Ace of Clubs
Go out.
Beach bars, live music, and the people you meet along the way.
Your island.Your kind of degree.
The University of South Padre Island & Port Isabel. Earn your degree in island life.
A different kind of university
Less studying. More living.
Ace of Spades
Wander off.
Take the scenic route. The road trip is part of the experience.
Ace of Diamonds
Drop a line.
Early starts, Gulf waters, and a catch worth talking about.
Ace of Hearts
Do a little less.
Slow mornings, salt air, and absolutely nowhere to rush.
How it works
Make memories.Make them count.
- 01
Find your island thing.
Visit a Pillar Business or try a new degree experience.
- 02
Save the moment.
Upload a receipt or photo to claim your credit.
- 03
Earn a degree worth a story.
Complete your credits. We’ll send your diploma.
Your university guide
Included with enrollment
Meet Betty.Your island insider.
A friendly face for every step, from your first credit to your diploma.
Find your next stop
Get to know the university and its Pillar Businesses.
Follow your progress
Keep your degree credits and milestones in view.
Celebrate the good stuff
From your first credit to the diploma you earn.
Enrollment
Grand Opening rates.
One student
$200one-time
For one student
- All four degree paths
- Betty, your university guide
- Mermaid Society membership
Two students
Great for couples.
$397one-time
Total for both students
- Four degree paths for each student
- Betty, your university guide
- Mermaid Society membership
The local side of SPIU
Meet the placesbehind your degree.
The planned Pillar Business network will connect your degree journey with local places across South Padre Island and Port Isabel.
Eat & gather
Discover cafés, restaurants, and live-music spots.
Get on the water
Find guides, fishing charters, and local outfitters.
Explore & unwind
Make room for tours, shops, and slower afternoons.
Good to know
Your questions,answered.
Do I have to finish in one trip?
No. Your approved progress carries between visits, so you can pick up where you left off when you return.
Can my enrollment partner and I choose different degrees?
Yes. You each get your own account and progress. Follow different degree paths and go at your own pace.
Can one visit count toward more than one degree?
Yes, if the participating business qualifies for more than one degree. Submit the receipt once; approved credit goes to each eligible path.
Are my photos and receipts public?
No. They’re private submissions. University reviewers can see them, and a business owner can review receipts for their own business.
What if a submission isn’t approved?
You’ll see the reason and can submit again with a clearer photo or more detail.
Do I need to download an app?
No download needed. You’ll use the university through your web browser, including on your phone.
Opening soon
See you on the island.
Get notified when enrollment opens.