Section Two

Tuition, Fees and Other Financial Information

Student Financial Aid

Student Services

Student Life (Housing and Activities)

Corps of Cadets

Section Three

Academic Curricula (Undergraduate)

Graduate Studies

Section Four

Course Descriptions

Section Five

Faculty

Section Six

Texas Common Course Numbering System

Previous Catalogs

Previous Catalogs

Welcome to the Texas A&M University at Galveston
2007 - 2008 Catalog No. 130

Section One

View Section One in a printable PDF Version

Academic Calendar
The Texas A&M University System and University Administration
General Information
University Core Curriculum
Degree Information
Admission
Academic Fresh Start Policy
Course Credit and Testing
Registration and Academic Status
Grading System
Grade Reports

Academic Calendar

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The Texas A&M University System and University Administration

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General Information

Texas A&M University at Galveston (TAMUG) is an ocean-oriented campus offering academic degrees, research, continuing education and public service in marine science, engineering, business and transportation. Because TAMUG is a branch campus of Texas A&M University in College Station, students receive their degrees from Texas A&M University. TAMUG includes the Texas Maritime Academy, one of only six state maritime training academies in the United States and the only one located on the Gulf of Mexico. It is also the only training academy affiliated with a comprehensive research and teaching university. 

TAMUG is located near the mouth of Galveston Bay with close access to the Gulf of Mexico. The University has facilities at three separate campus locations. Most instructional programs are taught at the 130-acre Mitchell Campus on Pelican Island (with housing for 600+ students). Research and classroom work are conducted at the three-acre Ft. Crockett Campus on Galveston Island, including an additional 15,200 sq. ft. of space leased from the National Marine Fisheries Services (which together provide approximately 90,000 sq. ft. for marine laboratory research). The 10-acre Offatts Bayou Campus houses the Center for Marine Training and Safety and student recreational facilities.     

Students who complete the academic programs of Texas A&M University at Galveston (TAMUG) are awarded the degree of Texas A&M University (College Station). Therefore, students enrolled in Texas A&M University at Galveston must adhere to the same basic academic requirements as students enrolled at Texas A&M University (College Station). Students are advised of these requirements and are encouraged to be familiar with the Texas A&M University at Galveston University Rules. 

Students are required to complete the courses listed in a curriculum; however, the display of a curriculum does not necessarily indicate the length of time required to complete the degree requirements. Rather, this display is intended as a guide to indicate the preferred order for completion of degree requirements. Exceptions to certain requirements may be made by petition, through the Department Head to the Vice President or designee. 

Purpose of Catalog 

This catalog was prepared in advance of its effective date; therefore, some course descriptions may vary from actual course content due to advancements in the discipline, interests of individual professors or recent decisions to change the scope of a course. The catalog is not intended to be a contract, but simply an information bulletin and the University reserves the right to change any of the provisions. Some new courses and changes to existing courses are included in this catalog pending their approval by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. A separate class schedule giving course offerings and other pertinent information is published on the web at www.tamug.edu each semester. Students should refer to the class schedule for the offerings in any given semester. For various administrative reasons, such as insufficient enrollment, some scheduled courses might not be offered in the announced semester. 

Academic Programs 

TAMUG provides undergraduate academic instruction in marine and maritime-related degree programs in Marine Biology (MARB), Marine Sciences (MARS), Marine Engineering Technology (MARR), Marine Transportation (MART), Marine Fisheries (MARF), Maritime Systems Engineering (MASE), Maritime Administration (MARA), Maritime Studies (MAST), Ocean and Coastal Resources (OCRE) and University Studies.  All students complete the University Core Curriculum requirements set by TAMU to ensure a broad-based education. 

TAMUG also administers a Master of Marine Resources Management (MARM) degree. Other cooperative graduate degree programs, at both the master and doctorate levels, are in place with the departments of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, Oceanography and Biology at TAMU. The Texas Maritime Academy is headquartered on the Galveston Campus.  A Teacher Certification program is offered via distance education through a collaborative program. 

A certificate program in Marine Biology/Biomedical Sciences prepares the graduate for careers in aquatic animal health, seafood technology and various marine related disciplines, as well as advanced studies in veterinary medicine, human medicine, allied health, biological oceanography and related biological disciplines. 

Academic Facilities 

Classrooms, laboratories and meeting spaces are housed within 15 major buildings on the Mitchell Campus. There are three residence halls on campus, a physical education facility, and the Mary Moody Northen Student Center with cafeteria services. The Jack K. Williams Library contains over 43,000 books, 35,000 bound volumes of journals and a collection of charts and maps. Public access computers in the Library guide the user to the holdings of the Williams Library, the Galveston Bay bibliography and many other library catalogs and computerized databases. The University training ship, in addition to being a floating campus during summer cruises, provides additional classroom, meeting and training space during the school year. TAMUG has telecommunications systems established to communicate statewide within the Texas A&M University System universities and agencies. TAMUG has direct access to the TAMU computer network in College Station via remote job entry connect lines. 

Research Programs 

TAMUG faculty, post-doctoral fellows, research staff and students are actively involved in research throughout the world from Alaska to Antarctica to American Samoa to Asia.  Research is conducted under the direction of more than 35 faculty members with funding from federal, state, private and university sources including the National Science Foundation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Minerals Management Service, Environmental Protection Agency,  Department of Energy, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Texas General Land Office, Texas Department of State Health Services, Welch Foundation, Alaska Sea Life Center, CONACYT, Schlumberger, Texas Institute of Oceanography and Research Development Fund.  Externally funded research expenditures for FY06 were over 4.6 million dollars.  Research encompasses both the basic and applied aspects of fields such as marine biology, oceanography, coastal/ocean engineering, marine geology, marine policy and management, environmental studies, conservation, business, admiralty law and coastal zone management.  Research is focused largely in the areas of coastal and beach processes (e.g., physical profiling of coastal regions and erosion processes and control), marine life studies (e.g., marine mammal, fish, shellfish, algae and sea turtle biology and ecology), bay and estuary ecosystems (e.g., wetlands management and toxic contaminant analysis), geochemical cycling in marine/aquatic/atmospheric systems and offshore/deepwater environments.  

Many of the faculty researchers have graduate appointments in TAMUG and/or TAMU departments.  Approximately 65 M.S. and Ph.D. graduate students from the TAMU departments of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, Oceanography, Ecosystem Science and Management, Ocean/Civil Engineering, Biology and Anthropology are conducting their research under a TAMUG faculty member.  TAMUG also offers the Marine Resource Management degree which now has a thesis option.  There are approximately 30 students participating in this program.   

Undergraduate students at TAMUG have many opportunities to participate in research, such as the Texas Institute of Oceanography Undergraduate Student Research Program, working as student workers and technicians on funded research programs, taking 485 classes or participating in the Undergraduate Research Scholars Program.  Undergraduate students may work in the laboratory and at field sites throughout the world, participate in research cruises, present results at local, national and international meetings, and serve as authors on publications.

For more information, please visit the website at www.tamug.edu/research/overview.htm.

Accreditation 

Texas A&M University at Galveston is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Maritime Systems Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. 

Documents certifying accreditation may be viewed in the Office of the CEO. 

Mission Statement 

Texas A&M University at Galveston is a special-purpose institution of higher education for undergraduate and graduate instruction in marine and maritime studies in science, engineering and business and for research and public service related to the general field of marine resources. The institution is under the management and control of the Board of Regents of The Texas A&M University System, with degrees offered under the name and authority of Texas A&M University at College Station. 

Compliance Policy 

Within published requirements for admission, Texas A&M University at Galveston does not discriminate in admission of students to study at TAMUG, enrollment in classes, housing or use of facilities in the academic program because of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, condition of handicap, veteran or disabled veteran status. TAMUG does not, and will not, discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, condition of handicap, veteran or disabled veteran status. 

TAMUG embraces affirmative action practices to ensure that applicants are hired fairly, and that employees are treated during their employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, condition of handicap, veteran or disabled veteran status. Such action includes, but is not limited to, employment, upgrading, demotion or transfer, recruitment or recruitment advertising, layoff or termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for employment training, including apprenticeship. Any questions or complaints relative to discrimination should be referred to the Human Resources Office. 

Limited services and facilities are available to students with handicaps. Individuals should contact the Office of Student Affairs if they have special needs before they commit to enrollment. 

Continuing Education Programs 

The outreach programs of the University include Sea Camp (a marine biology summer camp for youths 10-18 years of age) and Elderhostel (a marine environment-oriented camp for senior citizens). The Oil Spill School and the Oil Spill Response Center both serve to provide protection from disasters. Marine safety programs, radar observer schools, workshops on beach ecology and summer programs are regularly offered.  The Center for Marine Training and Safety offers broad-based professional development to employees of coastal and offshore maritime industries. Computer Simulation systems for ship operations (bridge, engine room, radar, oil spill management and communications) provide realistic hands-on experiences for undergraduate and continuing education programs. 

Public Service Programs 

The Galveston Bay Information Center has developed a Galveston Bay bibliography which is linked with a local network including an interactive model of Galveston Bay circulation and Compass, an information system developed by NOAA. The Texas Agricultural Experiment Station (TAES) helps TAMUG serve the educational needs of the Galveston area agricultural community. The Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network is linked statewide to aid in the recovery and study of stranded marine mammals. The Texas Transportation Institute regional office is established to link waterway components to the state’s intermodal transportation research and it houses the Center for Ports and Waterways. 

Academic Year 

The academic year of Texas A&M University at Galveston is divided into the fall and spring semesters and the summer session which consists of either two terms of five weeks each or one 10-week summer semester. 

During the summer session, most departments offer courses which are selected to meet the needs of regular university students. 

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University Core Curriculum

The University Core Curriculum at Texas A&M University assures that all undergraduate programs provide for breadth of understanding. The Core Curriculum emphasizes competence in the process of learning, the capacity to engage in rigorous and analytical inquiry and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively. It supports the development of extensive knowledge about and appreciation for our social and moral responsibilities, our cultural heritage and our interactions with the economies and cultures of the international community. The University Core Curriculum acts to enrich and broaden the University’s tradition of providing thorough preparation in each student’s academic major. 

University Core Curriculum requirements are described in the sections that follow. These requirements must be met by every student pursuing a baccalaureate degree program at Texas A&M University, regardless of his or her major. Individual degree programs may require that specific courses from the general University list be used to satisfy University Core Curriculum requirements. Please check with individual program advisors for details (see notes 1, 2, 3 and 6). 

Specific Requirements: 

In addition to the University Core Curriculum and degree specific requirements, Texas A&M University has criteria that must be met by all students in order to receive a degree, see the Degree Information section of this catalog. 

1.      The ability to communicate through the use of the spoken or written word requires the  development of speech and writing skills. 

         Communication (6 hours)   A course used to satisfy this requirement shall have as its primary focus the improvement of student expression in communication. This focus on student expression should be demonstrated both in course instruction and assessment. Acceptable forms of student expression may range from creative to technical. Acceptable courses may include those embedded in subject areas other than writing. This requirement must be satisfied by ENGL 104 (3 hours) and one of the following: AGJR 404, COMM 203, COMM 205, COMM 243, ENGL 203, ENGL 210, ENGL 235, ENGL 236, ENGL 241 and ENGL 301, 

2.       Without knowledge of mathematics, the language of science; and logic, the art of critical inquiry; it is not possible to understand or participate in the development of knowledge. 

          Mathematics (6 hours, at least 3 of which must be in mathematics).  To be selected from any mathematics course except: MATH 102, MATH 103, MATH 150, MATH 365 and MATH 366. Also may select 3 hours from: PHIL 240, PHIL 341 and PHIL 342. 

3.       Knowledge and appreciation of science as a significant human activity, rather than merely a listing of results or collection of data, is acquired only by engaging in the activities of science. 

Natural Sciences (8 hours)  Two or more natural sciences courses which deal with fundamental principles and in which critical evaluation and analysis of data and processes are required. A minimum of one course shall include a corresponding laboratory. Non-technical courses are specifically excluded.  

Four hours to be selected from: BIOL 101, BIOL 107, BIOL 111, BIOL 113/123, CHEM 101, CHEM 103/113, CHEM 107, GEOL 101, PHYS 201  and PHYS 218. 

