Tarleton-Ranger College Program Creates Pathway to Bachelor’s Degree

STEPHENVILLE — A new agreement between Tarleton State University and Ranger College expands an existing collaboration and establishes alternative admission and a pathway to a bachelor’s degree for students who otherwise might not have the opportunity.

Initially proposed by Dr. Matt Underwood, former Ranger College Senior Vice President for Brown and Erath Counties, the Ranger to Tarleton Pathway provides a co-enrollment arrangement for students to take major-specific courses with Tarleton while completing general education coursework through Ranger.

RTP students have full privileges at both schools, including residency on the Tarleton campus. Continued enrollment at Tarleton beyond the first year is contingent on satisfactory academic progress at both institutions.

Tarleton President James Hurley and Ranger President Derrick Worrels signed the pact Wednesday at a ceremony in Tarleton’s Administration Building.

“John Tarleton dreamed of an institution of opportunity — a comprehensive university — and this is another important step we are taking to deepen our historic commitment to educational attainment,” Dr. Hurley said. “We have a responsibility to Ranger College students, a responsibility we take seriously. They are important to us. Many of those who participate in this program will be the first in their family to earn a university degree.”

The original program, which began in fall 2022, consisted of an 11-student cohort. Fifty students are expected to participate in fall 2023. Although the first cohort focused on Stephenville-area students, this year’s enrollees will not have that geographic restriction.

“Tarleton State continues strengthening itself as one of America’s great public institutions,” said Ranger President Worrels. “We are excited to build on our relationship with Tarleton to provide Ranger students with a seamless pathway to a bachelor’s degree. Agreements such as this make higher education more accessible and affordable, reassuring our commitment that no talent will be left behind.”