Texas Christian University
Fort Worth, TX, USA

Reviews

Texas Christian University

Lauren from Baytown, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
The professors here take their jobs very seriously, and most, if not all, are always willing to help you out. They're easy to approach if you have questions or concerns, and teach their classes so that you will actually learn something. There is a pretty big focus on liberal arts in the TCU core, so no matter your major you will take a wide range of courses. Our business school is nationally ranked, and students graduating from many of our programs have little trouble finding a job or getting into graduate/medical school.
Am enjoying being here
The students, faculty, and staff are some of the friendliest people you will meet. There's always something to do, whether it be movie night in the commons or a board game party in your dorm. The campus always organizes a wide range of events, so there's something for everyone to enjoy. Sitting in the student section during football games are always a blast, especially considering our football team is ranked 4th in the nation.
Bang for the buck
I will be the first to admit that TCU is expensive, and tuition is going to increase next year. However, they give out a huge amount of scholarships and grants that are both merit and need based. They also offer work study programs for those who qualify, and there are many other ways for you to get money. I, along with many other students here, am still trying to take advantage of all the scholarship opportunities I can because being at TCU is just THAT important. The classes, the people, the organizations, the experience are all more than worth the money I'm paying to be here.
Tips for prospective students
Take advantage of all opportunities to interact with TCU. Take a campus tour (some of my friends are tour guides!), or come see the campus on your own. Work hard on your application and don't let your grades drop during your senior year. If you are waitlisted, don't give up! Keep in frequent contact with people on campus and you have a good chance of getting accepted. I know many students that have gotten into TCU this way. If you are accepted, make sure and go to Frog Camp! It's not mandatory but it is SO helpful. I didn't get to go to a Frog Camp and it's one of the things I regret most. Those who went formed lasting friendships before school even started, and got the opportunity to interact with upperclassmen and faculty members. I will hopefully be a Frog Camp mentor next summer, so I hope to see you there! :)
Great for these types of students
TCU is great for the student who wants a smaller private school in a great city, challenging but intellectually interesting courses, and an all-around fantastic college experience. It's not just for rich kids, but for students from all backgrounds.

Kathryn from Allen, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
At TCU, you learn exactly how much you sign up for. If you are a Nursing student or pre-med, you can expect a rigorous course load with very hard classes. On the other hand, if you are an Advertising major or Ranch Management, you may not be memorizing or learning as many complex things as the Health students, but you will be taught all the tools of the trade. The liberal arts focus of the school really makes TCU unique, so you are constantly taking things that may be new to you and are out of your major, making you a more rounded individual.
Am enjoying being here
I love everything about TCU. There is an endless supply of things to get involved with, whether it's Greek life, student government, or a religious club. You name it, TCU has it. I can never get enough of our amazing football games and the huge amount of purple pride that pours out of everyone that goes here. My academic and social life are fulfilling and I can't imagine being on any other campus.
Bang for the buck
TCU is expensive. There's not much more to it than that. However, there are so many scholarships available that you may not even be aware of. The most important thing to do if you apply and get in is to come visit and take a stop at the Financial Aid office. A lot of the time, they will be able to search around for scholarships and can even give them to you while you are in the office. If that doesn't work out, there are always websites like Cappex that can be a huge help for finding outside scholarships. Finding the money is worth it to get the chance to go to TCU.
Tips for prospective students
Come visit. The campus will take your breath away on a sunny day and there is so much to see and take in if you come and visit for a day. Check and feel if you can see yourself living here and walking to classes every day. Also, if you get in, make sure and take part in the First Year Experience. Frog Camp, Orientation, and Connections are so important to finding friends and getting plugged in. They are so much fun and will really help you feel at home here.
Great for these types of students
TCU is great for students who are looking for a smaller campus that gets to participate in a lot of things that larger schools get to do. If you love being in a city, Fort Worth is fantastic, but it has a much smaller and homey feel to it. TCU is for students who like a liberal arts curriculum with a lot of majors to choose from and for students who want opportunities like studying abroad. TCU is very different from other large Texas schools, so if you like something unique, TCU is the place for you.

Cecily from San Diego, CA

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
This is the GREATEST learning environment ever! Small class sizes, professors take the time to get to know the students and the opportunity to excel beyond expectations!

