Please type at least the first 4 letters of the school name.

Sam Houston State University (SHSU) Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See Sam Houston State University reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Sam Houston State University. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Sam Houston State University reviews, or contribute your own Sam Houston State University review if you're a current student there.

  • 29 out of 31 people found this review useful. 1 person found it offensive.

    Katrina from Austin, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    At Sam Houston State University you will not only broaden your education, but you will also broaden your understanding of other people. Going off to college, you will learn a lot about other people who are not like you and be introduced to new activities.
    Am enjoying being here

    Though Sam Houston is located in a small town with little to do, the campus does put on various activities during the day and on weekends. Student Activities at Sam Houston during school hours are located in the court yard with numerous prizes given out on the daily. Fridays' on campus is Wear Orange Day and if you wear the school color orange, you will be given a prize.
    Bang for the buck

    Sam Houston is a great school with a great price. Tuition is less than other universities and still provides a outstanding education to their students. Though Sam Houston is not a big ivy league university, students are not cheated out of a good education. You will get a bang for the buck.
    Tips for prospective students

    As a college student, networking is an important part of your lives. On the first day of classes, make sure you introduce yourself to your professors. Try to meet as many people you can who can help you in the long run.
    Great for these types of students

    Sam Houston State University is a GREAT school for anyone trying to pursue any major in the Criminal Justice field. Located a block away from one of Texas' Department of Criminal Justice Prison centers, criminal justice majors are able to get hands on experience in the criminal justice system. Sam Houston is also good for Business and Education majors. Their programs are recognized around the world.

  • 15 out of 15 people found this review useful.

    Jessica from Spring, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    College is a time to expand the knowledge you already have and pursue new knowledge for use through the rest of your life. Sam Houston has allowed me to do both. In just the two semesters I have been here, I have learned more than I ever did in High School. The college atmosphere and college teachers teach you not only about what ever subject you are learning but how it applies to life as well.
    Am enjoying being here

    Sam Houston is really a beautiful campus. I like that it is in a small town and not in a busy city. It allows you to get used to being on your own but not so much that you are overwhelmed. It is very much a college town and it is nice that everyone seems to know everybody. You see many familiar faces through out the day.
    Bang for the buck

    I did not, and do not, have the luxury of having a lot of money. I work hard, but college, especially 4 year institutions, has gotten so much more expensive. Sam is very affordable considering how nice the campus really is. Sam provides a large scholarships, loans, grants, and a low tuition cost so that students may get a quality education and more for their money.
    Tips for prospective students

    Tips I can give all of you new freshman or transfers is to get involved. There are so many different organizations to get involved in so to make friends, build resumes, help your community, and to just have fun. Also, if you wear orange on Fridays, you get free stuff. I also advise you to go to all school activities because Sam gives you so many opportunities to win free stuff.
    Great for these types of students

    Sam Houston is great for the students that like a small town, small classes for more one on one direction, and enjoy community. In reality, I think Sam could cater to any type of student. It truly is an awesome institution!

  • 11 out of 13 people found this review useful.

    Amethyst from Dallas, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The teachers here make you eager to learn as much as you possibly can. If you are willing to make the initiative, they are willing to dedicate as much time as you need to help you. There is so much to learn here at Sam Houston State University and the classroom environment makes it even easier to learn.
    Am enjoying being here

    I enjoy being here at Sam because there is always something going on here on campus. The campus is beautiful and I enjoy just sitting on on the hill while doing homework. Everything you need is in such close proximity you can practically walk anywhere you need to go. My college experience here has been fantastic so far and I can't imagine going anywhere else.
    Bang for the buck

    This is one of the least expensive colleges in Texas and for the money you are paying, you are getting an excellent deal. The education level is outstanding, there are tons of student services offered to you included in your tuition to help you make the most out of your college experience.
    Tips for prospective students

    -Apply early and apply for housing early, more likely to get your first choice especially if you want to live in Sam Houston Village.
    - Always take the initiative to talk to your professors, take advantage of any and all help that is offered.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who like scenic locations.
    Students who aren't sure about specific majors (there is a variety of major options available)
    Students who like agriculture, criminal justice, business, theater, music, art, and sciences.

