West Texas A & M University
Acceptance rate
98.7%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$10,996
In-state $9,101
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
6,926
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
30.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 45.0%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
West Texas A&M University (WTAMU), located in Canyon, Texas, is a public university renowned for its commitment to providing a comprehensive educational experience. Established in 1910, WTAMU is characterized by its strong agricultural programs, reflective of its roots in the Texas Panhandle region. The university's motto, "The Future is Bright," underscores its dedication to fostering student success and innovation. With a focus on experiential learning, WTAMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in agriculture, business, education, and engineering. The university is particularly recognized for its animal science and agricultural business programs, which attract students from across the nation.
The campus culture at WTAMU is vibrant and inclusive, promoting a strong sense of community among students and faculty. The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, research laboratories, and recreational centers that enhance the student experience. WTAMU is also home to a diverse student body, which contributes to a rich cultural environment through various student organizations and events. Athletics play a significant role in campus life, with the university's teams, known as the Buffaloes, competing in the NCAA Division II. The commitment to student engagement and community service is evident through numerous initiatives, including volunteer opportunities that encourage students to give back to the local area. Overall, West Texas A&M University is dedicated to empowering its students and preparing them for successful careers in a dynamic world.
Analysis of Key Metrics at West Texas A & M University
West Texas A & M University has shown significant trends in several critical areas over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and retention rates. Notably, the rise in tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students reflects a broader national trend of increasing higher education costs. For example, in 2014, in-state tuition was $6,500, which surged to $9,202 by 2022, marking an increase of approximately 42%. This escalation can pose a barrier for prospective students and potentially impact enrollment numbers.
Graduation rates also warrant attention, particularly the timely graduation rate for undergraduate students. The rate has fluctuated slightly but shows a general improvement, rising from approximately 19% in 2013 to about 27% in 2023. This increase suggests that the university may be enhancing its academic support services or that students are becoming more focused on completing their degrees on time. This is critical not only for student success but also for institutional reputation and funding.
Retention rates have experienced notable variations as well. After a significant jump to about 82% in 2021, the rate fell to around 58% in 2022 before recovering to 68% in 2023. This volatility could indicate challenges in student satisfaction or external factors such as economic conditions or the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that might affect students' decisions to continue their education.
The student-to-faculty ratio, which dropped from 21 in 2013 to 15 in 2021, reflects the university's efforts to provide more personalized attention to students. However, it has since stabilized at 17, suggesting that while there was an improvement in faculty availability during those years, recent years have seen a return to a larger class size.
In summary, while West Texas A & M University has made strides in graduation rates and managing student-faculty ratios, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating retention rates require ongoing attention to ensure the institution remains accessible and supportive to its student body.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Oklahoma City, about 250 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), about 270 mi
- Also known as
- WTAMU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Walter V. Wendler (President/CEO)
- Phone
- 8066510000
- Address
- 2501 4th Ave, Canyon, TX 79016-0001
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 67.4%, women 70.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at West Texas A & M University
The admission data for West Texas A & M University over the years reveals interesting trends regarding gender-specific acceptance rates and overall enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the university has experienced fluctuations in both male and female admission rates, with male rates peaking at approximately 96% in 2022 and 91% in 2023, indicating a significant increase in acceptance. In contrast, female admission rates have also shown improvement but remain slightly lower than their male counterparts, yet they still demonstrate a positive trend over the years.
The overall enrollment numbers have generally increased, reflecting the university's growing popularity and appeal to prospective students. For instance, enrollment rose from 1,173 in 2009 to a peak of 1,425 in 2016 before experiencing a dip in 2017 and 2018. However, it has rebounded in subsequent years, suggesting that the university's strategies to attract students have been effective.
Additionally, the number of denied applications has varied significantly, with the highest denial rate occurring in 2017, where over 2,400 applications were rejected. This aligns with the noticeable increase in enrollment numbers during earlier years, which may have resulted in a more competitive admission process.
