University of Houston
Houston, TX, USA

Reviews

University of Houston

Gregory from Houston, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
No matter what major you'll get into, you'll definitely learn a lot. There a many professors who care if you're actually learning or not and they will try to engage you as best as they can with the amount of students they have. I'm in the Honors College and it's crazy. I've learned much about philosophy and literature while there for the mandatory Human Situation class. I'm a Kinesiology-Exercise Science major and the classes I'm taking are worthwhile. The professors are knowledgeable in their fields and they continuously participate in research to further the standing of UH in the academic world. This allows research prospective students a chance to participate in university research.
Am enjoying being here
There are hundreds of clubs and organizations, not to mention activities on campus. Even though I don't sleep in a dorm, I enjoy UH. A world-class Wellness and Recreation center, an underground center called the Satellite, housing restaurants, study areas, TV rooms, pool tables, the University Center with shopping selections, and the Welcome Center, which includes more stores and places to grab a bite. The campus is not too big, so you can walk places if you don't mind the exercise. The people are great, the grounds are green, and there's quite a lot to do.
Bang for the buck
Quality education for a better price. Although tuition is going up, the SGA is trying to freeze tuition to help students. The University is also offering $70 million dollars worth of scholarships for incoming freshmen! Lots of scholarship opportunities available from the university itself, the different colleges, and the organizations on campus!
Tips for prospective students
More tips... Well, it's better if you learn some stuff on your own.
Great for these types of students
There are lots of competetive departments at UH. The Health and Human Performance Department is ranked #1 int the nation. We have an interdisciplinary Honors College, which offers the finest in faculty. The Entrepreneurship school is ranked #1, the Law School is ranked nationally, and there's more. So if you're thinking of entering some of these fields, go for it! Go to the UH website to learn more about it.

Rubi from Houston, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
The instructors care for the success of the students and try their best to get through. For me personally they are very flexible and easygoing about their office hours and are more than willing to work with the student.
Am enjoying being here
There are so many events on campus for everyone! With U of H being mostly a commuter school they try their best to bring everyone together one way or another. Because of the diversity, there are many clubs and organizations which are great.
Bang for the buck
Affordable tuition!!! With many financial aid opportunities!!
Tips for prospective students
Even if you have heard it a million times, reading the chapters before lecture is REALLY helpful. Also no matter how well of an expert you are at cramming the night before an exam it will do you no good if the final exam is cumulative
Great for these types of students
It is a great school for those who wish to live close to home or live at home. Those who want to experience many cultures in one this is the place for you! University of Houston is the most culturally diverse college in the nation!

Roberto from Houston, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
Definitely learning a lot, my teachers were great, very helpful. My teachers actually treated me as an equal instead of as a student so that motivated me to learn more. There are TA's there to help me if I have any questions. And everything is very well organized.
Am enjoying being here
My senior year I was ready to graduate in order to go to college and leave Houston. I had the choice of going to 7 different colleges in Texas but I decided to stay at the University of Houston. I thought it was going to be horrible. I was completely wrong, everyone is nice and there is so much going on. You can hang out at the Satellite Underground, watch UH beat Texas Tech, or just sit at the fountains and have a picnic. It's a completely different atmosphere than high school, and I'm enjoying it.
Bang for the buck
Very affordable. I am from a middle class family so I didn't receive any financial aid from FAFSA, so paying thousands of dollars for housing at another college was not in the question, but that was not a problem. UH financial services helped me by giving me scholarships for being and undergraduate and for going into my majors school. It helped relieve the stress on my wallet. And not only that that educational quality is amazing, one of the best schools in the country.
Tips for prospective students
Rate My Professor is your best friend. Be social and you'll make friends easily, with 200 other people in your class you're bound to meet someone. Don't let the class sizes intimidate you, if you listen and take notes it'll be easy
Great for these types of students
Anybody who wants a quality education, and have fun at the same time.

