Tarleton State University, located in Stephenville, Texas, is a public university that is part of the Texas A&M University System. Established in 1899, Tarleton has developed a strong reputation for its commitment to student success, characterized by a personalized approach to education, small class sizes, and a vibrant community. The university offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various fields such as agriculture, business, education, engineering, and health sciences, emphasizing both academic excellence and hands-on learning experiences.

The university's cultural environment is rich with tradition and school spirit. Tarleton is well-known for its “Texan” spirit, symbolized by the school colors of purple and white and the mascot, a spirited rodeo character named "Texan." Students actively participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics, with NCAA Division II sports playing a significant role in campus life. The campus also boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers that support academic and personal growth. The university encourages community engagement, providing students with numerous opportunities for internships and practical experiences that enhance employability upon graduation. With a supportive faculty and a broad network of successful alumni, Tarleton State University fosters an environment conducive to academic achievement and personal development.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Tarleton State University

Over the years, key educational metrics at Tarleton State University have shown significant trends that reflect broader shifts in higher education. One notable aspect is the fluctuation in tuition costs. For in-state undergraduate students, tuition has gradually increased from approximately $5,856 in 2014 to around $7,878 in 2024, marking a rise of 34%. Likewise, out-of-state tuition has surged from $14,352 to $17,958, a staggering increase of 25% in the same period. This sustained rise in tuition indicates the financial pressures facing students and the institution’s growing operational costs.

Another important metric is the graduation rates, which have shown a positive trajectory. The timely graduation rate for undergraduate students increased significantly from 17.8% in 2014 to 30.1% in 2023. Notably, the graduation rate within 150% of the expected time also improved from 39.2% to nearly 49%. These increases can be attributed to potential enhancements in academic support systems and student engagement initiatives aimed at increasing retention.

Retention rates have followed a steady increase as well, rising from approximately 68.3% in 2014 to around 73.8% in 2024. This suggests that the university is becoming more effective in keeping students enrolled from one year to the next, which is crucial for student success and institutional reputation.

Lastly, the gender distribution among students indicates a consistent trend where female students make up a larger percentage than their male counterparts, particularly in undergraduate programs. This enduring gender ratio speaks to shifting demographics in higher education, where female enrollment has generally exceeded that of males.

Overall, Tarleton State University’s data point towards both challenges—such as rising tuition—and achievements in terms of enhanced graduation and retention rates. Such trends are essential for understanding the evolving landscape of higher education and for making informed decisions that align with the needs of the student population.

Analysis of Graduates by Major at Tarleton State University

In examining the graduation data from Tarleton State University for 2023, a clear trend emerges in the areas of highest graduation numbers, notably in the fields of Business and Healthcare. Specifically, the general Business field, which includes both a major in Business/Commerce and Business Administration and Management, yielded impressive graduation figures, with a combined total of 229 bachelor’s degrees awarded to domestic students and an additional 158 master’s degrees in Business Administration. This reflects a growing demand for business professionals in a competitive job market, aligning with national trends where business degrees remain among the most sought-after qualifications.

Moreover, the Registered Nursing program also showcased significant interest, with 210 bachelor's degrees awarded, suggesting a robust commitment to addressing the growing healthcare needs of communities across the nation. The emergence of Health-related degrees as critical during and post-pandemic emphasizes the essential role these professionals play.

Conversely, the numbers appear to be considerably lower in other fields such as Psychology, International Studies, and Education, with only bachelor’s degrees conferred and no advanced degrees noted in these areas. This might highlight shifting perceptions among students regarding career prospects in these domains compared to more lucrative fields like business and healthcare.

Additionally, it is notable that international students contributed minimally in these discussed programs, particularly in bachelor’s degrees, which may indicate either a lower attraction to these fields for international students or potential barriers to entry. As the global job market evolves, it will be crucial for educational institutions to adapt programs to attract a diverse student body across all areas of study.

Overall, Tarleton State University's graduate landscape illustrates significant concentrations in business and health, reflecting broader social and economic trends present in contemporary education and employment contexts.