Remaining hours to be selected from courses listed and/or: AGRO 105, AGRO 301, AGRO 405, ANTH 225, ATMO 201/202, BESC 201, BIOL 112, BIOL 225, CHEM 102, CHEM 104/114, CHEM 106/116, CHEM 222/242, ENGR 101, ENTO 322, FRSC 304, GENE 301, GENE 310, GEOG 203/213, GEOL 106, GEOL 307, GEOS 410, HORT 201/202, OCNG 251/252, PHYS 202, PHYS 208, PHYS 219, PHYS 306/307 and RENR 205/215. 

4.       Knowledge of our culture and its ideals makes possible both social integration and self-realization (see note 4). 

A.      Humanities (3 hours) Courses used to satisfy this requirement shall address one of the following subject areas: history, philosophy, literature, the arts, culture or language (exclusive of courses devoted predominantly to acquiring language skills in a student’s native language). 

Acceptable courses are: AMST 300, AMST 320, ANTH 202, ANTH 205, ANTH 301, ANTH 302, ANTH 303, ANTH 306, ANTH 308, ANTH 313, ANTH 315, ANTH 316, ANTH 317, ANTH 318, ANTH 324, ANTH 350, ANTH 351, ARCH 345, ARCH 430, ARCH 434,  ARTS 149, ARTS 150, ARTS 329, ARTS 330, ARTS 335, ARTS 349, ARTS 350, ARTS 445, CLAS 351, COMM 301, COMM 327, COMM 425, ENDS 149, ENDS 150, ENDS 250, ENDS 329, ENGL 203, ENGL 204, ENGL 205, ENGL 212, ENGL 221, ENGL 222, ENGL 227, ENGL 228, ENGL 231, ENGL 232, ENGL 235, ENGL 236, ENGL 251, ENGL 308, ENGL 310, ENGL 312, ENGL 313, ENGL 314, ENGL 315, ENGL 316, ENGL 317, ENGL 319, ENGL 321, ENGL 322, ENGL 323, ENGL 329, ENGL 330, ENGL 333, ENGL 334, ENGL 335, ENGL 336, ENGL 337, ENGL 338, ENGL 339, ENGL 340, ENGL 345, ENGL 346, ENGL 347, ENGL 348, ENGL 350, ENGL 351, ENGL 352, ENGL 353, ENGL 354, ENGL 355, ENGL 356, ENGL 360, ENGL 361, ENGL 362, ENGL 365, ENGL 374, ENGL 375, ENGL 376, ENGL 377, ENGL 378, ENGL 385, ENGL 390, ENGL 392, ENGL 393, ENGL 394, ENGL 396, ENGL 401, ENGL 412, ENGL 414, ENGL 415, ENGL 431, ENGL 474, ENGL 481, ENGR 482, GEOG 202, GEOG 301, GEOG 305, GEOG 323, HIST (any course), HORT 203, HUMA 211, HUMA 213, HUMA 303, HUMA 304, LAND 240, LAND 340, LBAR 203, LBAR 331, LBAR 332, LBAR 333, LING 307, LING 310, MAST 371, MAST 411, MODL*, MUSC 200, MUSC 201, MUSC 311, MUSC 312, MUSC 315, MUSC 319, MUSC 321, MUSC 324, PHIL (any course except 240, 341, 342), RELS 211, RELS 213, RELS 303, RELS 304, RELS 317,RELS 351, RELS 360, RELS 392, THAR 101, THAR 155, THAR 201, THAR 280, THAR 281, WMST 200, WMST 333, WMST 374, WMST 461, WMST 473, WMST 474 and WMST 477.

* or any course in the Department of Hispanic Studies or the Department of European and Classical Languages and Cultures (see note 5). 

B.      Visual and Performing Arts* (3 hours). Acceptable courses are: ANTH 324, ARCH 430, ARCH 434, ARCH 437, ARTS 103, ARTS 111, ARTS 112, ARTS 149, ARTS 150, ARTS 305, ARTS 312, ARTS 329, ARTS 330, ARTS 335, ARTS 349, ARTS 350, ARTS 445, CARC 335, CLAS 352, ENDS 101, ENDS 115, ENDS 149, ENDS 150, ENDS 250, ENDS 311, ENGL 212, ENGL 219, ENGL 251, ENGL 312, ENGL 317, ENGL 340, ENGL 351, ENGL 356, ENGL 385, ENGL 412, FILM 201, FILM 301, FILM 394, FREN 425, GERM 334, GERM 432, HORT 203, KINE 160, KINE 161, KINE 162, KINE 163, KINE 164, KINE 165, KINE 166, KINE 167, KINE 168, KINE 169, KINE 170, KINE 171, KINE 172, KINE 173, KINE 174, KINE 311, LAND 240, MODL 352, MUSC 200, MUSC 201, MUSC 280, MUSC 302, MUSC 311, MUSC 312, MUSC 315, MUSC 319, MUSC 321, MUSC 324, PERF 301, PHIL 330, PHIL 375, SPAN 410, SPAN 413, THAR 101, THAR 110, THAR 155, THAR 201, THAR 210, THAR 280, THAR 281 and THAR 407.

* Note: Students graduating from the Galveston Campus may choose to complete 3 additional hours of the Humanities in place of Visual and Performing Arts. 

5.      As the human social environment becomes more complex, it is increasingly important for individuals to understand the nature and function of their social, political and economic institutions (see note 4). 

A.       Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 hours)  Courses used to satisfy this requirement shall address one of the following subject areas: anthropology, economics, political science, geography, psychology, sociology or communication.   

Acceptable courses are: ADEV 340, ADEV 400, ADEV 440, AGEC 105, AGEC 350, AGEC 429, AGEC 430, AGEC 452,  AGEC 453, ANTH 201, ANTH 210, ANTH 225, ANTH 300, ANTH 314, ANTH 403, ANTH 404, ANTH 410, BIOL 225, COMM 315, COMM 320, COMM 325, COMM 335, ECON (any course), ENGL 209, ENGL 311, ENGR 400, EPSY 320, EPSY 321, GEOG 201, GEOG 304, GEOG 306, GEOG 311, GEOG 330, GEOG 401, GEOG 440, HLTH 236, HORT 335, INST 310, INST 322, JOUR 102, JOUR 301, JOUR 401, JOUR 440, KINE 304, KINE 319, KINE 336, KINE 337, LBAR 204, LING 209, LING 311, LING 402, MARS 210, MGMT 475, POLS (any course except 206 and 207), PSYC (any course except 203, 204), RELS 403,  SOCI (any course except 220, 420), VTPB 221, WMST 207, WMST 300, WMST 316, WMST 317, WMST 404, WMST 424 and WMST 462. 

B.       U.S. History and Political Science (12 hours, 6 hours of history, and 6 hours of political science). To be a responsible citizen of the world, it is necessary, first, to be a responsible citizen of one’s own country and community. POLS 206 and 207 and HIST 105 and 106 or other courses in American and Texas history, except those courses pertaining solely to Texas history may not comprise more than 3 hours. 

6.      As individual and national destinies become progressively more interconnected, the ability to survive and succeed is increasingly linked to the development of a more pluralistic, diverse and globally-aware populace. Two courses from the following list are to be taken by the student. If a course listed below also satisfies another University Core Curriculum requirement, it can be used to satisfy both requirements if the student wishes to do so. For example, a course that satisfies the Social and Behavioral Sciences requirement may be used to satisfy the International and Cultural Diversity requirement if that course also appears on the list. 

International and Cultural Diversity (6 hours)   Acceptable courses are: ACCT 445, ADEV 422, AGEC 452, AGEC 453, AGRO 489, ANTH 205, ANTH 210, ANTH 300, ANTH 301, ANTH 306, ANTH 314, ANTH 315, ANTH 319, ANTH 324, ANTH 403, ANTH 404, ANTH 426, ARCH 345, ARTS 150, ARTS 350*, BUSN 289, CARC 301, CARC 311, CARC 321, CARC 331, CARC 335, COMM 327, COMM 335, COMM 407, COMM 425, COSC 484*, COSC 494*, DCED 301, ECON 312, ECON 319, ECON 320, ECON 324, ECON 330, EHRD 408, ENDS 101, ENDS 150, ENDS 484*, ENDS 494*, ENGL 204, ENGL 205, ENGL 222, ENGL 232, ENGL 251, ENGL 333, ENGL 336, ENGL 337, ENGL 338, ENGL 339, ENGL 340, ENGL 352, ENGL 362, ENGL 374, ENGL 378, ENGL 393, ENGL 474, EURO 223, EURO 323, FINC 445, FREN 301, FREN 322, FREN 336, FREN 418, FREN 425, GEOG 202, GEOG 301, GEOG 305, GEOG 306, GEOG 311, GEOG 320, GEOG 321, GEOG 323, GEOG 402, GERM 305, GERM 322, HISP 489, HIST 210, HIST 214, HIST 258, HIST 301, HIST 305, HIST 307, HIST 319, HIST 324, HIST 336, HIST 339, HIST 342, HIST 343, HIST 345, HIST 346, HIST 348, HIST 352, HIST 355, HIST 356, HIST 402, HIST 405, HIST 407, HIST 412, HIST 439, HIST 440, HIST 441, HIST 449, HIST 451, HIST 455, HIST 460, HIST 461, HIST 464, HIST 473, HIST 477, HLTH 236, HLTH 334, HORT 335, HUMA 303, HUMA 304, IBUS 401, IBUS 445, IBUS 446, IBUS 450, IBUS 452, IBUS 455, IBUS 456, IBUS 457, IBUS 458, IBUS 459, IBUS 460, INST 310, INST 322, JOUR 406, KINE 336, KINE 337, LAND 240, LBAR 331, LBAR 332, LBAR 333, LING 307, LING 402, MARS 210, MARS 280, MAST 411, MGMT 430, MGMT 450, MGMT 452, MKTG 330, MKTG 401, MODL 222, MODL 352, MODL 362, MODL 363, MUSC 312, MUSC 315, MUSC 319, MUSC 324, PHIL 283, PHIL 416, PHIL 419, PLAN 415, POLS 317, POLS 322, POLS 323, POLS 324, POLS 326, POLS 328, POLS 329, POLS 331, POLS 338, POLS 365,POLS 366, POLS 424, POLS 432, POLS 462, PSYC 300, RELS 303, RELS 304, RELS 403, RLEM 314, RPTS 340, SOCI 207, SOCI 316, SOCI 317, SOCI 321, SOCI 323, SOCI 324, SOCI 325, SOCI 329, SOCI 330, SOCI 340, SOCI 350, SOCI 403, SOCI 419, SOCI 423, SOCI 424, SPAN 312, SPAN 320, SPAN 410, SPAN 411, SPAN 412, SPAN 421, SPAN 450, TEFB 271,TEFB 273, THAR 201, THAR 281, VTPB 221, WMTS 200, WMST 300, WMST 316, WMST 317, WMST 333, WMST 374, WMST 404, WMST 407, WMST 424, WMST 430, WMST 461, WMST 462, WMST 473, WMST 391, WMST 474 and WMST 477. * See note 7. 

7.      As the ancient scholars knew and as modern research has confirmed, the development of the body as well as the mind is an integral part of the educational process. 

Kinesiology requirements are to be fulfilled by completing KINE 198 Health and Fitness and any other one KINE 199 course. KINE 199 used to fulfill University Core Curriculum requirements must be taken S/U. KINE 199 courses not included in the University Core Curriculum can be taken for a grade in accordance with the student’s college policy. Transfer students with fewer than 2 hours of kinesiology credit must meet the KINE 198 requirement either by transfer of credit or by taking the course at Texas A&M. 

Notes: 

1.    Individual degree programs may impose more restrictive requirements in any of these areas. Students should consult the degree listing in this catalog and their academic advisors to ensure that they are satisfying all requirements of their majors. 

2.    With the exception of courses satisfying the International and Cultural Diversity requirement (see Section 6), no course shall be counted twice by the same student toward satisfaction of the University Core Curriculum requirements. For example, if a student elects to use ARCH 349 to satisfy the Visual and Performing Arts requirement, the student may not use the course to satisfy the Humanities requirement. 

3.   Courses numbered 285 or 485 do not satisfy University Core Curriculum requirements. Individual Special Topics (289 and 489) courses may be approved for use in the University Core Curriculum. 

