Academic and Student Services
The University provides a variety of academic support services that complement the academic programs and help students reach their educational goals.
New Student Orientations
Islander Launch (new student orientation) provides first-year students with information regarding academic advising and registration. Academic Advisors assist students in selecting the appropriate courses for their first semester at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. We offer in-person and virtual opportunities to gain information, become familiar with campus resources, and learn how to register for classes in an online platform. The Islander Launch experience is offered prior to fall and spring semesters.
Academic Advising Centers
Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi boasts two dedicated advising centers, each staffed with full-time academic advisors committed to student success. The Islander Advising Center (IAC) assists students embarking on their journey at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi, providing comprehensive support from orientation through the attainment of 45 credit hours. Whether undecided or exploring pre-admission programs, the IAC offers tailored guidance.
For students with 46 or more earned credit hours, the Center for Academic Advising and Planning (CAAPS) provides services, boasting professional advisors representing every academic college. Both centers offer invaluable assistance, including crafting student education plans, aiding in course selection, clarifying degree requirements, and furnishing a wealth of academic resources. To connect with your academic advisor or delve deeper into the world of academic advising, please visit: https://www.tamucc.edu/academics/planning/academic-advising/index.php.
Office of Academic Testing
The Office of Academic Testing at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi serves the student population and the Coastal Bend community with their testing needs. For information on TExES examinations, see the “College of Education and Human Development” section of the catalog. Please visit http://testing.tamucc.edu/academics/testing or call (361) 825-2334 for other services provided by this office.
Center for Academic Student Achievement (CASA)
The Center for Academic Student Achievement (CASA) is committed to providing academic support services to help students reach their educational goals and to succeed in the university environment. CASA programs are designed to improve the retention and graduation rates of University students. These academic support services include tutorials, Writing Center, Supplemental Instruction, mentorship, developmental education (TSI), and student retention assistance. Students are encouraged to contact the Center for Academic Student Achievement, located in the Glasscock Student Success Center (GSSC-CASA), at (361) 825-5933 or visit our website at http://casa.tamucc.edu for hours of operation, our programs’ details, and schedules of services.
CASA Services
The needs of students attending CASA are individually assessed and academic support services are recommended to aid students in reaching their academic goals. Services are available to all A&M-Corpus Christi students. In order to utilize academic support services such as tutoring and writing support, one must be enrolled at or an alumnus of A&M Corpus Christi.
First Islanders Scholars’ Academy
CASA’s First Islanders Scholars’ Academy (FISA) is a program designed to assist first-generation students through peer and professional staff mentorship. Students will belong to a group of like-minded students and find engagement in campus resources and academic success workshops. The FISA mentoring team works one-on-one with students to track their academic progress and to build a supportive mentoring relationship to aid in navigating the University, assistance in overcoming challenges or barriers to success, and networking opportunities with peers and colleagues. To join FISA, a voluntary academic and social program, please contact Martha Gutiérrez at Martha.Gutierrez@tamucc.edu or at 361.825.2893.
CASA Peer Mentors
The CASA Peer Mentorship Program assists first-year students in collaboration with the First Year Program. CASA peer mentors are academically successful upper-division and graduate students who are trained to help first-year students make a smooth transition while fostering habits for academic success and integration. For additional information, please call us at 361.825.5933 or email casa@tamucc.edu.
Academic Collegiate Excellence (ACE)
Academic Collegiate Excellence is a program designed to assist students who are currently on scholastic probation through the use of metacognitive learning strategies workshops and one-on-one meetings with Scholastic Performance Specialists.
Scholastic Performance Specialists work closely with students to identify and enhance learning behaviors and strategies for academic success. In an effort to increase academic student success, the program generates an individualized academic recovery plan to assist students as they work towards good academic standing. For more information on the ACE Program, please contact us 361.825.5933 or at casa@tamucc.edu.
Starfish
Hosted by CASA, Starfish Early Alert and Connect is an academic early alert system for undergraduate students at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. The software is designed to support faculty course progress feedback for students and to help connect students with their “Success Network” comprised of faculty, advisors, mentors and other campus support units. For additional information, please contact Nicholas.Gentry@tamucc.edu or John.Fortiscue@tamucc.edu.
