The COVID-19 pandemic and rapid technological advancement have created new workforce demands in Texas, particularly in IT and AI sectors. Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is responding to these challenges by establishing its ninth academic college, focused on providing practical technical education and certifications.
The big picture: Sam Houston State University’s new polytechnic college, SamPoly, will launch in fall 2025 with online certificate and associate degree programs focusing on information technology, artificial intelligence, and paralegal studies.
- The initiative aims to address statewide learning gaps and job shortages in rapidly evolving technical fields
- Students can begin enrolling in summer 2025 for fall courses, which will be delivered entirely online
- The college has received initial approvals from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and Texas State University System
Program structure and offerings: SamPoly will provide stackable credentials that allow students to either enter the workforce quickly or continue advancing their education.
- A Level II certificate and associate’s of applied sciences will be available in paralegal studies
- A Level I certificate program in “Practical AI and Intelligent Automation” will help students understand and implement artificial intelligence solutions
- Computer support specialist training will be offered through a Level I certificate
- An associate’s degree program in computer information systems security will prepare students for cybersecurity roles
Historical context: The new college represents a modern reimagining of SHSU’s vocational education history.
- SamPoly evolves from the former Josey School of Vocational Education, which opened in 1947 to help veterans and adults gain post-World War II employment
- University officials identified similar workforce challenges today, particularly in rapidly advancing technical fields
- The program development involved collaboration with industry partners to ensure relevance to current job market needs
Strategic alignment: The initiative supports broader state educational goals and workforce development objectives.
- Texas aims to have 60% of working-age residents hold postsecondary credentials by 2030, up from 48% in 2022
- While trade programs typically exist at two-year institutions, this four-year university program represents an innovative approach to technical education
- The “upskilling” focus addresses immediate workforce needs while providing pathways for continued education
Future implications: The establishment of SamPoly signals a shift in how traditional universities are adapting to serve changing workforce needs, though questions remain about how this model will compete with established technical and community college programs. Success could lead to similar initiatives at other four-year institutions seeking to bridge the gap between academic education and practical workforce training.
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