4.    No student may satisfy all 12 hours of University Core Curriculum requirements in the categories of Humanities, Visual and Performing Arts, and Social and Behavioral Sciences by courses having the same prefix. 

5.    If courses in MODL are used to fulfill the Humanities requirement, they must be in a different language than taken in high school or, if in the same language, at the 200-level or higher. For example, if the student took Spanish in high school, then the student may not use SPAN 101 or 102 in satisfying the Humanities requirement. 

6.    Students transferring course credit to satisfy the University Core Curriculum requirements should refer to the Texas Common Course Numbering System (last section of this catalog) and the Transfer Course Credit Policies in this catalog. 

7.    Courses taken abroad, which are conducted in another country by a TAMU faculty member, completed as reciprocal education exchange programs (REEP), or completed in another country through direct enrollment in another institution, can be used to satisfy the Core Curriculum requirement for International and Cultural Diversity. This includes credits earned through 285, 291, 485, 484, and 491 courses conducted abroad for which grades are determined by a TAMU faculty member. 

8.    Courses approved as satisfying one or more areas of the University Core Curriculum become effective the semester or summer session immediately following approval by the Faculty Senate. 

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Degree Information

Which Catalog to Follow 

In meeting the requirements for a baccalaureate degree, a student is normally expected to complete the course and hour requirements as outlined in the catalog in effect at the time of his or her declaration of a major or change in major, or those of any later catalog of the student’s choice. Normally, a student will not be granted a degree based upon completion of the requirements set forth in a catalog more than seven years old. Before changing catalogs, the student must consult his or her academic advisor. A student changes catalogs by filing a written notification with his or her dean. It is incumbent on the student to verify that the change has been made. 

The Texas A&M University at Galveston University Student Rules (including periodic revisions) is published each year at www.tamug.edu/studentlife for the benefit of the student body. This is the governing document in case of conflicts between this catalog and Texas A&M University at Galveston University Student Rules. It is the responsibility of the individual student to read this information carefully and to use it as a reference. 

Whereas each college must retain the flexibility to improve its curriculum, course offerings may be changed during the student’s education. If a course required under a previous catalog is no longer offered, a student eligible to graduate according to that catalog should consult his or her academic advisor to identify another course that may be used to fulfill the requirement. Course substitutions in the degree program are permitted only with the approval of the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, through the department head or program director. The University reserves the right to make any changes in requirements by due notice in the catalog. 

Students are required to take the courses listed in a curriculum; however, the display of a curriculum does not in any way indicate the length of time required to finish degree requirements. Rather, this display is intended as a guide to indicate the preferred order for completion of degree requirements. Exceptions to certain requirements may be petitioned through the department head to the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs. 

Degrees Offered 

The following degrees are offered by Texas A&M University for the satisfactory completion of resident study in the appropriate curriculum at Texas A&M University at Galveston: 

• Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology 
• Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering Technology 
• Bachelor of Science in Marine Fisheries 
• Bachelor of Science in Marine Sciences 
• Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation 
• Bachelor of Science in Maritime Administration 
• Bachelor of Science in Maritime Systems Engineering 
• Bachelor of Arts in Maritime Studies 
• Bachelor of Science in Ocean and Coastal Resources 
• Bachelor of Arts in University Studies 
• Bachelor of Science in University Studies 
• Master of Marine Resources Management 

Requirements for a Baccalaureate Degree 

The diploma of the University, with the appropriate degree, will be granted to the student who has made formal application for the degree by the published official deadline, has all grades on record in the Office of Admissions and Records, including grades pertaining to graduation with honors, by no later than 5 p.m., Friday, the first week of classes of the succeeding semester or summer term following commencement and has satisfied the requirements outlined in the following: 

1.       A curriculum leading to a baccalaureate degree shall contain a minimum of 120 credit hours including the required physical activity courses. 

2.      The undergraduate student must complete with at least a 2.0 grade point ratio all undergraduate course work attempted at Texas A&M University at Galveston. 

3.      The undergraduate student must complete with a 2.0 grade point ratio all courses included in the major field of study (see 7). 

4.      The student is required to successfully complete one semester of KINE 198 and one semester of KINE 199 (taken satisfactory/unsatisfactory), unless a substitution for this requirement is petitioned through the student’s dean. 

5.      The undergraduate student must satisfy all areas of the University Core Curriculum as outlined in the student’s catalog. 

6.      The total number of grade points earned at this institution in courses must be at least twice the number of hours that the student carried in courses at this institution. Grades of F and U shall be included. 

a.      The number of credit hours associated with grades of S in courses taken on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis are not included in this computation. 

b.      The number of credit hours associated with grades of U in courses taken on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis are included in this computation. 

c.       With the approval of a student’s dean, grades in courses not applying to the degree may be waived for the purpose of graduation only. 

d.      The waiver of grades in courses as indicated in item c. will not affect the student’s official grade point ratio or entitlement to graduation with honors. 

e.      The provisions of item c. will not affect a student’s probationary status prior to graduation. 

7.      The total number of grade points earned at this institution in courses in the student’s major department must be at least twice the number of hours that he or she carried at this institution in his or her major department. 

8.      Grades made in courses elected in excess of a student’s degree requirements shall be counted, but if failed, such courses need not be repeated. 

9.      First year grade exclusion cannot be invoked after a baccalaureate degree has been conferred upon the student. First Year Grade Exclusion requests for all degree candidates must be received in the Office of Admissions and Records not later than 5 p.m. the day midterm grades are due when the student is graduating in a fall or spring semester or not later than 5 p.m. Friday of the third week of class for the second summer session when the student is graduating in August. 

10.    The student must be formally recommended for graduation by the Faculty Senate after consideration of his or her complete record. 

11.     The student must have settled all financial obligations to the University. 

12.     Graduate and undergraduate students who plan to attend a commencement ceremony must do so the semester they apply for graduation and complete the degree requirements. 

13.     To be a candidate for a degree at the end of the semester or summer term, a student must be registered for or have completed all degree requirements by the 50th class day in the fall and spring semesters, the 15th class day for summer I and II and the 35th class day for the 10-week summer term of the academic calendar of Texas A&M University either in residence or at another college or university. Proof of registration must be provided to the Admissions and Records Office by the deadline. A student must be enrolled in his or her degree-granting college(s) and major(s) at the beginning of the student’s last semester or summer term at Texas A&M to be a candidate for a degree from that college. 

14.    Foreign Language: A year of foreign language is required in many degree programs from Texas A&M. This degree requirement can be satisfied by the satisfactory completion in high school of two units of the same foreign language or one year of college work. 

a.       International students are not permitted to enroll in courses to satisfy this degree requirement if those courses are taught in their native language. 

b.       Bachelor of Arts degrees require an additional 6 semester hours at the 200-level. 

c.      Students who wish to demonstrate foreign language proficiency without taking acceptable high school or college courses may do so through the existing credit by examination process. In cases where students wish to demonstrate proficiency in a language not taught at Texas A&M, the following procedures shall apply. The student shall request an examination from the Office of Academic Enhancement. This department will coordinate the administration of special examinations to demonstrate foreign language proficiency. This will include finding an appropriate examination to test the student’s proficiency, informing the student how to arrange to take that examination and certifying the results to the student’s advisor. All arrangements shall be made and fees paid by the student. 

d.      American Sign Language (ASL) may be used to fulfill the foreign language degree requirement unless otherwise specified by the student’s college or department. Students may either transfer ASL credits or arrange to be tested at another institution. (Texas A&M does not offer courses in ASL.) 

15.     All students must take at least two courses in their major that are designated as writing intensive (W). The requirement may not be met by any course listed as a University Core Curriculum communication requirement, nor may it be met through credit-by-examination. It may be met by a course transferred from another institution of higher learning, with the approval of the academic department head, the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Associate Provost for Academic Services. Upon request, students will provide a course description, syllabus or writing sample from the course being transferred. 

Residence Requirement 

A minimum of 36 semester hours of 300- and/or 400- level course work must be successfully completed in residence at Texas A&M to obtain a baccalaureate degree. A minimum of 12 of these 36 semester hours must be in the major.  

To fulfill degree requirements for graduation that semester, transfer courses taken during a student’s final semester must be completed and cited on an official transcript in the Office of Admissions and Records by the stated deadline. 

Tuition Charged for Excess Credit Hours 

The State of Texas will not provide funds to state institutions of higher education for excess semester credit hours earned by a resident student. Because funding will not be provided by the State, and as permitted by State law, Texas A&M University will charge tuition at the non-resident rate to all students who exceed the semester credit hour limit for their program. Excess semester credit hours are those which accrue after the student exceeds by 30 hours the number of semester credit hours required for the completion of the degree program in which the student is enrolled. Thus, the student may accumulate up to 30 hours beyond those required for the chosen degree program and not exceed the limitation. The limitation on excess credit hours applies only to those undergraduate students who first enter higher education in the fall 1999 and thereafter. The semester credit hours counted toward the limitation include all hours attempted except: 

• Semester credit hours earned by the student before receiving a baccalaureate degree that has been previously awarded. 
• Semester credit hours earned by the student by examination or other procedure by which credit is earned without registering for a course for which tuition is charged. 
• Credit for remedial education courses, technical courses, workforce education courses funded according to contact hours or other courses that would not generate academic credit that could be applied toward a degree program at Texas A&M University. 
• Semester credit hours earned by the student at a private or an out-of-state institution. 

Requirement in Political Science (Government) and History 

In order to meet the legal requirements for a baccalaureate degree, all students must have at least 6 credit hours in political science (government) and at least 6 credit hours in American history. POLS 206 (American National Government) and POLS 207 (State and Local Government with emphasis on Texas) fulfill the political science requirement. Both the political science and American history requirements may be met, in whole or in part, by equivalent course work satisfactorily completed at another accredited college or university. 

State law permits the substitution of 3 hours of history and 3 hours of political science for a student in the program of an approved senior ROTC unit. With the approval of the dean of the appropriate college, students successfully completing the required 12 hours of upper-level ROTC courses will be deemed to have completed the equivalent of Political Science 206 or 207 plus History 105 or 106 (or another appropriate course) for a total of 6 hours. Students pursuing teacher certification are not allowed to substitute ROTC credits for this requirement. 

Supplementary Fee for Courses Attempted More than Twice 

A course that is repeated by a student more than twice at a public institution of higher education in Texas may not be reported for state funding. As a result, the institution must either pass the non-funded portion to all students, or charge a supplementary fee to the student who is repeating the course. Texas A&M has chosen to assess a supplementary fee to those students repeating a course more than twice. A student attempting certain courses more than twice at Texas A&M University will be subject to a supplementary fee of $125 per semester credit hour ($375 for a 3 hour course) for the repeated course, in addition to tuition and required fees associated with the course. The general criteria for determining which courses are subject to the supplementary fee are: 

• A course is subject to the fee if a student has completed it twice at Texas A&M University with a grade of A, B, C, D, F, F* (academic dishonesty), S (satisfactory), U (unsatisfactory), I (incomplete), Q (authorized drop after the add/drop period) or X (no grade submitted). 
• Courses identified by the University as repeatable for credit are not subject to the fee. A schedule of repeated courses can be found at www.tamu.edu/admissions/records/3peat.html. 
• Courses dropped with no record (NR), no grade (NG) and withdrawals (W) are not counted as repeated courses. Students will be notified at the time they register for a course that it has been taken twice at TAMU and is subject to the supplementary fee. 

Graduation Requirements in Foreign Language 

Foreign Language. To understand the major cultures of the world as expressed in art, philosophy, politics or economy, it is necessary to know and appreciate languages other than one’s native language. Therefore, some proficiency in a foreign language is also required to graduate from Texas A&M University. This requirement can be met by: 

• completing two units (two full years) of high school course work in the same foreign language; 
• completing two semesters (one full year) of course work at the college level in the same foreign language; or 
• demonstrating proficiency in a foreign language by examination. 

