Texas Woman's University

Texas Woman's University is a public coeducational university in Denton, Texas, with two health science center-focused campuses in Dallas and Houston. While TWU has been co-educational since 1994, it is the largest state-supported university primarily for women in the United States. The university is part of the Texas Woman's University System and offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs across six colleges.

Texas Woman’s University traces its origins to the late 19th century. It was established in 1901 by the 27th Texas Legislature as the Girls Industrial College, a response to increasing demand for higher education opportunities for women in Texas. The university was founded in Denton, a city north of Dallas, with the goal of offering practical education in areas such as teaching, nursing, and the domestic sciences, aligning with the era's vision of women’s roles in society.

In 1905, the institution was renamed the College of Industrial Arts, reflecting a broader curriculum that expanded beyond vocational training to include liberal arts and fine arts. Over the decades, it evolved rapidly, both academically and physically, adding new programmes and expanding its campus infrastructure. By 1934, the university was authorised to grant doctoral degrees, making it one of the few women’s colleges in the nation to do so at the time.

The name Texas Woman’s University was adopted in 1957 to better reflect the comprehensive scope of the institution and its state-wide mission. During this period, TWU established a reputation for excellence in nursing, education, health sciences, and liberal arts. While originally founded for women, the university began admitting men to its graduate programmes in 1972, and later to undergraduate programmes in 1994, while continuing to maintain a strong emphasis on women’s leadership and advancement.

Today, TWU operates campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston, serving over 15,000 students across a variety of disciplines. It remains the largest state-supported university primarily for women in the United States, known for its commitment to innovation, research, and inclusive education. The university has upheld its mission of empowering women while evolving to meet the needs of a diverse student population in a changing world.

Texas Woman’s University (TWU) offers diverse undergraduate and graduate programs. With over 75 programs and 91 degrees, many offered online, TWU provides flexible learning options to accommodate different schedules and life goals.
 

At the undergraduate level, TWU's programs in nursing, health sciences, and education are particularly recognised by the community. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is offered across multiple campuses, including Denton, Dallas, and Houston, with options for traditional, RN-to-BSN, and accelerated tracks. Additionally, the College of Health Sciences offers specialized programs such as the Adapted Physical Activity program in Texas and graduate degrees in health studies and public health.

In liberal arts and sciences, TWU offers programs in psychology, English, and family studies. The Bachelor of Science in Psychology provides concentrations in health psychology and pre-occupational therapy, preparing students for graduate programs and careers in mental health. The university's commitment to diversity is evident in its requirement for all undergraduates to complete coursework in multicultural women's studies, fostering a comprehensive understanding of societal issues.
 

At the graduate level, TWU's programs in nursing, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology are highly regarded. The university's nursing program is ranked among the top 15% nationally, while its occupational therapy program is recognized as the top-ranked in Texas. Graduate degrees in health studies, including specialized tracks in dental hygiene and public health, are also offered, providing advanced education for professionals in the healthcare sector.

 

For those interested in business and education, TWU offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program with concentrations in general business, marketing, and healthcare administration. The university's online MBA programs have been recognized among the nation's best, reflecting their quality and accessibility . Additionally, graduate programs in education, including early childhood education and counseling, are available, supporting the development of educators and mental health professionals committed to making a positive impact in their communities.

Texas Woman’s University offers a Master of Business Administration program through its Merrilee Alexander Kick College of Business and Entrepreneurship. The MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by less than 6% of business schools worldwide.
 

In the 2025 U.S. News and World Report rankings, TWU's online MBA program is positioned at #190 among Best Online MBA Programs. While this ranking places it among the top tier of online MBA offerings, prospective students should consider it alongside other programs that may offer different specializations or formats.
 

TWU's MBA program is designed with flexibility in mind, offering 100% online and hybrid course formats. Students can complete the degree in as little as 15 months, depending on individual course prerequisites. The program does not require GRE or GMAT scores for admission, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants . Additionally, TWU ranks 6th among U.S. universities for diversity, according to U.S. News & World Report, reflecting its inclusive academic environment .

Texas Woman’s University demonstrates strong employment outcomes for its graduates, reflecting the institution's commitment to career readiness and support services. Approximately 58% of TWU graduates secure full-time employment within six months of graduation. Employment rates vary by program. For instance, the Master of Library Science program reports an employment rate of 71% to 80% for its graduates.  The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program boasts a 100% employment rate for graduates seeking employment within 12 months of graduation. TWU also offers comprehensive career services, including job fairs, resume workshops, interview preparation, and a job bank, to assist students in their job search. 
 

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