Sam Houston State University
SHSU
Huntsville, Texas 77340
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — excellent value
Sam Houston State University is a public institution in Huntsville with particular strength in business and health sciences. With an average SAT of 1055, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A large campus of 18.1K undergraduates with a 20:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
55% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $54,211 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $16,025.
Rankings
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •History 19th and 20th centuries The Sam Houston State University campus was originally home to Austin College, the Presbyterian institution that relocated to Sherman, Texas, in 1876.
- •Austin Hall was constructed in 1851 and is the oldest university building west of the Mississippi still in operation.
- •It was renovated in 2012 and is used today for special meetings and events.
- •Roberts on San Jacinto Day, April 21, 1879, Sam Houston Normal Institute's dedicated goal was to train teachers for the public schools of Texas.
- •It was the first teacher-training school in the southwestern United States.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1055
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
54.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
0.9%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$16,500
Programs (137)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
75%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
119
Peer Average
92
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
24/7 campus police department, blue-light phone network, emergency mass notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from TX state average