STEPHENVILLE, Texas — As a new year unfolds, one constant holds true: Tarleton State University is the leader in Texas for enrollment growth.
According to data released by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board following the fall 2025 semester, Tarleton State leads all Texas public universities with a 48.58% increase in enrollment since fall 2022. The state total for public institutions is 6.36% over that time.
“There has never been a more exciting time to be a Tarleton State Texan,” said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. “Driven by our mission to expand access and opportunity, Tarleton State continues to lead Texas as the fastest-growing public institution in the state. This remarkable momentum reflects the confidence Texans place in Tarleton State, and we are excited to welcome even more students and families in 2026 and beyond.”
Beyond overall growth, fall 2025 data confirms Tarleton State’s transformational year-over-year enrollment increases, placing it in front of just five Texas public universities to demonstrate sustained growth marked by increasing annual enrollment gains since 2022. In each of the last three academic years, Tarleton State has seen year-over-year increases led by a state-best 21.3% increase from 2024 to 2025.
Tarleton State’s mission extends beyond enrollment gains to ensure opportunity and success for Texans after graduation. As the university continues to create opportunities, Tarleton State graduates are achieving strong outcomes in graduate education and the workforce. The 2024 Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Almanac reports that 84% of Tarleton State graduates secure employment or enroll in graduate or professional programs within 12 months of graduation, which also leads the state.
“Strengthened by the steadfast support of The Texas A&M System Board of Regents, Chancellor Glenn Hegar, and our extraordinary faculty, staff, alumni and supporters, Tarleton State is building a future brighter than ever before,” said Dr. Hurley.
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.