Explore alternatives based on outcomes, location, cost, and admission difficulty
Given University Of Houston-Downtown's 90.6% acceptance rate, admission should not be a significant barrier for most college-ready students. However, students seeking different geographic locations, academic environments, or outcomes may benefit from these alternatives.
Strong options in the same region with comparable academic profiles.
Students preferring to remain in Texas should consider Sam Houston State University (85.4% acceptance, $54,211 median earnings) located 66 miles away with nearly identical post-graduation outcomes and similar program offerings. University Of Houston-Clear Lake, just 20 miles away, admits 75.3% of applicants while producing graduates earning $59,004, representing 10.2% higher earnings potential. The main University Of Houston campus, only 3 miles away, admits 69.5% of applicants and delivers significantly stronger earnings of $62,377, though with more competitive admission standards.
Same state (66 miles away) with nearly identical earnings and similar program focus; same institution type
Schools with comparable admission profiles — useful for building a balanced list.
For students seeking comparable admission accessibility, Sam Houston State University offers 85.4% admission rates with nearly identical earnings outcomes and program focus, located 66 miles away in Texas. Lamar University admits 85.7% of applicants with similar test score expectations and comparable institutional mission, though with slightly lower earnings at $49,652. Houston Christian University, a private institution 11 miles away, admits 85.2% of applicants and produces graduates earning $55,933, though at higher net costs.
Elite universities with similar prestige and academic caliber
