Texas State University System – Explore Every Campus in Texas’ First Public University System
The Texas State University System (TSUS) is the oldest public university system in Texas, originally founded in 1911. Headquartered in Austin, it includes seven institutions across the state and educates more than 87,000 students annually.
Known for practical degrees, teacher education, and regional access to higher ed, TSUS is a major force in shaping workforce-ready graduates—especially in underserved communities.
🎓 Academic Strengths Across the System
- Texas State University: Business, education, health professions, liberal arts, and STEM
- Lamar University: Engineering, business, nursing, and online education
- Sam Houston State University: Criminal justice, education, and business
- Sul Ross State University: Agricultural and natural resource sciences, teacher education, and borderlands studies
- Lamar Institute of Technology: Applied sciences, healthcare, and technology trades
- Lamar State College–Orange & Port Arthur: Workforce training, maritime studies, and associate degrees
🧪 Research & Innovation Highlights
- Texas State University: Emerging research university with strengths in materials science, sustainability, education, and public health
- Sam Houston: Focus on criminal justice, cybersecurity, and behavioral science
- Lamar University: Research in chemical engineering, energy, and water management
🏫 Campus-by-Campus Highlights
🎓 Texas State University (Flagship)
Location: San Marcos, TX
A large, scenic campus along the San Marcos River with historic roots and strong academic programs
Known for: Teacher education, health professions, psychology, business, and media
🔎 Explore TXST programs
🧭 Visit the Campus:
Address: 601 University Dr., San Marcos, TX 78666
Tours: admissions.txst.edu/visit
Things to See: Old Main, the Quad, Bobcat Stadium, San Marcos River access, LBJ statue and museum
🎓 Sam Houston State University (SHSU)
Location: Huntsville, TX
Known for: Criminal justice, business, teacher prep, and psychology
🔎 SHSU programs
🎓 Lamar University
Location: Beaumont, TX
Known for: Engineering, nursing, education, and business
🔎 Lamar programs
🎓 Sul Ross State University
Location: Alpine, TX (plus campuses in Del Rio, Uvalde, and Eagle Pass)
Known for: Natural sciences, agriculture, teacher ed, and studies related to the Big Bend and borderlands
🔎 Sul Ross programs
🎓 Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT)
Location: Beaumont, TX
Known for: Skilled trades, healthcare, instrumentation, and industrial tech
🔎 LIT programs
🎓 Lamar State College–Orange
Location: Orange, TX
Known for: Healthcare, safety, maritime and port logistics
🔎 LSCO programs
🎓 Lamar State College–Port Arthur
Location: Port Arthur, TX
Known for: Cosmetology, culinary arts, maritime, and nursing
🔎 LSC-PA programs
🏈 Athletics Across the System
Texas State University: NCAA Division I – Sun Belt Conference
Sam Houston State: NCAA Division I – Conference USA
Lamar University: NCAA Division I – Southland Conference
Others: No intercollegiate sports but offer intramurals and community recreation
💰 Cost & Financial Aid
- TSUS schools are committed to affordability and student access
- In-state tuition and strong financial aid programs at all schools
- Many campuses offer Promise programs or automatic scholarships for local students
📥 Admissions Overview
- All institutions use ApplyTexas.org
- Texas State University: Holistic admissions with scholarship priority deadlines
- Sam Houston & Lamar: Rolling admissions with GPA/test-based scholarships
- Sul Ross and LIT: Open enrollment and workforce-ready programs
🧠 Final Thoughts
The Texas State University System may not be as flashy as the big-name flagships, but it delivers serious value and serious access. Whether you’re aiming for a four-year degree, a hands-on trade, or a beautiful mountain campus in the Big Bend region, TSUS has you covered.
Don’t overlook these schools—especially if you want a solid degree with a smaller campus vibe and a strong Texas work ethic. Visit a campus, meet the faculty, and see what Texas State means to the communities it serves.