  • 5 out of 5 people found this review useful.

    Mariah from Huntsville, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Sam Houston is a great learning environment, Every professor I've had has been extremely knowledgeable and helpful. I've walked away from every class with a completely new outlook on that subject.

    Am enjoying being here

    Huntsville may seem boring at first, but once you get used to it, this place is amazing. There is something going on on campus every single day. They try and make the experience as fun as they possibly can.
    Bang for the buck

    It's definitely worth the price. While some universities are charging upwards of 10,000 a semester, I usually end up with $2800 - $3000 a semeseter, and With the grants and scholarships they offer, I never even spend close to that
    Tips for prospective students

    Apply early, adn start the financial aid process EARLY.. That is the only downside... Once it get's busy, the financial aid office is almos impossible to work with
    Great for these types of students

    Its the number 1 Criminal Justice university in the country,
    number 1 teaching university in the state.

    and every other dept here ranks up there as well.

    Sam Houston may not be Harvard or Princeton, but it is ranked above almost all universities in the state.

    (Also its not a huge university, so it's great for anyone wanting that small town feel)

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Tracye from Dallas, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    At this school there is a great opportunity to learn outside the classroom. There are plenty of workshops that are available for you to attend that help with financial aid, getting a job, even leadership workshops. The professors are also generally willing to help a student if they ask for it. Most of them are actually concerned about their students and wants them to achieve. This is an advantage to most schools because its not a if you do not get it oh well type of atmosphere.
    Am enjoying being here

    I love living on campus. Most people say it is boring because there really isn't anything to do in Huntsville, but I love that everyone leaves on the weekends and it is so quiet and peaceful. Then during the week when everyone is on campus it is not crowded to the point where you bump into shoulders trying to get to your next class.
    Bang for the buck

    The education that you receive is worth every penny of your dollar. The professors genuinely care and they give you your monies worth not only in class but outside of class when you need them. They do not run and hide when you need them during office hours and most of them are really good about emailing you back when you have a question.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you are looking for quality education without skyrocket tuition and a caring environment this is the school for you.
    Great for these types of students

    Loves learning
    Loves great scenery
    Loves to just have fun
    and Enjoys freedom

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    amanda from conroe, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors here are great. Most of them want to get to know their students one on one and are very understanding to each students needs. Also, most of the classes are relatively small in size which makes it easier to excel in the classroom.
    Am enjoying being here

    I cannot express how great it is to be going to Sam Houston. Other than weather, this school is amazing! Everything is close by like a small town within the campus. There are also so many different organizations here, its hard to pick only a few to join.
    Bang for the buck

    This really is a great deal for a university. It is fairly cheap and I am able to pay what I can when I am able. Also, there are a lot of events on campus that give away free stuff from t-shirts, to school supplies, and even food. Its almost as if you are getting your money back.
    Tips for prospective students

    If it is your first year going to college, try getting a dorm. Many people think that dorms are very small and messy. While they are small, the dorms are relatively clean and are very close to everything on campus. If you do not have a car, getting a dorm is the best way to go.
    Great for these types of students

    This is a great place for people majoring in education, criminal justice, business, theater, and dance.

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Cathy from Richardson, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Sam Houston isn't too big of a school, but it's not very small either. It's just the right size, giving classrooms the perfect amount of students for professors to handle. Teachers give attention when you need it, and if you don't feel like teachers are enough, there are different centers from writing to reading around campus to help tutor you.
    Am enjoying being here

    It's a beautiful campus full of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. Smiles are passed around even when it's raining cats and dogs, and if you ask for help anyone is willing to help. It's calm at night and rowdy during the day, we've got enough school spirit. The city is nice to travel around in and we're not too far from any place. It's the perfect getaway.
    Bang for the buck

    It's one of the cheapest schools in Texas and for all the help we receive from teachers it's perfect. Everything is within reach of the school and when it comes to eating or books, there's a variety of places to get everything from.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be sure you've got your studying habits in check because these classes aren't easy if you don't know how to focus in school. Be ready to see friendly people and haul yourself up and down a giant hill. There's plenty of organizations to choose from and expect to make a lot of long-lasting friendships.
    Great for these types of students

    If you enjoy being in the country-like area, here's the place for you to be. The weather might be a bit crazy, but it's Texas, what else can you expect? The school spirit is completely amazing, especially when the holidays are around. Music program and Criminal Justice will cradle you in nicely!

