Our History & Traditions
The University of Houston's proud heritage of academic excellence dates back to its founding in 1927, when its primary focus was training future teachers. At that time, it was called Houston Junior College and classes were held on the San Jacinto High School campus.
Over the years, we grew and prospered, becoming the University of Houston in 1934. Two years later, the institution acquired land for a permanent campus, and its first building opened in 1939. In 1947, the institution launched one of its many rich traditions by adopting the cougar, later named Shasta, as its official mascot. The university became a state institution in 1963 and joined the newly created University of Houston System in 1977.
MISSION
Connecting Potential with Opportunity
The University of Houston draws strength from its diversity to transform lives and communities through education, research, service and innovation in a real world setting. UH is an engine for discovery, conversation and change that informs and leads local, state, national and global partnerships.
Our Services
We serve international students, visitors, and faculty who navigate the complexities of coming to the United States and the University of Houston. We advocate for the UH international community while promoting UH’s mission of empowering students to reach their learning objectives.
Our services include:
- Pre-arrival assistance
- Facilitating official campus check-in and orientation
- Assisting with maintaining visa status and U.S. regulation compliance
- Providing counseling and advocacy services
- Hosting comprehensive workshops and information sessions
- Organizing cultural events and programs
- Advising on requests for specialized needs and circumstances
- Helping with visas for dependents
The University of Houston draws strength from its diversity to transform lives and communities through education, research, service and innovation in a real world setting. UH is an engine for discovery, conversation and change that informs and leads local, state, national and global partnerships.
We value our people and embrace our differences as we remove barriers, engage in free and open discourse and provide resources to think critically and make us stronger.
We infuse innovation into everything — our culture, curriculum and campus workplace.
We build strength through creative innovation, entrepreneurship, research, intellectual curiosity and partnerships in everything we do.
We change and adapt, transform and are creative to meet the ever-changing needs of the University and society.
Rankings. University of Houston is ranked #432 in Best Global Universities. Schools are ranked according to their performance across a set of widely accepted indicators of excellence. Read more about how we rank schools.
