Alief ISD students have a new opportunity to get a head start on college and careers in the fast-growing health field through a partnership with the University of Houston College of Education. The college-prep program, launching in fall 2026, will put students on a clear path from high school to UH, where they can earn a bachelor’s degree in health and prepare for in-demand careers that support healthier communities.
Hastings High School will house the first-ever Cougar Academy: Future Health Majors. Students in the program will take college-level dual-credit courses and participate in experiences designed to introduce them to college life and health careers.
“Alief prides itself on its connection to the greater Houston community, and this includes our higher education partners,” said Superintendent Anthony Mays. “Our goal is to provide our students with access to high-quality education from one of the best universities in our state, but this also ensures we are making good on our promise to our parents that we would provide the increased rigor that they are seeking from our district. This partnership is a win-win for Alief, the University of Houston and our community.”
Students will begin the program at Hastings Ninth Grade Center and take college-level dual-credit courses throughout their four years of high school. Graduates who meet UH admissions requirements will be prepared to transition seamlessly into the health major at the UH College of Education. Because Cougar Academy students will graduate with significant college credit, they will be on an accelerated path to earn a Bachelor of Science in Health in about two years at UH.
Throughout the program, Alief students will build connections with UH through campus visits, alumni panels, advising sessions, and workshops on the college application process and financial aid.
“This partnership with Alief ISD reflects our shared commitment to expanding opportunities for students and strengthening the health of our communities,” said UH College of Education Dean Cathy Horn. “By connecting high school students to college experiences early, we can help them see what’s possible and support the next generation of health professionals to make a difference in Houston and beyond.”
The UH health degree offers specializations in public health, health promotion, and health promotion for allied health professionals. Graduates often work as health educators, wellness coordinators and public health specialists, while others pursue medical, dental, nursing or other health professional schools.
The inaugural cohort of 25 students in Cougar Academy: Future Health Majors will graduate high school in spring 2030, on track to start at UH that fall.
Students and families can learn more about Cougar Academy: Future Health Majors by completing an Alief ISD interest form.