Supplemental Instruction (SI)
CASA provides Supplemental Instruction (SI) that is designed to increase student performance and retention. This program targets large entry-level courses and provides regularly scheduled out-of-class, peer facilitated sessions by a highly trained Supplemental Instructor Leaders. Schedules are available online at http://casa.tamucc.edu. For additional information, we invite you to call us at 361.825.5933 or by email http://casa.tamucc.edu.
Texas Success Initiative Advising (TSI)
Academic Success Coaches at CASA coordinate the Texas Success Initiative Program for TAMUCC. TSI requirements are detailed under the “Texas Success Initiative (TSI)” section of the “Admission” chapter. While Academic Success Coaches support all students, conditionally admitted students, and students who have not met college-readiness in one or more content areas of the TSI assessment are their primary focus. Success Coaches work with those students to enroll in the appropriate developmental education course(s) and track progress through completion of all TSI and admission requirements. For additional information, please call the Academic Success Coaches at 361.825.2977 or email mailto:casa@tamucc.edu.
Tutorials Program
CASA’s Tutorial Program, certified by the College Reading and Learning Association, provides tutorial services to students in most core courses facilitated by trained and faculty-recommended successful upper-division and graduate students. Disciplines include mathematics, science, statistics, business and accounting, among others. For schedules of tutorials, please visit http://casa.tamucc.edu. For additional information, please call us at 361.825.5933 or email mailto:casa@tamucc.edu
The Writing Center
The CASA Writing Center supports the writing process of all University writers, from freshmen to graduate students, as well as to alumni, faculty, and staff. The Writing Center offers face-to-face and online writing consultations. We also provide faculty-requested writing workshops. Though the Writing Center does accept walk-in sessions based on consultant availability, it is strongly encouraged those seeking assistance schedule an appointment by visiting: http://casa.tamucc.edu.
Most sessions are 30 minutes in length for undergraduate writers. For additional information, please contact Kristen.Ruggles@tamucc.edu or call 361.825.3490.
Mary and Jeff Bell Library
For information on library resources and services, see “Mary and Jeff Bell Library” in the catalog section entitled “Campus Facilities.”
Computing Resources
For information on computing resources, see “Campus Facilities” in the catalog section entitled “The University.”
Student Services
Student Engagement and Success (SEAS)
Student Engagement and Success aims to foster a healthy academic climate and professional atmosphere that promotes and encourages student leadership, learning, and growth. Services and programs are designed to meet the needs of students with varied backgrounds and interests. Music, arts, special events, and multicultural programs contribute to a positive experience on campus and promote an understanding of a changing global community.
Student Engagement and Success is made up of various departments, including Islander Housing, University Center, Student Activities, Recreational Sports, Dean of Students Office, Disability Services, Multicultural Programs & Services, University Counseling Center, and University Health Center. The Division collaborates with all departments on campus to assist students in the attainment of their personal and academic goals.
A major strength of A&M-Corpus Christi is that students participate in a variety of out-of-class activities. Activities begin with Launch and include a variety of campus organizations and sports clubs that provide a wide range of leadership experiences. Student services are designed to help students attain their desired degrees, learn healthy lifestyles, and attain employment or admission into graduate school. For additional information, see the Student Engagement and Success website. The Office of Student Engagement and Success is located in the University Center, Suite 318, (361) 825-2612.
Career and Professional Development Center
The Career and Professional Development Center staff help students explore, select, prepare for, and actively pursue satisfying employment and careers. The following services are available:
- Career counseling, computer-assisted assessment, and vocational guidance, which help students explore career options beginning in their first semester. Students may meet with a Career Counselor to explore interests and values, with a view toward choosing a career. For students who are experiencing difficulty choosing a major, this can be a useful process of self-exploration.
- Job search and graduate school advisement.
- Student employment services: assistance in finding on- and off-campus employment.
- Internship and co-op placement assistance for students at all levels.
- On-line job listings via Handshake (Hire an Islander).
- Resume and professional document review.
- Interview skill practice with mock interviews.
- On-campus recruiting and Job Fairs throughout the year targeted at different majors.
- Career seminars, workshops, and Business Etiquette Dinner.
- Izzy’s Career Closet.
The Career Center is located on the third floor of the University Center in Suite 304 (UC 304). For information, call (361) 825-2628 or visit the website at https://www.tamucc.edu/institutional-advancement/career-center/.
