University of Houston-Clear Lake logo

University of Houston-Clear Lake

Houston, TX Public ยท Urban www.uhcl.edu
Accept Rate
75.3%
Grad Rate
52.3%
Enrollment
6,082
Avg SAT
1105
Tuition
$7,746
Median Salary
$59,004
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
A-
Value
C
Admissions
A-
Diversity
B
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

The campus feels like a modern, professional workplace fused with a close-knit academic community. Students are often focused and career-driven, taking advantage of the proximity to Houston's industries while enjoying a more intimate setting than a large commuter campus.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

75.3%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 110575th Pctl
9901170
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2075th Pctl
1823
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight any work experience or community service in your application, as UHCL values non-traditional paths and practical skills. Ensure your application is complete early to secure financial aid, and connect with an admissions counselor to discuss credit transfer if you're coming from a community college.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1105
40080012001600
School range: 990โ€“1170

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

UHCL is recognized for strong programs in business, computer science, and education, often tailored to working adults and traditional students alike. The curriculum emphasizes practical application with research opportunities in environmental science and psychology, supported by faculty with real-world experience.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
21.9%
Multidisciplinary Studies
21.2%
Psychology
8.5%
Computer Science
6.3%
Biology & Biomedical
6.1%
Engineering
4.7%
Social Sciences
4.5%
Health Professions
4.4%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
4.1%
Visual & Performing Arts
3.4%
Communications
2.6%
History
2.3%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

52.3%
Graduation Rate
75.3%
Retention Rate
6,082
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$7,746
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$11,056
After financial aid
Total Cost
$23,788
Cost of attendance/year
43.8%
Receive Pell Grants
28.8%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Houston

Students enjoy easy access to Space Center Houston, NASA, and the Clear Lake waterfront for boating and outdoor activities. The campus is a short drive from downtown Houston, offering major league sports, world-class dining, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Local Rent Check

$1,135 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Houston
Explore Houston

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$30,984
$0Est. 4 Years: $30,984

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($59,004):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is generally considered safe with standard security measures like patrols and emergency phones. The surrounding Webster/Clear Lake area is a well-established suburban corridor, though standard urban precautions are recommended.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Strong ties to Houston's business, aerospace, and healthcare industries
  • โœ“ Affordable in-state tuition and solid financial aid options
  • โœ“ Flexible programs designed for both traditional students and working adults
  • โœ“ Smaller class sizes compared to larger state universities

Cons

  • โœ— Graduation and retention rates are lower than the national average
  • โœ— Campus social life is quieter and less traditional than a large residential university
  • โœ— Location requires a car to fully access Houston's entertainment and cultural offerings

Notable Alumni

Nolan Ryan
Hall of Fame baseball pitcher and former owner of the Texas Rangers
Bobby Cramer
Major League Baseball pitcher who played for the Oakland Athletics
Feisal A. Rashid
Renowned researcher and professor in the field of computer science and engineering

Frequently Asked Questions

UHCL is known for its strong ties to the Houston business and aerospace communities, particularly through its College of Business and proximity to NASA. It is also recognized for its education, computer science, and psychology programs that cater to both traditional students and working professionals.

No, it is not highly selective. With an acceptance rate of 75.3%, admission is generally accessible. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1105, and the university has a holistic review process that considers more than just test scores.

Campus life is more subdued and commuter-focused compared to large residential universities. Students are often career-oriented, but there are over 100 student organizations, NCAA Division II athletics, and events hosted by the Student Life office to build community.

Yes, particularly for in-state students. With an average net price of $11,056 and a 10-year median earnings of $59,004, the financial return is strong. The degree provides solid value for entering Houston's robust job market.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

NASA Johnson Space Center SpaceX Houston Methodist BP America American Airlines
Smart Start Score
60

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 7,592
  • In-State Tuition $7,746
  • Out-of-State $21,330
  • Zip Code 77058

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 38.3% โ™€ 61.7%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of around $11,000 and low in-state tuition, UHCL offers a high return on investment for Texas residents. The 10-year median earnings of $59,000 significantly outpace the cost of the degree, making it a financially sound choice.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with Purdue University Northwest

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $7,746
Housing (12 mo) $13,620
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $28,566
With avg financial aid:
$11,056/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.