STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University has been recognized in several categories in the 2025-26 Colleges of Distinction that ranks schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education.
In additional to its general recognition, the university was honored in the categories of public colleges, best colleges in Texas, business, education, engineering, nursing, international and military support.
“Tarleton State continues to make itself known for its dedication to transforming lives by making quality, accessible education available to all,” said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. “We are helping to meet critical workforce needs with market-responsive academic programs while supporting the unique needs of our students, including veterans, first-time-in-college and non-traditional students.”
Colleges of Distinction evaluates schools using criteria known as the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes. Through extensive research and interviews, Colleges of Distinction identifies institutions that make a meaningful impact on students’ lives.
Tarleton State’s educational impact, from first-year seminars and collaborative projects to undergraduate research, global learning and internships, was cited as a key factor, and its commitment to these high-impact practices and the personalized support it offers students throughout their college journey highlights the university’s selection as a College of Distinction.
“Tarleton State has crafted a campus culture where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning,” said Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction Tyson Schritter. “Its programs reflect the kind of innovation and intentionality that prepare students for life after graduation.”
To view Tarleton State’s profile or learn more about its programs, visit www.collegesofdistinction.com/school/tarleton-state-university/.
About Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools and valuable resources for students, parents and high school counselors. For more information and to discover how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of more than 21,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For over 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.