Texas Tech: Pro Cons and Courses

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You can find Texas Tech University in the town of Lubbock, Texas. It’s a famous institute where thousands of technical-minded people go to become professionals in their fields of choice. The university receives sterling reviews, but nothing is without its cons. So, what pros and cons can you expect to find at Texas Tech University?

Texas Tech is known as an excellent technical university with many benefits for first-year students and plenty of subjects to choose from. Tuition is lower than average and even lower for residents of Texas state. However, it’s not known as a top institution due to a slightly low graduation rate.

Texas Tech University Administration Building from the Engineering Key. - Texas View
Texas Tech Administration Building and Memorial Circle
Contents

Texas Tech University: What Can You Expect?

Texas Tech is in a network with Angelo State University and the TTU Health Sciences Center. You can get bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, but various certificate and diploma courses are also available.

Texas Tech University offers over fifty bachelor’s degree programs in various technical, scientific, and engineering fields.

  1. College of Arts & Sciences: This college offers courses in the liberal arts, sciences, and humanities. Subjects include English, History, Political Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. It is known for a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences, encouraging critical thinking and research skills.
  2. College of Engineering: Renowned for its engineering programs, this college provides courses in Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and Chemical Engineering, among others. It emphasizes practical skills, innovation, and research.
  3. Rawls College of Business: Offering courses in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and Management, this college is tailored for future business leaders and entrepreneurs, blending theoretical knowledge with real-world business skills.
  4. College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources: Specializing in Agriculture, Environmental Science, Animal Science, and Food Technology, these courses combine theoretical learning with hands-on experience in agricultural practices and research.
  5. College of Education: Courses here focus on Early Childhood, Secondary, and Higher Education, Educational Psychology, and Administration. This college is dedicated to training future educators and educational leaders.
  6. College of Media & Communication: Offering courses in Journalism, Media Studies, Advertising, and Public Relations, this college focuses on the evolving landscape of media and communication in the digital age.
  7. College of Human Sciences: This includes courses in Human Development, Nutrition, Personal Financial Planning, and Design. It integrates the science of human well-being with practical application in various societal contexts.
  8. College of Visual & Performing Arts: Focused on nurturing creativity, courses include Theatre, Music, Dance, and Visual Arts, offering a combination of theoretical study and artistic practice.
  9. Whitacre College of Engineering: This college provides cutting-edge courses in areas like Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics, focusing on the rapidly advancing technology field.
  10. School of Law: Offering a rigorous curriculum in various areas of law, this school prepares students for legal practice and judiciary roles.
  11. Graduate School: Apart from undergraduate courses, Texas Tech offers a robust range of graduate programs across various disciplines, emphasizing research and advanced study.
  12. Honors College: Providing an enhanced curriculum for high-achieving students, the Honors College offers specialized courses that encourage intellectual curiosity and critical thinking.
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Texas Tech Administration building on a snowy winter day.

Overview of Courses Offered

Texas Tech, known for its comprehensive curriculum, offers various courses across various fields of study. The university is structured into multiple colleges specializing in different academic areas, thus catering to a broad spectrum of interests and career aspirations.

Course CategoryDescriptionExamples of Courses or Areas
General EducationFoundational courses across a broad range of disciplines.English Composition, College Algebra, US History
Major RequirementsCore courses specific to a student’s chosen major.For a Biology major: Genetics, Microbiology
ElectivesCourses chosen freely by students to explore various interests.Creative Writing, Introduction to Philosophy
Honors CoursesAdvanced courses for students in honors programs.Honors Ethics, Honors Physics
Professional DevelopmentCourses focusing on career skills and knowledge.Business Communication, Leadership Skills
Research and Independent StudyCourses offering research experience or independent study opportunities.Senior Thesis, Independent Research Project
Online CoursesCourses offered in a fully online format.Online Marketing Strategies, Virtual Art History
Laboratory CoursesCourses with a significant practical, hands-on component.Chemistry Lab, Engineering Workshop
Seminars and WorkshopsSmall, discussion-based courses focusing on specific topics.Environmental Policy Seminar, Creative Writing Workshop
Study Abroad and International ProgramsCourses offered as part of study abroad programs or with an international focus.Global Economics, Study Abroad in Spain
Graduate-Level CoursesAdvanced courses typically for graduate students.Advanced Statistical Methods, Master’s Thesis Research
Special Topics and Experimental CoursesCourses offered on a temporary basis, focusing on current, innovative, or experimental topics.Special Topics in Cybersecurity, Experimental Design Studio
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Table of Subjects and Specifications

This table will outline various academic subjects and detail some key specifications such as typical degree levels, areas of focus within the subject, and notable features or facilities related to each topic.

