TSTC Harlingen

TSTC Harlingen offers diplomas in more than 30 technology programs and it’s rapidly expanding opportunities that lead toward bachelor, master and doctorate degrees.

Dr. Cesar Maldonado became president in October 2008 after Dr. J. Gilbert Leal led the college for 30 years. The college – which is part of the TSTC System that includes campuses in Marshall, Waco and West Texas (Abilene, Breckenridge, Brownwood, Sweetwater) – consistently ranks among the nation’s leading post-secondary higher institutions for graduation rates among Hispanic students. The TSTC campus opened in 1967 and enrollment for fall semester 2010 reached an all-time high of 6,755. 

The college received approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to confer Associate of Science degrees in biology, computer science, engineering, health professions, mathematics, nursing preparatory and physics in 2009. The career divisions include Engineering & Manufacturing; Information Technology & Telecommunications; Health and Sciences; Agriculture; Transportation and Aviation, and Business, Commerce and Service.

The two newest programs – Wind Energy Technology and Vocational Nursing – had their first graduates attend commencement ceremonies in 2010. The Wind Energy Technology Program is one of the early phases for the South Texas Renewable Energy Institute, which will feature solar, off-shore wind and corrosion technologies. 

Classes in the new University Center are scheduled to start fall semester 2011. Four-year universities such as Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, University of Texas-Pan American, University of Texas at Brownsville and other four-year universities will provide face-to-face, distance learning and online instruction. The building also will become the new home for the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation and the TSTC Corporate and Community Education Office to enhance career and workforce initiatives.

 This mid valley college is increasing students’ college transfer options with the Academic Core package that includes courses in math, language and science accepted by four-year universities. The University Center will allow students in some majors to receive a bachelor’s degree without leaving TSTC. The college also worked with the Lower Rio Grande Valley Regional Development Council to increase public transit routes in Cameron County to make direct connections several times daily with bus stops in the middle of campus.

 For more information about TSTC Harlingen, go online to www.harlingen.tstc.edu and www.tstc.edu or phone 800.852.8784, extension 4117, or 956.364.4117.

Dave Ralph, Communications Writer
Marketing Department
Texas State Technical College
1902 North Loop 499 | Harlingen, TX | 78550-3653
956.364.4113 office | 956.357.4641 cell  |  956.364.5105 fax
This article contains the thoughts and opinions of Dave Ralph and does not represent official TSTC policy.