The University of Houston-Clear Lake, often referred to as UH–Clear Lake or UHCL, has been serving as an academic and community resource for more than thirty years. By specializing in upper-level undergraduate and graduate degree programs, it meets the higher education needs of the Houston-Galveston area, communities along the upper Gulf Coast of Texas, and beyond.

UHCL is the third-largest institution of the University of Houston System with its enrollment of more than 7,600 students. UH-Clear Lake is a dynamic learning community that offers a wide range of programs, opportunities and services aimed at helping people achieve their educational, professional and personal goals.

In 1971, the 62nd Texas Legislature authorized the establishment of the university. In 1973, the Texas Senate authorized construction of a permanent campus at Clear Lake. Today UHCL has become a cornerstone of higher education in the state. Since opening its doors in 1974, the university has awarded more than 47,000 degrees.

The university focuses on high academic standards through teaching, research and community service and delivers outstanding educational opportunities in a traditional classroom setting using the latest instructional technologies, as well as cutting-edge distance learning.

Distance Learning
UH–Clear Lake offers students the opportunity to complete entire certificates or graduate degree programs through distance education. Classes offered through Distance Education are regular UHCL classes taught by UHCL faculty with the same pre-requisites and requirements as classes taken on campus.

Distance Learning is offered in a diversity of formats that provide flexibility for students:
-    Online classes are accessed through the Internet using a Course Management Tool called WebCT.
-    Web-Enhanced - face-to-face classes that may have between one and seven meetings replaced with web activities.
-    Off-Campus Learning Centers offer students the opportunity to complete degrees close to where they live or work.

Financial Aid
Most UHCL students need and get financial aid. About 60% of all UHCL students get financial aid from one or more sources, including scholarships, grants, student loans, college work study, and veteran’s benefits.

As our students, you can receive two types of financial aid – money based on your need, or money that is not tied to your financial status at all. To find out if you qualify for financial aid based on need, we use a standard application. It is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and it is usually abbreviated as FAFSA.