Academic SubjectDegree Levels OfferedAreas of Focus Within SubjectNotable Features/Facilities
Business AdministrationUndergraduate, MBA, PhDMarketing, Finance, Management, AccountingState-of-the-art Business Simulation Labs
EngineeringB.S., M.S., PhDCivil, Mechanical, Electrical, ChemicalAdvanced Engineering Research Centers
Health SciencesB.S., M.S., PhD, MDNursing, Medicine, Health Care AdministrationOn-campus Medical and Research Hospitals
Arts and HumanitiesB.A., M.A., PhDHistory, English, Philosophy, Fine ArtsPerforming Arts Theaters and Art Galleries
SciencesB.S., M.S., PhDBiology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental ScienceState-of-the-Art Research Labs, Observatory
Agriculture and Natural ResourcesB.S., M.S., PhDAnimal Science, Plant and Soil Science, Food ScienceWorking Farms and Research Facilities
LawJD, LLMCorporate Law, Criminal Law, Environmental LawMock Courtrooms, Legal Clinics
Computer Science and ITB.S., M.S., PhDSoftware Engineering, Cybersecurity, Data AnalyticsCutting-edge Computer Labs, Cybersecurity Hub
EducationB.Ed., M.Ed., PhDEarly Childhood, Secondary, Educational LeadershipTeacher Training Centers, Education Research Institutes
Social SciencesB.A., M.A., PhDPsychology, Sociology, Political ScienceSocial Research Laboratories, Internship Programs
Visual and Performing ArtsB.A., B.F.A., M.F.A., PhDTheater, Music, Dance, Visual ArtsPerformance Spaces, Art Studios, Music Practice Rooms
Architecture and DesignB.Arch, M.Arch, MFAArchitectural Design, Interior Design, Landscape ArchitectureDesign Studios, Community Design Projects

Note:

  • Degree Levels: The degree levels offered may vary per subject and can include Bachelor’s (B.A./B.S.), Master’s (M.A./M.S.), Doctorate (PhD), and professional degrees (JD, MD, MBA).
  • Areas of Focus: This column lists key areas within each subject that students can specialize in.
  • Notable Features/Facilities: Highlights unique resources or facilities that enhance the educational experience in each subject area.
three men sitting on chair beside tables

Campus Facilities and Amenities

Texas Tech offers many campus facilities and amenities to support its students’ educational, recreational, and social needs. Below are vital facilities and amenities available at Texas Tech:

Academic and Research Facilities

  1. Libraries: The University Library and the Architecture Library provide extensive collections, study spaces, and research support.
  2. Laboratories: State-of-the-art labs for various disciplines, including engineering, sciences, and arts.
  3. Classrooms and Lecture Halls: Equipped with modern technology for an enhanced learning experience.

Recreational and Athletic Facilities

  1. Student Recreation Center: A comprehensive fitness center with gymnasiums, a leisure pool, a climbing wall, and various fitness classes.
  2. Sports Facilities: Including Jones AT&T Stadium for football, United Supermarkets Arena for basketball and volleyball, and the John Walker Soccer Complex.
  3. Intramural Sports Fields: Facilities for various sports, including soccer, flag football, and softball.

Student Services

  1. Student Union Building (SUB): Housing dining options, student organization offices, event spaces, and lounges.
  2. Career Services: Offering career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.
  3. Health Services: Providing medical care, counseling services, and wellness programs.

Housing and Dining

  1. Residence Halls: Various on-campus housing options, including traditional dorms, suites, and apartment-style living.
  2. Dining Halls and Eateries: Multiple dining options across campus, ranging from full-service dining halls to fast food and coffee shops.

Cultural and Artistic Venues

  1. Museum of Texas Tech University: Exhibiting art, history, and natural science collections.
  2. The School of Music: Hosting concerts, recitals, and other musical performances.
  3. The Maedgen Theatre: A venue for plays and performances by the Department of Theatre and Dance.

Other Facilities

  1. Green Spaces and Parks: Including beautiful quads, gardens, and walking paths for relaxation and study.
  2. Conference Centers and Event Spaces: The McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center and the International Cultural Center host various events and conferences.
  3. Shuttle Service: Campus shuttle services provide convenient transportation to key off-campus locations.

