@John at MrSEC I didn't take it that way. I am surprised you did.
The University of Houston may not be the tops in academics but it is climbing and those at the top are pushing to get higher.
• Ranked among 150 institutions nationwide on the list of "Princeton Review Best Value Colleges for 2012." One of only three universities in Texas included (The Princeton Review, 2012)
• Earns Tier One research university distinction (Research-Very High) from the Carnegie Foundation — one of only three Carnegie-designated Tier One public research universities in Texas (Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, 2011)
• Among 650 universities ranked by Forbes, UH is No. 155 in the South, No. 196 among Research Universities (Forbes 2011 Best Colleges, 2011)
• Among the nation’s top 50 public research universities (Top American Research University Report, 2010)
• A top 50 public research university in endowment assets, National Academy Members and annual giving (Top American Research University Report, 2010)