Hispanic Identity

UTSA is proud to be a Hispanic Serving Institution and nationally recognized as a Tier one research university advancing Hispanic student success. Our foundation – based on a promise of social mobility and opportunity for San Antonio’s predominantly Mexican American population – underpins our commitment to positioning all students, staff and faculty for growth, leadership and success.

Serving as a modelOur Student Demographics

With a student body that is majority Hispanic, UTSA serves as a model for universities across the nation working to close the gaps in higher education.

UTSA's Hispanic Student Enrollment

59%

of all students

72%

of first-gen students

61%

of first-time freshman

62%

of transfer students

El pasado de San Antonio está entrelazado con influencia hispana. Esto, junto con las habilidades en investigación y el enfoque en el éxito estudiantil de UTSA, sitúa a nuestra comunidad en una posición perfecta para enfrentar los retos del mañana.
- Teresa Niño Vice President for University Relations
Teresa Niño
Seal of Excelencia - Institutions Serving Latinos

Our Seal of Excelencia designation, awarded in 2020, recognizes UTSA's leadership in advancing Latino student success.

Hispanic Serving Institution

UTSA is one of the original 189 universities in the nation to be federally-designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). While the designation allows UTSA to compete for federal funding, our vision goes much further: we aspire to be a model Hispanic, thriving institution where students from all backgrounds can excel.

First generation UTSA student holding a Go Roadrunners hand signal

A Top Tier Research Institution

UTSA is designated as an R1 institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. This designation recognizes UTSA as one of the top 4% research institutions in the nation. R1 universities have a greater ability to attract world-class faculty members and talented students.

UTSA students in lab coats

Combining These Strengths

Together, UTSA’s Hispanic-serving focus and research prowess open exciting new doors for Roadrunners, allowing for professional, socioeconomic and personal growth that extends far beyond the classroom.

With this in mind, UTSA became a founding member of the Alliance of Hispanic Serving Research Universities, a prestigious group of institutions that are both Hispanic-Serving and R1.

An UTSA graduation hat with a message that says 'For my parents, when you'll see me fly, remember that you both painted my wings'
1 of only 22 Universities designated as both an R1 and Hispanic Serving Institution

UTSA is one of a select few universities designated as both an R1 and Hispanic Serving Institution.

Hispanic Heritage Month at UTSA

UTSA celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month every year (September 15-October 15) with programming that is free and open to the entire university community and the public. Throughout the month, UTSA showcases events across our campuses ranging from concerts and exhibitions to conferences and community partnerships, as well as the Roadrunners' annual Hispanic Heritage football game at the Alamodome.

Discover Hispanic Heritage Month at UTSA

Hispanic Heritage Month September 15-October 15

Community Connection

UTSA’s commitment to student success extends beyond those enrolled at the university. To advance prosperity and opportunities for Hispanic populations within San Antonio and beyond, UTSA works closely with local partners and college-readiness programs, while pursuing innovative research based around the community.