Counselor Update Fact Sheet
College Highlights:
- We are among the 30 largest programs of ag sciences and natural resources in the U.S. yet we still are able to offer an average class size of 29 students, with a 13:1 faculty to student ratio.
- We offer one bachelors, three masters, and one doctoral program via distance education format.
- Through 2010, the USDA forecasts about 52,000 job openings for degrees in ag sciences and natural resources, and only about 32,300 qualified graduates to fill them. More info at http://www.csrees.usda.gov/newsroom/news/csrees_news/USDA_05_Report2.pdf
- We have more than 30 clubs, organizations, and competitive teams that are CASNR-based.
- One of every three CASNR students are on scholarship, last year receiving a collective $1.3 million.
- A Congressional Internship Program is offered at both the state and federal levels, and a study abroad program is offered through the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester, England.
- Our facilities include a new $17 million Animal & Food Sciences building and labs; farm and feedlot for teaching and research; greenhouse/garden complex; and a design studio.
- All majors require or offer internships, for that "real-world" experience employers look for.
- The Undergraduate Research Program is one of the first of its type, offering a mentorship with a faculty member and funding for research in the agricultural sciences and natural resources.
Making an Impact:
- About 25-35% of CASNR students go directly to graduate or professional schools after their bachelors degree.
- About 75% of CASNR students who apply to vet, medical, pharmacy, or law school are admitted.
- The average starting salary for CASNR graduates with full-time employment is $35,000/year, and ranges from $24,000 to $80,000. The national average for starting salaries with a bachelors degree is also $35,000.
- Famous/prominent CASNR alumni include:
--Bob Anderson, landscape architect who redesigned the area surrounding Austin-Bergstrom Airport
--Daniel Brackeen, founder of TCBY (The Country's Best Yogurt)
--Texas Senator Robert Duncan
--Drew Deberry, USDA's liaison to the White House
--Wyman Meinzer, wildlife photographer extraordinaire and the State Photographer of Texas
--Bryan Daniel, USDA's State Director for Rural Development-Texas
--Lance Anderson, managing director of TTU's Office of Technology Transfer and Intellectual Property
Students led by recognized teachers and research:
- Sponsored research in 2003-2004 was the highest rate for any college at TTU.
- Our faculty members are frequently recognized with university and industry awards including, creativity in teaching, distinguished teaching and research, and excellence in teaching.
- Twenty-one of our faculty members are in the Teaching Academy.
- Two CASNR departments have received the Academy's Departmental Excellence in Teaching Award since the award's inception in 2000.
- More than 10% of faculties hold endowed professorships or chairs, and numerous staff has been recognized with the university's Quality Service Award.
- Academic advising is done by faculty members.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, contact the Ag Recruitment & Career Center in the CASNR Dean's Office at 806-742-2808.