Austin College
Sherman, United States
Austin College
Sherman, United States
Founded
1849
Institution Type
Private Liberal Arts
Total Students
~1,300
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
Discover Austin College: Texas's Oldest College Under Original Charter
Discover Austin College: Texas's Oldest College Under Original Charter
Austin College is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA), located in Sherman, Texas. Founded in 1849 by Princeton-educated missionary Daniel Baker, it is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas still operating under its original name and charter, as recognized by the State Historical Survey Committee.
The college offers over 55 majors and pre-professional programs, with a distinctive 4-1-4 academic calendar that includes an immersive January Term for intensive courses, study abroad, and internships. With an 11:1 student-faculty ratio and an average class size of 15, Austin College provides a personalized educational experience where students are known by name, not by number.
Austin College is one of 44 schools profiled in Loren Pope's influential book Colleges That Change Lives. Approximately 70% of graduates have at least one international study experience, and about 82% of students are involved in research, reflecting the college's commitment to experiential learning and global engagement.
Key Milestones
- 1849: Founded in Huntsville, Texas, by Daniel Baker with a charter modeled after Harvard, Yale, and Princeton and signed by Texas Governor George Wood.
- 1876: Relocated to Sherman, Texas, following yellow fever epidemics, the Civil War, and financial difficulties in Huntsville.
- 1918: Became coeducational, opening its doors to women students for the first time in the college's history.
- 2006: Joined the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) as an NCAA Division III institution, expanding competitive athletic opportunities.
Academic Programs and Structure at Austin College
Academic Programs and Structure at Austin College
Austin College offers a rigorous liberal arts curriculum with over 55 majors and pre-professional programs. The college operates on a unique 4-1-4 academic calendar, featuring two full semesters separated by a three-week January Term that allows students to pursue intensive study, travel courses, or internships. All tenured or tenure-track professors hold a Ph.D. or terminal degree in their field.
Sciences
The sciences division provides hands-on laboratory research, field study opportunities, and strong pre-health advising that prepares students for medical, dental, and graduate programs.
- Biology
- Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Environmental Science
Humanities
The humanities division fosters critical thinking and communication skills through close study of literature, philosophy, history, and languages in small seminar-style classes.
- English and Creative Writing
- History
- Philosophy and Religious Studies
Social Sciences
Social science programs combine theoretical knowledge with applied research and community engagement, preparing graduates for careers in law, public policy, and business.
- Psychology
- Economics and Business Administration
- Political Science
International Studies and Languages
Austin College's international programs leverage its strong study abroad tradition, with 70% of graduates gaining international experience. The college's Model United Nations program is nationally acclaimed.
- International Relations
- East Asian Studies
- Spanish Language and Literature
Fine Arts
The fine arts programs nurture creativity through studio practice, performance, and critical analysis, supported by dedicated facilities and ensembles including the Austin College A Cappella Choir.
- Art and Art History
- Music
- Theatre
STEM and Pre-Professional Programs
Austin College offers strong STEM preparation and pre-professional tracks with dedicated advising for students pursuing careers in medicine, law, engineering, and other professional fields.
- Computer Science and Data Science
- Mathematics and Physics
- Pre-Medicine and Pre-Law Advising
Admission Requirements for Austin College
Admission Requirements for Austin College
Undergraduate Admission
- Application PlatformCommon Application (free to apply)
- High School GPAAverage admitted GPA of 3.6
- SAT Score Range (if submitted)1100-1310
- ACT Score Range (if submitted)23-29
- Additional MaterialsPersonal essay, extracurricular involvement, interview recommended
Graduate Admission (Master of Arts in Teaching)
- Degree RequirementBachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- GPA RequirementContact the college for current requirements
- Program FormatGraduate clinical teaching within 90 miles of designated hubs
- Application MaterialsTranscripts, personal statement, and recommendations
- Additional ProgramsPhysician Assistant (PA) Program also available
Non-binding early action for priority admission decisions, with notifications beginning as early as November 15.
Priority deadline for institutional scholarship consideration including fine arts, STEM, leadership, and Westminster scholarships.
Priority deadline for fall enrollment with admission decisions issued on a rolling basis after this date.
Final deadline for fall freshman applications. Rolling admissions continue through this date as space permits.
Tuition, Costs, and Scholarships at Austin College
Tuition, Costs, and Scholarships at Austin College
As a private liberal arts college, Austin College maintains a single tuition rate for all students regardless of residency. The college offsets costs through a robust financial assistance program, with 100% of students receiving some form of gift aid.
| Cost Category | 2025-2026 | 2026-2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees (includes books) | USD 50,014 | USD 51,080 |
| Housing and Food (7-day meal plan) | USD 14,476 | USD 14,929 |
| Mandatory Fees | USD 210 | USD 210 |
| Personal and Transportation Expenses (est.) | USD 3,361 | USD 3,400 |
| Total | USD 68,061 | USD 69,619 |
General Academic Merit Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships awarded through holistic review of the student's application, including recalculated weighted academic GPA. No additional application is required for awards up to USD 33,000.