Notes: 

a. International students are not permitted to enroll in courses which satisfy the foreign language requirement if those courses are taught in their native language. 

b. Students who wish to demonstrate foreign language proficiency without taking acceptable high school or college courses may do so through the existing credit by examination process for the first two college courses in the foreign language. In cases where students wish to demonstrate proficiency in a language not taught at Texas A&M, the following procedures shall apply. The student shall request an examination from the Office of Academic Enhancement. This department will coordinate the administration of special examinations to demonstrate foreign language proficiency. This will include finding an appropriate examination to test the student’s proficiency, informing the student how to arrange to take that examination and certifying the results to the student’s advisor. All arrangements shall be made and fees paid by the student. 

c. American Sign Language (ASL) may be used to fulfill the foreign language requirement unless otherwise specified by the student’s college or department. Students may either transfer ASL credits or arrange to be tested at another institution. (Texas A&M does not offer courses in ASL.) 

Application for a Degree 

Formal application for degrees must be submitted online by the deadline stated in the academic calendar and online degree application. Under unusual circumstances, an application for a degree may be accepted after the stated deadline; however, no application will be accepted after grade sheets for graduating students have been produced for the faculty. The student must apply online at http://degreeapp.tamu.edu. 

The buying, selling, creating, duplicating, altering, giving or obtaining the Texas A&M diploma or other academic record is prohibited by state law. A person who violates this statute or who aids another person in violation is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to a fine and/or confinement if convicted. 

The University has the right to rescind a previously granted degree if the University becomes aware of information indicating that the degree never should have been granted. 

Special Examinations 

An undergraduate student who has completed all the requirements for graduation, both in hours and grade points, except for a passing grade in one course undertaken and failed during his or her last two semesters may be given, with proper approval, one special examination in that course. Before a student will be considered for a special examination, he or she must have substantially completed the work of the course.  A request for such special examination should be initiated by the student, through the head of the department offering the course and the dean of the student’s college, and submitted to the Office of Admissions and Records for approval after the close of the semester or summer term. No special examination shall be given without the approval of both the head of the department in which the course was offered and the dean of the student’s college. 

If a passing grade is made on an authorized special examination, the head of the department will notify the Office of Admissions and Records, who will record on the student’s permanent academic record a notation of credit by special examination with the appropriate number of semester hours of credit. 

Two Degrees 

A candidate pursuing a second baccalaureate degree must have completed all the essential work of the second curriculum not covered in the first. In all such cases, the total semester hours required must be at least 30 hours additional to the greater number required for either degree. The student must have a minimum of 36 hours of 300–400 level courses, 12 hours of which must be in the major field of study, in residence at Texas A&M. The student must also meet the citizenship requirements for history and political science. 

Undergraduate Minor Programs 

A minor is a concentration of courses that focus on a single area or an interdisciplinary perspective as developed by the department or program that offers the minor. The department or program offering the minor is responsible for setting enrollment limits and deciding which courses are used to meet the minor. Course work consists of 15–18 hours with a minimum of 6 in residence at the 300–400 level. 

If a minor is offered by a department or academic unit, then the minor is considered to be available to all students as resources permit. The academic advisor in the major-granting department will add the minor for the student on SIMS. In some cases, approval by the advisor of the minor-granting department is required before the minor is added by the advisor in the student’s major. Substitutions in a minor can be initiated by either the major- or minor- granting department, but must be approved by both departments. Students must declare a minor no later than the date on which they apply for graduation. A maximum of two minors can be completed by students.  A minor is displayed on the transcript after graduation but not displayed on the diploma. 

Graduation with Honors 

To be eligible for graduation with honors, a student seeking a baccalaureate degree must enroll in and complete a minimum of 60 undergraduate semester hours preceding graduation at this institution. Course credit received by examination and for graduate level courses is not included in this total. The grade point ratio of all college hours attempted, excluding transfer hours, must equal that required at Texas A&M for the appropriate category of honors. 

Categories for honors shall be designated as follows: 

• Summa Cum Laude: A student may be graduated Summa Cum Laude with a grade point ratio of 3.90 or above. 

• Magna Cum Laude: A student may be graduated Magna Cum Laude with a grade point ratio range of 3.70 through 3.899. 

• Cum Laude: A student may be graduated Cum Laude with a grade point ratio range of 3.50 through 3.699. 

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Admission

Texas A&M University at Galveston has a strong institutional commitment to the principle of diversity in all areas. In that spirit, admission to the University and any of its sponsored programs is open to all qualified individuals. To be admitted, an applicant must meet the admission requirements in effect for the desired term of entry. Texas A&M University at Galveston reserves the right to defer the initial registration of newly admitted applicants if it appears their enrollment for a given semester will exceed the physical capabilities of the TAMUG campus and jeopardize the quality of education offered students to whom the University is already committed. 

You can apply to TAMUG and all other Texas public universities using only one application. You can find this application “on the web” at www.applytexas.org (see instructions below). Acceptance by the Office of Admissions and Records does not constitute admission to the U.S. Maritime Service Corps of Cadets (separate application required). 

When admission requirements have been satisfied, the Office of Admissions and Records will send the new student a letter of acceptance and an acceptance packet with a housing application, test information and New Student Conference registration information. 

Application Information 

TAMUG has no deadline for admissions and will accept applications throughout the year until all seats in the class are full. However, for Fall admission, it is advantageous to gain acceptance before March 1 to be eligible for many scholarships and for on-campus housing. The application for Spring 2008, Summer 2008 and Fall 2008 are not available on-line until after September 1, 2007. The applications for undergraduate admission in the year 2008 are the State of Texas Common Application for Admission to Texas Public Universities for freshman, transfer and international admission. While a paper application should be available from any high school or community college in Texas, we recommend you access the appropriate application from the State of Texas Common Application Internet address (www.applytexas.org) or the TAMUG internet address (www.tamug.edu). 

A paper application may be obtained from the Office of Student Relations by calling toll free at 1-877-322-4443 or by email at seaaggie@tamug.edu. International students are encouraged to return a paper copy of the application to the Office of Admissions and Records. 

The admission guidelines presented in this catalog are for admission to the Spring, Summer and Fall 2008 semesters. While they are the best guide available, admission criteria are subject to change. 

Types of Admission 

A Freshman student is an applicant who is a citizen or permanent resident of the United States*; is a degree-seeking applicant and is without college credit**; or is still in high school, with or without college credit.

* - Someone who has applied for permanent residency, or who qualifies for Texas residency based on SB 1528. 

** - An applicant who has enrolled in a post-secondary institution since high school graduation, with or without credit received, must apply as a transfer applicant. 

A Transfer student is an applicant who is a citizen or permanent resident of the United States; is a degree-seeking applicant; has graduated from high school or equivalent; has enrolled in a post-secondary institution after graduation from high school; does not have a bachelor’s degree; and does not qualify for readmission. 

An International student is an applicant who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States; and has never enrolled at Texas A&M as an undergraduate degree-seeking student; or is someone who has not graduated from a Texas high school after three years of residence in Texas (if this applies to you, please apply as a U.S. freshman or U.S. transfer applicant).  International students may apply during the following date periods: 

To apply for Summer 2008 - Sept. 1, 2007 to Nov. 1, 2007. 

To apply for Fall 2008 - Sept. 1, 2007 to Feb. 1, 2008. 

To apply for Spring 2009 -  April 1, 2008 to Aug. 1, 2008.

A Readmission student is an applicant who is a former degree-seeking Texas A&M undergraduate student (including an international student); does not have a bachelor’s degree; did not officially register for the previous semester (excluding summer sessions) at Texas A&M. Readmission does not include applicants whose only previous enrollment at Texas A&M has been as a non-degree student. 

A Postbaccalaureate Undergraduate student is an applicant who has a bachelor’s degree and wishes to pursue a second undergraduate degree. These may apply during the following date periods: 

A Non-degree Seeking student is an applicant who wishes to take specific undergraduate course work and does not wish to pursue a degree at Texas A&M. These may apply during the following date periods: 

Items Necessary to Complete an Application File 

Please see the Readmission, International, Postbaccalaureate or Non-degree sections for other items required to complete the transfer application for those types of admission. U.S. citizens completing a non-U.S. high school program should refer to the Texas A&M University Office of International Admissions for questions concerning transcripts, examination results and foreign credentials. 

An application is reviewed to make a decision about admission after all items listed below have been received. The items must be received by the appropriate closing date to assure consideration (please see deadlines on the previous page). 

Texas Common Application - The application is at www.applytexas.org. We prefer that the applicant submit electronically. Fax applications will not be accepted. The applicant must sign the completed application if submitted in paper form. 

Application Fee (check, money order, Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express) 

• Domestic fee is $45, International fee is $75. Graduate application fee is $50. 

• If payment of the application fee creates an extreme financial hardship, please enclose verification of need for a fee waiver. Freshmen should provide a letter from the school counselor verifying need criteria or SAT/ACT fee waiver form. Transfer/Readmission students should provide a letter from post-secondary school financial aid counselor verifying need or a letter verifying state/federal financial assistance (i.e. Pell Grant).  No waiver of the international application fee is available. 

• Checks or money orders are accepted provided they display an agency bank in the United States and have magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) routing numbers at the bottom of the check. Make checks and money orders payable to Texas A&M University at Galveston. The applicant’s name and Social Security Number should be included on the face of the check or money order. Do not send cash.   

Essays 

• Freshmen are required to complete Essay Topics A and B. 
• Transfer applicants are required to complete Essay Topic A. 

SAT or ACT Scores 

• Required of all freshman applicants, including international freshman applicants. 
• Applicants must take the SAT with the writing component or the ACT with the writing component. 
• Scores should be sent directly from the testing agency. 
• The SAT code is 6835; the ACT code is 6592. 
• Test scores with the writing component must be from a test date within five years of the date of planned enrollment. 

Official High School Transcripts 

• Freshman applicants who have not graduated from high school at the time of application must submit an official transcript indicating course work, credits earned, grades and class rank at least through their junior year. 

• If the applicant’s high school does not rank its students, a school profile from the high school must be provided as part of the application file. 

• Freshman and transfer applicants who have graduated from high school at the time of application are to submit an official high school transcript that includes class rank and date of graduation, or a certificate verifying completion of a GED program. 

• If admitted, you will be required to submit a final transcript with graduation data. 

• Readmit and postbaccalaureate applicants are not required to submit a high school transcript as part of the application file. 

• To be considered official, a transcript must bear an original signature of a school official or an original school seal. 

• Transcripts in a language other than English must be accompanied by an official English translation. Applicants who have attended high school both in the U.S. and out of the country should submit official transcripts from each school attended. 

• For students enrolled in the United States, copies of official transcripts from other countries will be accepted provided the copies are on file and verified by the U.S. institution. 

• Fax copies are not official. 

Official College Transcripts: 

• An official transcript is required from every post-secondary institution attended even if the applicant did not earn credit, receive a course grade or the course is not transferable. Course work from one college posted on the transcript of another college will not satisfy this requirement. 
• Official transcripts on paper are to be sent by the sending institution in a sealed envelope. The transcript will not be considered official if the student has had access to the actual transcript. 
• Transcripts in a language other than English must be accompanied by an official English translation. 
• Fax copies are not official. 
• Copies of official foreign transcripts on file at a previously attended U.S. institution are accepted, provided that the copies are verified by the U.S. institution as those accepted for admission. 

Permanent Resident Card 

An applicant who has permanent resident status in the United States must include a copy of both sides of the permanent resident card with the application to complete the application file. If their parent is also a permanent resident, a copy of the parent’s card will be necessary to determine residency. If permanent resident card is not available, provide  a copy of the I-485. 

Notification of Application Status 

You may email the Office of Admissions and Records at TAMUGadmissions@tamug.edu or phone 877-322-4443 or 409-740-4414 to verify that your application has been received and to determine if any credentials are missing. Please allow two weeks for admissions processing. 

The Office of Admissions and Records will make every effort to inform applicants of incomplete files through the applicant website. If incomplete applications are received within one month of the closing date, there may not be sufficient time for the Office of Admissions to notify applicants. All items necessary to complete an application must be received by the Office of Admissions and Records by the closing date to assure consideration for admission. 

Freshman Admissions 

When all credentials necessary to complete a freshman applicant’s file are received during the admission application period, one of the following criteria will be used to determine who will be offered admission: 

1. Top 10% Applicants from Texas High Schools 

Applicants who are Texas residents or who are enrolled in recognized public or private high schools in Texas with a rank in the top 10% of their high school graduating class will be automatically admitted to TAMUG. 

