“TexAM University”: Behind Texas’ first Islamic university
By Easton Martin | May 6, 2026
A new higher education institution has launched in North Texas, sparking significant debate over its curriculum and identity. The Texas American Muslim University, marketed as TexAM, officially opened its doors this spring in Richardson. It holds the distinction of being the first university in the United States to require Islamic studies as a mandatory component of STEM degree programs.
The university currently offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Health Informatics. According to school officials, approximately thirty percent of the coursework for every student consists of religious studies. This includes specialized classes intended to integrate modern technology with Islamic principles.
The institution is led by President Dr. Ghulam M. Chaudhary, a figure with experience in computer engineering. The university operates out of a facility shared with a local mosque and the Islamic Seminary of America. To attract its inaugural class for the Spring 2026 semester, TexAM has offered significant tuition discounts. Marketing materials show prices as low as $99 per course for certain students. This aggressive pricing strategy is intended to build a student body quickly as the school establishes its presence.
Despite its ambitious launch, the university faces hurdles regarding its legitimacy. TexAM currently lacks formal academic accreditation, which is the standard requirement for most recognized colleges. While the affiliated Islamic Seminary of America holds a preliminary status with certain theological associations, TexAM itself has not yet achieved independent accreditation.
Furthermore, the university’s branding has drawn sharp criticism. The name TexAM and the logo bear a strong resemblance to the trademarks of Texas A&M University. This could very well lead to trademark infringement challenges from the Texas A&M System, which is known for protecting its brand identity.
If you needed any more convincing of the Islamicization of Texas, look no further. Each year, more and more Islamic institutions, mosques, and cultural features are popping up, especially outside of the Dallas area. TexAM is the first of what will likely be many other similar institutions.