  • 6 out of 9 people found this review useful.

    Laquisha from Houston, TX

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Amber from Baytown, TX

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    There is alot of One on one time with the professors.
    Will enjoy being here

    The town is BEAUTIFUL, and eveything is close together.

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Susan from San Antonio, TX

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will enjoy being here

    I attended Saturdays@Sam and the moment I set foot on campus, I loved it. SHSU has such a peaceful setting, in a non-hectic environment. There's even a park nearby which would be a nice and quiet place to read a book or sketch some wildlife.
    Great for these types of students

    SHSU is excellent for those who are looking for small classes and don't want to be just another number. You can really get to know your professors. Also, anyone who prefers to be away from big city life would love the environment.

  • 3 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Jaquelin from Conroe, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Great for these types of students

    Those students who want to major in Criminal Justice should definitely attend Sam Houston State University.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Felicia from Cedar Park, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    sam houston state university has an amazing environment. the teacher-student ratio is perfect. the atmosphere is perfect for anyone who doesn't want to get lost in the crowd.
    Tips for prospective students

    study, study, study and go to class. don't slack in the beginning it makes everything that much harder.
    Academic Rigor

    all of the classes are accredited and the professors are very helpful. there are tutoring centers in every department! it's awesome!
    Dorm Life

    the dorm rooms have just the right amount of space for everyone. shsu built a new dorm building a year ago, it is very nice.
    Food and Dining

    shsu recently built a new dining area. the food is great quality and affordable.
    What to do for fun

    there is a duck pond that is nice to go when you want to just relax. the movie theater is very cheap, it's only five dollars to see a film at night and on weekends, which is a steal compared to the ten you have to pay in larger cities on campus student activities hosts many fun events.
    Bang for the buck

    tuition and housing prices are very low, and what you get in return exceeds what you pay.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    every friday is spirit day and you wear orange and represent your love for the bearkats!!
    Great for these types of students

    students who like to study one-on-one with professors will love sam houston.
    Clubs and Activities

    shsu is always coming up with new clubs and organizations. everyone will find somewhere they fit it!
    Greek Life

    there are many awesome sororities to choose from!
    Campus Safety

    there are stations throughout campus that have phones to call upd if there is an emergency.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Misti from Rowlett, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    sam houston offers classes that are high-school size and entertain students. professors are very easy to contact and many will learn who you are to better enhance your learning. however, the school can be a bit lonely and boring because many students go home for the weekends. the school is safe and there is tons of school spirit.
    Tips for prospective students

    some professors will give you homework or papers way in advance on their syllabus. do not wait until the last minute because you will be craming and stressing out during finals. try to get involved in the campus because we're all about helping the community and servicing others.
    Academic Rigor

    the classes aren't too hard but you have to study a lot. many classes have lectures and assigned reading that you have to pay attention to for finals.
    Dorm Life

    in my experience, the dorm life is unappealing. many of the dorms are too small and too old. in one of the nicer dorms, students were noisy and running around the halls, leaving messes for janitors to pick up.
    Food and Dining

    the dining hall has its good and bad days. sam houston opened its new dining hall this year that prepares meals in front of students and offers a variety of food options for every meal. there is also a place for fast food such as chick-fil-a, burger king, sushic, etc. these can be paid for with bearkat bucks. however, much of the food is unappealing or overused as time goes on.
    What to do for fun

    the weekends can get pretty boring but sometimes, i have found things to do. there are dancing clubs close to campus such as shenanigans and the jolly fox. also, there is a movie theater about 5 minutes from campus that plays new movies for $3 before 6 pm. there's a mall in the woodlands but it takes about an hour to get there by car. other than these options, there are football, basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, and more athletic games you can attend.
    Great for these types of students

    this school is great for students who want a small classroom experience. many classes have about 30 students in specific areas but some freshman core classes have under 200. it's a great campus to walk around to get a work out and the school appeals to those who want a college experience for a cheaper price.
    Clubs and Activities