Overall, the trends suggest that West Texas A & M University is successfully navigating the complexities of college admissions, with a clear upward trajectory in both male and female acceptance rates, alongside fluctuating but generally increasing enrollment figures. This reflects not just the institution's commitment to inclusivity but also its strategic response to the evolving landscape of higher education.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 48% submitted SAT, 32% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of SAT and ACT Scores at West Texas A & M University
The admissions data for West Texas A & M University over the years reveals interesting trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. From 2007 to 2023, there has been a noticeable fluctuation in both SAT and ACT score ranges, as well as the number of students submitting these scores.
Initially, in 2007, the SAT reading scores ranged from 440 to 560, which reflects a more modest performance compared to subsequent years. By 2023, the range improved slightly to 470 to 570, indicating a gradual enhancement in the academic preparedness of incoming students. This upward trend in scores is significant as it demonstrates a consistent effort by students to achieve better results over time.
Moreover, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has varied significantly. For instance, in 2010, 44% of the admitted students submitted their SAT scores, compared to only 24% in 2022. This decline may suggest a shift in the admissions landscape, possibly influenced by the growing trend of test-optional policies in many universities across the United States. The increase in the number of students submitting scores in recent years aligns with the broader national conversation surrounding the value and fairness of standardized testing.
Furthermore, the overall performance metrics indicate a competitive admission environment, as seen from the consistent percentage of students achieving scores in the upper quartile. The data suggests that while the university maintains rigorous standards, it is also adapting to changing educational trends and student needs.
In summary, the data from West Texas A & M University illustrates an evolving landscape in higher education admissions, reflecting both improvements in student performance and shifts in testing policies. This evolution is crucial for understanding the future of college admissions and the importance of academic achievements in shaping student prospects.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
3,717 applicants in 2025, 98.7% admitted
3,668 admitted 49 not admitted Yield 32.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's141 (4% international)
- Counseling Psychology · Master's56 (2% international)
- Finance, General · Master's55 (7% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Doctoral33 (0% international)
- Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services · Master's33 (0% international)
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's30 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at West Texas A & M University
The graduation data from West Texas A & M University in 2023 reflects notable trends in various fields of study, particularly in Business Administration and General Studies. Business Administration, with a total of 197 master's graduates, indicates a significant interest and investment in advanced business education, likely responding to the growing demand for skilled professionals in various sectors. The presence of 24 international master's graduates in this field further emphasizes its global appeal, showcasing the university's role as a hub for international students seeking higher education in business.
In contrast, the General Studies program produced 137 bachelor's graduates, highlighting a versatile educational pathway that allows students to explore various disciplines before specializing. This flexibility can be particularly attractive in today's job market, where adaptability is key. Additionally, the single international bachelor’s graduate in this category suggests that while the program is popular among domestic students, it may not yet be fully recognized on an international scale.
On the other hand, fields like Health Services and the Engineering Technologies exhibited fewer graduates, particularly at the master's and doctorate levels, where the focus seems to be primarily on bachelor's degrees. This could reflect either the rigorous nature of these disciplines or a potential area for growth, especially as healthcare and technology continue to evolve rapidly.
