Handshake: For Students
How to Create a Handshake Account — Texas Southern University Students
What is Handshake?
Handshake is TSU’s job and internship database, managed through the Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC). Unlike other job search websites, employers who post in Handshake are specifically looking for TSU students and alumni. You can use it to apply for externships, internships, jobs, and on-campus interviews, RSVP to events, and opt in to making your profile searchable by employers.
Step 1: Go to the TSU Handshake Login Page
Navigate to tsu.joinhandshake.com. This is TSU’s dedicated Handshake portal.
Step 2: Sign Up for an Account
On the login page, click “No account? Sign up here” and enter your Texas Southern University email address (your @tsu.edu email).
Step 3: Confirm Your School
You’ll be prompted to confirm your school. Since you’re using a TSU email, the field may pre-populate with Texas Southern University. If not, select it from the dropdown menu.
Step 4: Create a Password
Once your school is confirmed, create a unique password for your account and agree to Handshake’s Terms of Service.
Step 5: Enter Your Information
You’ll be prompted to fill in your personal information (name, graduation year, major, etc.). Once that information is added, your account is created and a confirmation email is sent.
Step 6: Verify Your Email
Check your inbox for a confirmation email and click the “Confirm Email” link to verify your address. If you don’t receive the email, refer to Handshake’s Troubleshooting Missing Confirmation Email guide.
Step 7: Verify Your Phone Number
To keep the community safe, Handshake requires phone number verification as well. Complete this step when prompted.
Step 8: Complete the Onboarding Experience
After your account is verified, you’ll be guided through an onboarding experience. Take time to complete your profile — you can follow employers and jobs you’re interested in, and you’ll receive alerts when application windows are closing or when an employer is attending an event at your school.
Logging In Going Forward
Once your account is set up, you can log in at tsu.joinhandshake.com using your TSU email and password, or through your school’s Single Sign-On (SSO) using your regular TSU student credentials.
Need Help?
Contact TSU’s Career Pathways Center (formerly CPDC):
- 📞 (713) 313-7541
- 📧 placementservices@tsu.edu
- 📍 Ernest S. Sterling Student Life Center, 2nd Floor, 3100 Cleburne Street, Houston, TX 77004
- 🕘 Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
