28 Interesting Facts about Prairie View A&M University

Prairie View A&M University is a public historically black university located in Prairie View, Texas. It was established in 1876 as a part of the Texas A&M University System and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields. The university has a diverse student population of over 9,000 students from various backgrounds.

The university offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields such as agriculture, engineering, business, education, nursing, and many others. The university is well known for its engineering programs, and it is one of the top producers of African American engineers in the nation. Prairie View A&M University also offers online degree programs that provide students with the flexibility to complete their coursework at their own pace.

Prairie View A&M University has a vibrant campus life, with over 100 student organizations, including academic, cultural, and social clubs. The university’s athletic program is also impressive, with a total of 18 varsity sports teams competing at the NCAA Division I level. The university’s football team is well known for its rivalry with Texas Southern University in the Labor Day Classic, a tradition that dates back to 1945.

In addition to its academic and athletic programs, Prairie View A&M University is committed to providing its students with opportunities to serve their communities through various outreach programs. The university also offers a wide range of support services to its students, including academic advising, tutoring, career services, and counseling, to help them achieve their goals and succeed in their chosen fields.

Prairie View A&M University

Prairie View A&M University (Wikimedia)

It’s a good idea to look at these 28 interesting facts about Prairie View A&M University to know more about this public historically black university.

  1. Prairie View A&M University is the second-oldest public institution of higher education in Texas.
  2. The university was established in 1876 as the Alta Vista Agricultural and Mechanical College for Colored Youth.
  3. Prairie View A&M University is a historically black university (HBCU) that is part of the Texas A&M University System.
  4. The university has produced more African American graduates than any other university in Texas.
  5. The university’s motto is “Making Panthers of Tomorrow Today.”
  6. The university’s colors are purple and gold.
  7. Prairie View A&M University is located in Prairie View, Texas, about 45 miles northwest of Houston.
  8. The university has a total enrollment of over 9,000 students.
  9. The university has over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields.
  10. The university has a 1,500-acre campus that includes a farm, an arboretum, and a golf course.
  11. The university’s library is named after former United States Congressman and civil rights activist, George Thomas “Mickey” Leland.
  12. Prairie View A&M University is one of the top producers of African American engineers in the nation.
  13. The university’s engineering program is accredited by ABET, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
  14. The university has a College of Juvenile Justice and Psychology, which is the only college of its kind in the nation.
  15. Prairie View A&M University is home to the Don Coleman Coliseum, which has hosted many famous musicians and performers, including James Brown and Ray Charles.
  16. The university has a marching band called the Marching Storm, which has performed at many high-profile events, including the Super Bowl halftime show.
  17. The university has a radio station, KPVU 91.3 FM, which is run by the Department of Communications.
  18. The university has a student-run newspaper called The Panther.
  19. Prairie View A&M University is a member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and competes in NCAA Division I athletics.
  20. The university has a football team that has won multiple SWAC championships and has produced many NFL players.
  21. The university has a strong commitment to community service and offers many outreach programs to serve the surrounding community.
  22. The university has a campus chapter of the NAACP, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
  23. Prairie View A&M University has a strong emphasis on research, particularly in the areas of agriculture, engineering, and the sciences.
  24. The university has a Center for Minority Health and Health Disparities Research and Education, which conducts research to improve health outcomes for minority populations.
  25. The university has a Center for Teaching Excellence, which provides resources and support to faculty members to improve their teaching skills.
  26. Prairie View A&M University has a diverse student population, with students from all over the United States and many international students.
  27. The university is committed to providing a high-quality education to all students and has a strong focus on student success and retention.
  28. Prairie View A&M University has a unique tradition known as “Ratting,” which involves freshmen wearing special hats and being required to perform certain tasks for upperclassmen during their first few weeks on campus.

Prairie View A&M University is a historically black university with a rich history and a strong commitment to providing a high-quality education to all students. With over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, a diverse student population, and a focus on research, community service, and student success, Prairie View A&M University is an excellent choice for students seeking a supportive and challenging academic environment. Its unique traditions, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to social justice and sustainability make it a standout institution in Texas and beyond.