University of Houston
The University of Houston (UH) has an acceptance rate of 73.9%, annual tuition of $9,717, average net price of $14,276, and a national rank of #263 (Grade A-), with a 64.6% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 38,380 undergraduates, and median earnings of $68,091 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
University of Houston is a public university in Houston, TX. Students most often pursue Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering and Computer and Information Sciences.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 22:1 student-faculty ratio, and 87.0% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 102.1%, roughly 52.2 points higher than typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is University of Houston Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
University of Houston graduates 64.6% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 63.0% and keeps 87.0% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use University of Houston's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $9,717 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,430 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $11,286 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $5,328 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $26,185 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 41.6% of University of Houston students receive Pell Grants — above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $10,929 to $23,811 depending on family income. Use University of Houston's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $19,197/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $23,811/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $68,091
- 10-Year Median Earnings $62,377
- Average Years to Graduate 4.7 years
- Average Student Debt $18,194
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 61.9%
- Employment Rate 89.2%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for University of Houston graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
University of Houston vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how University of Houston's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes University of Houston's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: University of Houston graduates report median earnings of $68,091 four years after graduation, +13% above the national median. The 102.1% ROI indicates solid long-term value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 590-670
- SAT Math 570-670
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 23-29
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 38,380
- Full-Time Students 76.7%
- Part-Time Students 23.3%
- Retention Rate 87.0%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 64.6%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 63.0%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 22:1
How to Get Into University of Houston
1. Meet Academic Requirements: University of Houston requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 73.9%, University of Houston is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 73.9% acceptance rate, University of Houston is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1160 and 1340 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among University of Houston undergraduates. Psychology, General, Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes, and Business Administration, Management and Operations draw the most students.
- Psychology, General 7.0%
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 5.4%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 4.8%
- Finance and Financial Management Services 4.6%
- Biology, General 4.3%
- Accounting and Related Services 4.2%
See more majors
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other 3.8%
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 3.6%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $107,025
- 2. Computer and Information Sciences, General $105,956
- 3. Information Science/Studies $103,467
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Industrial Engineering $100,544
- 5. Chemical Engineering $99,077
- 6. Mechanical Engineering $96,269
- 7. Construction Engineering Technologies $94,660
- 8. Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians $92,134
- 9. Civil Engineering $91,240
- 10. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $90,501
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degree) $138,025
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $130,338
- 3. Law (First Professional Degree) $123,404
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degree) $120,612
- 5. Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences (Master's Degree) $110,977
- 6. Optometry (First Professional Degree) $110,688
- 7. Chemical Engineering (Master's Degree) $105,244
- 8. Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Doctoral Degree) $102,171
- 9. Mechanical Engineering (Master's Degree) $101,655
- 10. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $99,339
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering grads earn $107,025—18% more than Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing ($90,501). Graduate: Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration programs lead with $138,025 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for University of Houston. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 566 graduates)
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degree, 439 graduates)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 391 graduates)
- Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degree, 369 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 346 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (72 programs)▼
- Psychology, General
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Biology, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Marketing
- Mechanical Engineering
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Political Science and Government
- Construction Engineering Technologies
- General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Economics
- Computer Systems Analysis
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- English Language and Literature, General
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Mathematics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians
- History
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Architecture
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Music
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Civil Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Journalism
- Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences Business Services
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Sociology
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Communication and Media Studies
- Anthropology
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Business/Corporate Communications
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Industrial Engineering
- Design and Applied Arts
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer Engineering
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Philosophy
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Dance
- Interior Architecture
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Applied Mathematics
- American Sign Language
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Environmental Design
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Area Studies
Online Master's Degrees (50 programs)▼
- Accounting and Related Services
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Industrial Engineering
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Economics
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Psychology, General
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Music
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- Marketing
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Statistics
- Systems Engineering
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Biology, General
- Engineering Technology, General
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Public Policy Analysis
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Public Administration
- Materials Engineering
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Communication and Media Studies
- History
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Chemistry
- Sociology
- Political Science and Government
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Design and Applied Arts
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- English Language and Literature, General
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
- Surveying Engineering
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Physics
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Architectural History and Criticism
Online Doctoral Degrees (35 programs)▼
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Biology, General
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Mathematics
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Physics
- Materials Engineering
- Business/Commerce, General
- Mechanical Engineering
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Music
- History
- Petroleum Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Political Science and Government
- English Language and Literature, General
- Economics
- Civil Engineering
- Social Work
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Surveying Engineering
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
Online First Professional Degrees (3 programs)▼
- Law
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Optometry
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 38,380
- Full-Time Students 76.7%
- Part-Time Students 23.3%
- Male Students 47.9%
- Female Students 52.0%
- Caucasian 16.4%
- Asian 23.1%
- Hispanic 38.1%
- Black 12.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients 41.6%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects University of Houston's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of University of Houston's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does University of Houston support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at University of Houston, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: University of Houston has a diverse student body, with 16.4% identifying as White.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does University of Houston support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at University of Houston, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
University of Houston serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #263 nationally with a 102.1% ROI, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $14,276 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $68,091 median earnings. The 64.6% graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 87.0% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: University of Houston's Strengths
Ranked #263 with a A- grade, University of Houston prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like University of Houston excel at providing affordable education ($14,276 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: University of Houston's 87.0% retention and 64.6% graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($68,091 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, University of Houston's 102.1% ROI and $14,276 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 64.6% graduation rate sits 2.1 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 87.0% first-year retention is 10.2 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 102.1% return on investment is 52.2 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $68,091 run about 13% higher than national outcomes four years after graduation.
- Average net price of $14,276 is roughly $5,803 lower than the national median of $20,079.
Helpfulness for Students
- 22:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 87.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 89.2% employment rate within three years sits 21.0 points above national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
University of Houston is a public university based in Houston, TX and earns a A- overall grade. It appears at #263 in EDsmart's national list Grades by category break down as Completion B+, Support B-, Career Outcomes B+, and Affordability B+.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 87.0% of first-year students return; 64.6% graduate within 150% of normal time, with an 8-year award rate of 63.0%. Return on investment currently measures 102.1% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $14,276 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $26,185.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $11,909 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $18,194 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 41.6% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $68,091 at the median. This is roughly 13% above typical U.S. college outcomes.
Employment outcomes report about 89.2% of alumni working within three years.
The ROI comes in near 102.1%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
73.9% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the University of Houston admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of Houston the same as Houston Christian University?
No. The University of Houston (UH) is a public research university. Houston Christian University (HCU) is a separate private university in Houston.
What is University of Houston's acceptance rate?
University of Houston's acceptance rate is 73.9%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does University of Houston cost?
At University of Houston, listed tuition and fees are $9,717 per year, and the average net price after aid is $14,276. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is University of Houston's ranking?
University of Houston ranks #263 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is University of Houston's graduation rate?
At University of Houston, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 64.6% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 63.0%, and first-year retention is 87.0%.
What are University of Houston's job outcomes?
Graduates of University of Houston report median earnings of $68,091 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
Contact Information
- Address Houston, TX 77204-2018
- Website www.uh.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$1.22B
- Transfer Enrollment Rate6.3%