2.  Academic Admits 

Domestic applicants who rank in the top 25% of their high school graduating class, achieve a combined SAT math and SAT critical reading score of at least 1300, with a test score of at least 600 in each of these components of the SAT, or a composite ACT score of at least 30 with a test score of at least 27 in ACT math and ACT English, and meet minimum course work will be automatically admitted to Texas A&M University. These applicants must submit all required credentials by the deadline to qualify for automatic admission. 

3. Other Applicants 

Applicants not meeting the above requirement will have their complete application file reviewed to make an admission decision. Factors considered are: 

A. Minimum Required Coursework 

·         Four years of English. 

·         Three and a half years of mathematics to include Algebra, Geometry, Algebra II and at least one-half year of advanced math. 

·         Three years of science with at least two courses from Biology I, Chemistry I or Physics I. 

Only in exceptional cases will students be admitted without these minimum requirements. Most applicants who are offered admission will have taken courses well beyond the minimum and will have taken advantage of the most challenging courses their high schools offer. 

We also recommend: 

·         Two years of the same foreign language. Graduation from Texas A&M University requires that a student complete two years of the same foreign language in high school or one year of the same foreign language at the college or university level. Completion of these courses in high school is highly recommended. 

B. Information Presented in the Application 

·         Extracurricular activities including time commitment and duration of involvement. 

·         Leadership and/or exceptional talent as shown in extracurricular activities and/or work. 

·         Community/volunteer work including time commitment and duration of involvement. 

·         Awards and achievements earned while in high school. 

·         Employment and/or internships including dates of work and hours per week.  

·         Family educational background and household income. 

C. Essay Topic A and B 

Applicants must submit Essay Topics A and B from the Texas Common Application. 

Information for all Freshman Applicants 

All applicants should use the application questions and the essays to present their academic background and personal strengths as well as personal circumstances. 

Letters of recommendation are not required. If an applicant chooses to submit letters of recommendation, be sure they validate or certify leadership, exceptional talent, or special circumstances. The most helpful letters are from individuals who know the applicant well and who can write about what distinguishes the applicant from other applicants. Please submit no more than two letters of recommendation. Photocopies are acceptable. 

A limited number of applicants who do not have the college preparatory course work or strong academic credentials may be offered provisional admission that requires the successful completion of a Bridge program at Texas A&M University at Galveston. 

Notice of Admission Decision 

Admission decisions are made throughout the application period and announced as soon as possible.  The decision may be to admit, deny or hold the application for additional review. Decisions are made on a rolling basis and are generally made upon file completion. Bridge Program admissions decisions are usually made in early February. 

Suspected Fraudulent Admission Applications 

Applicants for admission to Texas A&M University should be aware that the information submitted will be relied upon by University officials to determine their status for admission and residency for tuition purposes. By signing and submitting an admission application, the applicant certifies that the information in, and submitted with, the application is complete and correct and may be verified by Texas A&M University. The submission of false or incomplete information is grounds for rejection of the application, withdrawal of any offer of acceptance, cancellation of enrollment, or any other appropriate disciplinary action. 

For prospective students (admitted but not enrolled), or for enrolled students, the initial determination of whether an individual has submitted a fraudulent application will be made by the Director of Admissions and Records, with a final right of appeal to the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs.  

Any University official who suspects that a prospective student or enrolled student has submitted a fraudulent admission application must notify the Director of Admissions and Records. 

Transfer Admissions 

Transfer applicants are admitted to a specific major and are required to follow the curriculum of that major. Students who begin a set of courses which have a two-semester sequence are encouraged to complete both courses in the sequence before transferring to Texas A&M. 

Admission Criteria 

Most transfer admission decisions are made through a competitive review process. A transfer student is deemed as one who has registered at another college or university. An applicant may not disregard the academic record of any previous education received at another institution, other than exceptions stipulated under the Texas Academic Fresh Start Program. 

• Transfer applicants must have at least a 2.5 grade point ratio (GPR) on at least 24 graded semester hours of transferable course work at the time of application to be considered. 
• Applicants who drop or withdraw from courses frequently and who do not achieve satisfactory grades routinely will be at a disadvantage in the review for admission. 
• Spring grades may be used in the fall admission decision if received by June 1. 
• The entire application, including Essay Topic A, is considered to identify admissible candidates. 

Admission may be granted to undergraduate students who have begun their work at other colleges or universities and have also satisfied the requirements as set forth below. 

• An applicant must be eligible to return to the institution from which the transfer is sought. 
• Applicants seeking admission to the license-option curricula who have attended another maritime academy or college must provide a letter to the Superintendent of the Texas Maritime Training Program from the Superintendent of the other academy or college verifying that the student is eligible to return to that institution. 
• Transfer applicants are required to submit an official high school transcript. 

Applicants must also submit a formal application for admission as well as official transcripts of their record at each college or university previously attended as early as possible. This material should be sent to the Office of Admissions and Records, Texas A&M University at Galveston, P.O. Box 1675, Galveston, Texas 77553-1675. 

The applicant must have achieved an overall grade point ratio of 2.5 or better on the work attempted and must meet or surpass this same standard for each of the last two semesters of attendance, if in attendance two or more semesters. A 10-week summer session with a normal load of course work will be considered a full semester. To assist preparation for admission and enrollment at Texas A&M, the following foundation course pattern has been developed. Texas A&M course equivalencies to the Texas Common Course Numbering System (TCCNS) may be found at http://www.tccns.org/matrix/index.htm.  

The number of hours and the grades earned on transferable courses in the foundation are the primary criteria used to make transfer admissions decisions. Priority will be given to students with a minimum of 24 semester credit hours. However, applicants with a minimum of 12 semester credit hours will be considered. 

Foundation Courses for Transfer Students 

On the basis of the credentials submitted, credit will be given for work completed satisfactorily at another properly accredited college or university as long as the work is equivalent in character and extent to similar work at Texas A&M University at Galveston or Texas A&M University. Credits given by transfer are provisional and may be canceled at any time if the student’s work at the University is unsatisfactory. See the section entitled “Transfer of Credits” for additional information. Students will be classed by the number of credits transferred. Depending on the number of transferred credits used in the student’s degree plan, a student could be classed as a senior but be a curriculum sophomore. 

Transfer students should read carefully the next section of this catalog entitled “Residency Requirements for a Baccalaureate Degree,” which explains residency requirements. 

Residence Requirement for Baccalaureate Degree 

A candidate for a baccalaureate degree at Texas A&M University at Galveston must successfully complete a minimum of 36 semester hours of 300- and/or 400-level course work in residence at Texas A&M University at Galveston or College Station to qualify for a baccalaureate degree. A minimum of 12 of these semester hours must be in the major. 

Candidates for license-option curricula must complete the last two years of the minimum three-year training requirement at Texas A&M University at Galveston and participate in the Corps of Cadets. Students enrolled in a license-option curriculum are required to participate in the Corps of Cadets every semester they are registered. Generally this will be eight regular semesters and three summer cruises. 

Change of Curriculum to Another Campus 

Texas A&M offers course work off campus. Participation in such programs or course work does not give the participant automatic campus enrollment privileges. Students are eligible to change to another campus, center or location only after completion of a minimum of 30 hours earned with at least a 2.5 GPA while enrolled as a student in residence at the campus, center or location of admission. For a change of curriculum to be approved, students must meet the conditions of their desired curriculum and space must be available at the campus, center or location of desired enrollment. Final approval is granted by the academic dean of the college that administers the curriculum. 

Transfer Course Credit Policies 

Transfer credit on course work complete at the time of application to Texas A&M University is transferable only when an official transcript from the originating institution is presented as part of the application for admission or readmission process. 

The transfer of course credit will be determined by the Office of Admissions and Records on a course-by-course basis. Credit submitted for transfer must be on an official transcript received by the Office of Admissions and Records from the registrar of the institution where the credit was earned. Course content will be determined from the catalog description or the syllabus. The transfer of credit decision will be based on the following criteria. All criteria are to be considered together; for example, criteria 10 may be qualified by criteria 7. 

Credit from Institutions Accredited by One of the Regional Accrediting Associations 

1.       A course that is normally considered as part of a bachelor’s degree program (not including the bachelor of technology or similar terminal degree) may be transferred. The following criteria, taken together, are used: 

a.       The course is applicable to a bachelor’s degree at TAMUG. 

b.       The course is similar to a course or courses offered for degree credit by TAMUG. 

c.       The course content is at or above the level of the beginning course in the subject matter offered by TAMUG. 

2.      A course that is intended for use in a vocational, technical or occupational program will normally not transfer. In certain cases, credit for occupational skill courses will be considered. Transfer of this credit requires either that the student’s Texas A&M major is engineering technology or industrial distribution or that the student’s major department and dean approve the course for use in the student’s degree program. 

3.      Credit for support courses such as math, science and English intended specifically for use in an occupational program will not be transferred.  

4.      Credit for the course must be shown on the official transcript in semester hours or in units that are readily converted to semester hours. 

5.      A graduate-level course will not be transferred for undergraduate credit unless approved for use in the student’s undergraduate degree program by the student’s major department and dean. This also applies for a course offered in a professional degree program such as nursing, law or medicine. 

6.      Credit by examination courses which are transcripted from other colleges or universities may be transferred if sequential course work with credit is also indicated. If there is evidence that the credit by examination courses are part of the student’s program of study at that institution, credit will be awarded for those courses that meet the transfer guidelines. 

7.      Courses similar to ones offered by the Colleges of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Business, Geosciences, Engineering or TAMUG at the junior or senior level transfer by title only. Such courses may be used in the student’s degree program only if approved by the department head and dean of the student’s major field. Validation of such credit, either by examination or the completion of a higher level course, may be required. 

8.      A field experience, internship or student teaching course may be transferred by title only. 

9.       Credit for cooperative education will not be transferred. 

10.     A course that is substantially equivalent to a TAMUG course transfers as an equivalent course. Two or more courses may be combined to form one or more equivalent courses. If there is doubt about the equivalency of a course, the TAMUG department offering the course subject matter is asked to determine if the course is equivalent. 

11.    As a general policy, credit for admission will be given for transfer work satisfactorily completed with a passing grade at another properly accredited institution. 

12.     Grade Point Ratio (GPR) for any period shall be computed by dividing the total number of semester hours of transferable courses for which the student received grades into the total number of grade points earned in that period. Credit hours to which grades equivalent to TAMUG grades of W, WF, F, I or U are assigned shall be included; those having grades equivalent to TAMUG grades of WP, Q, S, X and NG shall be excluded. 

13.     In any case where a decision cannot be made using the above criteria, the Office of Admissions and Records will determine the transfer of credit based on University policy, previous actions of the University and prior experience. 

Resolution of Transfer Disputes for Lower Division Courses Between Public Institutions in Texas 

The following procedures shall be followed by public institutions of higher education in the resolution of credit transfer disputes involving lower-division courses: 

1.       If an institution of higher education does not accept course credit earned by a student at another institution of higher education, the receiving institution shall give written notice to the student and to the sending institution that transfer of the course credit is denied. A receiving institution shall also provide written notice of the reasons for denying credit for a particular course or set of courses at the request of the sending institution. 

2.       A student who receives notice as specified in subsection 1 may dispute the denial of credit by contacting a designated official at either the sending or the receiving institution. 

3.       The two institutions and the student shall attempt to resolve the transfer of the course credit in accordance with Board rules and guidelines. 

4.       If the transfer dispute is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student or the sending institution within 45 days after the date the student received written notice of denial, the institution that denies the course credit for transfer shall notify the Commissioner of its denial and the reasons for the denial. 

The Commissioner of Higher Education or the Commissioner’s designee shall make the final determination about the dispute concerning the transfer of course credit and give written notice of the determination to the involved student and institutions. 

Credit from Nonaccredited Schools 

Students who transfer to TAMUG from an institution of higher education that is not accredited by one of the regional accrediting associations may validate the work taken at the institution by one of the following methods: 

1.      Successful completion of a comprehensive departmental examination or nationally standardized examination that is approved by the department. 

2.       Successful completion of a higher level course in the same subject area when approved by the head of the department and the dean of the college. 

Credit will be given to students transferring from nonaccredited public colleges in Texas for work completed with grades of C or better if they earn a grade point of 2.0 C average) on the first 30 hours of residence work at TAMUG. 

