Huston-Tillotson University
Austin, TX
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Huston-Tillotson University
Austin's pioneering HBCU, shaping futures since 1875.
Huston-Tillotson University stands as a beacon of education in Austin, Texas, holding the distinction as the city's first institution of higher learning, established in 1875. As a private historically black university (HBCU), HT carries a rich legacy, rooted in the merger of Tillotson College and Samuel Huston College in 1952, eventually becoming a university in 2005. Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the United Church of Christ, and the United Negro College Fund, HT provides a nurturing environment deeply committed to academic excellence and community development.
Prospective students considering Huston-Tillotson will find a vibrant academic landscape. The university offers a comprehensive range of bachelor's degrees across business, education, humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, science, and technology. For those aiming for advanced studies, HT also provides a master's degree in educational leadership and specialized academic programs designed to prepare undergraduates for post-graduate pursuits in law and medicine, ensuring a strong foundation for diverse career paths.
Beyond academics, Huston-Tillotson boasts a storied history, including a unique connection to baseball legend Jackie Robinson, who served as the athletic director and basketball coach at Samuel Huston College prior to its merger. This historical depth, combined with recent significant milestones like the $150 million donation in 2025 – the largest in the university's history and among the largest ever to an HBCU – underscores HT's enduring impact and bright future. Students at HT become part of a legacy of resilience, achievement, and forward-thinking education in the heart of Texas.
Key Highlights
- ✦Established in 1875, it was the first institution of higher learning in Austin, Texas.
- ✦A private historically black university (HBCU) serving 1,160 students.
- ✦Offers bachelor's degrees across business, education, humanities, sciences, and technology, along with a master's in educational leadership.
- ✦Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the United Church of Christ, and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).
- ✦Received a historic $150 million donation in 2025, the largest in its history and one of the largest ever to an HBCU.
- ✦Baseball legend Jackie Robinson coached the basketball team at Samuel Huston College (a predecessor institution) in 1944-45.
Timeline
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