Technology and Innovation

  1. Innovation Hub at Research Park: A space for research and innovation in collaboration with industry partners.
  2. Wi-Fi and Tech Support: Campus-wide Wi-Fi access and IT support services for students.

Texas Tech University’s campus is designed to provide a comprehensive college experience, blending academic rigor with recreational, social, and cultural opportunities. These facilities and amenities are crucial in fostering a vibrant and supportive community for its diverse student body.

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The Pros Of Texas Tech University

A university doesn’t become as popular as Texas Tech if it doesn’t offer some significant advantages. Texas Tech University has many pros that make it a desirable educational institution.

Let’s look at the pros of Texas Tech, both from a statistical standpoint and based on feedback from former students.

The Presidential Scholarship

Texas Tech has one of the most generous automatic scholarship programs. Students who graduate high school at the top of their class can qualify if they graduate with high test scores. It pays half of your tuition for both spring and fall academic terms.

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However, students should not rely on Texas Tech’s scholarships and try to get additional scholarships to supplement them.

Texas Tech’s Undergraduate Research Programs

The university offers plenty of research opportunities for its undergraduate students. Some of the more unique of these include:

  • Large annual onsite conferences. The content of the meetings covers a range of significant fields of study with speakers who are experts in their fields.
  • Projects designed to improve your self-study and research in your chosen field.
  • Travel funding for undergraduate research. For travel remotely to conduct detailed research, generous travel funding is available.

Networking Opportunities At Texas Tech

The campus at Texas Tech also includes a medical school and a law school, which opens up many networking opportunities between the three. The university’s partnership with Angelo State University also opens up opportunities to network with other students and faculty members.

Texas Tech University - Texas View

Guaranteed On-Campus Housing For Freshmen

There are plenty of options for freshman housing, including double and triple occupancy rooms. Texas Tech offers traditional halls, dorms, apartments, suites, pods, and graduate housing options.

Plenty Of Activities For Students

One of the concerns many prospective students face is the matter of activities. Because Texas Tech is in Lubbock, students think they won’t have as much to do as in a big city. But Lubbock has a population of over 200,000, so you can do anything there that you can do in any suburban area.

Outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, and skiing in New Mexico surround Lubbock.

Texas Tech University 2 - Texas View

Texas Tech Has Excellent Ratings

The Center for World University Rankings (CWUR) consistently ranks Texas Tech in the top 25% global universities. The top six on these rankings are Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Cambridge, Oxford, and Princeton. Since Texas Tech is not an Ivy League school, this proves how highly-rated Texas Tech is.

Texas Tech’s Family Atmosphere

One of the things that students usually mention is the family atmosphere on campus. Even staff and faculty members comment on how friendly and welcoming almost everyone is. Except for a few exceptions, most newcomers and first-year students feel welcome instantly.

Texas Tech University Student Union - Texas View
Texas Tech University, Student Union – Image by Holzman Moss Bottino Architecture

The Cons Of Texas Tech University

Unfortunately, there’s nothing on earth that has only advantages. Prospective students should know what cons to expect so they can prepare and not be caught off-guard.

Here are some of the most common disadvantages of Texas Tech University.

Texas Tech Is Far From Major Cities

Texas Tech University is approximately four to eight hours from all major cities like Dallas, Austin, Houston, and San Antonio. This can be a disadvantage for two reasons:

  • Most students come from these cities, meaning they have a long way to travel from home. This could be an advantage, too, since it forces them to be more independent, but driving between four and eight hours to go home for the holidays is a tough call.
  • Students who get frustrated with suburban life and long for the entertainment they can only find in cities will be disappointed.
Texas Tech University campus United Spirit Arena - Texas View

Some Students Find The Campus Too Large

The TTU campus spans about 1,900 acres. It is the second-largest contiguous campus in the United States. As great as this is, it’s also a disadvantage for students who attend classes on opposite ends of the campus. Students can often be seen rushing around as if their lives depended on it.

Exams Are In Different Locations

Unlike most universities, students don’t write final exams in the same classrooms or during regularly scheduled class times. Exams are held at different times in different venues, often leading to some confusion.

High Student-To-Faculty Ratio

Texas Tech University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 24:1. This is higher than the average ratio, equating to larger classes and less one-on-one time with professors and lecturers.

Group of College Students on Campus - Texas View

The Graduation Rate Isn’t Great

Texas Tech’s graduation rate is about 5% lower than the national average in the United States.

More Teachers’ Assistants Teaching

Possibly due to the high student-to-faculty ratio, students of TTU report more lessons taught by teachers’ assistants rather than the actual professors or lecturers.

