Dear Tarleton Family,
When our $54 million state-of-the-art School of Engineering Building debuted in 2019, there was no doubt it one day would house a stand-alone college. Work is underway to finalize a potential naming opportunity, seek approval from The Texas A&M University Board of Regents, and launch a national search for the college’s inaugural Dean.
Texas is among the top 10 states with a growing need for highly skilled engineering and computer science graduates, and we’re quickly becoming a pipeline to supply them. Our graduates are strengthening communities and fast-tracking discoveries — our regional economy and quality of life depend on it.
The number of Tarleton engineering students has doubled over the last decade. Enrollment approaches 1,000. With 13 programs and more on the horizon, continued growth is certain.
Although engineering technology has been integral to Tarleton since 1917, the university didn’t launch a bachelor’s in engineering (physics) until 2000, followed quickly by computer science and environmental engineering.
Academic programming has accelerated since then. We added a master’s program in computer engineering in 2020 and another in mechanical engineering this past fall. Several new undergraduate degrees are planned — cybersecurity, aerospace, biomechatronics — as well as master’s level programs in construction science and civil and environmental engineering. Doctorates of philosophy in computer science and mechanical engineering are possible.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects engineering job growth nationwide to increase 7 percent by 2026, with demand in civil, mechanical and industrial growing fastest. Texas ranks second behind only California in engineers employed (240,750 and 331,090) and annual median wage earned ($94,020 and $105,310).
Simply put, the future is bright for students who choose an engineering degree at Tarleton.
Our forthcoming stand-alone College of Engineering will better position us as a leader in education, research and innovation in engineering technology, computer science and construction science.
This is a big move: One step closer to becoming the premier comprehensive regional university in the nation.
Dr. James Hurley
President
Tarleton State University
Box T-0001
Stephenville, Texas 76402