Overall, the data suggests that West Texas A & M University is successfully catering to the needs of many students, particularly in business-related fields, while also presenting opportunities for growth in other areas. As the job market continues to shift, universities may need to adapt their programs to better align with emerging workforce demands, particularly in health and engineering sectors.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $41,447 | ||||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $54,159-$104,152 | ||||
| Purchasing, Procurement/Acquisitions and Contracts Management. | $54,159-$104,152 | ||||
| Accounting. | $47,470-$60,825 | ||||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | ||||
| Finance, General. | $55,550-$92,578 | ||||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | ||||
| Management Information Systems, General. | $55,107-$118,849 | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $46,211-$54,056 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | $36,761 | ||||
| Communication Sciences and Disorders, General. | $64,033 | ||||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $113,275 | ||||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $79,258-$104,989 | ||||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $79,258-$104,989 | ||||
| Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing. | $79,258-$104,989 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - | ||||
| Natural Sciences. | - | ||||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | $45,245 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, General. | $39,401 | ||||
| Agricultural Business and Management, General. | $45,673 | ||||
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | $45,673 | ||||
| Equestrian/Equine Studies. | $24,185 | ||||
| Agricultural Communication/Journalism. | $36,529 | ||||
| Animal Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Agronomy and Crop Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||||
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - | ||||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $57,674 | ||||
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | $69,319 | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $62,514 | ||||
| Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services. | $54,965 | ||||
| Music Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $41,887 | ||||
| General Studies. | $41,887 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $34,463 | ||||
| Counseling Psychology. | $49,862 | ||||
| School Psychology. | $49,862 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dance, General. | - | ||||
| Graphic Design. | $32,655 | ||||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | $30,837 | ||||
| Musical Theatre. | $30,837 | ||||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | $40,324 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $37,449 | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $42,254 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - | ||||
| Civil Engineering, General. | $60,581 | ||||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | - | ||||
| Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering. | - | ||||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $82,350 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $31,909 | ||||
| Wildlife Biology. | $31,246 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - | ||||
| Social Work. | $37,511-$55,207 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $44,763 | ||||
| Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | $41,404 | ||||
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $41,404 | ||||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $34,778 | ||||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $93,925 | ||||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | $89,631 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | $36,299 | ||||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
9,045 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 69.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,874
- First-year undergraduates 1,167
- Graduate students 2,119
- Transfers and others 885
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,926)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at West Texas A & M University
In 2023, West Texas A & M University enrolled a diverse student body, comprising undergraduate freshmen, sophomores, transfer students, and graduate students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 1,281, with a gender distribution of 42.9% male and 57.1% female, indicating a significant representation of female students in this category.
For undergraduate sophomores, the enrollment is considerably higher at 4,670, maintaining a similar gender ratio with 40.9% male and 59.1% female. This trend of higher female representation continues among transfer students and graduate students as well, with 38.2% and 37.9% male representation, respectively. The graduate student population comprises 2,341 individuals, further emphasizing the importance of female representation in higher education.
The data also reveals insights into the racial and ethnic composition of these students, although specifics on the distribution for sophomores, transfer, and graduate students are unavailable. However, the numbers for freshmen show that White students form a significant proportion of the student body, alongside other racial and ethnic groups.
Such demographic trends highlight the ongoing shift towards greater gender diversity in higher education institutions. It reflects broader societal changes, where more women are pursuing higher education degrees, influencing the academic landscape. As universities continue to adapt to these demographic shifts, it is crucial to ensure that all student groups feel included and supported in their academic pursuits.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at West Texas A & M University
The age composition of students at West Texas A & M University reveals several intriguing insights into the demographic trends of the student body. The largest group is comprised of students aged 18-19, with a striking 67% of enrolled undergraduate females falling into this age range. This trend aligns with the broader pattern observed in many universities, where a significant portion of students are traditional-aged college entrants, usually between 18 and 22 years old.
As we move to the 20-21 age group, there is a notable presence of undergraduates, particularly females, indicating a stable continuation of enrollment as students progress through their college years. However, the representation of graduate students becomes more pronounced in the 22-24 age category, where the number of male graduate students significantly increases. This suggests that many individuals are opting for advanced degrees shortly after completing their undergraduate education.
The data also illustrates a gradual decline in the number of students as age increases, particularly in the 30-34 and 35-39 age groups, where both male and female enrollments decrease significantly. This could reflect various factors, such as professional commitments or family responsibilities that may deter older individuals from pursuing higher education.
Interestingly, the numbers for students aged 50 and older remain quite low, which may indicate that higher education institutions still predominantly attract younger demographics. This could also reflect societal expectations and norms surrounding education, work, and family life.
