Houston (Feb. 19, 2019) – Study.com has published its 2019 rankings for the most diverse colleges in the U.S., and the University of St. Thomas Houston has been ranked #17. This ranking places the University of St. Thomas in the top 50 list of most diverse colleges in the country.

Diversity is an Important Social Justice Issue

According to Study.com, racial and cultural diversity remains a major social consideration and issue. For college students who regard this social justice issue as important, Study.com has ranked the 50 most diverse colleges in America.

“The diverse enrollment at the University of St. Thomas is rich in every facet,” Arthur Ortiz, Vice President of Enrollment Management, said. “When walking on campus you experience a melting pot. Located in the most diverse city in the country, UST is a microcosm of Houston. UST embraces its mission by serving and supporting all communities.”

Factors to Rank the Schools

Study.com took a look at schools across the nation to compile this list of the most diverse colleges and universities. These schools rank based on several factors, including the ethnic makeup of the student body and faculty, graduation rates of ethnically diverse students, and facilities and programs offered to promote diversity.

The University of St. Thomas currently enrolls 3,237 students. UST celebrates its diversity where 70 percent of its study body are ethnically diverse. Forty-five percent of students are of Hispanic/Latino heritage. The University is both a Hispanic Serving Institution and a Catholic Institution that has bachelor’s degrees in more than 36 areas of study, as well as graduate program options. The student body hails from 33 states and 58 countries.

According to study.com, the University promotes student diversity in several ways, including through its numerous student groups, including the Chinese Language and Culture Association, Irish Culture Club, Japanese Culture Club, Deaf Culture Club and League of United Latin American Citizens.

UST is a Top Producer of African American Graduates

In addition to this ranking from Study.com, Black Issues in Higher Education recently ranked University of St. Thomas as a Top Producer of African American Graduates. The School of Education Master’s in Education program ranked #35 in the country by Black Issues in Higher Education. Twenty-three percent of students enrolled in the masters of education are African American. In general, 16 percent of UST graduate students are African American.