Chancellor’s Student Advisory Council (CSAC)
The purpose of the Chancellor’s Student Advisory Council of the Texas A&M University System is to provide representation for the students to the Chancellor and Texas A&M University System leadership, and to educate and stimulate student involvement in Student Engagement and Success. It is made up of two students from each system institution. Thus, the Chancellor’s Student Advisory Council is the official student voice to the system leadership.
Islander Housing
On-campus housing is available through two communities. Miramar on the Island, offers both residence hall and apartment room styles. Momentum Village located at the Momentum Campus, offers apartments and townhomes. Living on campus will provide many rewarding experiences to supplement your academic studies. Plus, we make it easy to use your financial aid to pay for housing. Most importantly, studies have shown that students who reside on campus are more likely to graduate on time and with higher GPAs. For more information, please visit our website at housing.tamucc.edu.
Transportation Services
All students and employees ride the Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) buses free of charge by showing their Sanddollar ID card. Plan a trip anywhere RTA services through Google Maps by selecting the ‘public transit’ method of transportation (train icon). For bus route information, go to https://www.ccrta.org/ or call 361.289.2600. For paratransit transportation services, please call 361.289.5881 or go to https://www.ccrta.org/ and select Paratransit from the Rider menu. If you have questions or concerns regarding this service, you may contact the RTA at the number above or call the Office of Student Engagement and Success at 361.825.2612.
Student Conduct
Student Conduct & Community Standards officers strive to protect the University’s educational community and to maintain social discipline through the administration of the Student Code of Conduct. Inappropriate behavior will be investigated and adjudicated in a manner consistent with the institution’s educational and community development goals. Students may view a copy of the Student Code of Conduct here.
Student Government Association (SGA)
Established in 1994, the Student Government Association is a student-run, campus wide organization that provides students with a voice in the decision-making process of the University. SGA members are the link between students and the administration of TAMU-CC. SGA strives to improve communication, enhance leadership abilities, hone critical thinking skills, and successfully build relationships with staff, faculty and peers.
The Student Government Association (SGA) is composed of the Executive Branch, Legislative Branch, and the Judicial Branch. The SGA President, Vice President, and Senators are elected in the spring semester for a term of one year. Elections for freshman senators are held in September. The Judicial Branch is appointed by the SGA President and approved by the Student Senate. For more information, call (361) 825-5745, or visit us on the website at: https://www.tamucc.edu/sga/
Recreational Sports
The Recreational Sports program provides facilities, equipment, and opportunities for participation in a wide variety of sports and recreational activities for the University community. These activities are designed to accommodate all individuals and activities ranging from beginner to expert and sport activities ranging from highly competitive and structured to informal and social. Program areas of interest include intramural sports, fitness and wellness, informal (open play) recreation, sport clubs, aquatics, outdoor adventure, and special events.
The Dr. Jack and Susie Dugan Wellness Center (DWC) includes a gymnasium, free weights, weight machines, cardiovascular exercise equipment (treadmills, elliptical trainers, steppers and bikes), multi-purpose group exercise rooms, and offices for the Recreational Sports Department and Intercollegiate Athletics Department. A 25-yard outdoor season pool is located adjacent to DWC. Multi-purpose playing fields and tennis courts are located at Momentum Campus and available for use.
As the largest student employer on campus, each semester Recreational Sports employs students to work as intramural supervisors and officials, lifeguards, facility assistants and supervisors, group exercise instructors, and personal trainers. Work study and non-work study positions are available. No experience is necessary. Training for all positions is conducted by the Recreational Sports Department. The Recreational Sports Department Office is in the Dugan Wellness Center Room 107. For more information, call (361) 825-2454 or go to recsports.tamucc.edu.
Student Activities
Dedicated to cultivating students of character through inclusive programming, Student Activities promotes leadership development, campus and community engagement and responsible citizenship that compliments the academic experience and instills Islander pride. Located in the Student Involvement Center on the 2nd floor of the UC, Student Activities is the place to get involved, with something for everyone! Interested in joining a student organization, Fraternity and Sorority Life, attending a leadership conference, attending an event, participating in a talent show, or serving your community? Stop by and learn about our programs and events or visit https://www.tamucc.edu/student-activities/
Anchor Camp: The Freshman Camp Experience
Anchor Camp provides incoming first-year students with an optional summer camp experience designed to aid in their successful transition to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Student leaders serve as camp counselors who facilitate activities, discussions, games, and presentations. During Anchor Camp, first-year students develop friendships with current students and university staff, learn about the benefits and opportunities for leadership involvement, learn more about themselves, and of the pride in the growing traditions, spirit, and rich heritage of A&M-Corpus Christi. Through Anchor Camp, our hope is that students will begin to find their “anchor” and feel more at home on the Island before classes begin. For more information call (361) 825-2707 or visit anchorcamp.tamucc.edu
Campus Activities Board (CAB)
The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is a student led organization focused on providing programs and opportunities for students. You can catch a movie on the East Lawn, attend a concert, check out a comedy or talent show and much more! CAB members are dedicated to creating a safe and fun environment for our community to enjoy entertaining events and activities through extensive planning and organization. Additionally, CAB is devoted to providing opportunities for students to learn and develop leadership and social skills through meetings, retreats, socials and other activities. For information and upcoming events call (361) 825-2707 or search for CAB on I-Engage.
