Tarleton State University is a public university located in Stephenville, Texas. It was founded in 1899 as John Tarleton Agricultural College and has since grown to become a comprehensive university with a diverse range of programs. Tarleton State University offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across several academic colleges, including the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, College of Business Administration, College of Education, College of Health Sciences and Human Services, College of Liberal and Fine Arts, and College of Science and Technology. The university has a strong commitment to academic excellence and offers numerous opportunities for students to engage in research, internships, and other experiential learning experiences.
The Tarleton State University campus spans over 2,000 acres and includes state-of-the-art facilities, such as the newly built engineering building and a recreation center. The campus also features several green spaces, including the Tarleton State University Horticulture Center, which serves as a living laboratory for students in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Tarleton State University is a member of the Lone Star Conference and competes in Division II of the NCAA. The university has a strong athletic tradition and offers 13 varsity sports programs, including football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and golf. The university’s mascot is the Texan Rider, and the school colors are purple and white.
Tarleton State University has a close-knit community of students, faculty, and staff who are dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment. The university offers a range of student organizations, including academic, social, and service-oriented groups, as well as opportunities for students to participate in community service projects and other outreach activities.

Tarleton State University
It’s a good idea to look at these 34 interesting facts about Tarleton State University to know more about this public university.
- Tarleton State University was founded in 1899 as John Tarleton Agricultural College.
- The university is named after John Tarleton, a wealthy rancher who left a bequest in his will to establish an agricultural college.
- The school became a member of the Texas A&M University System in 1917.
- Tarleton State University has five academic colleges: Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Business Administration, Education, Health Sciences and Human Services, Liberal and Fine Arts, and Science and Technology.
- The university offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
- The school’s motto is “Traditions That Count,” reflecting its commitment to its history and traditions.
- Tarleton State University’s mascot is the Texan Rider.
- The school colors are purple and white.
- The university’s official flower is the purple and white pansy.
- The campus spans over 2,000 acres.
- The university has a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1.
- Tarleton State University has an enrollment of over 13,000 students.
- The school has a strong focus on agriculture and environmental science programs.
- Tarleton State University’s agricultural programs are nationally recognized.
- The university is home to the Texas Institute for Applied Environmental Research.
- The Tarleton State University Police Department was the first university police department in Texas.
- The university has a recreational center that includes a rock climbing wall, basketball courts, and a swimming pool.
- Tarleton State University is a member of the Lone Star Conference.
- The university has 13 varsity sports programs.
- The school’s football team has won two national championships.
- The university’s music program includes ensembles such as the marching band, jazz band, and choir.
- Tarleton State University has a radio station, KXTR, which is student-run.
- The university has a student-run newspaper, The J-TAC.
- The university’s library has over 400,000 volumes.
- Tarleton State University has a study abroad program that allows students to study in over 20 countries.
- The university has a strong commitment to service and community engagement.
- The school has a student organization called Tarleton Volunteers that organizes community service projects.
- Tarleton State University has a rodeo team that competes in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.
- The university has a strong online education program.
- The school has a Center for Instructional Innovation that provides faculty with resources to enhance teaching and learning.
- Tarleton State University offers a dual credit program for high school students to earn college credit.
- The university has a program called Texan Reps that offers campus tours to prospective students.
- Tarleton State University has a Center for Agribusiness Excellence that offers consulting and training services to agricultural businesses.
- The school has a program called Texan Transition that helps students with disabilities transition to college life.
Tarleton State University is a renowned institution that has been committed to providing excellent academic programs and extracurricular activities for over a century. The university’s focus on agriculture, environmental science, and community engagement has earned it a reputation as one of the top universities in Texas. With its strong commitment to student success, diverse student body, and excellent facilities, Tarleton State University is an excellent choice for students looking for a quality education in a supportive environment. Whether pursuing a career in agriculture, business, education, health sciences, or the arts, students at Tarleton State University can be confident that they are receiving a top-tier education that will prepare them for success in their chosen field.