Analysis of Tarleton State University Admissions Data

Tarleton State University has shown a significant transformation in its admission metrics over the past few years. According to the most recent data, the admissions rate for males has increased remarkably, rising from just over 52% in 2010 to approximately 82% for the year 2023, while the female admission rate surged to nearly 90%. This upward trend indicates the university's commitment to increasing its accessibility and appeal to a broader range of applicants. The enrollment figures also highlight growth, with the number of accepted students rising significantly, especially in the past few years. In 2023, Tarleton welcomed 2,448 new students, a notable increase from the prior years. This influx is complemented by a decreasing number of denials, which suggests that the institution is adopting a more inclusive approach in its admission process. The rankings of Tarleton State University have fluctuated over the years; it ranked 331 in 2023, saw a drop to 376 in 2024, and then slightly improved to 371 in 2025. While rankings provide an insight into institutional reputation, they should be interpreted alongside data on student success and satisfaction. Overall, the shift in admissions and enrollment patterns may indicate that Tarleton is prioritizing growth and diversity, which can be beneficial for both the student body and the institution's reputation moving forward.

Analysis of Tarleton State University's Admission Scores Trend

The admission data from Tarleton State University reveals significant trends in the SAT and ACT scores over the years. Notably, from 2007 to 2015, the acceptance rates and the number of students submitting their SAT scores steadily increased, peaking at 79% in 2014 and 2015. This uptick suggests the university's growing popularity and possibly an expansion of its academic offerings or enhanced recruitment strategies during that period.

Moreover, the performance indicators within the scores show fluctuations. The SAT reading and math scores saw a general rise in the lower quartile (25th percentile) and upper quartile (75th percentile) from 2007 through 2013, indicating an overall improvement in student readiness and capability. However, after 2015, there seemed to be a decline in both the participation rate for SAT submissions, dropping to as low as 46% in 2022, and a slight decrease in score ranges over the subsequent years.

This trend prompts contemplation about external factors influencing these figures. For instance, the increasing trend of universities shifting toward test-optional admissions policies could explain the decline in submission rates. Amid discussions on equity in education, many institutions have adopted more holistic admission criteria, possibly leading to decreased test score submissions.

In conclusion, while Tarleton State experienced a flourishing period of admissions and improved scores from 2007 to 2015, recent statistics call for a closer examination of shifting attitudes toward standardized testing and potential impacts from national trends, such as the test-optional movement.

Demographic Overview of Tarleton State University Students in 2024

The student demographic data presented for Tarleton State University in 2024 reveals some intriguing trends regarding enrollment and gender distribution across various categories. Notably, the largest group consists of undergraduate freshmen, comprising 2,702 students, where 37% are male and 63% are female. This gender distribution mirrors a broader trend seen in many higher education institutions across the country, where female enrollment has steadily outpaced male enrollment in recent years, reflecting changing societal dynamics and educational aspirations.

Undergraduate juniors are the most populous group at the university with 8,334 students, sustaining a similar gender breakdown of approximately 37% male and 63% female. This consistency across undergraduate levels suggests a stable environment for female students, catering to their educational needs and preferences. In contrast, the demographic for graduate students shows more pronounced gender disparities, with 33.3% male and 66.7% female across 2,249 individuals, indicating a burgeoning interest among women in pursuing advanced degrees.

In terms of racial and ethnic representation, the data indicates a predominance of white students across these categories, with undergraduates, particularly freshmen and juniors, showcasing strong numbers. This points to the continued need for universities to actively pursue diversity and inclusion initiatives to enrich the academic community and promote a broader spectrum of perspectives.

Overall, the data reflects the ongoing evolution of the student body at Tarleton State University, highlighting key shifts in gender representation and the importance of fostering an inclusive educational environment.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Tarleton State University

The age distribution of students at Tarleton State University reveals significant insights into the campus demographic landscape. A notable portion of students falls within the under 18 and 18-19 age groups, representing approximately 22% and 40% of the undergraduate populations, respectively. This indicates that the university attracts a considerable number of traditional college-aged students, which is a common trend among universities across the United States.

