At East Texas A&M University, we are more than just an institution of higher learning—we are a community dedicated to transforming lives. With campuses spanning Dallas and its surrounding regions, we proudly offer over 140 academic degrees to approximately 13,000 students. In November 2024, we embraced a new chapter in our storied history by changing our name from Texas A&M University-Commerce to East Texas A&M University. This change reflects our deep-rooted connection to East Texas and our commitment to serving the communities that have shaped us.
Our Mission: We Transform Lives
Our mission is simple yet profound: we transform lives. Whether through innovative academic programs, hands-on learning experiences, or a welcoming campus culture, East Texas A&M University is dedicated to empowering students to achieve their dreams. Our students are not just numbers; they are future leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
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By the Numbers: East Texas A&M at a Glance
- #1 Fastest-Growing Public University in Texas (Fall 2023): Our growth is a testament to our commitment to excellence and accessibility.
- $12M Awarded Annually in Scholarships: We believe in making education affordable and accessible for all.
- 89% Alumni Working Full-Time Within Six Months: Our graduates are in demand, thanks to our strong academic programs and career services.
- Top 23% in the Nation for Social Mobility: We are proud to help students from all backgrounds achieve upward mobility.
- 19:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention and mentorship.
- 41 States and 59 Countries Represented: Our diverse student body enriches the campus experience for everyone.
10 Unique Qualities of East Texas A&M
- Quality Academic Programs: With over 140 academic degrees across six colleges, East Texas A&M offers programs that are consistently ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. From accounting to electrical engineering, our curriculum is designed to prepare students for success in their chosen fields.
- Internships and Job Placement: Our Student Career Preparedness office is dedicated to helping students secure internships and job opportunities. From resume building to interview preparation, we provide the tools students need to excel in the job market.
- Welcoming Campus Culture: Known for its friendly atmosphere, East Texas A&M fosters a sense of belonging. With over 115 student organizations and a thriving Greek community, there’s something for everyone.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our Nursing and Health Sciences Building features a cutting-edge simulation hospital, allowing future healthcare professionals to practice life-saving skills in a realistic setting.
- Convenient Learning Sites: With multiple locations across Dallas-Fort Worth and a robust selection of online classes, we make education accessible. Our newest site, East Texas A&M-Dallas, places students in the heart of one of the nation’s global centers.
- Entrepreneurship Program: Venture College empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to develop and launch their business ideas, fostering innovation and creativity.
- Hands-on Agriculture Program: Our 1,300-acre farm provides students with the opportunity to experiment with sustainable growing methods, producing crops like wheat, cotton, and corn.
- Leader in Texas Education: Founded in 1889 as a teachers’ college, East Texas A&M remains a leading producer of certified Texas educators.
- Show-Stopping Music Program: Our School of Music is renowned for its excellence. As an All-Steinway School and the first institution to receive a Spirio Technology designation, we attract top talent from around the world.
- Powerhouse NCAA Athletics Program: The East Texas A&M Lions are a force to be reckoned with, having claimed the 2017 NCAA Division II Football National Championship. In 2022, we transitioned to NCAA Division I as part of the Southland Conference.
Explore Our Campus
Welcome to Lion Country! Our campus is a vibrant hub of activity, offering state-of-the-art facilities, beautiful green spaces, and a welcoming community. Whether you explore our virtual map tours or visit us in person, we can’t wait to show you around.
A Legacy of Excellence: The History of East Texas A&M
East Texas A&M University has a rich history that dates back to 1889. Originally founded as East Texas Normal College in Cooper, Texas, by William Leonidas Mayo, the university has undergone several transformations over the years. After a fire destroyed the Cooper campus in 1894, the university relocated to its current home in Commerce.
In 1917, the institution became a state-funded college, and its name changed to East Texas State Normal College. Over the decades, the university expanded its offerings, introducing graduate education in 1935 and its first doctoral program in 1962. In 1996, the university joined the prestigious Texas A&M University System, becoming Texas A&M University-Commerce. Finally, in November 2024, we embraced our East Texas heritage by adopting the name East Texas A&M University.
Join the Lion Family
At East Texas A&M University, we are more than just a university—we are a family. Our commitment to academic excellence, hands-on learning, and community engagement sets us apart. Whether you’re a prospective student, a proud alum, or a member of the community, we invite you to join us as we continue to transform lives and shape the future.
Discover East Texas A&M University—where tradition meets innovation, and dreams become reality.