Prairie View A&M University
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Overview & Academics
Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), located in Prairie View, Texas, is a public, historically Black university established in 1876. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, PVAMU offers a comprehensive range of programs through its seven colleges and schools, including the College of Agriculture & Human Sciences, College of Engineering, College of Nursing, College of Business, Marvin D. and June Samuel Brailsford College of Arts and Sciences, College of Juvenile Justice & Psychology, and the Whitlowe R. Green College of Education. The university confers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across more than 70 academic programs.
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Admissions
- Prairie View A&M has a moderately selective admissions process.
- Applicants must submit a completed application (ApplyTexas or Common App), high school transcripts, SAT/ACT scores (test-optional policies may apply), and application fees.
- Optional items include recommendation letters and personal statements for some programs.
- Deadlines vary by program and entry term, with fall and spring intakes available.
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Cost
- Tuition (2023-2024):
- Texas Residents: Approximately $11,299 per year
- Non-Residents: Approximately $26,188 per year
- Average room & board: $10,000-12,000 per year
- Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to qualifying students.
- Tuition (2023-2024):
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Student Population
- Undergraduate Enrollment: About 8,100
- Graduate Enrollment: Over 1,000
- Total Enrollment: Approximately 9,000-9,500
- Diverse student body, primarily African American, but with growing Hispanic and international populations.
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Rankings & Distinctions
- Recognized as a top Historically Black College/University (HBCU)
- Highly ranked for engineering, nursing, and agriculture programs
- Designated as a Carnegie Doctoral/Research University
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Campus & Culture
The 1,502-acre, rural campus offers modern academic buildings, residence halls, recreation centers, the John B. Coleman Library, and multiple student support facilities. PVAMU features an active multicultural environment, celebrating African American heritage and inclusion.
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Athletics & Traditions
- Member of NCAA Division I (SWAC Conference)
- Popular sports: football, basketball, track & field, baseball, and volleyball
- Traditions: Homecoming, Pantherland, “Marching Storm” band, Founders’ Day, and the Panther mascot
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Mission
PVA&MU’s mission is to invest in academic excellence, student success, and community engagement. The university strives to prepare leaders for Texas, the nation, and the global community, emphasizing access to education and research.
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Leadership & Current Developments
- Led by President Tomikia P. LeGrande
- Undertaking new strategic plan initiatives, focusing on research, innovation, campus infrastructure, and expanding STEM programs
- Significant recent investments in campus facilities and new degree offerings
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Programs
- Bachelor’s Degrees: 39+ majors including engineering, business, nursing, education, psychology, criminal justice, and agriculture
- Master’s Degrees: Offered in business administration (MBA), education, engineering, science, and more
- Doctoral Degrees: Available in educational leadership, engineering, and juvenile justice
- Prominent research centers in areas such as agricultural sciences, engineering, and health disparities
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Campus Life
The campus offers a vibrant student life with various housing options, dining facilities, wellness services, cultural activities, leadership development, and community engagement opportunities. Students enjoy events, concerts, lectures, and mentor programs throughout the year.
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Student Organizations
- 150+ registered organizations including academic societies, fraternities and sororities (NPHC, Divine Nine), special interest clubs, honor societies, and a renowned student government association
- Opportunities for community service, professional development, and leadership
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Admission Stats
- Acceptance Rate: Approximately 76-78%
- Average Incoming Freshman GPA: 3.1-3.3
- Average SAT: 890-1040 (optional for some applicants)
- Average ACT: 17-21
- Application Deadline: Varies (Priority for Fall applicants is March 1)