Leadership @ TAMU-CC
Leadership @ TAMU-CC offers students the opportunity to improve leadership skills to become more marketable and global leaders. Centered on the belief that leadership is an important part of being the best version of yourself, the program works on developing awareness and personal leadership that can benefit any student regardless of positions held. Leadership @ TAMU-CC offers a variety of programs including Leadership Hour, Islander Leadership Conference, Weekend Leadership, Workshop To-Go and Sigma Alpha Pi, the National Society for Leadership and Success (NSLS) Honor Society. For more information call (361) 825-2707 or visit I-Engage and search for Leadership.
Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL)
Fraternities and sororities are value-driven student organizations based on brother/sisterhood, leadership, service and academic success. The FSL community strives to enhance the college experience and compliment the mission of the university through engagement, service, scholarship, and leadership. In addition, the community strives to maintain a respectful and unified environment where members and their organizations can positively develop into responsible global citizens. For more information call (361) 825-2707 or visit the Fraternity & Sorority Life website.
Student Volunteer Connection (SVC)
The Student Volunteer Connection is a student organization that aims to get TAMU-CC students actively involved and committed to community service and service-learning. SVC makes community service opportunities more accessible to students by connecting students to off campus opportunities through the GivePulse platform and offering a variety of volunteer programs and events such as Islander Clean, National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week, and Green Week. The Big Event is a one big day of service in which the campus community comes together to express their gratitude and do service for the surrounding Corpus Christi Community. Additionally, SVC coordinates the Alternative Breaks program providing opportunities for students to engage in hands-on service and experiential learning through travel outside of the Corpus Christi community. SVC is a certifying organization for students interested in earning the President’s Volunteer Service Award. For more information call (361) 825-2707, visit svc.tamucc.edu or find events on I-Engage. To explore opportunities click on the Service tab in I-Engage.
University Council of Student Organizations (UCSO)
The University Council of Student Organizations (UCSO) provides oversight, training and funding for the approximately 100 student groups that exist on campus. There are many types of organizations, including: academic, honor societies, special interest, political, faith-based, cultural, professional, and other interest groups. A current list of recognized student organizations is available at iengage.tamucc.edu. For more information call (361) 825-3239 or visit the UCSO page.
Waves of Welcome (WOW)
Waves of Welcome (WOW) is designed to help students make the Island University feel like home by connecting to other students and student leaders, providing directions and information, and building campus spirit. By attending info sessions, special events, student organization and community fairs, and other activities, students can learn more about the many student organizations, and campus and community resources available to help them succeed and get the most out of their college experience. The Waves of Welcome schedule is distributed at the beginning of the fall semester. For more information call (361) 825-2707 or visit http://wow.tamucc.edu.
University Center
The University Center serves as the living room of the university, home to the Bookstore and Cove Dining, provides dining and lounge seating areas, Breakers game room with video games and billiards, and large flat-screen TV’s for the campus community to enjoy. The UC hosts thousands of events and meetings every year for students. Activities and events include UCP Radio, Patio Jam, Late Night Breakfast, Study Center and other social and fun activities. A number of small to large meeting and event spaces are available for reservations. The UC is also one of the largest student employers on campus. For more information, call 825-5202, or visit our website at universitycenter.tamucc.edu.
Izzy’s Food Pantry
Izzy’s Food Pantry strives to provide food assistance for currently enrolled Texas A&M-Corpus Christi students in need. Providing students with a convenient site to obtain food assistance when needed, helps ensure that students with food insecurity can meet their nutritional needs and minimize adverse impacts on their academic progress and success. The Food Pantry operates in partnership with the Coastal Bend Food Bank and is supported by individual donations and grants.