    there's something for everyone. there are tons of clubs for people to join and it's what you make it. the school encourages its students to get involved.
    Greek Life

    there are many sororities and fraternities for students to join.
    Campus Safety

    unfortunately, there have been some sexual assaults and car break-ins. upd is constantly roaming the school, and there are numerous emergency call posts all over campus. i typically walk with someone at night to get home safely.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Amber from Huntsville, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Sam Houston has a great atmosphere. I love the campus life because they always have a program available to attend and meet new people. The activities that are provided keep you in shape and up to date on everything going on not only on campus but off campus community service projects as well.
    Tips for prospective students

    Bring your own everything; it might sound mean but sharing often gets you in many fights with your room mate if you do not know them very well. Live on campus; you save gas and get a workout in because everything is walking distance.
    Academic Rigor

    Classes are great if you get the right professor. If you do not then your semester will suck. Always ask upperclassmen on who to take.
    Dorm Life

    Dorm life is great if you love twin beds. I wish i had more storage as a freshman and a bigger bed. SHV is the best place to live as a freshman.
    Food and Dining

    South paw and Paw print have all of the fast food you'd ever desire. Old main pit has the home cooked meal you need to feel good and keep your energy high for a long day.
    What to do for fun

    Intramural sports is great here at SAM. Be involved and get into some clubs. I love going to the Fox(a club) and the fair grounds with the Greeks.
    Bang for the buck

    Get meal plans only if you do not have a kitchen to cook. You will save a lot if you know how to coupon or just use them!
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    There aren't any unusual traditions but come out to the football games they are so fun and they have free food for days.
    Great for these types of students

    I am a nursing major and i absolutely love to be out and about. If i am not studying then i am out meeting new people. We all call each other Sam Fam because we become so close here.
    Clubs and Activities

    The Fox and shenanigans are the two main clubs here. I only go to the Fox because I hate smoke!
    Greek Life

    Greek life was not the best but the new lines coming out will be awesome. This upcoming semester we should see life in the Greeks.
    Campus Safety

    Campus safety is great here. There are places you can call for help everywhere on campus so no worries. Someone is always willing to escort you to your car.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Krista from Huntsville, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    They have professors who really enjoy their job and are excited to teach about it.
    Am enjoying being here

    It has a great environment and activites.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Antarr from Kingwood, TX

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Blanca from Houston, TX

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Did learn a lot

    SHSU classes were so small that I was able to have one on one conversations with the teachers and they were more understanding than other colleges.
    Did enjoy being here

    In the small town of Huntsville, the school is the best place to go to college at. Great way to meet people quickly with alot of activities to enjoy going to.
    Bang for the buck

    The tuition at SHSU is very good. The price is perfect for such a small town
    Tips for prospective students

    Great school if you want to interact closely with your teachers and also if you want to meet great people. SHSU is like a close-tight family. I'm happy to have graduated from here.
    Great for these types of students

    Students that love a small town, classes, and school. They even built more buildings to add more majors to their list. Very diversity school.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Taylor from Missouri City, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Bang for the buck

    This school is inexpensive compared to other public universities in Texas.
    Tips for prospective students

    It is helpful to make a curriculum calendar and make sure to take the required courses for a major. Stay focused and remember to meet all deadlines for assignments as well as for school payments and financial aid.
    Great for these types of students

    If you do not mind a quite, small campus, this university will be great for you.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Sarah from Huntsville, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors at Sam Houston State University really get to know every student and are willing to spend time after class with confused students.
    Am enjoying being here

    There are so many organizations to get involved in at Sam Houston State University and a lot of near by organizations also. Huntsville is only 30 minutes from the Woodlands, which has a mall and many restaurants.
    Bang for the buck

    Sam Houston State University is priced very competitively! Tuition is reasonable and the dorms are nice for the price.
    Tips for prospective students

    Get a meal plan! The cafeteria is brand new and delicious. The food is made in front of you and served to you. Campus is hilly so you don't feel bad for getting seconds in the dessert line, which you will want to do. Last week they served chocolate chip cookies on a stick dipped in chocolate and had toppings laid out like sprinkles and nuts.
    Great for these types of students

