Statistics and Graphs

Admissions

Diversity is an important factor on the 40 Acres and The University strives to promote equality for people of all races by providing a holistic approach when reviewing applications. But is it always successful?

According to The New York Times, of the 7,000 students that enrolled in 2012, 46 percent were white, 23 percent were Hispanic, 20 percent were Asian, and 6 percent were Black.  

Records attained from the Office of Information Management and Analysis from the University of Texas at Austin for Freshmen for the Fall of 2013 show an increase in the Hispanic and White population at the university, but showed a decrease for the Asian, and Black population. The records also provided us with a look at some other minority groups that add to the diversity of the university. 

Information taken from the Office of Information Management and Analysis from the University of Texas at Austin

While we cannot truly say the approach the University of Texas takes in reviewing the applicants is significantly benefitting one race over the other, we can say that it does increase the diversity of the university. Comparing the total enrollment values by race for the years 2012 and 2013 we can see some increase in the number of Hispanic, Asian, Black, and other minority groups at the university.

Information taken from  the Office of Information Management and Analysis from the University of Texas at Austin

Problems With The University's Admissions Process 

The University of Texas has come along way in its path to diversify the student body and create a university where ideas can be shared by people of different cultures and backgrounds. However, criticism over the methods utilized by the institution to increase diversity has emerged, with people questioning just how important race valued in the admissions process. Most recently, the case of Fisher v. University of Texas brought attention to The University's use of race as a factor in the admissions policy after a white female applicant was denied admission.

 The University's mission to increase enrollment of minorities is seen to some as a violation of the Equal Protection Clause . The clause proclaims that no state can deny any person under its jurisdiction equal protection of the laws.  The Supreme Court ruled a 7-1 vote for the case to be sent back to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals for reconsideration. The University issued a statement expressing their opinion on the matter: "We remain committed to assembling a student body at The University of Texas at Austin that provides the educational benefits of diversity on campus while respecting the rights of all students and acting within the constitutional framework established by the Court." 

International Students At UT: 

Culture diversity at the campus is also amplified by The University's prolific international students program. Of the current 52, 076 students enrolled at the University of Texas, 5,003 are international students.

Information taken from the International Students and Scholar Services

International students contribute to the wonderful cultural diversity already present at the famous and makes it even more special by adding a worldly perspective to the conversation. Having students from around the world truly embodies the University's motto of "What Starts Here Changes The World."