Washington from Houston, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
I have learned a LOT since going to the University of Houston. There are a lot of great professors, and there are a lot of tools to help you succeed. Some professors have their lectures recorded, and you can use those to review, or if you missed class. And there is a lot of tutoring you can get if you need it.
Am enjoying being here
I really like UH. It is a really big campus, but it doesn't seem so bad once you get used to it. There are so many things you can do if you when you are not in class. There's the Rec center, which is my favorite thing about UH. So much to do in there. The Gym is upstairs, and there is even an indoor track. And you can choose from a lot of sports to play from like Basketball, Racquetball, Badminton. There is also an indoor soccer place, and many more things to do, you definitely will not be dissapointed. There are also a lot of places to eat, in both the UC and Satellite.
Bang for the buck
Very affordable tuition. Plus there is so many oppurtunites to receive financial aid. Plus UH has a chance to become a Tier 1 school, and that is a plus. Paying a reasonable tuition to a Tier 1 school is a very good deal.
Tips for prospective students
AP Classes and Dual Credit classes are your best friend. They can help clear out so many of the required classes you have to take, called the CORE classes. Everyone has to take these CORE classes, regardless of major. And you save money as well.

Try to go to as many sporting events as you can, like Football and Basketball. You will be surprised when you go and you start cheering. It is a very fun atmosphere, and a good way to take a break from your hard studying :).

Learn to manage your time and study habits. That was one of the hardest things for me from the transition from Highschool to College. It is VERY different. The amount of time you have to commit is very different, well unless you are a super genius. And don't be afraid to get help if you need it.

And wear red everyday :D. Go COOGS!
Great for these types of students
ANYONE. Especially if you love Houston, want a great campus in a very active city. And it is very affordable. UH is a great school, and is becoming close to becoming Tier 1 like other Texas schools like UT and A&M.

Not too many reasons to not go to UH!

Frank from Houston, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Bang for the buck
GREAT tuition price.
Tips for prospective students
Apply early for a chance to receive scholarships
Great for these types of students
Students who enjoy a diverse enviroment

Spencer from Houston, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
The University of Houston offers a large amount of options for your academic ambitions. At the same time it ensures that it has the professors to back them up. Most of the professors I've encountered are well educated in their fields and make a good effort to teach effectively. There also seems to be a professor for any learning preference a student might have. Now as with any university there are some professors that aren't too great. But with the assistance of RateMyProfessor.com you should have a great learning experience in all of your classes!
Am enjoying being here
This campus has a very unique blend between a mature and relaxed atmosphere with an eventful and exciting atmosphere. There isn't as much campus life as some others out there, but that can be attributed to the fact that it is a primarily commuter campus. Even still there are plenty of ways for both commuters and those on-campus to get involved. Be sure to get things like admissions, class selections and financial aid done quickly, though.
Bang for the buck
Without a doubt the bang for the buck is great. I originally came to the University of Houston because I was going to pay for college myself and it was affordable. To my surprise though I got a lot more out of it than I thought and so far have only raked in a minimal amount of debt (especially compared to some friends at other universities!). Keep in mind that this university is pushing to be Tier 1, so it's educational quality is up, while it's tuition still remains pleasantly low!
Tips for prospective students
If you're a last minute person like myself, this will have to be your one exception. Getting things done as soon as possible is key to having a good experience at the University of Houston. If you need to get something sorted out with the school, go in person and arrive early (preferably as soon as they open in the morning). Otherwise you'll find yourself in a long line (30min-1hr+).
Great for these types of students
This is a campus for those who want to have a relaxing and laid back college experience and still get things done for a good price. However if partying is your definition for college, the University of Houston is not your school.

