your high school (or equivalent) and translated into English if applicable.
International students must have transcripts evaluated by services like WES or SpanTran.
Financial Documentation (for International Students):
Must show proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses for at least one academic year.
1. Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree: Must have a degree from an accredited institution or equivalent qualification.
GPA Requirements:
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically required.
Some programs may admit students with a GPA between 2.8–2.99, subject to conditional acceptance or additional requirements.
2. Standardized Test Scores:
GRE or GMAT: Required for some graduate programs.
GMAT is typically required for MBA programs.
GRE may be required for certain programs in sciences, education, or humanities.
Some programs waive these scores for students with strong academic records or relevant professional experience.
3. English Proficiency (for International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
Language requirement may be waived for students from English-speaking countries or those who have studied in English.
4. Program-Specific Requirements:
Each graduate program may have its own requirements, such as:
Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2-3 letters from academic or professional references.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): Outlining academic goals and career aspirations.
Resume/CV: Highlighting academic and professional achievements.
Portfolio: Required for creative programs (e.g., MFA in Art).
5. Additional Documents for International Students:
Financial certification and bank statements to obtain an I-20 form.
Copy of your passport.
1. Academic Requirements:
A Master’s Degree (in most cases) or equivalent qualification in a related field.
Minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale for doctoral-level studies.
2. Standardized Test Scores:
GRE scores are commonly required, though some programs may waive them.
Writing samples, research proposals, or portfolios may be required for research-intensive programs.
3. English Proficiency (for International Students):
Same as graduate programs (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo requirements).
Ranking Platform |
Ranking/Category |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked Globally (Primarily a regionally focused university) |
|
QS Regional Rankings (USA) |
Ranked among Top U.S. Universities |
|
U.S. News - National Universities |
Ranked in the Top 300 National Universities in the USA |
|
U.S. News - Top Public Schools |
Ranked in the Top 100 Public Universities in the USA |
|
U.S. News - Criminal Justice Programs |
#1 in Texas and ranked among the Top 10 Criminal Justice Programs in the U.S. |
|
Niche Rankings |
Rated A- for Diversity, B+ for Value, and B+ for Campus Life |
|
Forbes - America's Top Colleges |
Ranked among the Top 500 Colleges in the U.S. |
|
Social Mobility Index |
Recognized as a leader for Social Mobility, helping first-generation students succeed. |
|
Online Education Rankings |
Ranked among the Top 50 Online Graduate Programs by U.S. News |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bearkat Transfer Scholarship |
- For incoming transfer students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. |
$1,000 - $3,000 |
Automatic consideration with admission. |
|
Freshman Academic Scholarship |
- Incoming first-time freshmen with outstanding academic records. |
$2,000 - $4,000 per year |
Automatic consideration with admission. |
|
Global Bears Scholarship |
- For international undergraduate and graduate students. |
N/A |
Apply through SHSU’s Scholarship System. |
|
Sam Houston Merit Scholarship |
- High-achieving undergraduate students. |
$1,000 - $5,000 |
Apply through SHSU’s Scholarship System. |
|
General University Scholarships |
- Available for all students, including international students. |
N/A |
Apply through SHSU’s Scholarship System. |
|
College-Specific Scholarships |
- For students enrolled in specific colleges (e.g., Business, Education, Criminal Justice). |
N/A |
Apply through the respective college’s website. |
|
Graduate Assistantships |
- For graduate students working as teaching or research assistants. |
Tuition Waiver + Stipend |
Apply through the Graduate School or specific program. |
|
Bearkat Promise Scholarship |
- For Texas residents from low-income families. |
Covers full tuition and fees |
Automatically awarded upon FAFSA completion. |
|
New International Student Scholarship |
- For new international students (undergraduate or graduate). |
$1,000 - $5,000 |
Submit application to SHSU International Office. |
|
Honors College Scholarships |
- For students admitted to SHSU’s Honors College. |
$1,000 - $2,500 per year |
Automatic consideration upon Honors College admission. |
|
Study Abroad Scholarships |
- For students participating in SHSU-sponsored study abroad programs. |
Up to $1,000 |
Apply through the Study Abroad Office. |
|
Private/External Scholarships |
- Various private scholarships are available through external organizations. |
N/A |
Research and apply through external platforms. |
