Oldest Universities in Texas
Baylor University, Prairie View A&M University, and Sam Houston State University stand out as the oldest institutions of higher learning in the state of Texas.
Baylor University: The Oldest Continually Operating University in Texas
Baylor University is the oldest continually operating university in Texas, having been established on February 1, 1845, in Independence, Texas. It was founded by a group of pioneers and Baptist ministers, including Rev. Robert Emmett Bledsoe Baylor, whose vision was to create an institution that would provide a high-quality education based on Christian principles. This university has grown over the years to become a leading academic institution known for its commitment to higher education, research, and community service.
One of Baylor University’s defining characteristics is its status as a comprehensive research institution that blends a rigorous academic environment with a strong emphasis on Christian values. The university’s curriculum offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across diverse fields such as business, law, engineering, health sciences, and liberal arts. This diversity in academic offerings allows Baylor to cater to a broad range of student interests and career aspirations.
Baylor University is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United States. In 2023, it was ranked No. 71 in the U.S. News & World Report’s annual review of colleges and universities, showcasing its reputation as a Tier 1 school among national universities. Additionally, Baylor ranked No. 45 on the magazine’s list of High School Counselor Rankings, reflecting its strong academic reputation and the trust that high school counselors place in the university as a top-tier institution for students.
Baylor's commitment to community service and research has further solidified its position as a key player in Texas’ educational landscape. The university is renowned for its innovative research initiatives, particularly in fields like health and science, and its faculty and students actively contribute to projects that aim to address significant societal challenges.
Prairie View A&M University: A Legacy of Public Service and Educational Excellence
Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), located in Prairie View, Texas, holds the distinction of being the second oldest public institution of higher education in the state. Established as part of the Texas Constitution of 1876, PVAMU was originally founded as a land-grant institution under the Morrill Act of 1862, which aimed to provide access to higher education in agricultural and mechanical fields. As such, Prairie View A&M has played an essential role in providing higher education opportunities to African American students and has been a leader in promoting educational equity and opportunity.
Prairie View A&M University has developed a strong reputation for offering comprehensive programs that span a wide range of disciplines, from engineering and business to education and the liberal arts. As a historically Black college and university (HBCU), PVAMU has maintained its mission of nurturing leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to public service among its student body. The university’s emphasis on service is evident through its active participation in community development initiatives and its dedication to fostering a culture of civic engagement among students.
PVAMU has also been recognized for its value and quality of education. According to The Other College Guide: A Roadmap for the Right School for You published by Washington Monthly, the university was ranked among the top 100 Best Bang for the Buck universities in the Southern United States. This distinction underscores the institution’s commitment to providing an affordable and high-quality education to its students, preparing them for success in the workforce and beyond.
The academic programs at PVAMU are designed to cater to the needs of a diverse student body. With over 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, students have the opportunity to develop expertise in a variety of fields, contributing to their personal and professional growth. The university’s faculty is known for their dedication to teaching and mentoring, and PVAMU continues to be a leader in promoting access to higher education for historically underserved communities in Texas.
Sam Houston State University: The Oldest Teacher Training Institution in Texas
Sam Houston State University (SHSU), located in Huntsville, Texas, is the third oldest state university in the state and holds the distinction of being the oldest teacher training institution in Texas. Established in 1879 as the Sam Houston Normal Institute, the university was originally created to train teachers for the state’s growing population. Its mission to advance education and professional training has remained central to its identity as it has evolved over the years into a comprehensive university that offers a variety of academic programs.
SHSU has been classified as a “Doctoral Research University” by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education, indicating its commitment to research and scholarly activities. The university’s academic offerings are diverse, ranging from undergraduate and graduate programs in education, criminal justice, business, engineering, and the arts. SHSU is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, which includes internships, field placements, and practical training that prepare students for their careers. This hands-on approach is particularly notable in programs like criminal justice and education, where students gain valuable practical experience before entering the workforce.
In addition to its academic achievements, SHSU has been recognized as a "Great College to Work For" by The Chronicle of Higher Education for four consecutive years. This accolade reflects the university's commitment to creating a supportive and productive work environment for its faculty and staff, which in turn enhances the educational experience for students. The emphasis on faculty development and a positive learning environment ensures that SHSU remains an attractive option for both students and educators.
The university has also made significant strides in research and development, contributing to Texas’ broader educational and social progress. SHSU’s research initiatives encompass areas such as education, forensic science, and criminal justice, aligning with its role as a leader in public service and education.
