University of Texas - El Paso

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), founded in 1913 as the State School of Mines and Metallurgy, is a public research university situated in El Paso, Texas. As the second-oldest institution in the University of Texas System, UTEP has evolved into a significant educational establishment, serving over 25,000 students. The university is recognized as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution and holds the distinction of being the largest and oldest Hispanic-serving R1 university in the contiguous United States. UTEP's campus is notable for its unique Bhutanese Dzong architectural style, inspired by the mountainous terrain of the region and the Kingdom of Bhutan.

Academically, UTEP offers a comprehensive range of programs, with more than 170 degree options across various fields, including health care, science, engineering, education, arts, humanities, and business. The university provides 74 undergraduate degrees, 76 master's degrees, and 22 doctoral degrees. Notably, UTEP offers the nation's only bilingual Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program. The university emphasizes accessibility and affordability, boasting one of the lowest out-of-pocket costs among U.S. research universities, supported by substantial grants and scholarships.

Student life at UTEP is dynamic and diverse, reflecting its multicultural student body. The Division of Student Affairs provides a wide array of support services and resources aimed at facilitating students' transition to college life, academic success, and overall well-being. The campus hosts various annual activities, including Engineering Week, Homecoming, and the Order of the Engineer ceremony, fostering a sense of community and engagement among students. Additionally, UTEP's location on the U.S.-Mexico border offers students unique cultural, social, and academic opportunities not commonly found on other university campuses.