Syeda from Houston, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
Being an engineering major, one wants challenge in classes which I am definitely getting here at UH. The professors teach you more than just what you have to know for exams, they teach you what you need to know for future. Although this is a pretty big university the professors are really effective and helpful, if you need help they respond back efficiently or you can simply go to a TA, the tuition center, etc.
Am enjoying being here
I think UH is awesome! I love being here because it is a beautiful campus with beautiful people. You get to meet new people and learn new things about other religions, cultures, ethnicities everyday! There are many fun events everyday, you can easily find bake sales, club invitations, volunteer oppurtunities, etc,. on your way to the library, in the University Center, and other such places. If you want art simply go to the Blaffer art gallery or listen to music in the Moores building.
Bang for the buck
UH most definitely gives you the bang for the buck and even if you think that UH is a bit pricey in the end it will pay good for coming here.
Tips for prospective students
Apply for admissions, financial aid, and scholarships early because they do run out fast. Read your chapters ahead of class and come to class with questions. Form study groups with hard working people and not just friends. Also, come early if you drive a car because parking runs out pretty fast.
Great for these types of students
Great for students who love meeting all types of people and who want to be in a friendly environment with good studies.

Christopher from Houston, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
in my opinion, this school is underrated. it is an excellent university with excellent professors and spectacular school spirit. it can definitely compete with other texas universities.
Tips for prospective students
for prospective students, do not overlook the honors college. it provides so much more opportunities. it's like having a small community within a community. you can meet a lot of new people and actually bond with professors. class sizes are smaller, professors know your name, there are a lot more students like you, there are many organizations within the college itself, and it is overall just an amazing experience.
Academic Rigor
being in the honors college, the classes are more rigorous but not impossible. since there are less students in your classes you can get together with them and form study groups and increase your understanding of the curriculum. the only reason there is for failing any classes in the honors college is not trying.
Dorm Life
the dorm life is fantastic. you meet way more people that you could ever imagine. having a place to stay at school and not having to go home everyday is the best thing one could ask for. you learn so many skills by living on your own and those are things that you will probably use for the rest of your life.
Food and Dining
the dining facilities are top notch, especially the real food company at moody towers. this all you can eat buffet style dining hall provides an array of different foods. from pizza and burgers to pastas to salads. there is even a vegetarian line that can have the foods being served that day made vegan upon request. you can't go wrong with the real food company. there are also fast food restaurant all across campus such as chick-fil-a, subway, taco bell, wendy's, pizza hut, murphie's deli and much much more. you can never go hungry.
What to do for fun
what not to do for fun. you can go to the state of the art recreation and wellness center, the rec for short, and join pickup basketball games, get in some games of raquetball and ping pong, go to the mac and play some indoor soccer. there are always classes going on such as zumba, yoga, core, dancing and kickboxing. there is an indoor track so you can get some laps in. there's an indoor pool so you can go for a swim whenever and during the fall the outdoor pool is also open. there are many places around campus for entertainment. the university center has a bowling alley underground that is incredibly cheap for students. downtown is just down the highway so you can enjoy the houstonian downtown experience. you have the houston rockets, astros, texans, dynamo sports team that you can go support. the museum district is very popular and so is the fine arts district. you should never say there is nothing to do because that means you're just being lazy.
Bang for the buck
big bang for the buck. great college education without the high costs of ut and a&m.
Clubs and Activities
there are clubs and activities for anybody. if you want to join then you will find a club for you. if there isn't one, you can make one!

Meridith from Houston, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
This does depend on who your professor is and what major you are in. This school is great, in some departments. Do your homework and see if this is the right school for the major you want to pursue.
Am enjoying being here
More or less.
Pros: Great security, starting to get more functions for on campus students, several facilities for you to use, awesome library.
Cons: Still in the transition stage from just being a commuter school. Often seems insensitive to those living on campus. EX: Restaurants and stores close very early. Shops close early. Important offices close very early. If your staying at a dorm you may or may not have your cafeteria open on the weekends or finals week, not to mention you can't stay in the dorm over Christmas break and you do have a 'kick out date' where they take your key.
Bang for the buck
Very cheap university and you get a great quality of education. However like I previously stated look into the department you want to be part of. Some departments are very organized, others are administrative disasters.
Tips for prospective students
Apply early. Honestly. If you go in for the quick apply in November you find out that day if you are accepted or not. Takes a load off your mind. Take dual credit classes, don't necessarily rely on your AP scores to count. I know a student here who scored 4's or 5's on all 6 of his AP tests and only 3 of them counted towards anything. Dual credit is a lot less stressful and you're pretty much guaranteed college credit. Also I can not stress this enough, but look into this school and your will be department before you make your choice. This is a good idea to apply this to whatever school you are interested in. This could be a great experience for you, or it could be a horrible one. Things to take into consideration: Responsiveness, organization, availability, are the advisers worth their salt, what perks do they give you ex: help with internships, and ect.
Great for these types of students
This school is known for it's law program, the business school, the hotel restaurant management school, creative writing program, architecture school, and its math/science school.

