Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, United States • Founded 1879
Updated Jun 2026 · Source: shsu.edu
Overview
Founded in 1879, the Sam Houston State University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the rural setting of the large town of Huntsville (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Texas.
Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Sam Houston State University (SHSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 145-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 90-99% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment.
SHSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Mailing address, phone, email, and social channels for Sam Houston State University are listed below.
Academic Details
A snapshot of Sam Houston State University's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and recognition.
Academic Structures
Sam Houston State University's faculties, schools, and constituent units are listed below.
Unit 5 items
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Business Administration
- College of Criminal Justice
- College of Education
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Programs Offered
Search and filter Sam Houston State University's available programmes by degree level.
156 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 66 programmes
Showing 10 of 66.
Master's Degree 49 programmes
Showing 10 of 49.
Doctorate 10 programmes
Professional Doctorate 1 programme
Certificate 6 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 24 programmes
Showing 10 of 24.
How to apply to Sam Houston State University
A short guide to applying to Sam Houston State University — five steps.
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1
Identify the right programme
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Sam Houston State University offers 156 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
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2
Check entry requirements
Each programme at Sam Houston State University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
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3
Prepare your application documents
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
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4
Submit via the institution
Apply directly via Sam Houston State University's online portal at shsu.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (936) 294 1111. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sam Houston State University
Below are key facts about Sam Houston State University, drawn directly from institutional records.
When did Sam Houston State University open?
Sam Houston State University traces its founding to 1879 (approximately 147 years ago).
What city is Sam Houston State University in?
Sam Houston State University operates from Huntsville, United States.
Is Sam Houston State University a public or private institution?
It is a public higher-education institution.
How big is Sam Houston State University's student body?
Sam Houston State University serves approximately 17,743 students.
What is Sam Houston State University's academic structure?
The institution comprises 5 academic units.
Who recognises Sam Houston State University?
Sam Houston State University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
What is Sam Houston State University's official website?
Sam Houston State University's official website is shsu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
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Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), alongside Sam Houston State University.
Faculties at nearby universities
Also in Huntsville: universities located close to Sam Houston State University.
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