As an Eduction major in one of the TOP 4 schools in the US for teachers, I was in the classroom observing and student teaching in my FIRST semester!! It was in this environment that I discovered that my true calling in the profession is to teach Middle School Science. All other programs have you wallow along until your senior year and year of student teaching to figure things out. So often precious time and valuable tuition resources are wasted on classes because the education program is not the best.

I look forward to EVERY semester of classes, even when I know I am going to be pulling a hard load and working 15 hours each week to just have the privilege to stay at TCU.
Am enjoying being here
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE TCU!!! From the time I visited the university my senior year of high school to now, this is the place God had picked out for me. The biggest challenge is keeping my grades up so I can keep my funding. But because I LOVE TCU, I work very hard for my 3.8GPA and am so proud to be a Horned Frog. I am also very active in my sorority, a church, volunteering and serving the community of Fort Worth. Except for the wickedly hot summers (but lucky me.... I get to go home and work in sunny San Diego) this is a gorgeous campus, small town feel and the ENTIRE college experience! Division 1 Football and Baseball, bowl games, College World Series, top ranked soccer and shooting sports as well as volleyball! We are the David to the traditional gi-normous college Goliaths and I LOVE it!
Bang for the buck
Private univerisities have more money available for scholarships than public colleges and universities do. So, don't let the initial tuition price cause sticker shock! Apply for all scholarships that are remotely applicable. Ask for financial help and fill out the FAFSA as soon as it is available on line on January 1 each year. The other more important consideration is that I can always get the classes I need, the classes are not impacted and I will graduate in 4 years. That is very good value.
Tips for prospective students
Don't slack off in your senior year of high school. Colleges pull your transcript both semesters and frequently rescind an offer or reduce a financail aid package if the prospective student has not taken the senior year as seriously as the other 3. Don't just go to colleges your best pals or boyfriend are checking out. Trust me.... once you get started in college, those wallowing in the glory years of high school don't fit in and will hold you back. Hit the ground running in college and take a balance of classes each term (in other words mix up the classes). Check out Rate Your Professor.com for reviews on professors in classes you want to take. Don't overreact or underreact, but read all reviews, talk to friends and follow your gut. Sometimes you will have to take a class from a professor that is not as good as you'd hoped, but you can balance it with others because everyone else is talking about the professors too. Take that wizened advice and drop a class if you need to. BEST ADVICE.... there is NO shame in hiring a tutor. Only do so within the first 2 weeks of a term if your first exam/paper is below a C or you feel overwhelmed or have ANY, even the slightest, concerns of success.
Great for these types of students
Wanting a REAL College experience (Div. 1 Football, Baseball, with Bowl presence and College World Series presence) * Small without feeling tiny * Large city fun nearby * Growing Greek Life * Great food * Guaranteed housing for freshman and sophomores * Safe * Ivy League Prestigue without the snobbery * Teriffic College Spirit * Fun * Lively * Friendly * Social * Christian

Schuyler from Wichita, KS

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
o The faculty, staff, and students of TCU take pride in their educational success. It is not surprising that TCU is recognized as a great source of future leaders and workers for the global community. The faculty and staff constantly strive to help students to learn and grow in new ways. Also, the students on campus work hard to become successful and prepare for the future. Every professor on campus is here because they love their subject and believe it is the best in the world. They have a passion for teaching and they desire to help students more than anything. Regardless of what major a student chooses, that student will receive and be recognized for having one of the best educations for that field.
Am enjoying being here
o TCU is not your typical university; it is above and beyond any other. From nationally ranked sports teams and amazing art groups, to interactive campus communities and engaging experience—Texas Christian University has it all. When a student steps on campus, he or she will hit the ground running into a tight knit and highly spirited community of horned frogs. Every day of the week, students are able to find something to do with their friends, faculty, family, community, or even others around the world. There are no limits to a student’s possibilities at TCU; one simply has to take a step forward into this new life.
Bang for the buck
o By no means is TCU a cheap school. It is a private university and therefore requires a little extra cash; however, this has been the greatest investment of my life so far. TCU has and will continue to open doors for its students. This only leads them to greater success in their futures. If money is an issue, TCU is very generous with their financial aid. The school has scholarships for almost any type of student. They also provide opportunities for work study on campus. Although it may require a little extra work and money, an education and overall experience here at TCU is worth more than anything in this world.
Tips for prospective students
o One major tip is to come and visit TCU. There is no better way to discover what the college is like and if it is right for you. Many people say that if the college is right for you, you will feel it as soon as you step foot on the campus. This is exactly how it was for me. I listened to my heart and I am confident that I made the best choice. Another great idea if you plan on coming to TCU is to go to frog camp. By attending any of the amazing frog camps available, you will be able to make some great friends and start to create (or increase) your horned frog pride!
Great for these types of students
o I would say 'Any student' because I know that TCU is simply the best school for anyone. I will share some detail. TCU is a medium sized, private school of about 9,000 diverse students from many states and countries. It is small enough to create a great community between students, faculty, and alumni, but it is also large enough to where you get that big campus feel. TCU is great for the academically, athletically, artistically, and socially strong. Students quickly find their place in the TCU campus within a few weeks of being on campus. TCU has state of the art facilities which appeal to many people. Even if nothing necessarily sparks you interest at first, a student can always create their own groups or branch out to others. TCU truly has something for everyone.