Izzy’s Food Pantry also provides temporary assistance in obtaining meals through Izzy’s Swipes, a short-term assistance program that allocates meals to students in need. For more information call (361) 825-FOOD (3663) or visit foodpantry.tamucc.edu.
Multicultural Programs and Services
The Multicultural Student Center (MSC) is a space that celebrates the many cultures and identities that make up our Islander community. The MSC provides programs that enrich the Islander experience through cultural events, provides opportunities to explore your heritage and cultural origins, and to engage in meaningful cross-cultural interactions and discussion. The MSC also provides dedicated resources and support for our Islander students of color and other historically marginalized communities. Programs include: Islander Cultural Alliance (ICA), Men of Color initiatives, multicultural student organizations, multicultural fraternities & sororities, and multicultural student programming, etc. For more information call 361.825.3925.
Disability Services (DS)
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is committed to promoting equal opportunities for students with disabilities to access campus facilities, resources, and programs. Support services and reasonable academic adjustments are arranged for students with permanent or temporary disabilities through the Disability Services (DS) Office. The DS Office is in Corpus Christi Hall 116.
Students with permanent or temporary disabilities who qualify for support under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 must self-identify and register with the Office of Disability Services. To qualify for services students must
- be admitted to the University
- present appropriate and current documentation of their disability from a qualified professional and
- register with the Office of Disability Services each semester.
Advance planning by the student with the Office of Disability Services is necessary to ensure adequate time to arrange for appropriate accommodations. It is recommended that requests for services and/or academic adjustments be made as soon as possible. Requests for services requiring extensive preparation (e.g., interpreter services, adaptive and assistive equipment, textbooks in alternate format, etc.) may need up to 30 days to process. For additional information please call (361) 825-5816 or visit the Office of Disability Services website at http://disabilityservices.tamucc.edu.
University Counseling Center (UCC)
The University Counseling Center helps students resolve problems that can interfere with meeting the demands of college life and offers a variety of services for students who want to develop skills and resources to be personally and academically successful. UCC services are funded through the Student Services fee and are available to all currently enrolled TAMUCC students at no additional charge. Counseling Center records are kept strictly confidential and are not released without the student’s written permission except under certain legal conditions.
Services include brief individual counseling, academic skills counseling, psycho-educational workshops, limited psychiatry services, alcohol and other drug treatment and education, and consultation. The Counseling Center also offers a Relaxation Room which is a quiet, peaceful space for students to develop and practice relaxation skills that can enhance their academic productivity and their sense of well-being.
Students who are interested in counseling services, can call or visit the Counseling Center during walk-in hours for a brief consultation/assessment with the Counselor on Duty (COD). The role of the COD is to assist students to connect with the most appropriate services and resources. Common concerns addressed in counseling include stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance use, and identity issues. The Counseling Center is in the Driftwood Building. Walk in hours are Monday-Friday, 9:00am-11:30am and 1:00-4:00pm. Call (361) 825-2703 or visit the website http://counseling.tamucc.edu for more information. If a student is in crisis and needs to speak to a counselor outside of regular business hours, the after-hours crisis line, (361)825-2703, is available.
University Health Center
The University Health Center, located in Sandpiper Hall, assists students in maintaining optimal health while attending A&M-Corpus Christi. Primary emphasis is on preventive health practices, health education, and the promotion of wellness. Primary health care is provided by registered nurses, family nurse practitioners, and a physician for the care of acute illnesses and minor injuries. Chronic health care needs are referred to local community providers and/or the student’s primary care provider. The University Health Center provides a variety of health services such as:
- “Ask-A-Nurse-Line” at 361-825-2601
- Women’s Health Clinic - Gynecological services
- Men’s Health Clinic
- Administration of allergy shots - Student provides serum from allergist.
- Laboratory testing
- Preventive health care and medical resource information - Referrals for community resources
- Blood pressure screening and monitoring
- Contraception, sexually transmitted diseases (STD), HIV testing, and counseling
- Physicals, vision, and hearing screening
- Substance abuse prevention, assessment, and referral
- Immunizations and tuberculin skin testing
- Educational consultations: nutrition, lifestyle, weight management, smoking cessation, and substance abuse
- Insurance and claim assistance.