Overall, the age distribution data at West Texas A & M University highlights the importance of understanding the demographics of student populations in shaping educational policies and support systems that cater to diverse age groups. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, institutions must adapt to the needs of both traditional and non-traditional students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
106 in 2025 · 1.9% in 2016
83 in 2025 · 6.6% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at West Texas A&M University
The data from West Texas A&M University reveals notable trends in international student enrollment over the past two decades. For undergraduate students, the percentage of international students has exhibited a gradual increase until around 2019, peaking at 2.48% in 2007. However, from 2019 onwards, there has been a consistent decline, with only 1.19% of undergraduates being international students in 2023. This downward trend is concerning, especially considering the growing global competition among universities to attract international talent.
In contrast, the presence of international students among graduate students has shown fluctuations but generally remains higher than that of undergraduates. The peak percentage of graduate international students was 8.37% in 2007, but it has since decreased, reaching 4.91% in 2023. This decline could be indicative of broader socio-political factors, including changes in immigration policies and global travel restrictions, which have affected international student mobility in recent years.
Moreover, the pandemic has notably impacted higher education institutions worldwide, resulting in a sharp decline in enrollments from foreign countries. As universities like West Texas A&M seek to recover, it becomes crucial to implement strategic initiatives to enhance their appeal to international students. Such measures might include expanding support services, fostering partnerships with overseas institutions, and promoting scholarship opportunities to attract a diverse student body. Ultimately, maintaining a robust international presence is vital for the academic and cultural vitality of the university.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$20,274
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $10,996
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $9,101
- Room and board
- $9,278
- Graduate tuition
- $8,574
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 43% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 24%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$224M
Expenses$225M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Lone Star Conference
Lone Star Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 94 | 96 |
| Football | 138 | - |
| Soccer | 49 | 31 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 10 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 17 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 124 | 104 |
| Football | 141 | - |
| Soccer | 46 | 23 |
| Baseball | 46 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 10 | 8 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 110 | 89 |
| Football | 141 | - |
| Soccer | 43 | 24 |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Texas Tech UniversityLubbock · 96.7 mi
U.S. News #186
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 253.2 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of New Mexico-Main CampusAlbuquerque · 266.3 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 283.5 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of North TexasDenton · 298.9 mi
U.S. News #208
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near West Texas A & M University:
-
Texas Tech University - Ranked 216 in the 2024 US News rankings, Texas Tech is a comprehensive university known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and health sciences.
-
St. John's College - This liberal arts college is ranked 93 and is renowned for its unique curriculum focused on the classics and great books, encouraging critical thinking and discussion.
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 124, this comprehensive university offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in meteorology and aerospace engineering.
-
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - With a rank of 185, Oklahoma State is well-regarded for its programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.
-
Texas Christian University - Ranked 98, TCU is known for its vibrant campus life and strong programs in business, law, and education.
-
Southern Methodist University - This university, ranked 89, is recognized for its excellent programs in business, arts, and social sciences.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape surrounding West Texas A & M University.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at West Texas A&M University
The crime data from West Texas A&M University over the years presents an interesting perspective on campus safety. A notable trend is the fluctuation in the number of arrests related to gun possession, which peaked in 2015 with a rate of 22.31 per 1,000 students, before subsequently declining to 10.64 in 2021. This decline could reflect improved safety measures or changes in student behavior and awareness regarding gun possession regulations.
Drug-related arrests also show variability, with a significant spike in 2015. This raises concerns about substance abuse within the campus community, highlighting the importance of proactive educational programs and support systems to address these issues.
Alcohol-related arrests have shown a tendency to decrease over the years, which might suggest an improvement in student awareness and responsibility regarding alcohol consumption. However, the presence of domestic violence and dating violence incidents underscores ongoing challenges that universities face in ensuring a safe environment for all students.
The overall crime rate per 1,000 students appears to have decreased from its peak in 2013, which is a positive sign for the campus community. Nevertheless, the data indicates that incidents of stalking and sexual offenses continue to be critical issues that warrant ongoing attention and resources from the university.
In conclusion, while the overall trend in crime rates at West Texas A&M University seems to be improving, it is essential to maintain and enhance safety measures, increase awareness, and provide support to combat specific areas of concern. For further details on calculating crime rates, you can visit this link.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.