- Award Amount: Up to USD 33,000 per year
- Eligibility: All admitted students automatically considered
- Renewal: Renewable for up to eight semesters if requirements are met
Institutional Scholarships
Competitive scholarships for fine arts, STEM, leadership, and Presbyterian students (Westminster Scholarship). These require a separate application and, in some cases, a portfolio or audition.
- Application Deadline: February 1 (Early Action II deadline)
- Types Available: Westminster, Bryant-Taylor, Art, Music, Theatre, Alumni Awards
- Notification: Scholarship decisions mailed by mid-March
Campus and Facilities at Austin College
Campus and Facilities at Austin College
Austin College's 70-acre campus in Sherman, Texas, features a blend of historic and modern facilities set among beautifully landscaped grounds. Students are required to live on campus for the first three years, fostering a tight-knit residential community.
One of the oldest buildings on campus, Sherman Hall houses humanities departments and the historic Hoxie Thompson Auditorium.
The Wright Campus Center serves as the hub of student life, offering dining, meeting spaces, and social gathering areas.
The Abell Library provides extensive research resources, study spaces, and a stained glass window of Stephen F. Austin that survived the 1913 fire.
Housing and Dining
Residential Life
Austin College is a primarily residential campus where students live on campus for at least three years. Housing options range from traditional residence halls to the newer Flats on Brockett apartments.
- Traditional residence halls for first-year students
- Flats on Brockett apartment-style housing for upperclassmen
- Residential life programs fostering community engagement
Dining and Recreation
The campus dining program offers a 7-day meal plan included with housing. The college also operates a recreational facility on Lake Texoma and three environmental research centers in Grayson County.
- 7-day meal plan with diverse dining options
- Lake Texoma recreational facility for outdoor activities
- Fitness center and athletic facilities for student use
Student Life at Austin College
Student Life at Austin College
Student life at Austin College is vibrant and community-oriented, with active clubs, organizations, and traditions that bring students together. The annual Great Day of Service engages the campus in community service across over 40 surrounding communities, reflecting the college's commitment to civic engagement.
Sherman, Texas: Location and City Life
Sherman, Texas: Location and City Life
Life in Sherman, Texas
Sherman is a small city in North Texas located approximately 60 miles north of Dallas, positioned at the center of a growing tech corridor. Students enjoy the benefits of a close-knit community while having easy access to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex for internships, entertainment, and cultural experiences.
Proximity to Dallas
Sherman is just 60 miles north of Dallas, giving students access to major internship opportunities, cultural attractions, and entertainment in one of America's largest metropolitan areas.
Lake Texoma
One of the largest reservoirs in the United States, Lake Texoma offers boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation. Austin College operates its own recreational facility on the lake.
Growing Tech Corridor
Sherman sits at the center of North Texas's expanding tech corridor, with Texas Instruments and other major employers bringing economic growth and career opportunities to the region.
Small-Town Community
With a population of approximately 35,000, Sherman offers a safe, welcoming environment with local restaurants, shops, and community events while maintaining an affordable cost of living.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Austin College Graduates Work
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
Austin College welcomes students from 14 countries. The admissions team provides personalized guidance through the application process, including virtual interviews and information sessions for international applicants.
100% of Austin College students receive gift aid. International students should contact the Financial Aid Office directly to learn about available scholarship and aid opportunities.
All students must have health insurance coverage. Students not covered by a family plan must purchase health insurance through Austin College at an estimated cost of USD 2,836 for the 2026-27 academic year.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Austin College Rankings and Recognition
Austin College Rankings and Recognition
Austin College is consistently recognized for its academic excellence, social mobility impact, and innovative approach to liberal arts education. The college has earned distinction as one of the Colleges That Change Lives and continues to rank among the top national liberal arts colleges.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Fulbright Scholars | Austin College | Most per capita in Texas |
| Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report | #19 Nationally |
| Biology | Popular Major | Top program with strong pre-med placement |
| Psychology | Popular Major | Among the most popular and highly rated programs |
Features
Austin College, founded in 1849 in Sherman, Texas, is a private liberal arts college known for small classes, a student-faculty ratio of 11:1, and personalized mentorship. Offering over 55 majors, including new B.S. options in STEM fields, it emphasizes hands-on learning through research, internships, service, and global study, with 70% of students studying abroad. The Austin Teacher Program allows students to earn both a B.A. and M.A.T. with certification in about five years. With a “Finish in Four” guarantee and a 94% employment or graduate school placement rate, Austin College combines tradition, academic rigor, and strong outcomes in a close-knit community.
Accommodation
Austin College provides a rich spectrum of on-campus housing options, from traditional halls and suite-style residences to cottages and themed houses. The required cluster-based living for first-years helps students acclimate socially and academically, while upper-class students enjoy greater flexibility and independence in their living arrangements. Meal plan options complement the housing structure, ensuring convenience and community.
Work While Studying
Austin College students can work while studying.\n\nThe college offers both on-campus employment (through the Federal Work-Study program or institutional student jobs) and opportunities for off-campus internships.\n\nOn-campus jobs are available in areas such as the library, administrative offices, residence life, dining services, athletics, and academic departments.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Austin College offers robust internship services and applied learning opportunities, facilitated through its Center for Career & Professional Development and the Applied Learning & Research programs.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
August - March
Location
900 N Grand Ave, Sherman, TX 75090, United States
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