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Education in Houston is as diverse as the city itself, offering opportunities for students of all ages and backgrounds.
Public and Private Schools
The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is the largest district in Texas and serves most of the city. HISD operates more than 270 campuses, including magnet, charter, and specialized STEM and fine arts programs.
Surrounding suburban districts like Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Katy ISD, Spring ISD, and Conroe ISD provide additional options for families living outside city limits.
Higher Education
Houston boasts a robust network of colleges and universities, including:
- University of Houston – a Tier One research institution.
- Rice University – consistently ranked among the nation’s top private universities.
- Texas Southern University, Houston Christian University, and University of St. Thomas – offering a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
- Houston Community College (HCC) and Lone Star College – providing affordable two-year degrees, workforce certifications, and transfer pathways.
Continuing Education
For adults returning to school or advancing careers, both HCC and Lone Star College offer flexible programs, online classes, and job placement support. The city also has a growing number of trade and technical schools serving Houston’s energy, healthcare, and technology sectors.
