Isn’t it amazing that right here we have a campus uniquely focused on the ocean? This is Texas A&M University at Galveston. It’s a special branch of Texas A&M University. I will tell you the story of this unique place.
Texas A&M University at Galveston started in 1962. It began as a marine laboratory. It was also the home of the Texas Maritime Academy. The Maritime Academy is now known as Texas A&M Maritime Academy.
In 1965, the federal government gave the first training ship to the Maritime Academy. It was called the Texas Clipper. George P. Mitchell donated 100 acres on Pelican Island in 1968. Another 35 acres were donated in 1993. Also, 14 acres on Teichman Road were donated. These housed TEEX and the sailing and rowing teams.
Academics at Texas A&M University at Galveston focus on the ocean. This includes marine biology, marine sciences, oceanography, and engineering. In 1971, the enrollment was just 91 students. Now it’s much bigger.
Texas A&M University at Galveston is a dedicated college of Texas A&M University. It offers unique degrees. For example, Marine Engineering Technology is offered here. Ocean Engineering is administered by the College of Engineering.
Undergraduate programs here include marine biology and marine science. Students can also study maritime studies. Engineering programs include marine engineering technology. There is also offshore coastal and systems engineering.
The College of Engineering has a presence here. Many freshmen start in the Engineering at Galveston program. They complete required coursework at Texas A&M University at Galveston. This coursework includes math, science, and engineering courses. After that, they move into their chosen major. They can study in College Station, Galveston, or McAllen. Galveston offers Ocean Engineering, Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology, and Computer Science.
The Texas A&M Maritime Academy trains licensed mariners. They become third mates or third assistant engineers. They study maritime transportation, marine engineering technology, or maritime administration and logistics.
Graduate programs are offered in marine biology, marine sciences, and maritime administration. Students can earn PhD or master’s degrees.
Many faculty members have joint appointments at Texas A&M University at College Station. This allows graduate students to study for a PhD at TAMU. They can complete their PhD here in Galveston.
There are also 3+2 programs. Students can earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years. This saves them a year of study. Programs include ocean and coastal resources with marine resources management. Another is maritime administration with maritime administration and logistics. There is also Oceans and One Health.
In 2012, enrollment was over 2000 students. They come from 49 states and the District of Columbia. Most students study science and engineering. On-campus housing is available. The campus has volleyball courts, a gym, a pool, and tennis courts. There is also an indoor basketball court and a student center.
The Texas A&M Maritime Academy is one of seven maritime academies in the United States. It is the only one on the Gulf of Mexico. Cadets learn to operate ocean-going vessels. They sail on the training ship and commercial ships. They gain experience in navigation, seamanship, and engineering. They also receive classroom instruction and hands-on training.
Texas A&M University at Galveston is more than just a university. It’s a place of maritime tradition and innovation. From its humble beginnings to its current status, it continues to shape the future of the marine world.