Texas Southern University Achieves Significant Gains in Student Academic Success Metrics
In a heartening display of academic excellence, Texas Southern University has made remarkable strides in student success metrics over the past two years. With a focus on persistence, progression, and academic achievement, the university has seen significant improvements that are setting it apart as a leader in higher education.51% of Full-Time Undergraduates Earn Academic Honors
One of the most notable achievements is the 51% of full-time undergraduate students who earned academic honors, qualifying for the Honor Roll, Dean's List, or President's List. This impressive feat demonstrates a powerful indicator of rising academic performance and a strengthening culture of excellence across the institution.
13-Percentage Point Increase in Student Persistence
The university has also achieved a remarkable 13-percentage point increase in student persistence, defined as the percentage of first-time freshmen who return for their second year. With persistence rates climbing from 57% in 2022-2023 to 70% in 2024-2025, these results reflect sustained year-over-year growth and clear institutional momentum in supporting student retention.
15-Percentage Point Increase in Student Progression
Equally notable is the 15-percentage point increase in student progression, the rate at which first-time freshmen successfully earn the 30 credit hours required to be classified as sophomores during their second year. With progression improving from 20% in 2022-2023 to 35% in 2024-2025, these gains reflect strengthened academic support systems, enhanced advising strategies, and a focused institutional commitment to keeping students on track toward timely degree completion.
The Earn Your Tiger Stripes Initiative
The university's commitment to progression is further reinforced through its Earn Your Tiger Stripes initiative. More than 600 students earned their Tiger Stripes this year, marking completion of their first 30 credit hours and progression to sophomore status. This milestone represents the first major academic benchmark and reinforces the University's structured approach to degree completion.
The Storm the Court Celebration
Those achievements take center stage during the university's signature 'Storm the Court' celebration. For the Spring 2026 semester's iteration of 'Storm the Court,' more than 3,200 high-achieving scholars step onto center court during halftime of the men's basketball game to be recognized for their academic accomplishments. This event reflects the University's commitment to placing academic excellence at the center of campus life.
Texas Southern University's remarkable gains in student success metrics are a testament to its disciplined focus on student achievement, academic rigor, and institutional accountability. With persistence and progression rates climbing, and academic honors being earned by an increasing number of students, this university is setting the standard for higher education institutions nationwide.
