West Texas A & M University

What is the history of West Texas A & M University?

West Texas A&M University began in Canyon in 1910 as West Texas State Normal College, established to prepare teachers for the region. Its later names - including West Texas State Teachers College, West Texas State College and West Texas State University - reflect its expansion beyond teacher education.

The institution joined the Texas A&M University System in 1990 and adopted its current name in 1993. Today, it is a public university offering undergraduate and graduate study across fields that include agriculture, business, engineering, health care, the humanities and education. Its history helps explain both its regional focus and its continuing teacher-preparation programs.

What are the faculties and departments at West Texas A & M University?

West Texas A&M University organizes its academic programs into colleges spanning agriculture and natural sciences, business, education and social sciences, engineering, fine arts and humanities, and nursing and health sciences. Students can pursue bachelor's degrees and graduate credentials, though the available degree levels vary by subject.

Representative areas of study include animal science, accounting, computer science, mechanical engineering, nursing, psychology, social work and music. The university's college names include the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, the Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business, and the Sybil B. Harrington College of Fine Arts and Humanities. Applicants comparing majors should consult the current academic catalog for the degree plan, admission requirements and course location: admission to the university does not necessarily mean immediate entry into a selective program.

What is the location of West Texas A & M University?

West Texas A&M University's main campus is in Canyon, Texas, south of Amarillo in the Texas Panhandle. Canyon offers a smaller-city setting, while Amarillo provides access to a larger regional job market, shopping and transportation.

Students considering internships, clinical placements or off-campus work should account for travel between Canyon and Amarillo. The university also has an Amarillo presence, so the location of a particular class or program matters when planning a schedule. Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport serves the region. A car may be useful for travel beyond campus, although commuting needs depend on where a student lives and studies.

What is the mission and vision of West Texas A & M University?

West Texas A&M University describes its mission in terms of teaching, research and service, with particular attention to the Texas Panhandle and surrounding region. Its stated priorities encompass access to education, student development and work that addresses regional needs.

Those statements describe the university's goals, not a guarantee of any individual outcome. Prospective students can assess how the mission appears in practice by examining their intended department's courses, experiential-learning options and partnerships. WT is a public university within the Texas A&M University System, not a religiously affiliated institution.