Howard Payne University

The El Paso extension center of Howard Payne University, founded in 1889, has a base in Brownwood. It has been operating since 1991. More than 265 students have graduated from the El Paso Center at HPU since inception. HPU is a Christian private university accredited by SACS, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The El Paso Center represents a department of the College of Christian Studies established to deliver academic training and coursework to students expecting to be pastors. Students prepare to work in ministry or transition into a graduate program. The El Paso Center has increased its range of courses to include degrees in Christian studies, business administration, and criminal justice. Students may also pursue dual credit options. Three academic sessions are organized each year at the El Paso Center. The fall and spring semesters are 16 weeks long, and classes typically meet only once a week. It's easy to find onsite classes that are held during the evenings and Saturday mornings on weekdays. Online classes are also available. The length of summer sessions varies, depending on the course.