Texas College was established in 1894 by ministers of the Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church. It was created as a liberal arts institution with the mission of providing educational opportunities, career choices, and academic services to African-Americans throughout Texas. Since then Texas College has devoted 110 years to its students, and is one of the 27 original Historically Black private colleges that were organized under the United Negro College Fund in 1944.

Texas College has continued in its devotion to and concern for its student body, offering over a dozen bachelor's degree programs, and two associate degree programs. Texas College is also known for its long tradition of teacher certification and teacher preparation programs that are approved by the state of Texas. The school also has five student residence halls, one of which is set aside as single parent housing.