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Residence Halls |
- Shared rooms (2 students per room). |
$5,800 - $6,700 |
|
Suite-Style Residence Halls |
- 2-4 students per suite with shared or private bathrooms. |
$6,800 - $7,800 |
|
Apartments (On-Campus) |
- 1-4 bedroom apartments. |
$7,900 - $9,200 |
|
Sam Houston Village |
- Freshman-only housing with suite-style rooms. |
$7,000 - $7,800 |
|
White Hall |
- Traditional dormitory with shared rooms and bathrooms. |
$5,800 - $6,300 |
|
Bearkat Village Apartments |
- Apartment-style housing for upperclassmen. |
$8,000 - $9,000 |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
- Private apartments and houses near campus. |
$6,000 - $12,000 |
SHSU offers meal plans for students living on and off-campus. Below are the cost details:
Meal Plan Type |
Features |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Unlimited Access Plan |
Unlimited meals at campus dining halls, includes dining dollars for on-campus retail locations. |
$4,390 |
|
14 Meals Per Week Plan |
14 meals per week, includes dining dollars for flexible dining. |
$3,900 |
|
10 Meals Per Week Plan |
10 meals per week, includes dining dollars for snacks and retail dining. |
$3,400 |
|
Commuter Dining Plans |
Designed for off-campus students, includes a set amount of dining dollars. |
$400 - $2,000 |
1. A Welcoming Campus Community
SHSU is known for its inclusive and friendly campus environment. Students often refer to the university community as "Bearkat Nation," which emphasizes school spirit and a strong sense of belonging.
Faculty, staff, and peers are approachable and supportive, creating a close-knit and welcoming atmosphere.
2. Clubs and Organizations
SHSU offers more than 250 student organizations, catering to a wide variety of interests, including:
Academic and Professional Groups: Pre-Med Society, Criminal Justice Association, and Business Student Organizations.
Cultural Organizations: African Student Association, Hispanic Student Association, and International Students Organization.
Service-Based Groups: Habitat for Humanity and Rotaract.
Recreational and Special Interest Clubs: E-Sports Club, Outdoor Adventure Club, and SHSU Anime Club.
Students can join existing clubs or start their own organization to develop leadership skills and connect with like-minded individuals.
3. Greek Life
SHSU has a thriving Greek life with over 20 fraternities and sororities, which promote leadership, scholarship, and service.
Greek life at SHSU provides opportunities for networking, philanthropy, and building lifelong friendships.
4. Campus Events and Traditions
SHSU is rich in traditions that foster school spirit and camaraderie. Popular events include:
Homecoming Week: Features parades, tailgates, and Bearkat football games.
Tree of Lights Ceremony: A holiday celebration that brings the campus together.
Spring Fest: An annual event filled with games, music, and food.
Recital Series and Art Exhibits: Hosted by the College of Arts and Media to showcase student talent.
5. Sports and Recreation
SHSU competes in NCAA Division I athletics as a member of Conference USA.
Popular sports include football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and track and field.
The Bearkat Football Team has a strong fan following, with games held at Bowers Stadium.
Recreational Opportunities:
The Recreational Sports Center (RSC) offers:
State-of-the-art gym facilities.
Group fitness classes (yoga, Zumba, pilates, etc.).
Intramural sports like soccer, volleyball, and basketball.
Outdoor adventures, including hiking, kayaking, and camping trips.
6. On-Campus Living
Living on campus is a key part of student life, especially for freshmen. SHSU provides a variety of housing options, including traditional residence halls, suite-style rooms, and apartments. Residence halls often host events like movie nights, game tournaments, and cultural activities, fostering a sense of community.
7. Dining Options
SHSU offers multiple dining facilities and meal plans to suit various preferences and dietary needs.
Popular dining locations include:
Old Main Market: The university’s primary dining hall with diverse menu options.
Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, and other fast-food chains located on campus.
Food trucks and coffee shops around campus for quick and convenient meals.
8. Diversity and Inclusion
SHSU celebrates cultural diversity through programs and events hosted by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Cultural and Identity-Based Organizations: Support and celebrate students from different backgrounds.
Events like the Global Festival and Black History Month Celebrations create opportunities for cross-cultural learning and engagement.
9. Career Development
The SHSU Career Services Center provides resources to help students prepare for their future careers, including:
Resume reviews and interview coaching.
Career fairs that connect students with top employers.
Internship and job placement assistance through platforms like Handshake.
10. Mental Health and Wellness
SHSU prioritizes student health through services such as:
The Counseling Center: Free individual and group counseling, crisis support, and wellness workshops.