Angie

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
the university of houston is a campus full of life and spirit! the school has so much to offer from tons of clubs to join to constant school functions going on at all times. it is impossible to be bored here for there is always something to do.
Tips for prospective students
time management is the key to succeeding at any college but if you are able to prioritize your study and homework time, it is very easy to have free time to get a job, go out with friends on the weekend, or join clubs to make friends!
Academic Rigor
the academic curriculum is very good. no matter the size of the classroom being of 550 students or a lab of 20 students i was impressively surprised on how personal and passionate all of my professors were of making sure all of us students succeeded. college courses consist of mainly lectures so get ready for a lot of independent study. the campus involves a faculty of teachers who want to see students do well and not just grade them as another number without a name.
Dorm Life
dorm life is awesome! it helps students like myself learn how to become self reliant and independent on my own chores and work. it also helped me make friends very quickly in a cool way for the fact that we were all living alone at a dorm together. its also nice to live on campus because when you wake up in the morning its really convenient to walk to your class, bookstore, or the rec center whenever you want to go!
Food and Dining
the dining services always offer tons of variety of different entrees every single day. the areas are set up in a buffet style. i love not having to go out of my way off campus when i want to grab a bite to eat before my next class. whether you feel like munching on some cereal, grabbing some pizza really quick, splurge on some dessert, or take a healthier approach and eat some salad, the choices are endless and its great having options.
What to do for fun
when having to take a little breather from the books a perfect place to go on campus is the rec center where you can work out or pick up a game of volleyball, basketball, or badminton with a friend! there are so many fitness classes you can take for free like kickboxing, yoga, or zumba or you can kick back at the leisure pool. if you want to mix it up some days they have an arcade on campus with a bowling alley! and as always there are school spirit functions and clubs having events going on all around campus at all times of the year. trust me it impossible to be bored here.
Bang for the buck
this tier one university offers a great quality of education for its buck. it has a good yet tough curriculum but hey, that's college! although you cannot expect to go to any college or university and not buy books for your classes. fortunately the first year many students find friends in their class where they decide to share books for half the cost. or there is always the option to rent or buy used books. not all can be rented or bought as used since editions are updated each year but for my first year at this university i was able to rent all of my books and spend under 250 for the year.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
a very unusual tradition i had not heard of any college every doing before was the week before finals and winter break the library had set up a school function where they handed out free pancakes and juice and coffee to all uofh students who wanted a little midnight snack to keep them up and energized when studying for finals. it was great and the pancakes were delicious!
Clubs and Activities
there are too many clubs to list! whether your interested in academic competitions, physical sports clubs, volunteer programs uofh offers all of it and so much more! i am a full time student and i joined two volunteer clubs, a religious youth group organization, and the on campus church choir. and i'm still thinking of joining an inter mural sports team at the rec center. it is not impossible to manage your time right because i am a dean's list student and i still have time to juggle all my clubs, go out on some weekends, and workout at the rec center. so there is no reason why you shouldn't join a club that interests you because you'll have a blast!
Campus Safety
due to the availability of classes one of my labs was only offered from 6-7pm but after i would exit the building which was all the way on the opposite side of campus from my dorm, security carts were already patrolling the premises to make sure us students were safe getting to our destination. there are also security light posts placed all around and the campus is always very lit up at night time. i feel very secure and safe at all hours that i am on campus grounds.