HISTORY

The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents approved graduate degree programs at the master’s and specialist level for A&M–Central Texas through Tarleton State University on May 26, 1999. In 2009, Texas A&M University–Central Texas was established as a separate member of the Texas A&M University System, including an Office of Graduate Studies. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board approved the creation of a Graduate School in Fall 2018 to further enhance advanced education and research opportunities.

ADMINISTRATION

The dean of the Graduate School is responsible for the administration and leadership of graduate education at A&M–Central Texas. The Graduate Council, composed of graduate coordinator representatives from each college, supports the dean in establishing graduate policies and administrative procedures. The dean advocates for the mission, vision, and goals of the Graduate School, ensuring high standards of academic excellence, research, and professional development for all graduate students.

VISION

The Graduate School at A&M–Central Texas is committed to transforming lives through accessible, innovative, and research-driven graduate education. We strive to be a leader in applied learning and scholarship, fostering global connections, interdisciplinary collaboration, and lifelong impact for scholars in an evolving world.

MISSION

The Graduate School at A&M–Central Texas cultivates a dynamic, inclusive, and intellectually rigorous environment that empowers graduate students to excel as leaders, researchers, and professionals. Our mission is to:

• Provide high-quality, student-centered graduate education that prepares scholars for real-world applications.
• Advance knowledge through applied research, critical inquiry, and innovation.
• Foster professional and academic development through mentorship, collaboration, and experiential learning.
• Promote ethical leadership, civic engagement, and global awareness in an ever-changing society.
• Ensure continuous improvement through data-driven assessments and peer-reviewed benchmarking.

VALUES

Guided by the university’s core values, the Graduate School is committed to a “Service of Excellence” framework that upholds:

University Core Values

• Integrity - Evidence-based decisions guided by our mission and values demonstrate integrity and accountability in our commitment to student success.
• Innovation - Through strengthened connections and collaborative partnerships, our community drives innovation and meets diverse needs.
• Creativity - Anticipating and shaping the future of education, our creativity and flexibility embody adaptability and innovation.
• Excellence - Our commitment to excellence in academics and scholarship drives us to uphold high standards for critical thinking and continuous improvement.
• Caring Support - We actively cultivate a caring environment where empathy and support guide our interactions, ensuring that the needs and challenges of each individual are met with understanding.
• Community Connection - Fostering a welcoming environment, we value and connect with each individual in our community.