Texas State University in San Marcos is one of the fastest-growing universities in Texas and a significant academic institution in the Hill Country corridor between Austin and San Antonio. Consequently, the university attracts students from across Texas and beyond with its scenic campus, broad program offerings, and accessible location. This guide covers Texas State academics, campus life, athletics, and everything prospective students and visitors need to know.
Texas State University Overview
Texas State University was founded in 1899 and has grown from a small teacher’s college to a comprehensive doctoral research university with approximately 38,000 students. Furthermore, the university is part of the Texas State University System and holds Carnegie Classification as a doctoral university with high research activity. As a result, Texas State has significantly expanded its research funding, graduate programs, and national academic reputation over the past two decades.
San Marcos Campus
The Texas State main campus in San Marcos is consistently cited as one of the most beautiful university settings in Texas. The Alkek Library tower overlooks the campus from a limestone hilltop, the San Marcos River runs adjacent to campus, and the Hill Country terrain provides a natural backdrop uncommon at flatland universities. Furthermore, the city of San Marcos itself contributes to campus culture with a vibrant dining scene, live music venues, and the popular San Marcos Premium Outlets drawing visitors from across the region.
Academic Programs at Texas State
- College of Education — One of the largest teacher preparation programs in Texas with multiple ranked programs
- McCoy College of Business Administration — AACSB accredited with undergraduate and graduate business degrees
- College of Health Professions — Nursing, health administration, physical therapy, and respiratory care
- Ingram School of Engineering — Computer science, electrical, mechanical, and manufacturing engineering
- College of Fine Arts and Communication — Journalism, mass communication, theatre, music, and visual arts
- College of Liberal Arts — Psychology, sociology, political science, history, English, and philosophy
Texas State Bobcat Athletics
Texas State competes as the Bobcats in the Sun Belt Conference at the NCAA Division I level. Football games are played at UFCU Stadium on campus, and the Bobcats have competed competitively in the Sun Belt with multiple bowl game appearances. Furthermore, the women’s basketball and baseball programs have also achieved conference recognition. In contrast to the state’s Power Four programs, Texas State athletics offer accessible tickets and strong community engagement in the San Marcos market.
Round Rock Campus
In addition to the main San Marcos campus, Texas State operates a second campus in Round Rock specifically designed for upper-division and graduate students who are working adults in the greater Austin area. The Round Rock campus focuses on professional programs in education, health professions, and business, making Texas State’s programs accessible to students who cannot relocate to San Marcos. As a result, the university serves both traditional students and working professionals across the central Texas region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Texas State known for?
Texas State University in San Marcos is known for its scenic Hill Country campus along the San Marcos River, strong education and health programs, growing research profile, and the Texas State Bobcats athletics competing in the Sun Belt Conference.
Is Texas State a good university?
Texas State University is a solid mid-tier public research university in Texas. It offers over 200 degree programs, AACSB-accredited business programs, and a growing doctoral research portfolio. It is particularly strong in education, health sciences, and criminal justice.
What is the enrollment at Texas State University?
Texas State University enrolls approximately 38,000 students, making it one of the ten largest universities in Texas and among the larger public universities in the United States.
What conference does Texas State compete in for sports?
Texas State University competes in the Sun Belt Conference for NCAA Division I athletics. The Bobcats field teams in football, basketball, baseball, softball, and other varsity sports.
Where is Texas State University located?
Texas State University is located in San Marcos, Texas, approximately 30 miles south of Austin and 50 miles north of San Antonio along the Interstate 35 corridor in the Texas Hill Country.
Learn more about Texas universities in our Texas Guide. You can also read our detailed Texas State University program guide for more on specific academic departments. Additionally, explore Things to Do in Austin Texas for activities near the San Marcos campus.
