2026 graduation class group photo with diplomas in caps and gowns

About UT High School

Empowering students through innovative online education since 1999, backed by the prestige and excellence of The University of Texas at Austin.

Our Mission

We partner with students, families, and educators in Texas and beyond through innovative and flexible online learning experiences that foster personal growth and lifelong learning.

Our Vision

Opening doors to education for a changing world.

Who We Are

 

UT High School (UTHS) is an accredited, public online high school district that has been pioneering distance education for over 25 years. As part of The University of Texas at Austin, we combine the prestige and academic excellence of a world-renowned university with the flexibility and innovation of online learning.

We serve a diverse community of over 35,000 students annually, providing flexible, high-quality education options for learners who need alternatives to traditional classroom settings. From full-time diploma programs to independent courses and credit by examination, we meet students where they are and help them achieve their academic goals.

Who We Serve

 

Our diverse student community represents learners from all walks of life who choose UTHS for our flexibility, quality, and university-backed credibility.

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Creative Students

Pursuing their craft and creative careers while earning a diploma

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Elite Athletes

Competing at elite levels while maintaining academic excellence

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Homeschool Families

Seeking a rigorous, university-backed curriculum and accredited credentials

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Global Learners

Studying from remote locations or relocating with military families

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Academically Ambitious Students

Accelerating their education to graduate early or strengthen a transcript

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Flexible Learners

Balancing school with work, family, and other commitments

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College-Bound Athletes

Taking NCAA-approved courses to meet college eligibility

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Independent Learners

Preferring a self-paced, off-campus learning experience

Our Academic Programs

 

Every UTHS course is designed to align with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), so credits transfer for credit in other Texas school districts.

Full-Time Programs

  • Texas Diploma Program for Texas residents
  • International Diploma Program for non-Texas residents worldwide

Learn more โ†’

Independent Courses

80+ online courses including:

  • Core subjects (English, Math, Science, Social Studies)
  • World Languages
  • Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • Health and Physical Education
  • Specialized electives

View course catalog โ†’

Credit by Examination

Over 29,000 students annually use our Credit by Examination program to:

  • Accelerate academic progress
  • Demonstrate mastery of course content
  • Free up schedule for other pursuits

Learn more โ†’

Academic Excellence & Recognition

 
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TEKS-Aligned Curriculum

Every course is designed to align with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills, so credits transfer for credit in other Texas school districts

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#2 Ranked Online High School

Recognized by Best College Reviews as one of the top 25 online high schools in the nation

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TEA Purple Star School

Designated by the Texas Education Agency in recognition of our commitment to serving military-connected students

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NCAA Approved Courses

Core courses ensure college eligibility for student athletes

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College Board Approved

Advanced Placement courses meet rigorous national standards

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Seamless Credit Transfer

Course credits easily transfer to other school districts nationwide

Graduate Success Stories: Our graduates continue their education at prestigious institutions including MIT, Rice University, UCLA, University of Texas at Austin, New York University, The Juilliard School, and many more.

Our History

 

From pioneering beginnings to educational leadership, discover the milestones that shaped UTHS.

1998

State Authorization

Texas State Board of Education authorizes UT High School to provide high school curriculum and award diplomas.

1999

UTHS Opens

UT High School opens as a Special Purpose District, beginning our journey as pioneers in online education.

Early 2000s

Program Expansion

Rapid growth in course offerings and student enrollment as UTHS establishes itself as a leader in distance learning.

2010s

Technology Innovation

Major platform improvements and educational technology integration enhance the online learning experience for students.

Recent Years

Global Reach

Launch of the International Diploma Program, expanding our reach to serve students worldwide.

2024โ€“Present

Continued Excellence

Ranked #2 among best online high schools, serving 35,000+ students annually with 300+ partner districts.

Leadership & Expertise

 

Our schools are led by experienced educators with deep expertise in online learning and curriculum development. Our curriculum development team includes administrators, coordinators, specialists, and certified teachers with deep expertise in their subject areas. We collaborate with expert educators across Texas to continuously revise and develop new curricula, ensuring our courses reflect current best practices and prepare students for success in college, career, and life.

Dr. Melissa Chavez

Dr. Melissa Chavez

Executive Director

executivedirector@austin.utexas.edu
512-232-9491

Barry Bacom

Barry Bacom

Assistant Superintendent

bbacom@austin.utexas.edu
512-232-2279

Dan Diehl

Dan Diehl

Principal, UTHS-International

dan.diehl@austin.utexas.edu
512-471-9635

Dustin Payne

Dustin Payne

Associate Principal, UTHS-Texas

dustin.payne@austin.utexas.edu
512-232-1789

Carlos Caro

Carlos Caro

Assistant Principal, UTHS-Texas

carlos.caro@austin.utexas.edu
512-232-2732

Accreditation & Authority

 
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State Authorization

Texas State Board of Education authorized since 1998 to provide high school curriculum and award diplomas

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Public School Status

Texas Public School operating as a Special Purpose District (TEC ยง11.351)

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University Affiliation

University of Texas at Austin affiliation providing academic credibility and support

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Proven Track Record

25+ years of experience in online education innovation and student success

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Public Accountability

State and federal accountability ratings and district performance reports, published for transparency

View reports โ†’

Ready to Join Our Community?

Discover how UT High School can help you achieve your educational goals with flexible, accredited programs backed by The University of Texas at Austin.

Apply Now Learn More

Phone: (512) 232-5000  |  Email: edservices@austin.utexas.edu

Learn More About UTHS

 

Full-Time Programs โ†’
Comprehensive diploma programs for Texas and international students

Course Catalog โ†’
Browse our complete selection of 80+ online courses

Credit by Examination โ†’
Accelerate your education with our testing program

Prospective Students โ†’
Start your journey with information for new students and families