Texas State University - San Marcos prior to September 1, 2003 the school was called Southwest Texas State University. The school began in 1903 as Southwest Texas State Normal School. In 1969, Southwest Texas State University was adopted.

The school has gone from a teachers' college to a multipurpose university. The school's sport teams are called the "Bobcats".

Notable alumni of STSU include actress Tracy Scoggins.