As students progress into their early twenties, we observe a solid presence in the 20-21 age category, reflecting a burgeoning cohort towards upper-class standing, but showing a decline in the numbers for those ages 22-24. This may suggest an array of factors including students entering the workforce or pursuing graduate studies, where we see a modest increase in the number of graduate students aged 22-24.

The data further illustrates a transition as students age, with populations in the 25-29 and 30-34 brackets representing non-traditional students who often balance education with work or family commitments. These groups account for around 12% of the total student body, emphasizing the university's role in facilitating lifelong learning opportunities.

Moreover, we see perceptions of academia shifting, as older students increasingly pursue higher education. Students aged 40 and above represent a growing trend indicating that education continues to hold value regardless of age, potentially driven by the evolving job market that demands new skills and qualifications.

The diverse mix of ages at Tarleton State University reflects a campus environment that is not only welcoming to traditional students but also supportive of those seeking to further their education later in life, underlining the institution's commitment to accessible education for all demographics.

Analysis of International Student Trends at Tarleton State University

The data reveals notable trends in the international student population at Tarleton State University over nearly two decades. The number of international undergraduate students fluctuated significantly, evidenced by a peak of 81 students in the 2024 academic year, which corresponds to approximately 0.59% of the total undergraduate population. This reflects a modest representation within a generally increasing overall student body.

In contrast, the graduate program displayed a relatively higher percentage of international students, with a maximum of 2.63% in 2007, although recent years have shown a decline, with rates hovering around 1.07% to 1.91%. This trend might indicate increasing competition among graduate programs across the United States, which could be impacting Tarleton's ability to attract a larger international graduate student body.

It is important to consider how global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, have affected student mobility and perception of U.S. educational institutions. The gradual recovery in the number of international students in 2023 could be a sign of resurgence in interest and confidence among prospective students, possibly influenced by a global shift towards digital learning and hybrid educational models.

As Tarleton State University continues to evolve, fostering an inclusive environment for international students will be essential, not only to enhance its cultural diversity but also to strengthen academic and professional networks. Continuous monitoring and strategic initiatives to bring in a more diverse international student body can help the university maintain its global competitiveness.

Here are some notable universities surrounding Tarleton State University:

1. Texas Christian University - Ranked 105 in the 2025 US News, this comprehensive university is known for its strong emphasis on research and a vibrant campus life.

2. Baylor University - With a ranking of 91, Baylor is a prestigious Baptist university offering a rich academic tradition alongside a commitment to spiritual development.

3. Southern Methodist University - Also ranked 91, SMU is recognized for its strong business and law programs, set in a vibrant metropolitan area.

4. The University of Texas at Austin - An influential institution ranked 30, UT Austin is renowned for its research, diverse academic programs, and lively student culture.

5. Rice University - As one of the top-ranked universities at 18, Rice is acclaimed for its strong science and engineering programs, and it boasts a beautiful campus in Houston, Texas.

These institutions offer a diverse range of academic programs and opportunities, contributing to a vibrant educational landscape in the region.

Analysis of Crime Rates at Tarleton State University (2013-2023)

The crime data from Tarleton State University over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in the average crime rates per 1,000 students. In 2013, the average crime rate stood at 8.48 per 1,000 students, with a notable spike in 2018 where it reached 11.25. This peak suggests a possible increase in on-campus crime incidents during that period, leading to heightened concern among students and university officials.

Specifically, incidences of gun-related arrests have varied significantly, indicating that while some years saw more enforcement or reporting of these crimes, others may warrant attention to underlying issues. The data indicates a consistent presence of drug and alcohol-related arrests, reinforcing ongoing national trends concerning substance abuse in college settings.

By 2021, a significant decline was observed with an average crime rate dropping to 5.28, the lowest in this decade. However, this trend did not sustain as the crime rate rose again to 9.19 in 2022. Such variations could be attributed to changes in campus policies, societal influences, and the broader context of community safety initiatives.

Understanding these crime trends is vital for students and administration alike to inform safety measures and community engagement strategies. The fluctuating rates emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and responsive policies to ensure a safe campus environment. Awareness and education programs may be beneficial, as they address not just the crimes but also promote student well-being.

For those interested in the methodology behind calculating crime rates in relation to populations, further information can be found at the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Methodology.