Texas

If you're looking for a state that has it all on a grand scale, Texas is perfect for you. Texas is known as "An American Legend" because of its contributions to American history. Texas's numerous universities also have a larger- than- life reputation for leading the nation in both diversity and research.

Life in Texas

Texas is located in the South Central United States, bordering Mexico and the Gulf of Mexico. The physical geography is forests, mountains, deserts, and plains. It is the second-largest state in the nation. The climate is mostly warm and dry. The land is good for farming and agriculture, and many residents make their living on farms or ranches. The population of Texas is 23,507,783, and many people have moved from rural areas to urban.

Because of the large size of this state, good transportation is important. Texas has more highway and rail miles than any other state. Transportation to all areas of the state make it easy to enjoy the variety of recreational activities available, such as exploring mountain regions, hunting, boating on the coasts, visiting national parks, and visiting the many national landmarks. Texas is known for having a good quality of life, and its residents are very friendly.

Graduate Studies in Texas

Texas consists of 109 public and 99 private universities. As a graduate student you will have a hard time finding a state with more options. Tuition and costs at Texas universities (particularly public universities) are considered comparative to other institutions throughout the country. There are nearly endless graduate programs offered, including architecture, business administration, education, engineering, law, and technology.

Both public and private colleges in Texas rank in the Top 100 nationally. Texas institutions pride themselves on their work in technology and research, particularly at the graduate level. Numerous graduate programs rank in the Top 10 by US News, including a number 1 in graduate studies for accounting, and number 3 for graduate information systems. Many institutions are located in easily accessible urban areas, but have campuses that are very beautiful, with many parks and wooded areas.

International Graduate Students

Texas has historically been seen as a "melting pot" for America. Because of the many nationalities and cultures that have helped form this state (and continue to do so today), Texans are very welcoming of those from all cultures, and understand the vital role diversity plays in this state. Texas is known for having the most diverse research universities in the nation, as well as universities that have the highest number of Hispanic students enrolled, and the largest number of PhD–seeking Hispanic students in the United States. Texas institutions offer international students opportunities to improve their English and participate in the multicultural clubs and activities on campus.

Professors understand that students must be world-wide learners to be prepared to compete and teach globally. Programs like internships and alliances between community corporations encourage students to go into the world and use their educations.

Financing Your Graduate Education

Official state of Texas website:
www.state.tx.us
Higher Education in Texas: www.thecb.state.tx.us

Most international students will not be able to receive financial aid from the United States government. However, there are still many options available for international students at the graduate level. Interested students can apply for teaching fellowships, grants, and scholarships through their individual colleges. Education in the United States is generally seen to be more expensive than in other areas of the world, but with the sterling reputation of the US higher education system and the numerous help available, international graduate students will be investing in their future while also benefiting by learning about the world around them.

Why Texas?

Texas is the 2nd largest state in the United States, so the numbers of activities available are never-ending. Besides many outdoor activities, there are also many historical and cultural activities that appeal to residents of any age. Festivals and rodeos celebrate the "American Wild West" image that is cherished in Texas culture.

History is preserved in many of the historical sites around the state. The Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Dallas Museum of Natural History are just two examples of ways to explore the arts and sciences in Texas. Texans treasure music and drama, and there are many theatres throughout the state.

If you enjoy metropolitan living and nightlife, Texas has some of the largest cities in the country, including Dallas, Houston, and Austin. Austin is known for having more music venues than any other state in the nation, so music lovers will never be lost for entertainment. The love of sports is unmatched in Texas, so take yourself to a football game and see what it means to truly be a fan!

With the excellent level of affordable education, appreciation of diversity, and endless activities available, Texas can become the perfect place for you to enjoyably pursue your graduate education!