Kristen from Duncanville, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
I have benefited knowledge wise from this school. The curriculum is challenging and I am still adjusting to it. I love the challenge because when I was in high school everything came easy to me, but here at TCU it make you go that extra step.
Am enjoying being here
I really love the environment because the people are friendly, it's almost a second home for me. When I go home I just want to go back. The school spirit is AMAZING! The football team is very good, which adds to the excitement. There is always something to do, since it's not in the country, it's right in the middle of Fort Worth, TX, where you can really get the Texan experience.
Bang for the buck
Now, the buck is pretty high, but it is definitely worth it. Your tuition pays for everything, such as: recreation center use, all sports games, library usage, etc. Like I said before, you would not be disappointed. Sometimes, I do wonder why it's so expensive, but when I think of everything it has to offer, as far as education wise and activity wise, it really is worth the money.
Tips for prospective students
If you're thinking about going to TCU, i suggest you get a planner, because it is so much going on that it's overwhelming. You should also get your priorities straight and know that there will always be something fun to do, but academics come first. I also suggest you stock up on purple!
Great for these types of students
TCU is a good school for students that are very dedicated to whatever they do, people that are up for challenges and don't like to get comfortable in their skin. It's great for those over achievers, basically purpose driven people. I'm going to tell the truth, I just completed my first semester here and I had a hard time because I thought it was going to be easy like in high school, which it isn't, but is can be if you're organized and continuously looking over materials. Most importantly, it is best to keep your priorities straight.

Evelyn from Pasadena, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
Here at TCU they are big on making sure their students know the material and are following through. It might just be my luck but it seems like all my professors really care about thier students and want their students to succeed. This is college so it seems like in a lot of my classes they go by pretty fast and you are expected to have knowledge to the basic material because of your high school education. However , if for some reason you're not at the level you should be at they have free worskshops and tutoring available for you. Even better the professors are easy to get ahold of during office hours. Whatever you do don't be afraid to go ahead and pay a visit before a test ... i promise you won't regret it. Some of them post some of their past test on ecollege so that you have an idea of what you should expect. I have one professor that e-mails all his students if he feels like he didn't teach the material well enough and sends notes to make the material clearer. They also offer different type of leadership seminars for free in which I am currently taking and I can tell you I am learning a lot! One of the reasons I really like it here is how easy it is to get help here. If you can't study in your own room, they have study rooms in all the halls and the library is a great place to study where they have quiet zones and zones for group work and there's always a lap top or computer available for your use. All the professors are required to give you a detailed syllabus so that the students know what to expect; it includes how the test work and how much it will count. If you want a school that is up in their game but willing to help you if you fall back TCU is the school for you! There is even a writing center where you can send your papers for free where they do spelling and grammar check for you.
Am enjoying being here
There's always something to do something here. Currently they have an organization called the Crew that make it thier priority to have atleast three events for students everyday. This year they even had Lady Antebellum come out and have a private free concert for the students. The games are deffinately a highlight for almost every sport but especially football. Since TCU is basically part of the city Fort Worth offers you many places to hang out and have fun. They literrally have everything out here except a theme park. Every Hall for those that live on campus also have events atleast once a week to get everyone together and hangout. Even the intramural sports are ridiculously fun. They have every sport to things like pillow fights and paperball football. Main Holidays here are huge too and they is a club for almost everything here. TCU is basically a private school that offers you everything a big school does. You don't miss much here. You make friends from almost every state and country. At this moment they are trying to be more diversed and intercultural so it is a great time to open up your world. They also have many opportunities to travel with the school. They have Frog Camp for freshmen just so that people could make friends even before school started. I went to London and made amazing friends. We still get together and have dinner. Almost everyone here is nice - wether its genuine or because they feel its the right thing to do. It might not be racially as diversed as other schools but you'll feel special if you are because they are trying to change that. Many students get homesick the first week but once you get involved those feelings go away pretty fast.
Bang for the buck
TCU is pricey but I can guarantee every buck is used for something that benefits you as a student if you take the opportunity. The money is used to make you apartment better and make the environment a better place. You'll find students that love it here and are constently giving back to the school because they want everyone to share the TCU experience. The food is delicious and they're is usually always something on the menu that you will crave ... did I mentin the frozen yogurt machine? They are also going to add Chick-fil-A on campus... o so I hear. Yesterday they were passing out free scrantons and blue books and you also get 200 free print outs at the library and 150 tries at the copy machine. There's also free t-shirts in almost every event. Students already have closets full of just TCU purple t-shirts.
Tips for prospective students
Get involved in high school and show interest in the school. Before you make a decision visit the campus - you will fall inlove! Don't worry about not fittin in because they is room for all types of people. Take advantage of the people that are here to help. Learn how to manage your time!
Great for these types of students
It's great for students that want to be part of the city because you will see people from off campus that like to show support. You must like purple or learn to because you will see everywhere. TCU tries to get everyone to get involved so if you like to get your hands dirty this is the place for you. It's not too big or too small. The academics are great. Sports are great! Anyone with an open mind will do!

