Texas State University System

Overview

The Texas State University System (TSUS) is the oldest public university system in Texas, playing a pivotal role in higher education across the state.

Despite its name, “Texas State” is only one of several university systems in Texas and does not encompass the entire state’s public university network, which also includes the Texas A&M University System, and the University of Texas System.

Established in 1911, TSUS oversees several public universities, each contributing to academic excellence and regional economic growth. The system’s institutions include:

• Texas State University (San Marcos, TX)
• Sam Houston State University (Huntsville, TX)
• Lamar University (Beaumont, TX)
• Sul Ross State University (Alpine, TX)
• Lamar Institute of Technology (Beaumont, TX)
• Lamar State College Orange (Orange, TX)
• Lamar State College Port Arthur (Port Arthur, TX)

TSUS universities serve a diverse student population, offering programs in fields such as business, healthcare, engineering, and criminal justice. The system’s commitment to student success is evident in its robust academic support services, affordable tuition rates, and emphasis on career readiness.

Flagship Institution

Texas State University, located in San Marcos, is the largest and most recognized institution within TSUS. Notable aspects include:

With over 38,000 students, Texas State University is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, with particular strengths in business, education, health professions, and the arts. The campus features cutting-edge research facilities, and students have access to extensive internship and networking opportunities with top Texas employers.

Texas State also holds a unique historical distinction as the alma mater of U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson, making it the only Texas university to have graduated a U.S. president. The LBJ Student Center, named in his honor, serves as a hub for student activities and leadership programs.

Academics and Research

TSUS institutions are known for their commitment to academic achievement and research innovation. Each university within the system has carved out areas of excellence that contribute to advancements in multiple industries.

For example, Sam Houston State University is renowned for its criminal justice program, consistently ranked among the best in the nation. Lamar University has gained national recognition for its engineering and industrial technology programs, providing critical workforce training in STEM fields. Meanwhile, Sul Ross State University specializes in environmental science, ranching, and agricultural research, supporting Texas’ rural communities and land conservation efforts.

TSUS institutions actively secure research grants and industry partnerships, fueling discoveries in technology, healthcare, and education. Faculty members frequently collaborate with businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations to address real-world challenges through applied research.

Economic and Workforce Impact

The Texas State University System plays a crucial role in shaping the state’s workforce and driving economic prosperity. Each year, thousands of TSUS graduates enter high-demand industries, including education, healthcare, business, law enforcement, and engineering.

Beyond education, TSUS institutions maintain strong partnerships with Texas industries, ensuring that academic programs align with job market needs. For instance, Lamar University collaborates with oil and gas companies to produce skilled engineers, while Sam Houston State University provides law enforcement training to future criminal justice professionals. This alignment between academia and industry helps strengthen Texas’ economy and provides students with career-ready skills upon graduation.

Additionally, TSUS universities generate billions of dollars in economic impact through employment, research activities, and local business investments. Many graduates remain in Texas after completing their education, contributing to the state’s workforce and community development.

Campus Life and Student Engagement

Each TSUS university fosters a dynamic and engaging campus environment. Students have access to a wealth of extracurricular activities, including academic organizations, student government, community service programs, and cultural events.

Athletics also play an important role in campus life. Texas State University’s Bobcats compete in NCAA Division I sports, while Sam Houston State Bearkats have achieved national championships in football. The spirited rivalries and enthusiastic fan bases contribute to a vibrant student experience.

Moreover, TSUS institutions emphasize student success initiatives such as academic advising, mentorship programs, and career services. These resources help students transition from college to career smoothly, enhancing their long-term professional success.

Interesting Facts About TSUS

• First Public University System in Texas: TSUS was established in 1911, predating other major Texas university systems.
• TSUS enrolls over 87,000 students across its institutions, representing a broad spectrum of backgrounds and interests.
• Unique Campus Locations: Includes urban, rural, and borderland campuses, providing students with varied learning environments and community experiences.
• One of TSUS’s member institutions, Sam Houston State University, is home to one of the top-ranked criminal justice programs in the nation.
• In 1969, a group of students at Sam Houston State University staged an elaborate prank, convincing local media that Bigfoot had been spotted near campus.
• Lamar University, another TSUS institution, played a significant role in early petrochemical industry research.
• A former Lamar University professor once built a working model of the entire campus out of LEGO bricks, showcasing it at a local science fair.
• Sul Ross State University, a TSUS member, has a long-standing connection to Texas ranching culture and hosts one of the oldest rodeo programs in the country.
• The system includes two two-year colleges: Lamar State College Orange and Lamar State College Port Arthur, which focus on workforce training and technical education.
• A former U.S. president, Lyndon B. Johnson, briefly attended what is now Texas State University, making it the only Texas public university attended by a U.S. president.
• The system headquarters is located in Austin, Texas, despite none of its institutions being based there.

Conclusion

The Texas State University System (TSUS) has played a significant role in Texas higher education since its establishment in 1911. With multiple institutions across the state, it provides academic programs, research opportunities, and workforce training to a diverse student population.

Beyond academics, TSUS institutions also play a role in regional development, supporting local economies and communities through outreach programs, public service initiatives, and collaborations with government and nonprofit organizations. These efforts contribute to the broader mission of improving educational access and fostering civic engagement across the state.