    Great for students looking for a small community feel. Classes are typically small and everyone is so friendly.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Mia from Galveston, TX

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    I'm looking at five different schools and SHSU is one of my choices. I sent my app off yesterday. I hope I get accepted.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Stephan from Pasadena, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The quality of education here is good, especially for CJ and fine arts students.
    Am enjoying being here

    The campus is nice, and there's a pretty good level of school spirit, especially when it comes to football.
    Bang for the buck

    The expected cost semester is $8,000-$9,000, but you only pay about $6,000 per semester to the university. If you know how to stretch your dollar, personal expenses won't cost you as much as the school thinks it will.
    Tips for prospective students

    Get used to eating at Tortilla Fresca or Old Main. You have to be on a meal plan as a freshman, so you may as well make the most of it.
    Great for these types of students

    Criminal Justice: Huntsville is also home to the Texas State Penitentiary.
    Theatre/Musical Theatre/Dance: The MT and Theatre and Dance staff are great, and even if you don't get cast, being a theatre student here is a feather in your cap for auditioning in Houston.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Christinea from Huntsville, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    SHSU is a wonderful school. The professors here are truly helpful if you take the time to ask questions and really try hard they will help you as much as they can! Study for everything!! The schoolwork is not that difficult if you actually try!!
    Am enjoying being here

    Huntsville is a great little town and I love living here!! Everyone here seems so genuine and nice!!
    Bang for the buck

    Compared to other Universities, SHSU is a real deal when it comes to tuition costs!
    Tips for prospective students

    I would reccommend anyone to come to Sam Houston it really is a great school and a great community!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Jacquie from Houston, TX

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    The staff all seems very nice and friendly. They don't try to make you feel like a number in the school but an individual.
    Will enjoy being here

    The clubs seem awesome and the students really try to make you feel accepted into the group.
    Tips for prospective students

    Get active and involved.
    Great for these types of students

    Trying to attend a home away from home.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Ardeen from Houston, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Sam Houston State University has great professors. They love working with their students and love seeing them work really hard. However, if you do not ask them for help, they will simply think that you understand their materials. Do not be afraid to email them or contact them. They are there to help you learn. Take advantage of them.
    Am enjoying being here

    The students are so energetic and friendly. There are many events happening on campus that lots of students attend. They also make you feel at home. You'll be surprised by how many different majors you can meet.
    Tips for prospective students

    Honestly, you have to pay attention in class. Be respectful. Do not be afraid to ask questions. DO NOT BE LATE FOR YOUR CLASSES. Keep up with your studying and your grades. Professors recognize their hard-working students (they have special rewards for you at the end of the semesters). You just have to make sure that you keep up with all of your homework and all of your deadlines.

  • 1 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Fayth from Huntsville, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    its okay as long as u do what ur supposed to do, stay focused u'll do fine!!!
    Am enjoying being here

    it really boring there isn't much to do.
    Bang for the buck

    its really expensive. if u want to go here please be sure to start saving early to prepare yourself financially
    Tips for prospective students

    Attend Jr college first, don't just jump off into a university. Their is no public transportation system and things are kinda far i would recommend a vehicle for this school
    Great for these types of students

    Interested in business, focused, with vehicles, and want to stay fit( college on hills requires lots of walking).

  • 1 out of 7 people found this review useful.

    D'amber from Dallas, TX

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments

  • glendon from dallas, TX

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    sam houston st. university is a good school.
    sam houston st. university is good fit for me.
    sam houston st. university will help me better my education.
    Tips for prospective students

    do all you can for your future.
    Academic Rigor

    i think that sam houston st. university will help me better my education.
    Dorm Life

    dorm life will help me become more independent.
    Food and Dining

    the food at the school is very good
    What to do for fun

    i like to play sports or read in my free time.

  • Chazmen from Dallas, TX

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    sam houston state is a great school. wonderful people here, great professors, and helpful people as well. sam is the place you want to be.
    Tips for prospective students

    if you come here you will love it, you will fit in, and this school will become your new home.
    What to do for fun

    whatever the school have to offer here for their students, but most of all the football games.