Established in 1974 the University of Houston-Downtown has a rich history. It began as the University of Houston-Downtown College. The institution acquired the assets of South Texas Junior College. It was located at One Main Street. Initially a four-year institution UHD quickly grew. The Texas Legislature approved it as a distinct university within the University of Houston System.
UHD focused on the needs of Houston’s workforce. Its first four-year degree was in Criminal Justice. Tuition was a remarkably low $4 per credit hour. By the early 1980s it was clear that UHD was more than just a college. The word college was dropped from its name.
Throughout the 1990s UHD experienced rapid growth. It became one of Texas’ fastest-growing universities. The university attracted traditional and non-traditional students. Working professionals also enrolled. This period saw significant campus expansion. The Academic Building and the Jesse H Jones Student Life Center were constructed. These additions were crucial for accommodating the increasing student population.
The Texas Legislature granted UHD permission to offer graduate programs. A Master’s in Criminal Justice was introduced. Later a Master’s in Security Management and Professional Writing & Education followed. UHD partnered with Lone Star College. This allowed it to offer degrees and courses at UHD Northwest. Other locations included Lone Star College-Cy Fair and Lone Star College-Kingwood. Articulation agreements with local colleges facilitated student transfers.
The late 1990s and early 2000s witnessed further expansion. The Willow Street Pump Station was renovated. This historic building is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Commerce Street Building opened housing the College of Public Service. The Shea Street Building became the new home for the College of Business. A milestone was reached in 2012. The first class of MBA students enrolled at the College of Business.
The University of Houston-Downtown continues to expand. A large Welcome Center opened in 2016. The O’Kane Gallery found a new home showcasing student faculty and national artists’ work. A significant $10 million endowment from Marilyn Davies transformed the College of Business. It is now the Marilyn Davies College of Business. In 2020 a state-of-the-art College of Sciences & Technology Building opened. The Wellness & Success Center opened in 2023. It focuses on student well-being and fitness.
Today UHD educates over 14000 students annually. It has over 67000 alumni. The university is a Hispanic-Serving Institution a Minority-Serving Institution and a Military-Friendly School. It reflects the diversity of Houston. The University of Houston-Downtown’s journey shows its commitment to serving students and the community.