Texas Public Colleges Showcase Dual Focus on Access and Excellence

A new performance model tracks both access and economic outcomes for graduates. The “opportunity classification” recognizes institutions that combine high enrollment access with strong post-graduation earnings metrics. One U.S. state stands out: it hosts 35 such institutions—the second-highest count nationally—emphasizing both inclusivity and academic rigor.

Among them, three campuses also carry a coveted “highest‑research activity” label, underlining their dual mission. State leaders highlight this as a benchmark combining social mobility and innovation. They urge continued investment in public higher education to maintain this momentum—arguing that balancing affordability, access, and research output not only benefits students but also bolsters state and national economies.