About Sam Houston State University

For more than 140 years, Sam Houston State University has been preparing students for meaningful lives of achievement. Its motto, "The measure of a Life is its Service," resonates among its 22,000 students, eight colleges and well beyond its historical roots through research, creative endeavors, service learning, volunteering and more.

SHSU is an inclusive institution whose mission is to provide high quality education, scholarship, and service to students. With over 90 bachelor degrees, 50 master’s, and 11 doctoral programs—including the nation’s first Ph.D. in forensic science, SHSU provides an exceptional college experience for every student: traditional or non-traditional; first generation; international; or online.

Service to self and others is paramount at SHSU and reflected in all university organizations and programs. In fact, the university was named to USA Today’s Top 50 in the U.S. for “commitment to civic engagement and global awareness,” in addition to being classified a "Community Engaged Campus" by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education. This honor, bestowed to only 311 public institutions nationwide, acknowledges the university's significant commitment to service.

Sam Houston State University has a small town feel with large scale opportunities. Located in the Piney Woods region of East Texas, Huntsville provides area residents with a sense of community and belonging, although just an hour drive north of Houston. 

SHSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, or gender identity or expression. Sam Houston State University is an "at will" employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code § 51.215. SHSU is committed to promoting a campus culture that embraces diversity and inclusion. The University acknowledges and values our responsibility to cultivate an equitable and inclusive environment where students, faculty, staff, and community recognize the benefits of collaboration and mutual respect through diverse identities and experiences.

Member The Texas State University System