Credit from Abroad 

Transfer work from institutions following other than the United States educational system with instruction in English will be evaluated on an individual basis. A-level examinations will transfer. Baccalaureate II examinations will not transfer; however, these students may take placement and proficiency examinations to receive credit by examination. Credit will be given for work satisfactorily completed at international institutions offering programs recognized by Texas A&M. Official credentials submitted directly from the Office of the Registrar and a listing of courses completed and grades awarded must accompany any request for transfer credit. Transfer work will be awarded by course title unless previous arrangements have been made using the Texas A&M University Study Abroad Transfer Credit Agreement Form. Courses must be equivalent in character and content to courses offered at Texas A&M. 

No English composition courses will be transferred from institutions located in non-English speaking countries. American history and American political science (government) courses will not transfer from foreign institutions. Courses taken at language training centers or institutes are generally not awarded transfer credit. A transcript from such an institution must be issued through the office of a Texas A&M recognized university, institute or language training center. Carefully check the credentials of all language centers and language institutes. 

Credit for Military Experience 

The University follows, with limitations, the recommendations of the American Council on Education (ACE) as published in the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Forces in granting credit for military service schools. At a minimum, the following guidance applies: 

Courses must be in the “baccalaureate/associate degree category” as defined by the ACE guide. This precludes acceptance of almost all of vocational, technical or certificate category courses, or military occupational specialties or job experience. 

Students who have completed one year of active duty in the armed forces of the United States may be given academic credit for 4 semester hours for basic ROTC and 4 semester hours of Physical Activity (KINE 199). 

For consideration of credit for military service schools, the applicant may submit the following military records: 

1.       A certified original of the DD Form 295, or 

2.       A copy of the DD Form 214, or 

3.       Course completion certificates. 

4.       Army/ACE  Registry Transcript System (AARTS). 

5.       Sailor/Marine ACE Registry Transcript System (SMARTS). 

Extension and Correspondence Courses 

Students may apply a maximum total of 30 semester hours of approved extension class work and correspondence study toward a degree. Students may apply up to 12 hours of correspondence credit earned through an accredited institution toward the requirements for an undergraduate degree, even though Texas A&M does not offer courses by correspondence. The Office of Academic Enhancement is authorized to act as an agent to receive correspondence courses. 

Correspondence courses taken through the Defense Activity for Nontraditional Education Support (DANTES) may be accepted and included in the 12 hours allowed. 

In order for a student in residence at Texas A&M to receive credit for correspondence work toward a bachelor’s degree, he or she should: 

• obtain advance written permission from the dean of his or her college; 
• present appropriate evidence of having completed the course. 

International Student Admissions 

International students (non-U.S. citizens) with superior academic records will be considered for admission to Texas A&M University at Galveston through the International Admissions Office of Texas A&M University (College Station). For information about application requirements, deadlines, admissions criteria, expenses and English language proficiency, international students should refer to the Texas A&M University Catalog or contact International Admissions, Texas A&M University, P. O. Box 30014, College Station, TX 77842-3014. Phone: 979-845-1071. Email: international-admission@tamu.edu. 

Transcripts/Examination Results 

Official academic records (transcripts, marksheets, etc.) are required for all secondary and any university work completed. Records should include all courses taken in high school and every college or university the applicant has attended. Official records require the original seal or signature of the registrar, principal, headmaster or director of student records. Official records should be mailed from the school directly to Texas A&M University, Office of Admissions and Records. 

Examination results should be sent directly from the examination agency. In addition to the original records in a language other than English, Texas A&M requires official translations in English. Translations sent directly from the institution attended or from a recognized translator will be accepted. For students enrolled in the United States, we will accept copies of official transcripts from other countries that are on file and verified by the U.S. institution. Unofficial photocopies, fax copies, notarized copies of records, examination results or translations will not be accepted. 

Admission Criteria for International Applicants with U.S. Based Credentials 

International applicants that are completing their education at an institution that is accredited by the U.S. will be reviewed in accordance with the guidelines determined for domestic admission. However, these applicants must still meet international deadlines and testing requirements. (See item 2 below.) 

Admission Criteria for International Applicants with Foreign Credentials 

International applicants that are completing their education at an institution that is not accredited by the U.S. will be reviewed based on the following criteria: 

1. Academic Achievement 

• International applicants are expected to complete an educational program that will permit them to be considered for admission to a university in their home country. Examples include the completion of Grade 13, Form 6 or 3A-level exams following O-levels. Predicted A-level exam results must be received by the application closing date. 
• Successful applicants will rank near the top of their country’s educational system (B average or better) and score well above average on national exams. 
• Secondary school courses: Appropriate college preparatory course work is required. 

2. Testing: SAT or ACT scores (with writing component) will be considered in the review criteria for international freshman applicants. Applicants whose native language is not English are required to demonstrate English proficiency by meeting any one of the following requirements: 

• TOEFL scores of 550 paper-based test, 213 computer-based test, or 80 internet-based test 
• IELTS with a 6.0 overall band score 
• SAT Critical Reading score of 480 or higher 
• ACT English score of 19 or higher 
• Completed all four years of high school from a U.S. accredited high school. 

3. Individual Achievement and Recognition 

• Leadership positions held 
• Honors/awards received 
• Major national, state or Texas A&M scholarships received 

Unofficial photocopies, fax copies and notarized copies of records, examination results or translations will not be accepted. 

Additional Requirements for International Applicants After Admission 

If admitted, international applicants must fulfill the following additional requirements before enrollment: 

1.       Declaration and Certification of Finances and Transfer-In Form 

A Financial Resource Statement is sent with a letter of acceptance. This form must be completed and returned to Texas A&M University before the Certificate of Eligibility (I-20 or DS-2019) is issued. The Transfer-In Form is also mailed with the acceptance letter to all international applicants who are attending a school in the United States. 

2.       Advance Deposit 

Because of monetary restrictions in some countries, a full year’s expenses may be required as a deposit from some accepted applicants. When the student enrolls, the deposit is applied to the first semester expenses. The deposit is refunded to admitted applicants who do not attend Texas A&M. 

3.       English Verification/Certification 

Texas A&M requires International undergraduate students to demonstrate the ability to speak, write and understand the English language. Undergraduate students may meet this requirement in one of five ways: 

A.       official TOEFL score of 600 paper-based test, 250 computer-based test, or 100 internet-based test; 

B.       official IELTS score of 7.0 overall band; 

C.       have an official SAT Verbal of 480, or ACT English score of 19 and attended grades nine through twelve of U.S. secondary education and graduate from an accredited U.S. high school; 

D.       transfer from an accredited U.S. institution of higher education with at least 30 semester credit hours, including the equivalent to Texas A&M ENGL 104; or 

E.       achieve English Language Proficiency Verification by taking the English Language Proficiency Examination (ELPE) prior to registration for the first semester at Texas A&M University. If remedial English classes are necessary, it will extend the time required to complete a degree. 

Scholarship Information for International Students 

Texas law allows a limited number of admitted applicants who are citizens of Mexico and who can document financial need to receive an award which allows them to pay the same tuition as residents of the State of Texas. Some scholarships are not available for first-time international students. All students are encouraged to complete on-line scholarship applications through the student Financial Aid Office. Additional information and application forms are available from International Student Services/Texas A&M University, 1226 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1226. Phone: 979-845-1825. Email: iss@tamu.edu. Website: international.tamu.edu\iss\ 

For additional information, please contact International Admissions/Texas A&M University, P.O. Box  40002, College Station, TX 77842-4002. Phone 979-845-1071. Email: international-admissions@tamu.edu. 

Other Types of Admissions 

Provisional Admission Criteria 

Using the application questions and essay topic, all applicants should present complete information  about their academic background, personal strengths and circumstances to the best of their ability. A limited number of applicants who do not have all of the college preparatory course work or strong academic credentials may be offered provisional admission that requires the successful completion of a Bridge program at TAMUG. This program requires attendance on campus at TAMUG. 

Readmission Criteria 

Admission decisions for readmission are based on the following: 

• GPR on Texas A&M course work; 
• GPR on course work since leaving Texas A&M; 
• Desired major; and 
• Information presented in the application. 
• If you were previously admitted but did not attend class through the official census date, you must apply as either a freshman or transfer student. 

Transcripts from institutions attended since the last enrollment at Texas A&M are required as follows: 

Postbaccalaureate Undergraduate Student 

Admission is limited and is intended for applicants with a degree who wish to apply for further study at the undergraduate level to pursue a second bachelor’s degree. 

Additional requirements to complete a postbaccalaureate application: 

• An official transcript indicating the receipt of a recognized baccalaureate degree. 
  • A statement explaining why enrollment at Texas A&M is necessary. 
  • Official transcripts from all colleges attended (official high school transcript not required). 

Admission decisions for postbaccalaureate undergraduates consider: 

• GPR on transferable college course work. 
• Completion of prerequisite course work. 
• Information presented in the application. 

Priority is given to qualified applicants for their initial degree; therefore, postbaccalaureate undergraduate admission may be limited or may not be available. See the Classification section of this catalog for the enrollment rights and privileges of this classification. 

Undergraduate Non-degree Criteria 

Admission is limited and is intended for applicants with a high school diploma (with the exception of high school concurrent enrollment participants) or for degree applicants who do not intend to pursue a baccalaureate degree at Texas A&M. This includes: 

• Local residents or University employees taking courses on a part-time basis. 
• Applicants completing established Texas A&M University requirements for teacher or other certification. 
• Applicants completing a prescribed set of courses as preparation for application to graduate studies or professional programs (i.e., medical school, veterinary school, law school or CPA exam). 
• Others as deemed appropriate by the Office of Admissions and Records and the college or program of admission. 

Additional requirements to complete an undergraduate non-degree application: 

• A statement explaining why enrollment at Texas A&M is desired. 
• A complete, official transcript showing high school graduation or the highest and latest collegiate course work attempted or completed. 
• Additional information presented in the application may be considered. 

Priority is given to qualified applicants for their initial bachelor’s degree; therefore, non-degree admission may be limited or not available. See the Classification section of this catalog for the enrollment rights and privileges of this classification. 

Transient Session Only Criteria 

Admission is considered for applicants who wish to attend one specific session only and who present appropriate credentials for the level of specified course work and apply within the processing period for the specific session. 

Additional requirements to complete transient session only application are: 

• A statement explaining why enrollment at Texas A&M is desired. 
• A complete, official transcript showing the highest and latest collegiate course work attempted or completed. 

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Academic Fresh Start Policy

Applicants for admission or readmission to Texas A&M may choose to have academic course work that was completed at least 10 years prior to their term of application removed from consideration in the admission decision (Texas residents only). All other admission requirements apply. Should a Fresh Start applicant be admitted, he or she will forfeit all credit earned prior to 10 years from the term of admission. 

Admitted Fresh Start applicants have “Academic Fresh Start” indicated on their official Texas A&M transcript, are required to satisfy THEA requirements, and will follow the academic requirements of the Undergraduate Catalog of record for the term of admission. 

Forfeited course work cannot be considered as prerequisites, but placement examinations are allowed for courses which were not considered for admission because of the Fresh Start Policy. Once admitted on Academic Fresh Start, the applicant or student cannot subsequently request that the Fresh Start policy restrictions be removed. 

If an applicant has used the Academic Fresh Start Policy at a previous school, the Academic Fresh Start will remain in effect at Texas A&M upon transfer. 

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Course Credit and Testing

Credit by Examination 

Undergraduate students at Texas A&M may earn course credits by demonstrating superior achievement on tests offered through several examination programs. Credit by examination is available to freshmen who plan to enter the University and to students who are currently enrolled. Credit earned by examination does not contribute to a student’s grade point ratio. The University awards credit for scores on certain tests published by the Advanced Placement Program (AP), the College Level Examination Program Computer-Based Testing (CLEP CBT),  the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST), and the SAT Subject Tests . Texas A&M also offers qualified students opportunities to earn credits by taking departmental examinations prepared by the faculty. Information concerning credit by examination may be obtained from the Office of Academic Enhancement, 409-741-4341. 