Health Insurance
In collaboration with the Texas A&M University System, a private insurance plan is available at special rates to students attending A&M-Corpus Christi. All non-insured students are strongly encouraged to consider the benefits of enrolling in a health insurance program. Information brochures regarding this health plan are available in the University Health Center or at https://tamucc.myahpcare.com/.
Islanders Teaching, Engaging, And Motivating (I-TEAM)
I-TEAM student leaders are dedicated to helping Islanders stay informed about substance use and all dimensions of wellness. I-TEAM’s trained peer educators want each Islander to succeed, this means practicing healthy behaviors and making wise choices. Through exciting events like Party House, Bond-Fire, late night alternative programming, and many more, I-TEAM teaches facts about substance use, models healthy behaviors, and helps Islanders learn to unwind and party safely! Find out more and get in touch at I-TEAM’s i-Engage page or call 361.825.4284.
Campus Security Report
Click here to view the university crime log.
Intercollegiate Athletics
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Athletics has grown into a respected NCAA Division I program offering 16 men’s and women’s sports dedicated to achieving competitive success, providing an exceptional academic and athletic experience for student-athletes, and prioritizing community service and engagement. Men’s sports include basketball, baseball, tennis, cross country, and indoor and outdoor track and field. Women’s sports include basketball, tennis, golf, softball, volleyball, beach volleyball, soccer, cross country, and indoor and outdoor track and field. Athletics teams at A&M-Corpus Christi are known as the “Islanders,” and the official school colors are blue, green, and silver.
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Athletics’ mission is to bring distinction to the university by winning conference championships and competing successfully on the national stage, contribute to a vibrant campus culture, and develop successful student-athlete graduates who will excel as leaders in their communities.
TAMU-CC has positioned itself as a leader among the institutions of the highly competitive Division I Southland Conference. Each year, the Southland Conference tournament champion in each sport receives an automatic bid to the NCAA Division I Championship tournament.
For more information on Islanders Athletics and to join the excitement, please call 361-825-3415 or visit www.goislanders.com.
Office of International Education (OIE)
The Office of International Education (OIE) provides services and programs to TAMU-CC international students, scholars, faculty, staff, and help departments and schools/colleges hire international students, scholars, and faculty. OIE offers a variety of services and programs, including:
Immigration Advising and Services
- Provide immigration advising and services that ensure students, scholars, and institutional compliance with federal rules and regulations and guides them through all the requirements for foreign nationals studying and working in the U.S., such as enrollment requirements, travel, status extension, OPT, CPT, dependent employment authorization, change of status, reinstatement, maintaining status, academic training, RCL, transfer, to name a few.
- Assist TAMU-CC departments and schools/colleges in their efforts to hire international students, scholars, and faculty.
Support programs
Host intercultural and social events and activities that welcome and help international students and scholars transition and adjust to life in the United States and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. These include the international student and scholar orientation, workshops, International Education Week, Parade of Nations, field trips, photo contests, coffee/tea hours, mixers, fashion shows, Eyes on the World, open house, as well as many others.
For more information, contact the Office of International Education at (361)-825-3346 or Email at international@tamucc.edu; visit the office in UC 226, or visit the website at http://oie.tamucc.edu/.
Study Abroad Services
The Office of International Education (OIE) is committed to providing access to international education opportunities for all students and dedicated to creating an inclusive community and establishing collaborative relationships across cultures. OIE promotes international learning environments through the following study abroad programs:
Faculty-led Programs
These programs are credit-bearing, international study-travel courses. They are led by one or more University professors and usually last between one to 15 weeks. Students travel as a group to one or more international locations, where there is a mix of lectures, exercises, assignments, excursions, cultural encounters, and free time. There are certain programs that are open only to students in a particular college, while others are open to all A&M System students.
Reciprocal Exchange Programs
A reciprocal exchange involves an agreement between two universities to exchange students. Tuition and fees are paid at the home university while studying at the host university. When a student participates in a reciprocal exchange, the student remains enrolled at the home university, allowing students to receive credit. Proficiency in the language of the host country is required; however, some programs are available in English-speaking countries.
Independent Programs
Students have the option to apply directly to an international university, to an institute or organization, or to a sponsoring U.S. University. Graduate students may conduct research abroad coordinated by a TAMU-CC faculty member.
Third-Party Study Abroad Programs
Students can study abroad through the third-party study abroad providers. These providers work together with the OIE to take care of the whole study abroad process from the beginning of the application to transferring the credits back to the home institution. Most of the study abroad providers have onsite staff to advise and support students.
