Campus Vibe
Known for business — close-knit campus
Howard Payne University is a private institution in Brownwood with particular strength in business and health sciences. With an average SAT of 1019, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A small campus of 716 undergraduates with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
31% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $48,376 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $25,255.
Plan Your Visit
News & Alerts
Howard Payne University Launches New Data Science Minor
Starting Fall 2026, students can pursue an interdisciplinary data science minor combining CS, statistics, and domain courses.
Tuition Increase Announced for 2026-27
The board of trustees approved a 3.2% tuition increase for the upcoming academic year, in line with peer institutions.
Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1019
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
33.9%
Avg Tuition Increase
3.2%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$11,892
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
4
Peer Average
3
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Programs (52)
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
55%
- •55% first-year retention rate
- •Active student organizations
- •Engaged campus community
Mental Health Services
Counselor Ratio
1:350
24/7 Crisis Line
Yes
Free Sessions
12 per year
Avg Wait
5 days
Walk-in hours available weekdays
Disability Services
ADA-compliant campus with ongoing accessibility improvements
Dining
Rating
★★★★☆
Score
4/5
Meal Plan
$6,200/yr
Multiple dining halls with farm-to-table options
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •Founding and history Mabee University Center On June 20, 1889, Howard Payne College was founded at Indian Creek by members of the Pecan Valley Baptist Association.
- •It was named for its first financial benefactor, Robnett's brother-in-law Edward Howard Payne.
- •HPC held its first classes in 1890 and granted its first degree in 1895, to Robnett.
- •In 1915, the yellow jacket was chosen by Carrie (Camp) Allen as the university mascot.
Source: Wikipedia
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Housing and food costs are higher than national average