Student Life at Lamar University

Whether you live on campus or commute to class, Lamar University campus life has something for you. Home to more than 15,000 students, Lamar is one of the fastest-growing universities in Texas and is a member of The Texas State University System.

With more than 100 programs of study leading to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees and many after-class campus activities, you will find a class or activity to meet your every interest.

The 292-acre campus in Beaumont is about 90 miles east of Houston and about 25 miles west of Louisiana, making Lamar the perfect location for your college years.

Places on Campus

Campus life at Lamar University is the perfect blend of urban living with the close community feel of a small town. Between classes you can stroll through campus to admire the artwork and mature oak trees, study with friends at the Mary & John Gray library, or lounge at the Setzer Student Center.

Setzer Student Center

Setzer student center

Also known as "The Set", the Setzer Student Center is the hub of student activities and engagement. Newly renovated in 2018, it features an array of dining options and hosts many student clubs and organizations.

Mary & John Gray Library

Mary and John Gray Library

Located near the Set, the eight-story library is great place to study, meet with classmates or grab a drink at Starbucks. It is rumored that the library's architecture inspired the design of the castle in the movie Shrek!

Vincent-Beck Stadium

Vincent Beck Stadium

The home of Lamar University baseball since 1969, Vincent-Beck Stadium has become a true showpiece among college baseball facilities in the Southwest.

Montagne Center

Montagne Center

The Montagne Center is the venue of choice for many popular events, from basketball games to concerts. Its stadium seating and large arena provide plenty of space for banquets and ceremonies, including Lamar University Commencement Ceremonies.

Provost Umphrey Stadium

Provost Umphrey Stadium

The Lamar Cardinals play in one of the best Division I FCS venues in the nation, the newly renovated 16,000-seat Provost Umphrey Stadium.

The Quad

The Quad

In the middle of the busiest buildings on campus, the Quadrangle is a popular gathering area between classes.

Clubs and Organizations

With more than 150 registered student clubs and organizations, you'll have plenty of opportunities to meet classmates with similar interests. Choose from a wide variety of intramural sports, fraternities, sororities, academic clubs, and special interest groups to make lifelong friends.

Greek Life Student Organizations

Greek Students playing tug of war

Arts and Culture

Creative minds come alive at LU. Take a look at the latest museum exhibits on campus, attend a lecture event, enjoy a performance at the theatre or use this handy guide to learn more about all of the public art on campus: LU Public Art Guide

Dishman Art Museum

Dishman Art Museum

University Theatre

University Theatre

Rothwell recital hall

Rothwell Recital Hall

Boomtown water display

Center for History & Culture

Stay Active

Whether you're a spectator or trying to stay fit, LU has a healthy option for everyone. Watch the Cardinals compete in 15 sports, get involved in a group fitness class at the gym or join classmates in a wide variety of intramural teams.

Dining Options

When it comes to food, LU has something for everyone. Stop by Starbucks in the library for coffee and a bite, or check out any of the restaurants on campus!

  • Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall 
  • Chick-fil-A
  • Panda Express
  • Smoothie King
  • Starbucks 
  • Papa John's Pizza 
  • Tiny House BBQ
  • Market – Cardinal Village 
  • Market – Setzer Student Center 
  • Market – Brooks-Shivers 

Housing and Residence Life

Living on campus gives you convenience, security, and a sense of community at LU. Choose from multiple floor plans and accommodations in the modern apartment-style residence halls of Cardinal Village.

Apply for Housing

Housing Rates

Floor Plans

Cardinal Village Housing

Things to do around campus

Lamar University is nestled in the middle of the Golden Triangle of Texas, a bustling city area with all the comforts of a cozy hometown. Here, you can enjoy a live theatrical or music performance, get to know the nightlife, have fun at an arcade or retreat to the outdoors for a hike.

  • Take a hike through Big Thicket National Park
  • Go shopping in Beaumont
  • Relax at the Beaumont Botanical Gardens
  • Hold a baby alligator at Gator Country
  • Play putt-putt at Colorado Canyon
  • Go bowling at Bowl Star Lanes

More Things to Do

Big Thicket National Reserve