TEXARKANA, Texas – Texas A&M Texarkana is expanding their academic programs with the addition of two new colleges and a new school.
University officials believe the new programs will support the workforce needs of the growing East Texas region.
“The announcement of the two new colleges and the new school are really, truly a momentous occasion for us,” explained Melinda Arnold, TAMU-T provost & senior vice president of academic affairs.
Arnold announced on Tuesday the addition of the new College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services, Honors College and the School of Professional Education and Community Engagement to a packed room of faculty, staff and community leaders.
Craig Nakashian is the new dean of the Honors College. He says the designation will make Texas A&M Texarkana a destination of choice for students in the region and beyond.
“Students who are high performing students who have done well either in high school, community college or another university, are going to want to come here to get those opportunities to enhance their already valuable degree and work with these faculty in an even closer relationship than they would normally,” said Nakashian.
The university plans to add eight new healthcare related programs to the campus next year. They’ve been working on the programs for the last 10 years.
Heather McKnight is the new dean of the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services. She says the new college will supply needed healthcare providers to the community.
“The nursing shortage is significantly severe in Texas, but also with our physical therapy providers, our occupational therapists, our respiratory therapists. They’re all just needed in this area to help so many,” said McKnight.
The university is also adding a School of Professional Education and Community Engagement. The new school will allow adult learners to complete their degree in a short amount of time.
For more information about the programs or enrollment at Texas A&M – Texarkana, go to www.tamut.edu.