Mariah from Oro Valley, AZ

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
There is this thing called TCU Core and basically you have to take classes in every subject to complete the core. It has nothing to do with your major, but it makes you very well rounded. For example, I'm a Journalism major, but I'm taking art, microeconomics, environmental science, and spanish right now. I am learning a lot more now that I have expanded my horizons.
Am enjoying being here
The atmosphere here is amazing. The campus is absolutely beautiful and the school has a separate fund just for plants around the school, so the flowers are always being renewed. Also, the people are great- there is such a southern hospitality. And the professors are very nice, not mean angry people. They actually care about you.
Bang for the buck
Although this is definitely not a cheap school, you definitely get what you pay for. The dorms are big, the campus is beautiful, the facilities are always kept up. And the school always has so much going on for free, like movie nights, sweet tuesdays (where there are different deserts!), and games. Once there was a zip line in the Commons and Lady Antebellum performed here - for free! Also, there are free t-shirts everywhere :)
Tips for prospective students
My tip is to really put your personality into your application. For example, get someone to write a recommendation who knows your personality, not just grades.
Great for these types of students
Focused students who are looking for a great environment while getting a wonderful education.

Emily from Fort Worth, TX

a current student here
Categories Comments
Am learning a lot
I feel like I am learning a lot! The professors have been great and are very helpful. It is a lot of work, but it keeps me busy and very focused on my education.
Am enjoying being here
I love being here! Both of my parents went to TCU and it had been my dream to go here and I am finally fulfilling my dream! It is everything I hoped for and more! We had One Republic play a concert for us back in October and we get lots of free stuff! Our football team is also going to a BCS Bowl and right now we are ranked #4 in the nation!
Bang for the buck
Yes, TCU does cost a lot! But TCU is very willing to help out their students financially. Apply for scholarships like crazy because it is an opportunity I would never want to give up!
Tips for prospective students
Study, Study, and Study! Also, get involved, it will make your college experience so much more worth it! Come to the Football Games and sit in the stands and watch the team play, Our Horned Frogs are great!
Great for these types of students
If you would like a private school that sets minimum religious course expectations for their students and love school spirit TCU is for you! Where Purple will never get old, even for males and everyone is friendly! It is fairly small in comparison to other Texas schools. It is so nice to see the same faces at school, no one is a stranger.

