University of the Southwest
The Vibe Check
University of the Southwest offers an intimate, close-knit campus experience where students are not just a number but a known member of the community. With a small enrollment, the atmosphere feels personal and supportive, fostering strong connections between peers and faculty. It’s a place where you can truly find your footing and receive individualized attention on your educational journey.
Academics & Majors
USW provides a personalized academic environment with a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring that teaching quality is a top priority. The university offers solid programs in high-demand fields like Education, Business, and Criminal Justice, with opportunities for hands-on learning and practical application in these areas. While research opportunities may be more focused on undergraduate projects rather than large-scale labs, the faculty are dedicated to mentoring students directly.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Hobbs
Student life in Hobbs revolves around the campus community, with athletics—particularly baseball and basketball—playing a central role in social activities. For off-campus fun, students often explore local parks, attend community events, or take advantage of the city's recreational facilities. The location also offers easy access to outdoor activities in the surrounding West Texas and Eastern New Mexico landscapes.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($45,389):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is generally considered safe with a community-oriented atmosphere where students look out for one another. The surrounding area of Hobbs is a typical West Texas/New Mexico border town with a low-key feel, though standard safety precautions are always recommended.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors.
- ✓ Uniform tuition rate offers affordability for out-of-state students.
- ✓ Strong support system for students from diverse economic backgrounds.
- ✓ Focused programs in Education, Business, and Recreation provide clear career paths.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are lower than the national average, which may indicate challenges for some students.
- ✗ Limited campus life and social scene due to the small size and suburban location.
- ✗ Fewer research opportunities and specialized labs compared to larger universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
University of the Southwest is primarily known for its small, intimate class sizes and strong programs in Education, Parks and Recreation, and Business. It provides a supportive, community-focused environment where students receive significant individual attention from faculty, which is a hallmark of the institution.
No, University of the Southwest is not hard to get into. The university has an open admissions policy, meaning it accepts all applicants who have a high school diploma or equivalent. This approach makes it an accessible option for a wide range of students seeking a college education.
Campus life at USW is quiet and tightly-knit due to the very small student enrollment of around 337 students. Social activities are often centered around campus events and athletic games, with students forming strong bonds. The suburban setting means there is a peaceful, focused environment, but a vibrant city nightlife is not a feature of the local area.
For the right student, University of the Southwest can be a worthwhile investment. The consistent tuition rate for in- and out-of-state students and the high rate of Pell Grant eligibility make it financially accessible. While the 10-year median earnings of $45,389 are modest, the value lies in the personalized education and support for students who may thrive in a smaller, less competitive setting, leading to stable careers in fields like education and business.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 390
- In-State Tuition $16,670
- Zip Code 88240
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an out-of-state tuition that is the same as in-state, USW offers a straightforward and potentially affordable option for students from any state. The average net price of around $20,000 is competitive, especially considering the high percentage of students receiving Pell Grants, which indicates strong financial aid support. The 10-year median earnings of $45,389 suggest a reasonable return on investment, particularly for those pursuing stable careers in education or business.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.