Houston Baptist University began life in 1960 as a co-educational Texas Baptist Institution. The Founders of the University were keen to establish a Christian College in the heart of the city, and the result is a learning institution with a diverse student population and a strong sense of community.
In 1952 the Union Baptist Association searched for a location in Houston, and by 1958 a campus area of 196 acres was acquired in the southwest of the city. Dr W. Hinton was appointed the first President of the College in 1962. The College opened in 1963 with 193 students, and became a University in 1973. It now has around 2,300 students and a full program of undergraduate and Masters degree courses in the arts and sciences.
Over the last forty years the campus has improved its facilities. These include additions such as a new gymnasium, library, the McDermott Plaza, plus other specialist academic buildings, student accommodation blocks and facilities for the arts, culture and sport.
The University has two museums that are open to the public from September to May each year. The Bible Museum houses a collection of 500 rare Bibles and Christian volumes including many first editions. The Museum of American Architecture and Decorative Arts features artifacts relating to the social history and culture of settlers in Texas between 1830 and 1930. Prospective students are invited to visit the University where they can tour the campus, attend a class and meet students and staff. These visits include the Husky Highlight, Sneak Preview Saturday and Preview Weekends.