It’s not necessarily a problem since teachers’ assistants are already qualified experts in the field. However, it is concerning if students get limited contact time with the professor who sets their exams.

blue and white academic hat

Student Housing Options and Accommodations

Student housing options and accommodations at Texas Tech University are designed to cater to a diverse student body, offering various types of living arrangements to suit different needs and preferences. Here’s an overview:

On-Campus Housing

  1. Residence Halls:
    • Texas Tech offers a variety of residence halls on campus.
    • These halls range from traditional dormitory-style living to suite-style arrangements.
    • Each hall has its unique features, amenities, and community atmosphere.
  2. Specialized Living Communities:
    • These communities are designed around specific academic interests or lifestyles, such as Honors, Engineering, or Fine Arts.
    • They provide an environment where students with similar interests or academic goals can live and learn together.
  3. Amenities:
    • On-campus housing typically includes study lounges, communal spaces, dining facilities, and laundry rooms.
    • Internet access, cable TV, and basic utilities are usually included in the housing cost.

Off-Campus Housing

  1. Apartments and Rental Houses:
    • There are numerous apartments and rental houses available in the vicinity of Texas Tech.
    • Options range from budget-friendly shared apartments to more upscale units.
  2. Student-Focused Complexes:
    • Several apartment complexes in Lubbock cater specifically to students, offering lease terms that align with the academic calendar.
    • These often include amenities like fitness centers, pools, and social event programming.

Accommodations for Special Needs

  • Texas Tech is committed to providing accessible housing for students with disabilities.
  • Accommodations may include modified rooms, accessible facilities, and support services.

Applying for Housing

  • Students typically apply for on-campus housing through the university’s housing portal.
  • Early application is recommended due to high demand, especially for specialized living communities and popular residence halls.

Off-Campus Resources

  • The university often provides resources to help students find off-campus housing, including listings and advice on tenant rights and responsibilities.

Contact for Housing Inquiries

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Students should contact the University Student Housing Office or visit their website for specific information on housing options, availability, pricing, and application procedures. Additionally, exploring off-campus housing websites and local real estate listings can provide a broader view of available options in Lubbock.

Shallow focus photo of people playing track and field

Sports and Athletics Programs

Texas Tech University boasts a vibrant sports and athletics program, offering many activities for student-athletes and sports enthusiasts. The university is known for its competitive teams, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong spirit of Red Raider pride. Here’s an overview:

Intercollegiate Athletics

  1. NCAA Division I Teams:
    • Texas Tech competes in the Big 12 Conference at the NCAA Division I level.
    • The university fields teams in various sports, including football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, track and field, tennis, and golf.
  2. Football Program:
    • The Texas Tech Red Raiders football team is a cornerstone of the university’s athletics, with a passionate fan base.
    • They play their home games at the Jones AT&T Stadium, known for its electrifying atmosphere.
  3. Basketball Programs:
    • Both men’s and women’s basketball teams have achieved significant success, participating in NCAA tournaments.
    • The United Supermarkets Arena is the home court for these teams.
  4. Other Sports:
    • The university also excels in sports like volleyball, cross country, and golf.
    • Each sport has dedicated facilities and coaching staff.

Athletic Facilities

  • Jones AT&T Stadium: A landmark for football games.
  • United Supermarkets Arena: A multi-purpose venue primarily used for basketball and volleyball.
  • The John Walker Soccer Complex: Hosts soccer matches.
  • Dan Law Field at Rip Griffin Park: The home for Red Raider baseball.

Recreational Sports and Intramural Activities

  1. Intramural Sports:
    • Open to all students, offering a variety of sports like flag football, basketball, and soccer.
    • These activities provide a great way to stay active and engage in friendly competition.
  2. Fitness and Wellness Programs:
    • These include group fitness classes, personal training, and wellness workshops.
    • The university has well-equipped recreational centers and fitness facilities.

Athletics Support and Spirit

  • Red Raider Spirit: The Masked Rider and Raider Red are iconic mascots that embody Texas Tech’s spirit.
  • Student Support: Student organizations like the “Saddle Tramps” and “Raider Red’s Rowdies” enhance the game-day atmosphere and support athletics.

Contact for Athletics Information

For detailed information about specific teams, schedules, ticketing, and athletic events, it’s best to contact the Athletics Department or visit their official website. The department can also provide information on athletic scholarships and recruitment processes for prospective student-athletes.

Like I said before I LOVE taking photos during church!

