See frequently asked questions about Texas A&M University's engineering program in Galveston.
1. How are the College of Engineering programs in Galveston and College Station related?
The Texas A&M College of Engineering is a single unit that offers the first-year curriculum at multiple locations, including College Station, Galveston and McAllen. You are a Fightin’ Texas Aggie no matter which location you begin, or finish, your degree at!
On our Galveston campus, we offer two pathways to earn a College of Engineering undergraduate degree:
- Direct admission to one of three undergraduate engineering degree programs offered in Galveston: Computer Science, Ocean Engineering, and Interdisciplinary Engineering (Marine Environment Track). Through this direct admission process, students will begin their first semester enrolled in a degree-granting major.
Why choose this pathway: You can enter immediately into one of the three majors and remain at the Galveston campus for the full degree. - Admission to the General Engineering program. This program provides the opportunity to begin your engineering studies in Galveston, while allowing for the possibility of pursuing programs offered at other locations. When it comes time for you to choose a specific engineering major and apply for Entry-to-A-Major, you will have the choice of staying in Galveston to complete one of the three available undergraduate engineering degree programs, or applying to any of our other engineering bachelor’s degrees offered in College Station or McAllen.
Why choose this pathway: You can experience the Galveston campus while you complete your first year requirements, giving yourself more time to decide which major and campus is best for you!
2. What are the advantages of studying on the Galveston campus of Texas A&M University?
- The same, high-standard curriculum: No matter which location you choose to begin at, new students complete three foundational engineering courses taught by Texas A&M College of Engineering faculty, with oversight from the program in College Station. The courses you take, and degree you earn, will be equivalent to an engineering degree from main campus – a Texas A&M University degree.
- Small campus feel: With less than 2,500 students, the Galveston campus offers a small campus atmosphere. This means smaller class sizes, easier access to faculty and the ability to develop an academic community with your peers. In addition, the quiet nature of campus is conducive to studying and academic success.
- Island life: Studying engineering on the Gulf Coast offers a unique experience to which students in College Station don’t have access. From the beaches to the many island festivals, to Galveston’s night life, our students find many ways to balance their academic and social lives.
- Gulf Coast advantage: Galveston is also the ideal setting to study ocean- and marine-oriented challenges. Students in Galveston will experience the perfect location for studying all aspects of computing and engineering that deal with the ocean, ships and the coast.
3. How do I apply...
to the undergraduate engineering degree programs offered in Galveston (e.g., Computer Science, Ocean Engineering, and Interdisciplinary Engineering – Marine Environment Track)?
- Students should submit the traditional freshman application to Texas A&M University — Galveston, available at goapplytexas.org and select one of the following College of Engineering majors offered in Galveston: computer science, interdisciplinary engineering (Marine Environment Track), or ocean engineering.
- Students who use this approach will be considered for direct admission to Galveston in the major they select on the application; if admitted, they will begin their first semester enrolled in that major and will be expected to complete the entire undergraduate degree program on the Galveston campus.
to the General Engineering program in Galveston?
- Students should submit the traditional freshman application to Texas A&M University — College Station, available at Common App or goapplytexas.org. It is recommended to indicate Galveston as your preferred location. This will ensure you are given full consideration for the Engineering at Galveston program. For detailed instructions, visit Applying to Galveston.
- Students who use this approach will be considered for admission to the General Engineering program; if admitted, they will apply for Entry-to-a-Major as early as the end of their second semester.
- For all students admitted to the General Engineering program, the Entry to a Major (ETAM) process is the same regardless of where students begin their Texas A&M engineering education. Once General Engineering students successfully meet the minimum ETAM requirements, they apply to at least three of the 20+ majors offered in the College of Engineering, and they also have the option to specify a location. Once placed in a major through ETAM, students move to the location where that major is offered. More information about the ETAM process can be found on the ETAM website.
4. Can I choose to complete my full degree on the Galveston campus? What majors are offered?
Absolutely. At Galveston, there are currently three engineering degrees being offered that take advantage of the campus’ unique setting on the Gulf of Mexico. These include:
- Computer Science
- Ocean Engineering
- Interdisciplinary Engineering: Engineering for Marine Environments
You will hear more about these programs at your New Student Conference and given the opportunity to explore all of them during your first year. Regardless of where you complete your degree, you will earn the same Texas A&M University diploma and the same Texas A&M Aggie ring!
5. Will I have access to student organizations, research opportunities, employment, etc. on the Galveston campus?
While your first year in the College of Engineering will be challenging, and success in academics should be your top priority, we recognize the importance of pursuing extracurricular activities that enhance your education. Explore the Galveston campus student organizations here. In addition, there are numerous faculty members pursuing research both in engineering and in other departments on campus. Interested students often find research opportunities working in their labs. In terms of student employment, there are on-campus job opportunities for students as well.
6. Am I required to take a math placement exam? What is this exam and how can I prepare for it?
The College of Engineering requires that all students take the Math Placement Exam (MPE) prior to attending a New Student Conference. The MPE tests students on their knowledge of pre-calculus and determines which math course they will enroll in during their first semester at Texas A&M. It is important that all students follow the guidance of the MPE, since proficiency in mathematics is a key factor to your success in an engineering program. To find out more about the MPE and how to prepare, visit the MPE website.
7. Does the Galveston campus offer services to students with disabilities?
In addition to the Disability Services office in College Station, the Galveston campus has the Department of Disability Resources that assists in providing students with disabilities the opportunity to participate in the full range of college experiences. The office is also available to provide students with counseling services. For more information, visit the following:
8. I have questions regarding residence life, dining, extracurricular activities, etc. offered on the Galveston campus. Where can I learn more?
The best way to find out more about the Galveston campus is to schedule a campus visit (see the next FAQ). However, for questions about specific services, visit the webpages listed below. There you will find information about services offered, as well as contact information.
9. Can I visit the Galveston campus? Who do I contact to schedule a visit and tour?
Texas A&M University at Galveston hosts individual and family tours. Learn more about the tours and scheduling on the Galveston’s Office of Admissions webpage.