Established in 1899 as a private, liberal arts college known then as John Tarleton College, the institution became a member of The Texas A&M University System in 1917, a four-year degree-granting institution in 1959 and gained status as a university in 1973.

The University is located in Stephenville, Texas and it is the largest non-land-grant university primarily devoted to agriculture in the USA.
Accredited as a senior college in 1966, Tarleton initiated many new programs, including graduate courses in 1970. Students come from more than 220 Texas counties, as well as 45 states and 17 foreign countries. 

This University allows students to earn several degrees online. Every student can also choose online courses. One of the main goals of the University is to provide information and structure which supports institutional planning, assessment, decisions leading to institutional effectiveness and policy analysis.

Tarleton State University provides the financial aid for students in pursuit of their education in future. The scholarships are awarded for academic ability and achievement, demonstrated leadership, ability to perform extracurricular activities, financial need, and other criteria .

Upgraded campus facilities and affordable tuition combined with Stephenville's economical cost of living, make Tarleton one of the best university values in Texas state. A new sports recreation center, complete with weight rooms, track and gym, opened in autumn 2007. 

The building holds four racquetball courts, a weight room, cardio equipment as well as multi-purpose rooms, classroom and office room. This facility is also home to a climbing wall and an "outdoor pursuit" area, allowing students the opportunity to sign up for such outdoor items as kayyaks, tents, and camping equipment.

Students come from around the world–26 countries and 49 states in the United States–to attend Tarleton. Students have the opportunity to choose from 64 undergraduate, 21 graduate, two associate degree programs and one doctoral program.

Bachelor's degrees in nursing, environmental engineering, engineering physics, international agriculture, interdisciplinary business, communications, as well as a master's degree in environmental science and a doctoral degree in educational administration have been added to the curriculum.Tarleton also offers an innovative horticulture/landscaping program in golf course management.A doctoral degree in educational administration and online master’s degrees programs are offered.