Student Organizations and Extracurricular Activities

Texas Tech University offers diverse student organizations and extracurricular activities, providing students with opportunities to engage in interests outside of academics, develop leadership skills, and connect with like-minded individuals. Here’s an overview of the types of organizations and activities available:

Academic and Professional Organizations

  1. Departmental Clubs: Specific to majors or fields of study, like the Engineering Society or Business Student Association.
  2. Honor Societies: Recognizing academic excellence in various disciplines, such as Phi Beta Kappa.

Cultural and International Groups

  1. Cultural Associations: Representing different cultures and nationalities, such as the Indian Students Association or the African Students Organization.
  2. Language Clubs: Focusing on language learning and cultural exchange.

Service and Community Involvement

  1. Volunteer Organizations: Like the Tech Volunteer Program, offering community service opportunities.
  2. Rotaract and Lions Club: Focused on service projects and community involvement.

Arts and Performance

  1. Music and Theatre Groups: Including choirs, bands, dance troupes, and theater ensembles.
  2. Art Clubs: For visual arts, photography, or design students.

Recreational and Hobby-Based Clubs

  1. Outdoor Adventure Club: For enthusiasts of hiking, climbing, and camping.
  2. Special Interest Groups: Covering various hobbies like astronomy, chess, or robotics.

Sports and Athletics

  1. Intramural Sports: Offering a variety of sports such as soccer, basketball, and flag football.
  2. Club Sports: More competitive teams like rugby, lacrosse, and ultimate frisbee.

Religious and Spiritual Organizations

  1. Faith-Based Groups: Representing diverse religious beliefs and offering fellowship, worship, and study opportunities.
  2. Spiritual Discussion Groups: Focused on interfaith dialogue and exploration.

Political and Social Advocacy

  1. Political Organizations: Representing different political ideologies and engaging in political activism.
  2. Social Justice Groups: Advocating for environmental sustainability, human rights, and equality.

Leadership and Development

  1. Student Government Association (SGA): Providing leadership opportunities and representing student interests.
  2. Leadership Programs: The Raider Leadership Institute focuses on developing leadership skills.

Media and Publications

  1. The University Daily: Texas Tech’s student-run newspaper.
  2. Raider Radio: A student-run radio station.

Special Interest Organizations

  1. Entrepreneurship Clubs: For students interested in starting businesses or learning about entrepreneurship.
  2. Technology Clubs: Focusing on coding, cybersecurity, and game development.

Greek Life

  1. Fraternities and Sororities: Offering social, philanthropic, and leadership opportunities.

These organizations and activities enrich the student experience and contribute to personal growth and professional development. They provide a platform for students to explore new interests, meet diverse groups of people, and make lasting contributions to the university and the wider community.

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Contact Details for Texas Tech

To access detailed information about courses, departments, and various services at Texas Tech University, here are the relevant contact details and links:

  1. General University Information
  2. Admissions Office
  3. College of Arts & Sciences
  4. College of Engineering
  5. Rawls College of Business
  6. College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources
  7. College of Education
  8. College of Media & Communication
  9. College of Human Sciences
  10. College of Visual & Performing Arts
  11. School of Law
  12. Graduate School
  13. Honors College

Each contact and link provides a gateway to more specific information regarding courses, departments, and student services at Texas Tech University. For up-to-date information or inquiries about particular programs or departments, it’s advisable to contact the respective offices or visit their websites directly.

FAQs About Texas Tech

Is Texas Tech A Good School?

Best Education Schools ranks Texas Tech University as number 106. It scores exceptionally well in engineering but slightly lower than other business schools. So, even though Texas Tech isn’t an Ivy League school, its education is of a high standard, making it a good school.

Is Texas Tech A Public School?

Texas Tech University is labeled as a Public Research University. According to the National Science Board, it’s a research-intensive institution that receives part of its funding from the state and local governments. Texas residents get a reduced tuition fee because of this.

Is Texas Tech Bowl Eligible?

Texas Tech University is bowl-eligible. The Texas Tech Red Rangers made their third appearance in the Texas Bowl in 2022, also their first appearance since 2015. So, football fans can be happy with their choice of Texas Tech University, and they will have plenty to look forward to.

Author Profile

Christian Linden is a seasoned writer and contributor at Texas View, specializing in topics that resonate with the Texan community. With over a decade of experience in journalism, Christian brings a wealth of knowledge in local politics, culture, and lifestyle. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications from the University of Texas. When he's not writing, Christian enjoys spending weekends traveling across Texas with his family, exploring everything from bustling cities to serene landscapes.

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