The first three degrees were granted in 1903. From its special purpose designation, the University derives much of its uniqueness in Texas higher education, particularly its special responsibility to educate and elevate the historically bypassed and underprivileged. Additionally, this special designation commits the University to high intellectual rigor, relevance to the community it serves, and the high educational standards needed to prepare graduates for careers in education, engineering, food and agricultural sciences, human sciences, humanities, nursing, science and mathematics, juvenile justice, social sciences, social work, technology, and many other disciplines.
Students come from throughout the United States as well as many foreign countries.
Over 4,000 academic degrees have been awarded in the last five years, including more than 1,000 graduate degrees. The song reflects devotion and thankfulness for memories gained and opportunities obtained while at the university. For memories dear, for friends and recollections, For lessons learned while here we've lived with thee. For these we pledge our hearts full of devotion, To serve Thee now, and through eternity. As days go by, our hearts will not grow cold, We'll love thy purple royal and thy gold, We'll through our lives exemplify thy teachings, We'll always strive a blessing to be.