4 minute read
LEARNING ON THE RISE
LEARNING
ON THE RISE
A Tarleton education begins in the classroom, but it never stops there. We meld theory and practice and research to prepare students for today’s workplace and markets yet imagined.
Bright minds don’t just go to Tarleton. They take Tarleton with them. They spearhead businesses and lead nonprofits, care for the sick and educate young people, preserve natural resources and fight cybercrime, and excel in the arts and athletics.
Distinguished faculty define the forefront of invention and inspiration. They embolden Tarleton Texans to go farther than they think possible and elevate the university to an educational powerhouse.
They’re rocket fuel, these scholars, igniting positive change, scaling the unknowns and boosting quality of life for us all.
SACSCOC has confirmed the rocket’s rise, handing Tarleton a fresh 10-year accreditation with zero recommendations for improvement and no negative findings. Accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges signifies that Tarleton has the programs, resources and services to advance discovery and inclusion through scholastic excellence.
True to its 123-year commitment to academic might, Tarleton has introduced 14 new market-responsive majors since 2019 (six in fall 2022) — including legal studies, biotechnology, cybersecurity, and communication sciences and disorders — to connect students to growing professional fields in North Central Texas.
Final approval by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will add a PhD in animal and natural resource sciences to Tarleton’s 100-plus degree options. This will be the first doctoral program for the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the fourth for the university. Tarleton’s doctorate of educational leadership, an EdD, debuted
Tarleton’s Mayfield College of Engineering is no ordinary academic facility. Cutting-edge research and industry-standard equipment provide unique learning opportunities for students, attract top academic talent and fortify partnerships with industries and corporations.
in 1998; a PhD in criminal justice began in 2019; a PhD in counseling is slated for 2023 (one of eight in Texas).
The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs Baccalaureate/Graduate Degree Board of Commissioners has reaffirmed certification of the business programs at Tarleton. Endorsement by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International places those programs among the top 5 percent of business colleges worldwide. The longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools, the AACSB connects educators, students and entrepreneurs to create the next generation of leaders.
Tarleton’s nationally recognized School of Engineering — more than 1,000 students strong — is now a stand-alone college named in honor of longtime benefactor and retired Lockheed Martin executive Dr. Dwain Mayfield. This marks the first time the university has named an academic college for an individual. Although engineering technology has been integral to Tarleton since 1917, the university didn’t have a bachelor’s in engineering (physics) until 2000, followed quickly by computer science and environmental engineering. Academic programming has accelerated since then, with the addition of a master’s program in computer engineering in 2020 and another in mechanical engineering last fall. New undergraduate degrees are planned in aerospace and industrial distribution, as well as master’s programs in construction science and civil and environmental engineering.
Texas A&M-RELLIS has invited Tarleton to offer several engineering programs in Bryan, and expanded offerings can be found in Fort Worth. Doctoral programs in computer science and mechanical engineering are on the horizon.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects engineering jobs to increase 7 percent by 2026. Texas ranks second behind only
Left: Tarleton Texans learn by doing, and undergraduate research abounds. Students in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources explore everything from alternative feed for cattle to glaucoma treatments in swine as a model for humans. Above: Opportunities for hands-on physiological and clinical learning put Tarleton’s School of Kinesiology majors at the head of the hiring list.
California in engineers employed, making Tarleton’s Mayfield College of Engineering a launchpad for proficient engineering, technology, construction and computer science professionals.
A rebranded College of Health Sciences is addressing one of the region’s most pressing needs — increased access to quality healthcare. The university’s century-old School of Kinesiology and nationally recognized School of Nursing join the inaugural School of Health and Service Professions in a strategic realignment. The goal: prepare top-shelf healthcare professionals to help rural residents enjoy longer, healthier and more productive lives.
In its special session last fall, the 87th Legislature approved $65 million to construct a College of Health Sciences building on the university’s Stephenville campus and $25 million to expand Tarleton-Fort Worth. A $2 million appropriation in spring 2021 will develop new physical therapy, occupational therapy and physician assistant programs, among others.
Make no mistake, Tarleton State University is on a trajectory to greatness.
RECORD BREAKERS. ADVENTURE SEEKERS. CHANGE MAKERS. RISK TAKERS.
