Academics
Just northwest of Houston sits Prairie View A&M University—affectionately known as “The Hill”—a public institution and member of the Texas A&M University System that offers 36 degrees and 48 minors across its 8 schools. PVAMU was designated an “institution of the first class” via a 1984 amendment to the Texas Constitution, and its diverse curriculums are plain to see in the more than 1,800 courses offered each semester. Research contributes to the school’s prominence, which means that funding is readily available for undergraduates across all disciplines. For instance, the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences’ Cooperative Extension Program delivers practical knowledge to small farm producers and youth throughout the state, with students acting as trained volunteers, and the College of Juvenile Justice and Psychology provides groundbreaking research through its Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center. The Toni Morrison Writing Program (made possible via a large donation from MacKenzie Scott) features an annual Writer-in-Residence who gives public readings, lectures, and critiques of students’ works. There are plentiful resources available to ensure no students are left behind, including a dedicated university tutoring center, academic success workshops, and a Writing Center.
Career
In the wake of the tragic death of Houston native George Floyd, the university opened a Center for Race and Justice and now requires all incoming students to take a class on the history of race. The center holds regular events such as the “Art as Activism” symposium and lectures such as “Race, STEM and Social Justice in America.” Friday are Spirit Days (when students are encouraged to wear the school’s royal purple and gold colors), and the university’s “Marching Storm” and Black Foxes dance line put on theme-oriented halftime pageants and stomping drum routines at sporting events throughout the year, including the school’s legendary homecoming. During the annual Week of Welcome, students get their first glimpse at the more than 150 organizations available to them, as well as a taste of events such as Food Truck Friday, a pep rally, and a water balloon fight. Additionally, the university holds annual student convocations and regularly brings renowned speakers, scholars, and celebrities to campus.
Culture
PVAMU’s motto is the delightfully alliterative “Prairie View Produces Productive People,” and that's backed up by a serious pledge to educate students for the 21st-century work force. To that end, courses are constantly being developed to address industry developments, and some schools even have their own dedicated Career Services department (such as the College of Engineering). Payscale.com says PVAMU graduates earn an average of $76,000 base salary. Notable alumni include activist Sandra Bland, actor and spokesperson Mr. T, and jazz saxophonist Dewey Redman.
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