Colleges and universities in Odessa, TX

Odessa is a mid-sized city in West Texas known for its oil industry. But besides pumping oil, Odessa also pumps out college graduates.

The city is home to three institutions of higher learning: The University of Texas of the Permian Basin, Odessa College, and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. These schools offer over 115 degree and certificate programs combined, providing Odessans with a range of educational opportunities close to home.

The University of Texas of the Permian Basin

Overview

The University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB) is a public four-year university located in Odessa. Founded in 1973, UTPB has an enrollment of over 5,500 students. The school is part of the University of Texas System. Notable UTPB alumni include former NFL player Lloyd Hill and Texas State Senator Kel Seliger.

Academics

UTPB offers over 50 bachelor’s and 15 master’s degree programs across six colleges:

  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • College of Business
  • College of Education
  • College of Engineering
  • College of Health Sciences and Human Performance
  • Graduate Studies

Some of the popular undergraduate majors include Petroleum Engineering, Biology, Kinesiology, Criminal Justice, Communication, and Psychology. At the graduate level, students can pursue master’s degrees in areas like Business Administration, Healthcare Administration, Counseling, and more.

In Fall 2022, the university had 370 full-time faculty members. 91% of full-time faculty members hold terminal degrees in their field. The student to faculty ratio is 17:1.

Campus Life

The 240-acre UTPB campus features modern academic buildings, student housing, recreational facilities, and more. Popular spots include the J. Conrad Dunagan Library and Student Union Building. The campus also houses the Jim and Mary Turner PE Center with courts for basketball, racquetball, volleyball and more. Intramural sports and fitness classes are offered each semester.

For students looking to get involved beyond the classroom, UTPB has over 60 student organizations covering academic, cultural, recreational, and social interests. The Office of Student Life also hosts a variety of events throughout the year like concerts, speakers, comedy shows and movie nights.

Admissions and Financial Aid

UTPB has an acceptance rate of over 80%. Incoming freshmen generally have ACT scores ranging from 19-25 and SAT scores between 940-1140. Over 50% of students receive some form of financial assistance. Along with federal and state financial aid, UTPB offers a number of academic and departmental scholarships.

Odessa College

Overview

Odessa College is a two-year community college based in Odessa. Founded in 1946, Odessa College offers affordable and flexible education opportunities for over 5,000 students annually. OC maintains transfer partnerships with several four-year schools to provide students with a pathway to bachelor’s degrees.

Academics

Odessa College confers associate degrees and certificates across over 115 programs. Popular fields of study include:

  • Nursing
  • Petroleum Technology
  • Criminal Justice
  • Business Administration
  • General Studies

OC also offers workforce training through their Career Technical Education (CTE) programs. Here students can quickly gain skills for in-demand jobs in areas like Welding, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning, and Truck Driving.

To meet the needs of different types of students, Odessa College provides several learning formats. Students can take classes in-person, online, or in a hybrid model. Accelerated course options allow working students to complete degrees at a faster pace. OC also operates off-campus centers focused on specialized training.

Campus Life

The 200-acre OC main campus provides a comfortable learning environment for commuter students. Campus amenities include the Saulsbury Campus Center, Sports Center, and recently renovated Student Union Building. Students can also take advantage of academic support services like tutoring, advising, and career counseling.

Though OC offers more limited student activities compared to a four-year school, students can still get involved with interest clubs, intramural sports, or the Student Government Association. Cultural events and guest lectures also take place on campus throughout the year.

Admissions and Affordability

As an open enrollment institution, Odessa College accepts all applicants with a high school degree or equivalent. Approximate yearly tuition costs are just $3,240 for in-district students. OC offers numerous scholarships, and the majority of students qualify for state or federal financial aid programs.

Low tuition coupled with financial assistance makes OC an affordable higher education choice. Students graduating with an associate degree from OC can enter the workforce immediately or transfer to a four-year university.

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Overview

The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) campus in Odessa provides advanced education opportunities in healthcare disciplines. TTUHSC first came to Odessa in 1985 with just two degree programs. Today over 600 students are enrolled across bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral level programs. While governed by Texas Tech University, TTUHSC Odessa functions as a separate institution focused on its health education mission.

Academics

TTUHSC Odessa offers degrees concentrating in the high-demand field of nursing. Available programs include:

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
  • Accelerated BSN Program
  • LVN to BSN Program
  • Master of Science in Nursing (Leadership, Education, and Administration tracks)
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice

The School of Nursing features state-of-the-art educational facilities both on campus and at partnered clinical sites. Students get hands-on training using advanced simulation mannequins and other technology. The School of Nursing also operates a nurse-managed primary care clinic providing services to underserved Odessa residents.

Student Experience

TTUHSC aims to foster a supportive student culture focused on health and wellness. The Odessa campus offers an Academic Center for Excellence to assist students with tutoring, counseling, disability services, and more. Student housing options are also available.

Though TTUHSC lacks the traditional college campus environment, students can participate in professional development groups like the Student Nurses Association. Social events are also held periodically. Given the rigorous nature of the nursing curricula, students form close bonds supporting each other through their programs.

Admissions and Finances

Admissions at TTUHSC Odessa is competitive, with prospective nursing students needing a strong academic background. Approximately 80 students are admitted to the pre-licensure BSN program each semester. Beyond nursing, TTUHSC plans future expansion of allied health programs in Odessa like Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Physician Assistant studies.

As TTUHSC is a public university, tuition costs for Texas residents are very reasonable compared to private nursing schools. Over 85% of TTUHSC Odessa students utilize financial aid including grants, scholarships, work-study income or loans.

Conclusion

From associate degrees preparing students for the local job market to doctorate level studies, Odessa colleges and universities offer higher learning opportunities tied to the region’s workforce needs. With quality academics and affordable tuition, Odessans can pursue post-secondary education and skills without leaving town.

The breadth of programs available also allows local students to save money on general education prerequisites before transferring to finish bachelor’s or advanced degrees elsewhere. For those wanting to jumpstart a health career quickly, TTUHSC provides focused nursing disciplines. With strong public schools covering diverse education levels, Odessa’s colleges provide a ladder for personal and professional growth.

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  • Take I-20 W, exit 119B to TX-335 Spur. Go 14 miles, turn left to E County Rd West, right to S County Rd 1130, left to E 52nd St, right to N Washington Ave, left to E Murphy St, right to Winchester Ave. Destination on right.
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