Funding for Study Abroad Programs
Students who receive federal financial aid for on-campus study may use their aid for study abroad. Financial Aid counselors work with each individual student to assess their eligibility and give students accurate information. The University also offers the International Education Scholarship to all students meeting the general requirements. There are prestigious national grants and scholarships specifically for study abroad, including Boren Awards for International Study, Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, Gilman International Scholarship, and Fulbright Scholarship.
For more information and applications for Study Abroad programs, please visit the OIE website or email international@tamucc.edu or study.abroad@tamucc.edu or call (361)-825-3346.
The Pathways Program International Year
The Pathways program welcomes and supports international students by helping them to gain the academic English skills, cultural knowledge, and foundation to succeed at TAMU-CC. International Year (IY), our undergraduate Pathways program, prepares students for the university’s core curriculum and pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in their chosen major. The program’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses focus on academic writing, reading, speaking and listening skills, as well as knowledge of US Culture, critical thinking skills, and an understanding of US university norms.
Matriculation Requirements
The undergraduate Pathways program is comprised of four possible levels, each one semester in length. A student’s placement is determined by their score on IELTS, TOEFL, or other accepted test of English language proficiency. IY students must pass all EAP courses with a minimum grade of ‘C’, earn a cumulative TAMU-CC GPA of 2.0 and maintain attendance in the program at a level above 80% to progress to full degree-seeking status at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.
Student Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the program, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of writing as a process involving invention, research, sources analysis and evaluation, revision, and publication (spoken, written, and/or multimodal).
- Produce texts for various audiences and purposes using the appropriate vocabulary, grammatical conventions, and design/structure for the chosen genre.
- Comprehend, analyze, and evaluate texts from a variety of academic, professional, and consumer genres.
- Create and deliver presentations designed for various audiences containing research-based evidence that supports unique purposes.
- Develop familiarity with available campus resources, student organizations, and soft skills pursuant to success with university navigation and student life.
- Adapt to teaching practices common at TAMU-CC, such as active reading and listening skills, student-centered teaching styles, group work, discussions, and integrative learning.
EAP Degree Plans
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 4-Semester Program: | ||
| 1 credit-bearing hour and the following non credit-bearing hours: | ||
| Grammar I | ||
| Listening and Speaking I | ||
| Reading I | ||
| Writing I | ||
| Recitation I | ||
| 3-Semester Program: | ||
| 3-4 credit-bearing hours and the following non credit-bearing hours | ||
| Grammar II | ||
| Listening and Speaking II | ||
| Reading II | ||
| Writing II | ||
| Recitation I | ||
| 2-Semester Program: | ||
| 7-10 credit-bearing hours and the following non credit-bearing hours: | ||
| Listening and Speaking III | ||
| Reading and Writing III | ||
| Recitation I | ||
| 1-Semester Program: | ||
| 13-14 credit-bearing hours and the following non credit-bearing hours: | ||
| US Culture | ||
| Recitation I | ||
Course Descriptions:
Grammatical structures that enable students to better comprehend and use academic English are the focus of the course. Students will learn to appreciate the relevance of acquiring and applying grammatical knowledge to express themselves confidently and appropriately in different academic situations, as well as social situations relevant to the American college context.
This course provides short and focused activities to help students improve their English listening and speaking skills. It includes practice in both mastering the larger message and key words, phrases and specific sounds to assist students in developing better speaking and comprehension skills. Students will practice giving academic presentations as well as practice speaking in small groups and individually.
In this course, students will develop the reading skills essential for academic learning and inquiry in the context of authentic academic reading tasks. Students will work to build fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary skills through extensive and intensive reading tasks of increasing complexity. Contemporary academic and literary texts will be used to develop students' critical reading and vocabulary, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
In this course, students will learn and apply the writing skills essential for academic success including sentence, paragraph, and basic essay writing. This course is aimed at students planning to study, or are already studying, at university level in English.
This course provides students with a structured, scheduled academic environment providing the opportunity to complete assignments and work closely with their language instructor. Instructors utilize materials from student courses to facilitate activities and discussions that will increase comprehension of academic material and further students' abilities to work independently in academic settings. Each week, the course will focus on the language skills and vocabulary needed for the students' courses. Additionally, there will be a focus on study skills and time management needed for success in academic settings. Students will leave the course better equipped for university level academic course work and a thorough understanding of time management and appropriate study habits for the university.
