Each year, the University of Houston educates 37,000 undergraduate and graduate students in more than 300 academic programs. Faculty and students in every academic department conduct research in the university's 40 research centers, making it the leading public research university in Houston. Four hundred student organizations and 16 intercollegiate sports teams contribute to the vibrant student life on campus. The university is considered the second most ethnically diverse research university in the country, attracting students from 137 nations and across the United States.
Rice University boasts a small student population of 3,485 undergraduate students and 2,275 graduate students as of 2010. The university emphasizes personal interaction between students and professors while fostering research projects typical of large universities. Admission to Rice is selective, with an average of 13 applicants for every available place. Academic schools in architecture, engineering, humanities, business, music, natural sciences and social sciences offer hundreds of majors, minors and graduate programs, while clubs and intramural sports contribute to student campus life.
Founded by the Basilian Fathers, the University of St. Thomas offers a liberal arts education grounded in the Catholic tradition. As of 2010, the university boasts 3,234 total students studying in 31 undergraduate and 10 graduate programs. In addition to schools in the arts, sciences, business and education, the university also offers programs in theology through Saint Mary's Seminary. The university attracts a diverse array of students from 33 states and 57 nations who participate in 63 student-run organizations and sports clubs.
Texas Southern University educates 9,500 undergraduate and graduate students in its nine affiliate colleges and schools. One of the nation's largest historically black academic institutions, the university focuses on addressing critical urban issues through its academic and research programs. In addition to degree tracks in the arts, sciences and humanities, the university offers the only urban planning degree in the Houston area. Students participate in more than 60 clubs and dozens of athletic teams to complement their academic pursuits.
Grounded in a Christian liberal arts tradition, Houston Baptist University boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1. With only 2,500 undergraduate students, class sizes are small and personal to promote class discussion and hands-on learning. The faith-based community emphasizes spiritual growth as well as academic success. All students must participate in the Community Life and Worship Program's small groups, volunteer organizations and worship services as a prerequisite for graduation. Extracurricular activities include special-interest clubs and a flourishing Greek life.