Davis College Supports Students In Past & Future

Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources has been an essential part of Texas Tech University since opening its doors in 1923. The college has been present since 1925, making it one of the original colleges on campus.

Buildings associated with the college are some of the first buildings to be part of Texas Tech, the Dairy Barn being one of those. The now iconic building to Davis College was once used to house students’ cows they would milk to help pay for tuition. Now, 100 years later, Davis College implements multiple ways to support nearly 3,300 students to graduate from Texas Tech.

An early photo of the iconic Dairy Barn at Texas Tech. In the university’s early days, students housed their own cattle here to help support and fund their academic pursuits. Source: Southwest Collections

Even with the growth, Davis College possesses smaller class sizes, with a 14-to-1 student to professor ratio. This ratio allows students to create personal connections with their professors. Whether they are struggling in a class or would like extra feedback on an assignment, Davis College has the professors to do so.

Jeff Bain, a sophomore plant and soil science major said he has never disliked a class he has taken, but he especially enjoyed his Science of Wine class with Davis College Lecturer of Viticulture, Kirk Williams, M.S.

“He’s so approachable,” Bain said. “You are able to talk to him about anything.”

The college is now home to seven different departments, each offering various and unique ways to assist their students, such as the unique study abroad opportunities, intentional hands-on learning and notable internships.

In addition to learning opportunities and personal connections to professors, Davis College is also known for its scholarship opportunities. Each department, as well as the college has scholarships to award. Also, out of state tuition can be waived if a student is awarded a scholarship from the university, including college level awards. According to the Texas Tech website, Davis College awarded $2.6 million in scholarships last year.

Texas Tech offers several programs to support its students as they pursue their degrees, even for those outside of the United States. The Office of International Affairs helps international students find a home in Lubbock, Texas, and assists current students to find a study abroad trip tailored to their interests. Also, this office can assist international students in receiving a visa, apply to school, find housing and so much more. 

“The International Affairs office is so helpful when it comes to making sure everything I need is taken care of,” said Australian native, senior animal science major Lily Seaton-Cooper. “Not having to worry about my visa as much has allowed me to focus more on school.”

Supporting students is something Davis College has been doing for nearly 100 years. Whether trying to find unique opportunities, connect in the classroom, financial support or to move across the world, Davis College has the resources to help.


Alayna Koemel, Lead Writer; Emery Robles, Photo Director; Amanda Ruscitti, Design Coordinator; Abigail Trapp, Co-digital Manager; Grace Schubert, Co-digital Manager.