College Level Examination Program Computer-Based Testing (CLEP CBT) 

CLEP CBT tests are designed to evaluate nontraditional college-level education such as independent study, correspondence work, etc. Both enrolled undergraduate students and entering freshmen may receive CLEP CBT credit for the courses which are listed below. Only examination titles below are currently accepted. The minimum scores listed below are based on the current version of CLEP CBT Examinations. 

* Students must qualify on both the objective and essay parts of the CLEP CBT test. 

** Students who score 50 or higher are encouraged to attempt the departmental examination for the opportunity of obtaining additional credit. 

† Students are not eligible to earn ENGL 104 credit by examination if they have earned more than 90 semester credit hours. 

Advanced Placement Program (AP) 

Examinations offered by the AP are administered during late spring by high schools. Students usually take the examinations after completing Advanced Placement courses, although experience in an AP course is not required. Interested students should contact their high school counselors for information concerning registration and test sites. High school students and currently enrolled students should have the College Board forward their scores to the Office of Academic Enhancement. Advanced Placement scores of entering freshmen are generally received in late July. 

The following list includes all AP examinations currently accepted for credit. 

International Baccalaureate (IB) 

Texas A&M University, in compliance with SB111, will grant at least 24 semester credit hours of course-specific college credit in subject-appropriate areas on all International Baccalaureate (IB) exam scores of 4 or above as long as the incoming freshman has earned an IB diploma. While some course credit will be awarded regardless of a student’s IB diploma status, some course credit at Texas A&M University may be subject to the successful completion of the IB diploma. 

Entering freshman students should submit their International Baccalaureate transcript to Texas A&M University, score recipient code: 01355, for review. Students should contact the Office of Academic Enhancement regarding their eligibility for course credit. Students should work with an academic advisor to determine the use of the IB credits in their individual degree plan and the impact accepting the credit may have upon tuition rebate eligibility, tuition charges for excessive total hours, and preparedness for sequential course work based on IB test scores. Students will need to contact the Office of Academic Enhancement in order to accept or deny the credit earned via IB tests. 

Texas A&M University will notify IB applicants of their eligibility to receive credit by posting information on the website, www.tamu.edu/mars/testingsite/HTMLfiles/highschool.htm, and by establishing links to other web pages that are relevant to applicant students. The evaluation of IB courses in order to identify the appropriate course credit is continuing and will be posted as it becomes available. 

* Credit for MATH 151 may be substituted for MATH 131, 142 or 171. 

Dantes Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) Program 

The DSST Program is available to all interested persons. These tests are untimed. Enrolled undergraduate students and entering freshmen may receive DSST credit for the courses listed below. For more information about the test, please contact the Office of Academic Enhancement. 

SAT Subject Tests 

Credits are offered to entering freshmen who score high on the SAT Subject Tests. High school students who are interested in taking these tests should contact their school counselors or write College Board ATP, Box 592, Princeton, NJ 08541. 

* The minimum score required is based on the re-centered scale. Students who took tests before April 1, 1995 should contact the Office of Academic Enhancement to determine the minimum score required. 

Departmental Examinations for Entering Freshmen and Currently Enrolled Students 

Qualified entering freshmen may take departmental tests during New Student Conferences prior to initial enrollment at Texas A&M University at Galveston. Entering freshmen and currently enrolled students can also take the exams throughout the year. Check the Academic Enhancement website (http://www.tamug.edu/acen/) for eligibility requirements. A testing date may be reserved when registering for a Conference. All new and currently enrolled students should contact the Office of Academic Enhancement for registration information to seek credit for the following courses: 

Foreign Languages (up to four semesters of course work in French, German, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Russian and Spanish) 

Please note these regulations concerning credit by examination: 

1. Test scores and/or credit eligibility must be reported formally to Office of Academic Enhancement for credit by examination to be awarded. Credit is posted to the academic record once appropriate scores are received by the Office of Academic Enhancement and the student has officially enrolled in the University. 

2. Students may not receive credit by examination for courses that are prerequisites to courses for which they already have credit except with the approval of the department authorizing the examination. 

3. A student may not have credit posted for credit by examination for a course in which he or she is currently registered or has acquired a grade other than Q, W or NG. 

Texas Success Initiative (TSI) 

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) was instituted to ensure that students enrolled in Texas public colleges and universities possess the necessary academic skills to perform effectively in college and to provide diagnostic information about reading, writing and mathematics skills of each student. All undergraduate students who did not meet one of the allowed exemptions must take the Texas Higher Education Assessment (THEA) test or an approved alternative. 

Students who do not meet established cutoff scores or other approved exemptions for the THEA test are required by Texas law to be enrolled in, and actively attend, an academic skills course and/or program each semester prior to completing all TSI requirements. Academic skills courses in each of the three TSI areas are offered by Texas A&M. Failure to meet the attendance requirements of the academic skills course will result in withdrawal from Texas A&M. The hours for these courses will not count toward any degree program but may count toward determining full-time status. Students required to take the THEA test should have their scores sent by the testing agency to Texas A&M University at Galveston. 

More information can be obtained from testing centers at most Texas public colleges and universities or by contacting: 

National Evaluation Systems, Inc.
P. O. Box 140347
Austin, TX 78714-0347
512-927-5397
http://www.thea.nesinc.com

or

TAMUG Office of Academic Enhancement
P.O. Box 1675
Galveston, TX 77553-1675
409-741-4343

Senior Citizens

Senior citizens, 65 years old or older, may, with the permission of the instructor, audit courses if space is available in the assigned classroom. It is not necessary for senior citizens to be admitted to the University and academics records of their attendance will not be maintained. 

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Registration and Academic Status

Registration for the fall and spring semesters is accomplished at several times. In the preceding fall and spring semester (during November and April), a preregistration period is held for currently enrolled and readmitted students to register for the next semester. There are periods of announced open registration for students who were unable to preregister during the scheduled preregistration period. New Student Conferences serve as an opportunity for new undergraduate students to register. During the week before classes begin for a particular semester, there is a delayed registration period for students who have not already registered. Further information concerning registration may be obtained from the academic calendar published in this catalog or from the Office of Admissions and Records. The Class Schedule is posted at www.tamug.edu (available shortly before pre-registration periods).  

Academic Advising 

Academic advising is coordinated and supervised by the academic department. Within departments, faculty members or advising specialists are available to assist students with course selection, academic program planning and curriculum-related advising in general. If a student has special problems, the department head may be consulted. 

Full-Time Student 

A full-time undergraduate student is defined as one who is registered for 12 semester hours during a fall or spring semester, 4 hours in a five-week summer term and 8 hours in a 10-week summer semester. A Q grade or W grade does not count toward the certification of enrollment status. Only hours for which a student is currently enrolled at Texas A&M University at Galveston can be used toward certification of enrollment. A license option student registered for summer cruise (NAUT 200, 300, 400 or MARE 200, 300, 400) will be considered a full time student. 

Undergraduates Registering for Graduate Courses 

A senior undergraduate student with a cumulative grade point ratio of at least 3.00 or approval of his/her academic dean, is eligible to enroll in a graduate course and reserve it for graduate credit by filing a petition obtained from the student’s undergraduate department and approved by the course instructor, the student’s major department head and the Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs. 

An academically superior undergraduate student with a cumulative grade point ratio of at least 3.25 or approval of his/her academic dean, is eligible to apply graduate credit hours toward his/her undergraduate degree program by filing a petition obtained from the student’s undergraduate department and approved by the course instructor, the student’s major department head  and the Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs. Graduate credit hours used to meet the requirements for a baccalaureate degree may not be used to meet the requirements for a graduate degree. 

Maximum Schedule 

An undergraduate student with an overall grade point ratio of 3.0 or better may register for a course load in excess of 19 hours in a fall or spring semester or 6 hours (7 if part is laboratory) in a summer term with the approval of his or her advisor. An undergraduate student with an overall grade point ratio of less than 3.0 must obtain approval of his or her undergraduate department head before registering for a course load in excess of 19 hours in a fall or spring semester or 6 hours (7 if part is laboratory) in a summer term. 

Classification 

Each student has a classification which indicates the type of degree program in which the student is enrolled (undergraduate, graduate or professional), and reflects the student’s progress within that program at the undergraduate and professional levels. The classifications are: 

Academic Status

Distinguished Student and Dean’s Honor Roll* 

An undergraduate student who completes a semester schedule of at least 15 hours or a summer session schedule of at least 12 hours with no grade lower than C and with a grade point ratio of not less than 3.5 for the semester or for a summer session shall be designated “distinguished student.” A student who, under the same circumstances, achieves a grade point ratio of at least 3.75 shall also be designated as a member of the “dean’s honor roll.” First semester freshmen must complete a semester schedule of at least 15 hours with no grade lower than a C, no Q-drops and with a grade point ratio of not less than 3.5 for “distinguished student” designation and a 3.75 for “dean’s honor roll.” Official notification of these designations will be issued to the student by the dean of the student’s college. The hours earned with a grade of S shall not be included in determining minimum hours required for the designation of “distinguished student” or “dean’s honor roll.” A grade of I or U disqualifies a student from being considered as a “distinguished student” or for the “dean’s honor roll.” Students who use grade exclusion must still meet the minimum of requirements in hours and grades to qualify for the appropriate honors. Grades of Q, W and NG may not be included in the 15 graded hours. Only undergraduate courses or graduate courses used for the undergraduate degree will be used in either honors calculation. 

Scholastic Probation 

Scholastic probation is a conditional permission for an undergraduate student to continue in the University after he or she has become scholastically deficient. For University policy regarding scholastic deficiency and scholastic probation, see the Texas A&M University at Galveston University Student Rules at www.tamug.edu/stulife. 

Withdrawal from the University 

A student wishing to withdraw from the University before the completion of a semester or summer term is required to comply with the official withdrawal procedure. This process is initiated with the Office of Admissions and Records. Students may not withdraw after the Q-drop deadline. The Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs will retain the authority to support a student withdrawal after the deadline. 

During the summer session, a student must withdraw from the University under the following circumstances: 

1.      If the student is currently enrolled in only one of the following terms and decides to drop to zero hours (withdraw) in that term: 

o                    first 5-week summer term 

o                    second 5-week summer term 

o                    10-week summer semester 

2.      If the student is currently enrolled in the 10-week summer semester and either of the 5-week terms and decides to drop to zero hours (withdraw) in both terms. 

When a student withdraws from the University between the first class day, but before the Q-drop deadline, the Office of Admissions and Records will assign a grade of W to all courses enrolled in that semester. Any courses previously graded for that semester will be changed to W, and the W grades will be displayed on the permanent record. 

Correct Addresses 

It is necessary to have a correct residence address on file with the University. Students may change their address on the website myrecord.tamu.edu. International students must have a correct physical and permanent address. International students must go to the International Student Services Office to change the physical and the permanent address. The University assumes no obligation for failure of a student to receive communications. Texas A&M uses Neo for official communications with currently enrolled students. It is each student’s responsibility to claim his/her Neo account at neo.tamu.edu. 

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Grading System

Because students attend a college or university to extend their education, grades are usually taken as an indication of the proficiency of their endeavors. The student’s semester grade in a course shall be based upon performance and/or participation in class, exercises and tests, laboratory work and final examination as applicable to the course. The proportionate weight assigned to each of the factors shall be determined by the department administering the course. The basis upon which the final grade will be determined shall be distributed in written form to the class during the first two weeks of a semester and during the first week of a summer term. There are five passing grades at the undergraduate level, A, B, C, D and S, representing varying degrees of achievement; these letters carry grade points and significance as follows: 

A        Excellent, 4 grade points per semester hour 

B        Good, 3 grade points per semester hour 

C        Satisfactory, 2 grade points per semester hour 

D        Passing, 1 grade point per semester hour 

F        Failing, no grade points (hours included in GPR) 

I         Incomplete, no grade points (hours not included in GPR) 

NG      No grade, course dropped without penalty (hours not included in GPR) 

Q        Dropped course with no penalty (hours not included in GPR) 

S        Satisfactory © or above), hours not included in GPR 

U        Unsatisfactory (D or F), no grade points (hours included in GPR) 

X        No grade submitted (hours not included in GPR) 

W       Withdrew, hours not included in GPR (effective Spring 1996) 

F*      Aggie Honor Code violation 

There are two failing grades, F and U, indicating work of unsatisfactory quality. 