Elise

a current student here
Categories Comments
In three sentences
TCU is a place to meet students and staff who really care about you. There is a spot on campus for everyone, and so many different amazing communities to get connected with. In short, it's the perfect college experience!
Tips for prospective students
Apply early and make a Freedom of Expression page! Most of the major scholarships are handed out to those who make the November 1st deadline, and it never hurts to show that you've put time and thought into the application.
Academic Rigor
The academic rigor here depends entirely on what kinds of classes you sign up for. Some of my classes are a breeze. In others, I'm struggling to make B's on the exams. However, most professors will work with you if your grades start to drop. It's totally manageable, if you are willing to put time and effort into it.
Dorm Life
The dorms here are amazing. Nearly all the freshman dorms host monthly weekly activities, and the lounges are always full of people eager to hang out or study together. The rooms have their own sinks and come with a mini fridge and microwave unit. They are all very nice and provide excellent quality of life. My dorm has community bathrooms, which are maintained very well and much more private than you'd expect.
Food and Dining
The meal plan TCU puts you on is pretty expensive, but unlimited swipes into the union at any time of day kind of make up for that. The food at the BLUU can get a little repetitive, but I've almost never had trouble finding something to eat. There's a smoothie bar, hummus bar, deli bar, salad bar, dessert bar, PB and J bar... And if you're not in the mood for that, we have a Chick-fil-a on campus as well as a subway-style sandwich line at the Union Grounds cafe. Plus, tons of great restaurants within walking distance.
What to do for fun
There is always something going on here. Our student organizations do an incredible job of bringing fun things to campus. We've had petting zoos, concerts, bouncy castles, hamster balls, pumpkin smashing, study abroad fairs, and a Harry Potter themed party, just to name a few. It's nearly impossible to be bored.
Bang for the buck
It's hard for me to say because I am on scholarship, but I would never discourage someone from coming here. We have a fantastic reputation and great employment rates. Although TCU is expensive, I'm not sure I know anyone paying the full price.
Greek Life
You've probably heard all kinds of things about Greek life, both good and bad. Sure, it has a large presence on campus, but it's not overwhelming in the slightest. Personally rush wasn't for me, and that has never been an issue. I have friends both inside and outside of the Greek system, and I'm in enough other clubs and activities that I never feel left out.

Jillian

a past student here
Categories Comments
Did learn a lot
The professors at this school really want you to learn from them. They're more concerned with your understanding of the topic rather than just getting the class through their lessons. Every professor I had also made a point to connect with the students. While it seems tedious at the time, professors like talking to the students, one-on-one. They also tend to value group work and team building. Personally, I found this very helpful when I attended the school during my freshman year.
Did enjoy being here
Being an out-of-state student coming into Texas, I was worried about being an outsider. But really, the faculty is there to help. When I went to tour the school back in 2010, prospective students (and parents, alike) would come strike up a conversation with my mother and I. It was such a welcoming environment. Furthermore, everyone here wants to have fun, but learn as much as they can. It makes for a fun environment when you can go socialize with friends on the weekend and then study with the same friends during weekdays or finals. Having such eager classmates made finals week a breeze!
Bang for the buck
This school is great choice, considering the price. Not only do you get a 1:15 typical professor-student ratio, but you also learn, and the professors make sure of it! While it wasn't the number one school for my major, it happens to be world-renowned for many of its other majors. Your money is well spent in beautiful facilities, clean dorms, great classes, a fun football team, and great academic opportunities. While walking around campus, you will notice the staff's deliberate upkeep of the buildings and the grounds. The school even plants brand new flowers every few weeks to keep the campus clean and beautiful! You get your money's worth in a variety of ways. I do feel that the school is slightly over-priced, however the school does a great job helping students with scholarships and financial aid. If a student talks to a counselor in the financial aid office, they will get help!
Tips for prospective students
If you are looking into TCU but you've never visited, go visit. You really can get a great feel for a school just by walking the campus and talking to the faculty, parents, and students. I'd suggest going on a Purple Friday tour day, because you really get to see the school's spirit during the football season. Also, make sure the school has strong programs for the major you'd like! Another thing that should be noted: THIS SCHOOL IS VERY GREEK. At times, the non-Greek students feel as though they don't exactly fit in because the majority of campus is involved in fraternity/sorority life. If that isn't something you are fond of, you may have a few issues with the school. I cannot emphasize how much the Greek system rules the social scene, so take that into account. The weather can also be extreme. It DOES snow in Fort Worth! This past year, we had about 6 days off of school due to bad winter conditions. Aside from the snow, it can also get over one hundred degrees with up to ninety percent humidity. Hail, flooding, wind, and tornadoes can also be issues around campus.
Great for these types of students
This school is great for students who are social, eager to learn, and wanting to try something new. If you're not from Texas, this is a great Texan school to introduce you to the state. Not only does the school offer a world class education, but you are also able to have fun! The school takes pride in the football and baseball teams and even puts on concerts for the students! In the past, they've had One Republic, Lady Antebellum, and even The Fray. This school is great for absolutely anyone who is willing to try something new! Good luck, prospective students!!!