The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) stands as a beacon of education and innovation, proudly serving as the southernmost member of the esteemed University of Texas System. Recognized as an "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" institution, UTRGV is a vibrant hub where cutting-edge research meets a deeply rooted commitment to student success. It's not just a university; it's a dynamic community empowering the next generation of leaders in one of the nation's most culturally rich regions.

UTRGV's story is one of ambitious vision and strategic growth. Established on June 14, 2013, through the consolidation of the University of Texas at Brownsville and the University of Texas–Pan American, its creation by the Texas legislature marked a significant investment in the future of the Rio Grande Valley. Officially opening its doors on August 31, 2015, UTRGV quickly evolved into a comprehensive institution, designed to expand educational access and economic opportunity across its multiple campuses.

Academically, UTRGV offers an expansive landscape of opportunities through its eleven colleges and schools, including a dedicated School of Medicine and the forward-thinking Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship. With a bustling student body of 35,812 as of Fall 2025, UTRGV is the ninth-largest university in Texas, fostering a lively and inclusive campus environment. A remarkable 89.2% of its students are Hispanic, predominantly Mexican Americans, creating a uniquely vibrant and supportive culture where the spirit of the "Vaqueros" shines brightly through its official colors of blue, green, and orange.