Corpus Christi's college students have returned to the classroom.
Both Del Mar College and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi began the 2026 fall semester on Aug. 24.
See the first day at each school:
Del Mar College
Del Mar College's campuses were full of students heading to class and socializing on Aug. 24.
The college did not provide a first-day student headcount, but if recent years are an indication, it could be a year of growth for the college.
The school experienced a 14.6% one-year increase between fall 2024 and fall 2025, likely as a result of a new tuition waiver program. The Freedom to Dream tuition waiver was offered for a second year this fall, eliminating tuition costs for eligible full-time students.
The college also had more spring 2026 students
than the previous spring. It celebrated its largest commencement ceremony, with more than 900 graduates, in May.
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi celebrated earning recognition from Colleges of Distinction on the first day of classes, Aug. 24.
Colleges of Distinction evaluates schools on based on engagement, teaching, community and outcomes, creating an unranked list.
Last academic year, the university nearly doubled the number of research doctoral degrees awarded.
A fall 2026 headcount was not available on the first day.
Last year, the university had more than 11,360 enrolled students, including 3,060 freshmen, representing a steady total enrollment figure but growth in freshmen from fall 2024 to fall 2025.
Olivia Garrett reports on education and community news in South Texas. Contact her at olivia.garrett@caller.com.
This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Distinction, programs mark first day for Corpus Christi colleges
