Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi
The Vibe Check
Texas A&M-Corpus Christi offers a laid-back, coastal campus vibe where the line between classroom and ocean blurs. Students describe an unpretentious, commuter-friendly atmosphere focused on practical learning rather than intense school spirit. The island location fosters a close-knit community feel, balancing academics with the easygoing rhythms of beach life.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Academic strengths are anchored in applied fields like Business & Marketing, Health Professions, and Biology, with strong ties to the local marine and energy industries. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and undergraduate research, particularly through its unique marine science facilities and flight school. Class sizes are generally manageable, fostering accessible teaching from faculty who prioritize student success in career-ready programs.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Corpus Christi
Student life revolves around the beach—surfing, fishing, and sunset walks at Padre Island are regular weekend activities for many. The city offers a vibrant downtown with the Texas State Aquarium, a revitalized bayfront, and a growing food scene that blends fresh seafood with Tex-Mex. On campus, student organizations and Division I athletics, particularly baseball and volleyball, provide social hubs, though many students commute.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($51,865):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is generally considered safe with its own police force and well-lit pathways, though as a commuter school in an urban area, standard precautions are advised. The surrounding city of Corpus Christi has crime rates typical for a mid-sized Texas city, with safety varying by neighborhood.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable in-state tuition and low net price reduce student debt.
- ✓ Unique programs like marine science and aviation leverage the coastal location.
- ✓ High acceptance rate provides accessible entry for many students.
- ✓ Division I athletics and beach-centric activities offer fun outlets.
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation (34.4%) and retention (58.5%) rates raise concerns about student support.
- ✗ As a commuter school, traditional campus life and dorm culture can feel limited.
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher, reducing value for non-residents.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Texas A&M-Corpus Christi is known for its marine science and environmental research programs, leveraging its island location for hands-on study. It also houses a notable aviation program with its own flight school and is recognized for strong Business and Health Professions degrees that serve the regional economy.
No, it is not considered a hard school to get into, with an acceptance rate of 89.47%. The average SAT score is 1086, which is around the national median, making it accessible for students with average to above-average academic records.
Campus life is a mix of commuter student dynamics and coastal activities, with a focus on practical learning over traditional party culture. Students enjoy Division I sports games, especially baseball, and outdoor activities like kayaking or beach trips, but the social scene is quieter than at a residential megacampus.
For in-state students, yes, it is generally worth the cost due to low tuition and a 10-year median earnings of $51,865, which provides a solid ROI for a public university. Out-of-state students should weigh the higher tuition against potential earnings, and all students should be aware of the lower graduation rates that could impact long-term value.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 8,998
- In-State Tuition $9,748
- Out-of-State $21,033
- Zip Code 78412
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
At about $9,700 for in-state tuition, the university offers a solid value for Texas residents, keeping debt loads relatively low. The 10-year median earnings of $51,865, combined with the low net price, suggests a positive return on investment for most graduates. However, the lower graduation and retention rates mean students must stay on track to ensure the degree pays off.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.