Houston, TXpublicwww.tsu.edu/
Texas Southern University (TSU) is a historically Black public university in Houston with an open-access admissions policy (97% acceptance rate) and a mission to serve underrepresented students. Known for its 'family atmosphere' and strong professional programs in business, criminal justice, and biology, TSU struggles with low graduation rates (20-34%) but offers an affordable education with robust financial aid (77% of students receive aid). Its urban campus buzzes with 130+ student organizations and a 70% commuter population.
TSU maintains an open-access admissions policy, with a 97% acceptance rate (9,101 admitted out of 9,391 applicants in recent cycles). Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight. since at least 2021, the university requires a minimum ACT composite of 17 or SAT score of 900 for home-schooled/GED applicants. Mid-range SAT scores (810–990) and ACT scores (15–19) suggest most admitted students rank in the bottom quartile nationally. Rolling admissions continue until July 15, with no Early Decision or Early Action options.
TSU emphasizes professional and pre-professional programs, with top majors including:
The university offers accelerated 4+1 degree programs in Computer Science and Mathematics, allowing students to earn a bachelor's and master's in five years. Interdisciplinary programs in humanities and social sciences aim to prepare students for 'impactful careers,' though the curriculum leans vocational. Online degrees provide flexibility for working students, but low graduation rates (7% in 4 years, 20-34% in 6 years) signal academic support challenges.
A 70% commuter population shapes campus culture, with only 30% of students living in university housing. The Office of Student Life promotes 'holistic development' through:
Students describe a 'family atmosphere' with strong peer bonds, though off-campus living limits late-night vibrancy. The urban location provides access to Houston's internships and nightlife.
TSU faces chronic retention and graduation challenges:
Alumni earn median salaries of $32,986 six years post-graduation—below the national average for bachelor's holders. The Jesse H. Jones School of Business reports a 21% median 6-year graduation rate over five years, suggesting some programs outperform university-wide averages.
TSU is one of Texas' more affordable 4-year options, with 77% of students receiving financial aid. Key figures:
The university offers merit scholarships, need-based grants, and work-study, though low graduation rates may impact long-term ROI. Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculators help estimate costs for Pell-eligible students.
TSU carves a niche as an accessible HBCU with deep Houston roots. Its open admissions fulfill a mission to serve underrepresented students, while strong industry ties in energy, criminal justice, and healthcare provide local job pipelines. The 130+ organizations and Greek life foster community for commuters, though low graduation rates reveal systemic hurdles. For students seeking an affordable, professionally oriented degree in a major city—with the cultural LegacyAn applicant whose parent (or sometimes other close relative) attended the college. Some schools give a small edge to legacy applicants. of an HBCU—TSU delivers, provided they navigate its academic support gaps.