This course will focus on high-intermediate grammatical structures that enable students to better comprehend and use academic English. Students will learn to appreciate the relevance of acquiring and applying grammatical knowledge to express themselves confidently and appropriately in different academic situations, as well as social situation relevant to the American college context.
In this course, students will learn and apply the listening, note-taking, and presentation skills essential for academic learning, inquiry, and communication in the context of authentic academic listening and speaking tasks. Students will work to build fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary skills through extensive and intensive listening tasks of increasing complexity. Contemporary academic lectures and seminars will be sued to develop students' critical thinking skills.
In this course, students will study texts across several different academic disciplines in order to deepen their understanding of the rhetorical styles and conventions used and applied within the English language. Students will practice identifying audience, purpose, theme, main ideas, and details within several different genres of writing. Students will also develop a variety of strategies to improve their reading comprehension and efficiency, including annotation, vocabulary-building, and discussions regarding written materials.
In this course, students will develop a foundation in the writing skills critical to academic success. Students will apply knowledge of audience, purpose, voice, arrangement, and style in varied writing tasks by writing across several different genres. Genres practiced in this course may include, but are not limited to: emails, newsletters, personal narratives, fiction, academic essays, and magazine/news articles. Students will learn grammar and vocabulary conventions as they apply to different genres and apply these skills in writing tasks of increasing complexity throughout the semester.
In this course students will learn and apply listening, note-taking, and presentation skills essential for academic learning, inquiry, and discourse in the context of authentic academic listening and speaking tasks. Students will work to build fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary skills through extensive and intensive listening tasks of increasing complexity. Contemporary academic lectures and seminar will be used to develop students' critical thinking skills.
In this course students will improve upon and apply the reading skills essential for academic learning, inquiry, and discourse in the context of authentic academic reading tasks. Students will build vocabulary through extensive and intensive reading tasks of increasing complexity. Contemporary academic tests about writing will be used to develop students' critical reading, academic vocabulary, and complex writing skills. There will e a number of in-class written tasks and prompts that will stimulate free writing practice and introduce students to various styles of writing. Students will also use these written tasks to develop editing skills through the writing process. The final project will be a collection of these written tasks in the form of a portfolio.
This course will offer English Language Learners a means for analyzing and evaluating the complex social and moral issues that are specific to the social and moral landscape of the United States. As students examine their own cultures and compare them with others, culture shock and cultural conflict may be lessened and appreciation for cultural differences may be strengthened. Students will engage in interactive tasks, including researching and case analysis of topics and social, academic and professional issues, especially those suggested by the extensive reading component of this course. Through the process of reading, discussion, analysis and writing students in this class will enrich their understanding of today's global society while at the same time they are sharpening their academic English skills.
Alumni Engagement Office
The Islander Alumni Association exists to strengthen the University’s relationship with its graduates through meaningful engagement and campus experiences. Through a variety of programs, events, communications, and philanthropy opportunities, the Alumni Association promotes positive interaction between the University and its graduates.
All graduates from this institution are considered members of the Alumni Association. This includes graduates from the University of Corpus Christi, Texas A&I University at Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi State University and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.
Members have many opportunities to get more involved with the Alumni Association and receive several perks including membership to Islander chapters, subscription to the Islander magazine and the monthly ‘Currents’ e-newsletter, participation in Alumni Association affinity programs, invitations to signature events, special discounts and much more.
All members of the Alumni Association are also encouraged to submit updated information about their personal and professional lives through a ‘Class Note.’ Updated information allows the Alumni Association to keep in contact with its members and share exciting news with the 55,000+ Alumni around the globe.
The Alumni Association also assists the Student Alumni Association, a student group dedicated to building strong future alumni through a variety of special events, programming, and class gifts. In addition to special events throughout the year, the Student Alumni Association raises funds for their scholarship endowment.
For additional information about the Alumni Association, contact the Woo Sung Lee Alumni Welcome Center at (361) 825-5787, located at 6129 Ennis Joslin Road, or go to the Alumni Association’s Web site at https://www.islanderalumni.org/.
Research Engagement
The Office of Research Engagement (ORE) works to develop and support a community of practice within Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi that’s focused on being impactful be leaving a legacy in the community. We know that can happen through research, teaching, service and beyond and want to support and empower people to do that. For more information, see https://www.tamucc.edu/research/research-engagement/.