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East Texas A&M University

Commerce, TX

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

8,249
Total Students
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$23K
Tuition (Out-State)
$11K
Avg Net Price
93%
Acceptance Rate
46%
Graduation Rate
6-year
63%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About East Texas A&M University

East Texas A&M: A historic R2 research powerhouse shaping the future of Texas.

East Texas A&M University (ETAMU) stands as a vibrant public research institution located in Commerce, Texas, on the northeastern edge of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. As a proud member of the Texas A&M University System, ETAMU is recognized for its significant research activity and doctorate production, holding the "R2: High Research Spending and Doctorate Production" classification. The university serves a diverse student body exceeding 11,500, drawing students from the DFW area, Northeast Texas, and beyond, fostering an environment of ceaseless industry and fearless investigation.

With a rich heritage dating back to 1889, ETAMU is the fifth-oldest state university or college in Texas. It began as a private teachers' college and has evolved significantly over the decades, undergoing several name changes reflecting its expanding academic mission, from East Texas Normal College to East Texas State University. Its admission into the Texas A&M University System in 1996 marked a pivotal moment, and its recent renaming to East Texas A&M University in 2024, driven by strong community and alumni support, underscores its commitment to its regional identity while looking towards future growth.

Academically, ETAMU boasts a strong reputation, particularly through its College of Education and Human Services, which was ranked #1 in Texas for teaching education. The university offers robust graduate and doctoral programs in education, preparing future leaders. The College of Business is also a respected Tier II institution, with its MBA program nationally recognized and highlighted by publications like U.S. News & World Report. Beyond these, students can explore over 100 disciplines across its six academic colleges, including engaging programs in Humanities, Science and Engineering (featuring an award-winning planetarium), hands-on opportunities in Agricultural Sciences, and innovative studies in the College of Innovation and Design.

Life at East Texas A&M extends beyond the classroom with its sprawling 2,203-acre rural campus, complemented by satellite locations in Dallas, Mesquite, and partnerships with other colleges. Students have opportunities to participate in campus media like the school newspaper, KETR public radio, and KETV-3. The university's motto—"Ceaseless Industry, Fearless Investigation, Unfettered Thought, Unselfish Service to Others"—epitomizes the spirit of a community dedicated to academic excellence, personal growth, and making a meaningful impact, making ETAMU an excellent choice for prospective students and families seeking a comprehensive and engaging university experience.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1889, it is the fifth-oldest state university or college in Texas.
  • ✦Classified as "R2: High Research Spending and Doctorate Production" by the Carnegie Foundation.
  • ✦Boasts an enrollment of over 11,500 students as of Fall 2023.
  • ✦The College of Education and Human Services was ranked #1 in Texas for teaching education in 2013.
  • ✦Its MBA program was ranked 5th overall nationally in U.S. News & World Report's 2012 "Best Graduate School" issue.
  • ✦Part of the prestigious Texas A&M University System, operating on a 2,203-acre rural campus.
  • ✦Guided by the motto: "Ceaseless Industry, Fearless Investigation, Unfettered Thought, Unselfish Service to Others."

Timeline

1889
Established as East Texas Normal College (ETNC) in Cooper.
1894
ETNC relocated to Commerce after its original campus was destroyed by fire.
1917
Acquired by the State of Texas and renamed East Texas State Normal College.
1923
Renamed East Texas State Teachers College to clarify its purpose.
1957
Renamed East Texas State College, recognizing its broadening academic scope.
1965
Renamed East Texas State University (ETSU) after inaugurating its first doctoral program.
1996
Admitted into the Texas A&M University System and renamed Texas A&M University–Commerce.
2019
The College of Innovation and Design was formed.
2024
Renamed East Texas A&M University after strong community and alumni advocacy.

Schools & Colleges

6 notable schools within East Texas A&M University

📚

College of Education and Human Services

One of the foremost education-focused institutions in Texas, ranked #1 in the state for teaching education in 2013, offering notable graduate and doctoral programs.

💼

College of Business

A highly respected Tier II business school nationally recognized for its MBA program (ranked 5th overall in 2012 by U.S. News & World Report) and accounting programs.

🎭

College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Arts

Offers diverse liberal arts programs including history, performing arts, mass media, and political science, with pre-law preparation and student media opportunities.

⚙️

College of Science and Engineering

Features degree programs in biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering technology, physics, and astronomy, housing an award-winning planetarium.

🔬

College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources

Provides hands-on learning in agribusiness, animal science, and wildlife conservation at its educational farm and ranch.

🎨

College of Innovation and Design

Formed in 2019 to offer innovative, multidisciplinary degree plans, fostering a unique student experience.

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