The University of Texas at Austin, founded in 1883, ranks among the 40 best universities in the world.

Like the state it calls home, The University of Texas at Austin is a bold, ambitious leader supporting some 52,000 diverse students, 3,000 teaching faculty, and top national programs across 19 colleges and schools. As Texas’ leading research university, UT attracts more than $650 million annually for discovery. Amid the backdrop of Austin, Texas, a city recognized for its creative and entrepreneurial spirit, the university provides a place to explore countless opportunities for tomorrow’s artists, scientists, athletes, doctors, entrepreneurs and engineers.

The mission of The University of Texas at Austin is to achieve excellence in the interrelated areas of undergraduate education, graduate education, research and public service. Nearly 140 years ago, The University of Texas at Austin opened with one building, eight professors, and 221 students. Today, UT ranks among the top 40 universities in the world. Here’s the short version of how that happened. Why burnt orange and white? Why a longhorn steer. And where did the name “Bevo” really come from? Texas is rich in traditions that tell the story of our past, even as our eyes are always on the future.

UT strives to create a community that fosters an open and supportive learning, teaching, and working environment. Our strength as a university draws from our wide range of perspectives and experiences. Longhorns gain a deeper appreciation of our human diversity and perspectives by engaging with peers and institutions around the world. Texas Global creates opportunities for global connectedness and welcomes a cadre of impressive international students and scholars to campus. We’re stronger when we work together. That’s why Texas values partnerships in education, research and community service — with businesses, our military and veteran connections, community groups and other non-profits to make an even bigger impact on our city, state and world.

Spend just a minute on our campus and you'll quickly see how The University of Texas at Austin is an immense and beautiful world all its own. And with our dozens of museums, libraries, centers, institutes and special venues spread across the campus and the city, each with its own unique exhibits and programming, you'll never be bored. Imagine a city bursting with an entrepreneurial spirit, a commitment to personal freedom and a passion for unearthing new discoveries. Add a vibrant, internationally renowned music, film and art scene, along with a thriving economy that leads the way in the technology, engineering and health care industries. This is the city we're proud to call home.