Affordable College a Reality in South Texas Border Region

EDINBURG, Texas, Aug. 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- College bound students are flocking to South Texas, but it's not just for the sandy beaches of South Padre Island. Students are finding low tuition fees and an array of choices for an affordable higher education. The "Rio South Texas" region is home to two of the five most affordable colleges in the nation, according to lists released by the U.S. Department of Education in early July. South Texas College ranked number three, while The University of Texas - Pan American ranked number five on the list of the most affordable public four-year schools. Another recent accolade was given by Diverse Issues in Higher Education - a publication focusing on minority education - ranking South Texas College number one in the nation in awarding associate degrees to Hispanic students in the fields of biomedical sciences, engineering, and mathematics and statistics.

"An affordable college education provides a talented and diversified workforce which matters to our businesses and prospects," Miki McCarthy, RSTEC Chair explains. "Rio South Texas Economic Council (RSTEC) is proud to have both UTPA and STC as members of our organization and we congratulate these institutions for all of the contributions, accolades and recognition they bring to our region."

Already one of the most attractive areas in America for business, the last decade has seen unprecedented growth in population and investment, and schools in the region are consistently recognized at the national level.  

"Here in Rio South Texas, higher education institutes are working closely together with both NAAMREI and RSTEC to provide a highly skilled and globally competitive workforce," said Wanda Garza, Executive Officer of NAAMREI. "We strive to offer the most affordable education and training programs throughout the region that meets world-class industry standards." NAAMREI - the North American Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education Initiative - is devoted to positioning the region as the Rapid Response Advanced Manufacturing hub in North America.

Rio South Texas Economic Council (RSTEC) members share a unified vision focused on fostering expansion and relocation efforts by companies seeking a better business environment. The Rio South Texas Economic Council also provides information on commercial and industrial properties, incentives, and other decision-making criteria to assist site selection consultants and real estate brokers. For more information on the Rio South Texas region and to learn how RSTEC can help you, visit www.RioSouthTexas.com or call 1-888-778-3201.

Media Contact:

Raudel Garza
1-888-RSTEC01 (888-778-3201)
Direct Line: 956-928-0641
[email protected]

SOURCE Rio South Texas Economic Council