Sam Houston State University

What is the history of Sam Houston State University?

Sam Houston State University, founded in 1879 as Sam Houston Normal Institute, has a rich history rooted in education. The establishment of the institute was a result of a collective effort by Huntsville citizens who transformed Austin Hall, a former Methodist school for boys, into the first teacher-training school in the southwestern United States. The institute was created with the primary objective of training teachers for Texas public schools, making it the first tax-supported teacher-training institution in the state.

The institute began its journey on October 10, 1879, under the leadership of Bernard Mallon. Initially, the curriculum was limited to English, mathematics, and history. However, the institute expanded its academic offerings over time. It awarded its first bachelor's degree in 1919, and in 1923, it began offering commercial courses. By 1935, the institute was granting Bachelor of Business degrees, and in 1964, it awarded its first Master of Business Administration degree.

In 1923, the institute was renamed Sam Houston State Teachers College, reflecting its focus on teacher education. The name was changed again in 1965 to Sam Houston State College, acknowledging the expansion of its academic program. In 1969, the institution was elevated to university status and renamed Sam Houston State University.

The university has continued to grow and evolve over the years. It has added new programs in fields such as engineering, nursing, and digital media, and has invested in new facilities like the College of Osteopathic Medicine and the Science and Engineering Technology Building. The College of Criminal Justice, established in 1965, has become one of the most prestigious programs in the nation.

The main campus of Sam Houston State University, located in the central area of Huntsville, spans 316 acres. It features two large agricultural complexes, a planetarium, an observatory, a body farm, and an 18-hole golf course named The Bearkat Course. The campus, with its oak-studded rural setting, provides a serene environment for study and learning.

Today, Sam Houston State University is part of the Texas State University System and boasts an enrollment of over 20,000 students across more than 80 undergraduate, 59 master's, and 10 doctoral degree programs. The university also offers over 20 online bachelor's and graduate degrees. With a student body of over 21,000, it is one of the largest universities in Texas.

What are the faculties and departments at Sam Houston State University?

Sam Houston State University provides a broad spectrum of faculties and departments, catering to a wide range of academic interests. The university's faculty is a mix of tenured, tenure-track, and interim members, all listed in an alphabetically organized directory.

For students with exceptional academic performance, the university offers an Honors College and a McNair Scholars Program. The faculty roster includes professors who have earned their degrees from esteemed institutions such as the University of Virginia, Northwestern University, and the University of Cambridge. Additionally, the university employs lecturers and adjunct faculty, who bring their professional expertise and experience into the classroom.

The university boasts a diverse range of departments. These include the Department of Kinesiology, Department of Mass Communication, Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology, Department of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Art, Department of Psychology & Philosophy, Department of Counselor Education, Department of Public Health, Department of History, Department of Educational Leadership, Department of Teaching & Learning, Department of Human Sciences, Department of General Business & Finance, Department of Library Science & Technology, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Department of Environmental & Geosciences, and the School of Music.

Each department offers a variety of courses. For instance, the Department of Mass Communication provides courses in journalism, public relations, and advertising. The Department of Dance offers training in ballet, modern, and jazz dance. The Department of Engineering Technology provides courses in construction management, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. The Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology offers courses in criminal justice, forensic science, and victim studies. The Department of Mathematics & Statistics provides courses in mathematics, statistics, and actuarial science. The Department of Teaching & Learning offers courses in education, curriculum and instruction, and special education. The Department of Political Science offers courses in American politics, international relations, and public administration.

What is the location of Sam Houston State University?

Sam Houston State University is situated in the city of Huntsville, a locale in the southern region of the United States. The university's physical address is 1905 University Ave, Huntsville, with the ZIP Code being 77341. This information is particularly useful for prospective students who may wish to visit the campus or send mail.

The city of Huntsville offers a unique blend of southern charm and modern amenities, making it an appealing destination for students from across the country.

What is the mission and vision of Sam Houston State University?

Sam Houston State University is a higher education institution that places a strong emphasis on student-centered learning. It offers a range of innovative and flexible degree programs at undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. These programs are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for career readiness, personal and professional development, and service.

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Sam Houston State University has a mission to prepare students for meaningful lives and careers. It aims to produce professionals who are adept and thoughtful, as well as engaged citizens. The Department of Psychology and Philosophy, which falls under this college, is committed to the exploration of human behaviors, beliefs, and emotions. It fosters an environment that values mutual respect, transparency, inclusion, and an appreciation for culture and diversity.

The Department of Psychology and Philosophy is dedicated to advancing the science and practice of psychology and philosophy. It aims to disseminate the knowledge they create, promote their discipline, and train their students to be partners in advancing scientific knowledge and developing innovative solutions to important life problems. The Department's goal is to cultivate ethical individuals who are capable of synthesizing information, strong critical thinkers and communicators, and who respect and enhance diverse people, cultures, and perspectives.

The Department of Psychology and Philosophy also places a strong emphasis on preparing highly skilled, compassionate scientific-scholars at all levels of learning. It values sensitivity to cultural, ethnic, gender, religion, abled-body, SES diversity, and the underserved. The department respects and affirms the equal human worth of every individual and of all distinctive groups of people. The programs of the Department of Psychology and Philosophy aim to embrace the integration of diversity by acknowledging the salience of diversity in our society and addressing the interests and concerns of students.

In summary, Sam Houston State University is committed to providing quality higher education that prepares students for successful careers and meaningful lives.

What is the accreditation of Sam Houston State University?

Sam Houston State University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. This accreditation allows the university to confer bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees. This is a significant recognition, as it indicates that the university has met the rigorous standards set by this accrediting body.

In addition to this overarching accreditation, several of Sam Houston State University's programs have received recognition from Specialized Professional Accreditors (SPA). This recognition is a testament to the quality of these programs, as it signifies that they have met the stringent standards set by these professional bodies for their respective educational fields.

Specifically, the College of Education's Educator Preparation Program at Sam Houston State University has been accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This accreditation is a clear indication of the program's quality and its commitment to preparing future educators.

Furthermore, the College of Business Administration at Sam Houston State University has also received accreditation for its undergraduate and graduate degree programs. This accreditation comes from AACSB International, The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, a highly respected accrediting body in the field of business education.

In addition to these specific accreditations, Sam Houston State University has also received accreditation from various other organizations for specific programs. This further underscores the university's commitment to providing high-quality education across a wide range of disciplines.