Transition to Houston

Download this brochure here.

Welcome, UH Faculty! We are glad you have joined the Cougar family. The Office of Faculty Engagement and Development is here to support you in all areas of your teaching and scholarship. We want to guide you in your transition to the University of Houston and the City of Houston. This guide will provide you with resources, and direction in your relocation to Houston, Texas.

THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON

The University of Houston has nationally ranked academic programs, cutting edge centers, world class libraries, and state of the art facilities. UH is a top producer of Fulbright U.S. students, and supporter of First-Generation graduates. UH fosters a diverse student body, and supports Faculty community engagement initiatives.

Dr. Renu Khator serves as the Chancellor of the University of Houston System, and Dr. Diane Z. Chase serves as Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Provost. Dr. Chase leads the implementation of the University’s ambitious strategic plan and its bold vision to become a top 50 public university. Tour UH here.

PERKS AT UH

As a University of Houston Faculty member, you are entitled to complimentary perks, such as employee discounts.
Please visit UH link - Home | Welcome to Your University of Houston Discount Program (perkspot.com)
UH Campus Recreation - Campus Recreation - University of Houston (uh.edu)

HOWDY! WELCOME TO HOUSTON

In 2012, Houston was named the most diverse city in the United States. There are 2.3 million residents, with people from more than 70 countries and U.S. regions, who speak about 145 languages. Houston is also home to the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical center in the world.
Faculty, staff, and students come from the Greater Houston area. Here is a list of resources to help you explore the City of Houston and its surrounding areas.

HOUSTON COMMUNITIES

We have highlighted a few Houston Neighborhoods and Communities. You will find the following areas located closesly to the University:

Inner Loop Communities - Third Ward (University of Houston), University Oaks, Old Braeswood, Rice/South Hampton, The Heights/Garden Oaks, Medical Center, City of Bellaire.
South Houston - Missouri City, Pearland, Sugar Land
Southeast Houston - Clear Lake, Friendswood, Nassau Bay, Webster

HOUSTON HOUSING

Do you need help to understand the Houston real estate market? Are you looking for a home to buy or rent? Visit these suggested links below.

HOUSTON SCHOOLS

Here is a list of some Independent School Districts in Greater Houston.

MUSEUMS AND THEATRE DISTRICTS

Houston has 19 museums and 9 professional performing art and theatre companies. Five artistic centers boast more than 12,000 seats. In the Theatre District, you can experience the symphony, ballet, opera, and theater companies while eating at some of the best restaurants in downtown Houston.

PARKS AND RECREATION

Houston is home to parks of different sizes and adventures, over 200 green spaces, and more than 125 miles of trails. Local parks have many free cultural, social, lifestyle events and festivals to take advantage of year-round. Visit Houston Parks and Recreation Department (houstontx.gov/parks/) for a complete list of area parks.

Clear Creek Golf Club
Discovery Green
East River 9
F.M. Law Golf Park 9
Gus Wortham Park
Hermann Park
Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark
Levy Park
Memorial Park
MacGregor Park
Tom Bass Park
Wildcat Golf Club

SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Houston is a major-league sports town where fans can cheer for a variety of professional, semi-pro, and collegiate teams year-round. The city is home to iconic teams like the Houston Astros in Major League Baseball, the Houston Rockets in the NBA, and the Houston Texans in the NFL. Sports enthusiasts can also catch thrilling Major League Soccer action with the Houston Dynamo or enjoy the fast-paced energy of the Houston Dash from the National Women’s Soccer League. For college sports, the University of Houston and Rice University keep fans entertained with competitive football, basketball, and more. With such a rich sports culture, Houston offers something for every type of fan.

University of Houston Athletics

Family and Local Entertainment

Find family fun events and weekly happenings around the city.

RESTAURANTS

Houston has over 13,000 restaurants, making it one of the best food cities in the United States. The restaurant scene in Houston is known for its diversity, with cuisine from over 70 countries and American regions.

Houston Restaurants

TRANSPORTATION

Getting around Houston is made easier through public transit, the region's system of highways, and other transportation options. Explore services as well as major roadways and more.

DISCLAIMER - This brochure is to provide information. UH is not affiliated with the businesses shared in this brochure or support views provided. This guide is only to be used as a resource and you should research all information to make a valid decision.

Transition to University of Houston

College and Department Contact

When interacting with your department chair, consider asking the following questions:

When is my first pay check and what is the payroll schedule
If applicable, moving arrangements and guidelines should be discussed at this time as well as any outstanding immigration issues
If teaching your first semester at UH, contact your Department Business Admin or College Business Admin to ensure you are listed as the course instructor and granted blackboard access

Office Operations

Ask about the location of your office space, office location
How to gain building/lab access, keys, phone number
Inquire about college and Department procedures and policies, regularly scheduled faculty meetings (department or college) and expectations for attendance
Who are the support staff
What are the office hours
How to order office supplies, computer equipment, etc.
Which parking lot/garage is closest to my building

Office of the Provost

Faculty

Contact Information