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Huston-Tillotson University, founded in 1875, is Austin’s oldest institution for higher learning. We are proud to be a Historically Black University, dedicated to providing educational opportunities to a diverse population of students for 145+ years. Here, you’ll be surrounded by a feeling of home not only because we get you, but because we are you. As an HT graduate, you’ll be ready to tackle today’s civic, ethical, and social issues as a future leader in your community.
Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette
HT President and CEO
“Education is the civil-rights issue of the day, and I think that education is a weapon. It’s a weapon against poverty. It’s a weapon against ignorance. It’s a weapon against all the things that ail society. When you get that education and no one can take it from you, it gives you options.”
Samuel Huston College and Tillotson College are established, offering education to African-American descendants of slaves.
Two schools combine to become Huston-Tillotson College, the sole provider of higher education for African-Americans in Central Texas.
Due to its growth and success among the Austin community, Huston-Tillotson College is elevated to Huston-Tillotson University.
Huston-Tillotson University announces its first Adult Degree Programs to offer college courses at night for working adults.
Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, a first-generation college student, has led HT since 2015 as its first female president and CEO.
Today, Huston-Tillotson University continues to be an integral part of Austin’s community and culture, recognized for its programs, affordability, and as a top HBCU.
HT has been ranked as a top HBCU by U.S. News & World Report and is among College Choice’s 50 Best Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
HT has been setting students up for success in Austin since 1875, and has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the Best in the West.
Not only does HT have competitive tuition, we’ve been ranked as a Top Performer in Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report. That means we’re one of the top schools in the nation for offering educational opportunities to those with financial need.