Repetition of a Course to Improve Grade 

Any undergraduate student who wishes to repeat a course must do so before he or she completes a more advanced course in the same subject. What constitutes a more advanced course will be determined by the head of the department offering the course. 

Credit for a course failed may be obtained only by registering and repeating the course in class. The original grade will remain on the student’s permanent record, and both grades will be used in computing the GPR. A F or U previously made is not removed once the course is passed. Credit for each repeated course may only be used once toward degree requirements. 

A student repeating a course in which a grade of B or better has been earned will not receive grade points for the repeated course, unless the catalog states the course may be repeated for credit. 

First Year Grade Exclusion Policy 

A fully admitted, currently enrolled Texas A&M undergraduate student as defined by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board as “first time in college”* may elect to exclude from his/her undergraduate degree and cumulative GPR calculation grades of D, F or U. This exclusion shall be permitted for up to a maximum of three courses taken for credit at Texas A&M University during the twelve month period beginning with the student’s initial enrollment at Texas A&M. 

The first year grade exclusion option may be used by current “first time in college” freshmen for courses taken in the twelve months beginning with their initial enrollment at Texas A&M. Sophomores, juniors and seniors also may use the exclusions for courses taken in their first twelve months as “first time in college” freshmen, dating from initial enrollment. All courses chosen for first year grade exclusion shall remain on the official transcript and be designated on the transcript as excluded. First year grade exclusion cannot be invoked after a baccalaureate degree has been conferred upon the student. First Year Grade Exclusion requests for degree candidates must be received in the Office of Admissions and Records not later than 5 p.m. the day midterm grades are due when the student is graduating in a fall or spring semester or not later than 5 p.m. Friday of the third week of class for the second summer session when the student is graduating in August. Additional information may be found at student-rules.tamu.edu or admissions.tamu.edu/Registrar/Current/GradeEXPolicy.aspx. 

*First time in college: an undergraduate, degree seeking, student who applied and enrolled in college for the first time regardless of whether the student has acquired college level credit through testing, advanced placement or summer enrollment. 

I and X Grades 

A temporary grade of I (incomplete) at the end of a semester or summer term indicates that the student (graduate or undergraduate) has completed the course with the exception of a major quiz, final examination or other work. The instructor shall give this grade only when the deficiency is due to an authorized absence or other cause beyond the control of the student. When an instructor reports an incomplete grade to the Office of Admissions and Records, he or she will fill out an “Incomplete Grade Report,” which is filed with the department head. Copies are sent to the student and to the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs. This report includes (1) a statement of the instructor’s reason for awarding the incomplete grade and (2) a statement concerning the remaining work to be completed before the last day of scheduled classes of the next fall or spring semester in which the student enrolls in the University unless the student’s academic dean, with the consent of the instructor (in the absence of the instructor, the department head), grants an extension of time for good reason. If the incomplete work is not completed within this time or if the student registers for the same course again, the I will be changed to an F by the Office of Admissions and Records. Grades of I assigned to 684, 691, 692 or 693 are excluded from this rule. 

The X notation is assigned to a course by the Office of Admissions and Records at the end of a semester or summer term only when a grade is not submitted by the instructor. 

The Office of Admissions and Records will notify the department head of the department offering the course that an X notation has been made. The department head of the department offering the course will request that the instructor submit a Grade Change Report Form removing the X notation and assigning a letter grade with a Grade Change Report. The instructor will have 30 days from the beginning of the succeeding semester or summer term to report a change of grade to the Office of Admissions and Records. If a Change of Grade Report is not received during this time period, the Office of Admissions and Records will automatically remove the X notation and assign a grade of F.  Grades of X assigned to 684, 691 or 692 are excluded from this rule. 

Q-Drop and Add and Drop 

1.       A student may enroll in a class during the first five class days during the fall or spring semester or during the first four class days of the summer terms or a 10-week summer semester. A student requesting to add a course after these deadlines must have the approval of the student’s dean and department. 

2.       A student may drop a course with no record during the first five class days of a fall or spring semester and during the first four class days of a summer term or a 10-week summer semester. Following this period, if approved by the dean of the student’s college, a student may drop a course without penalty through the 50th class day of a fall or spring semester, the 15th class day of summer term or the 35th class day of a 10-week summer semester. The symbol Q shall be given to indicate a drop without penalty. Undergraduate students will normally be permitted three Q-drops during their undergraduate studies. Additional Q-drops will be allowed only in unusual circumstances as determined by a student’s dean. 

3.       Any course taught on a shortened format or between regularly scheduled terms will have add/drop, Q-grade and withdrawal dates proportionally the same as if the course were offered in a regular term. These dates will be determined by the Office of Admissions and Records. 

4.       A student who drops a course after Q-drop period has elapsed will receive a grade of F unless unusual circumstances exist as determined by the student’s dean. A grade of W may be recorded by the dean of the student’s college if it is determined such circumstances do exist. 

Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory 

1.       Students must register for courses on a S/U basis during official registration periods and shall not be permitted to change the basis on which their grades will be recorded on their official transcripts, except for unusual circumstances and with the approval of the student’s academic dean. All students entering Texas A&M University at Galveston in the Fall 2001 semester or later must enroll in their first KINE 199 on a S/U basis. Students registered for KINE 198 or additional classes of KINE 199 who wish to change the grade type from a graded course to S/U or from S/U to a graded course, may do on the website myrecord.tamu.edu. All requests for KINE 198 and KINE 199 changes must be completed on or before the Q-drop deadline for the fall, spring or summer semester. 

2.       Undergraduate Students 

a.       Undergraduate students may be permitted to take courses in their degree programs at Texas A&M University on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory (S/U) basis consistent with the requirements of the student’s college. 

b.       The hours for which a student receives a grade of satisfactory shall not be included in the computation of the student’s semester or cumulative grade point ratio; a grade of unsatisfactory shall be included in the computation of the student’s grade points per credit hour as an F. A grade of satisfactory will be given only for grades of C and above; a grade of unsatisfactory will be given for grades D and F. The hours earned on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis shall not be included in the designation of distinguished student or dean’s honor roll. 

c.       Students on probationary standing may be required to take KINE 199 or electives on an S/U basis as determined by published college policies.  

3. Graduate students 

a.       Graduate students will not receive graduate degree credit for undergraduate degree courses taken on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis. Graduate students may take any graduate courses that are not used on their degree plans on an S/U basis. 

b.       A grade of satisfactory (S) will be given only for grades of A and B in graduate courses, and for grades of C and above in undergraduate and professional courses; a grade of unsatisfactory (U) will be given for grades of C and below in graduate courses, and for D and F grades in undergraduate and professional courses. 

c.       S/U grades are not included in the grade point ratio calculation for graduate students. 

4.       Courses numbered 681, 684, 690, 691, 692, 693, 695 and 697 are graded on an S/U basis only. 

Semester Credit Hour 

A lecture course which meets one hour per week for 15 weeks is worth 1 semester credit hour. Thus, a course worth 3 semester credit hours, meets three hours per week. Credit hours for laboratory courses are determined to be some fraction of the number of hours spent in class. 

Grade Point Ratio (GPR) 

For undergraduate students, only the grade made in course work for which the student was registered in this institution shall be used in determining his or her grade point ratio. Students anticipating graduating with honors should refer to that section of this catalog for information concerning the computation of grade point ratios for that purpose. 

An undergraduate student’s grade point ratio for any period shall be computed by dividing the total number of semester hours for which he or she received grades into the total number of grade points earned in that period. Semester credit hours to which grades of F or U are assigned shall be included; those involving grades of W, Q, S, X, NG and I shall be excluded. 

Classification 

Classification for academic purposes shall be based solely on scholastic progress as shown by the official records in the Office of Admissions and Records. Sophomore, junior and senior classification will be granted students who have passed 30, 60 and 95 semester hours, respectively. 

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Grade Reports

Midsemester Report 

Near the middle of the fall and spring semesters, a preliminary report, showing the current progress of all undergraduate students at Texas A&M at Galveston will be available at the website myrecord.tamu.edu. Preliminary grades are not recorded on the student’s permanent record. 

Final Grade Report 

End of semester final grades are available at the website myrecord.tamu.edu. No student grade that is personally identifiable may be posted unless the student has given written consent in advance. 

By means of reports at regular intervals and frequent conferences with the deans, the Office of Admissions and Records and members of the teaching staff keep in close touch with the student’s progress. Advice and counsel are offered from time to time as seem justified in each case. For failure to keep up with studies, the student may at any time be dropped from the rolls of the University. 

Parent/Guardian Access to Grades 

A parent or guardian may access midterm and final grades at the website myrecord.tamu.edu after the student sets the parent access password. Please discuss this with your student. The Office of Admissions and Records cannot see the passwords created by students for parental access; therefore, you must receive a password from your student. 

Degree Audit 

Degree audits will be produced on all undergraduate students during the semester that their total registered hours and earned hours are equal to or greater than 95 semester hours. The audit shows degree requirements completed or in progress, requirements remaining and completed courses which will not apply toward this degree without approval of the department head. The audit is intended for use in advising and may contain errors. It remains the responsibility of the student to fulfill all published catalog requirements. Degree audits can be obtained from the student’s academic department or the Office of Admissions and Records. 

Transcripts 

Students applying for admission to TAMUG are required to submit transcripts of previous academic work and in some cases, results of standardized tests. The submission of altered documents or the failure to furnish complete and accurate information on admission forms will be grounds for disciplinary action. 

Individuals who have attended the University may obtain an official transcript of their completed work, provided they have no financial obligations to the University. A fee, which, according to state law must be paid in advance, will be charged for each copy. During grading and degree posting at the end of a semester or summer term, official transcripts may be produced for currently enrolled students only if all courses for that semester or term are shown as in progress (IP) or have all final grades posted. If both grades and IP are on the transcript, it will not be produced until all grades are available and the official GPR is calculated. Students and former students may request an official transcript by mail, by fax or by completing the transcript request form at myrecord.tamu.edu or in person in the Office of Admissions and Records. A faxed or internet request must be paid by using a credit card from a United States bank. Requests made by mail may be paid with check, money order or a credit card. 

A certificate program in Marine Biology/Biomedical Sciences prepares the graduate for careers in aquatic animal health, seafood technology and various marine related disciplines, as well as advanced studies in veterinary medicine, human medicine, allied health, biological oceanography and related biological disciplines. 

Academic Facilities 

Classrooms, laboratories and meeting spaces are housed within 15 major buildings on the Mitchell Campus. There are three residence halls on campus, a physical education facility, and the Mary Moody Northen Student Center with cafeteria services. The Jack K. Williams Library contains over 43,000 books, 35,000 bound volumes of journals and a collection of charts and maps. Public access computers in the Library guide the user to the holdings of the Williams Library, the Galveston Bay bibliography and many other library catalogs and computerized databases. The University training ship, in addition to being a floating campus during summer cruises, provides additional classroom, meeting and training space during the school year. TAMUG has telecommunications systems established to communicate statewide within the Texas A&M University System universities and agencies. TAMUG has direct access to the TAMU computer network in College Station via remote job entry connect lines. 

Research Programs 

TAMUG faculty, post-doctoral fellows, research staff and students are actively involved in research throughout the world from Alaska to Antarctica to American Samoa to Asia.  Research is conducted under the direction of more than 35 faculty members with funding from federal, state, private and university sources including the National Science Foundation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Minerals Management Service, Environmental Protection Agency,  Department of Energy, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Texas General Land Office, Texas Department of State Health Services, Welch Foundation, Alaska Sea Life Center, CONACYT, Schlumberger, Texas Institute of Oceanography and Research Development Fund.  Externally funded research expenditures for FY06 were over 4.6 million dollars.  Research encompasses both the basic and applied aspects of fields such as marine biology, oceanography, coastal/ocean engineering, marine geology, marine policy and management, environmental studies, conservation, business, admiralty law and coastal zone management.  Research is focused largely in the areas of coastal and beach processes (e.g., physical profiling of coastal regions and erosion processes and control), marine life studies (e.g., marine mammal, fish, shellfish, algae and sea turtle biology and ecology), bay and estuary ecosystems (e.g., wetlands management and toxic contaminant analysis), geochemical cycling in marine/aquatic/atmospheric systems and offshore/deepwater environments

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