Where We’ve Come From and Where We’re Going 

Our History 

We began as an experiment. In 1969, the Texas Legislature decided to create an “upper-level” university in Odessa—i.e., a college that accepted only juniors, seniors, and graduate students.  

But before construction on the new school could get fully underway, a lawsuit interrupted things. The plaintiff challenged the validity of the University’s property deeds. Work halted.  

Eventually, the Texas Supreme Court intervened, ruling in the University’s favor. The bulldozers fired back up, and in April of 1972, UT Permian Basin’s new campus broke ground.  

Little more than a year later—on September 4, 1973—the University opened for classes. Construction wasn’t complete, though, so the 1,112 students in that first class studied in temporary buildings and trailers. It would take almost another year before UT Permian Basin’s permanent facilities were complete.  

Fast forward 18 years: The Texas Legislature decided once again to change UTPB’s trajectory by passing a bill that turned the school into a four-year institution. The first freshman class—known in campus lore as the Pioneer Freshmen—joined in the fall of 1991.  

From our humble, experimental beginnings, UT Permian Basin has grown in nearly every direction.   

No school is like UT Permian Basin. Maybe that’s why no school has a story quite like ours.  

Together, we are Falcons. 

Our Mission 

As a regional, comprehensive institution, The University of Texas Permian Basin serves a diverse community of students from the region, the state, and beyond. Through excellence in student-centered teaching, learning, research, and public service, the University cultivates engaged citizens and impacts lives while advancing technology and the public interests of West Texas. 

Our Vision 

The University of Texas Permian Basin will be an innovative, responsive university that thinks large and lives local. We will lead in advancing education, research, economic competitiveness, and cultural enrichment. 

Our Values 

Extra Mile Service  
Start with an attitude of YES! Be flexible and proactive.  

Kindhearted  
Be nice, positive, friendly, and respectful. Be generous with your gifts and talents. Invest in the success and well-being of others.  

Integrity  
Do right. Be forthright, honest, honorable, and trustworthy.  

Collaboration  
Be a partner. Embrace and consider diverse perspectives. Pursue positive collective impact.  

Innovation  
Be curious, adaptable, and responsive. Embrace the wildcatter spirit! 

We invite you to experience our values in action through personalized attention; affordable, accessible online programs; and a genuine desire to help you live up to your potential!