Health Center: Provides medical care, health screenings, and vaccinations.
Recreational Programs: Fitness and wellness programs at the Rec Sports Center.
11. International Student Life
SHSU supports international students through the Office of International Programs, which offers:
Visa and immigration assistance.
Orientation programs to help students adjust to life in the U.S.
Events like the International Education Week to celebrate global cultures.
The International Student Organization (ISO) provides a platform for international students to connect and build friendships.
12. Volunteerism and Community Engagement
SHSU encourages students to give back to the community through programs like:
Bearkat Service Day: A day dedicated to volunteering in the Huntsville area.
Alternative Spring Breaks: Opportunities to engage in service projects across the U.S. and internationally.
Employment Rate: Approximately 87-92% of SHSU graduates are employed, pursuing further education, or engaged in other professional endeavors within six months of graduation.
Internship Opportunities: More than 75% of students complete internships, cooperative education, or fieldwork during their studies, which significantly improves job placement rates.
Median Starting Salary: The median starting salary for SHSU graduates is approximately $50,000 - $65,000 per year, depending on the field of study and industry.
SHSU graduates are sought after in a variety of industries, with some programs being particularly strong in placement outcomes:
Industry |
Top Recruiters/Employers |
|---|---|
|
Criminal Justice & Law |
FBI, DEA, Texas Department of Public Safety, U.S. Marshals Service |
|
Business & Finance |
Deloitte, Enterprise, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Frost Bank |
|
Healthcare |
HCA Healthcare, CHI St. Luke’s Health, Houston Methodist Hospital |
|
Technology & Engineering |
IBM, AT&T, Dell, L3Harris, ConocoPhillips |
|
Education |
Public school districts across Texas, Teach for America, private schools |
|
Media & Communication |
ABC13 Houston, The Houston Chronicle, Sinclair Broadcasting Group |
|
Government & Public Services |
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, State of Texas, City of Houston |
Certain programs at SHSU have higher placement rates and are recognized for their strong career outcomes:
Program |
Placement Rate |
Notable Industries |
|---|---|---|
|
Criminal Justice |
~95% |
Law enforcement, corrections, homeland security |
|
Education |
~98% |
Public and private schools, educational leadership |
|
Nursing |
~100% |
Hospitals, healthcare systems, clinics |
|
Business Administration |
~90% |
Banking, consulting, marketing, management |
|
Computer Science |
~93% |
Software development, IT, cybersecurity |
|
Psychology & Sociology |
~88% |
Mental health services, social work, counseling |
|
Public Health |
~90% |
Nonprofits, hospitals, public agencies |
SHSU’s Career Success Center plays a vital role in ensuring students are prepared for the workforce. They offer various services, including:
Resume and Cover Letter Workshops:
Students receive personalized assistance in crafting professional resumes and cover letters.
Mock Interviews:
Career advisors conduct mock interviews to prepare students for real-world hiring processes.
Career Fairs:
SHSU hosts multiple career fairs annually, connecting students with 100+ employers from diverse industries.
Internship Support:
Dedicated support for finding internships, which often lead to full-time job offers.
Handshake Platform:
An online portal where students can search for jobs, internships, and network with employers.
On-Campus Recruitment:
Many companies visit SHSU to interview and hire students directly from campus.
Internships are a significant focus at SHSU, helping students gain hands-on experience and improve employability:
Many programs, such as Criminal Justice, Business, and Health Sciences, require internships as part of the curriculum.
SHSU has partnerships with local, regional, and national employers, providing students with valuable internship opportunities.
Many SHSU graduates continue their education at top-tier universities, including Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin, and Baylor University, for advanced degrees in law, medicine, business, and other disciplines.
SHSU has strong graduate school placement rates for programs like Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Public Health.
SHSU’s extensive alumni network provides students with mentorship, job opportunities, and professional connections.
Alumni often participate in events like career fairs and networking meet-ups to help current students transition into their careers.
GPA: A minimum high school GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) is required for freshman applicants. Transfer students typically need a GPA of 2.0-2.5, depending on the number of transfer credits.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
If submitted, the average scores of admitted students are:
SAT: 1010-1180 (middle 50% range).
ACT: 19-23 (middle 50% range).
Program-Specific Requirements:
Some programs, like Nursing and Music, may have additional admission criteria, such as auditions or prerequisites.
Main Campus Address:
Sam Houston State University
1905 University Avenue,
Huntsville, Texas, 77340,
United States.
