ut austin in person tour

Plan a Visit

Tours & appointments.

Undergraduate College of Fine Arts Tours

Led by our student ambassadors and staff, these sessions are tailored for prospective undergraduate students interested in the college, including the School of Design & Creative Technologies. You’ll learn about the College of Fine Arts, get information about degrees, student resources, and the application process–with a bonus inside look at your department of choice.

• Register for a COFA Virtual Information Session
• Register for a COFA In-Person Tour

Graduate Tours & Appointments

Looking to schedule an individual tour or appointment to discuss the department’s graduate programs, labs and studio spaces, or the admissions process? Reach out at least two weeks prior to your planned visit, and our graduate coordinator will be in touch.

• Request Individual Graduate Tour

Undergraduate Admissions Appointment Requests

Looking to schedule an individual appointment or group tour to discuss the department’s undergraduate programs and admissions process? Please make your tour requests at least two weeks prior to your planned visit, and someone from our admissions team will be in touch.

• Request Undergraduate Admissions Appointment
• Email Us for a Group Tour

UT Tours & Information Sessions

The University of Texas at Austin’s main campus is home to amazing landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and endless resources for creative inspiration. UT’s virtual and in person tours provide a chance to learn about student life, events, academic programs, and what it means to be a Longhorn.

• Explore UT Austin Information Sessions & Tours

This downloadable PDF guide gives you a chance to explore some of our favorite classrooms, labs, and maker spaces used by all SDCT students without scheduling an official appointment.

Maps and Parking

View information about getting to UT Austin campus, where to park, and directions to the School of Design and Creative Technologies buildings.

SDCT Main Building and Facilities

UT Austin Main Campus Map

Back to Top

Plan A Visit

Plan a visit.

Welcome to Austin

Visiting our Undergraduate Programs Visiting our Graduate Programs College Fairs Information for Non-Music Majors Group Visits and Tours Directions and Accommodations

We invite you to explore opportunities to learn more about The University of Texas at Austin, the College of Fine Arts, and the Butler School of Music. 

Visiting our Undergraduate Programs

Sign up for information.

Interested in a Longhorn future? Sign up with the Office of Admissions to get the inside scoop on life on the Forty Acres and the ins and outs of the application process. You'll receive information about undergraduate admissions, invitations to special events, announcements, and learn how UT Austin students and professors are changing the world.

INFORMATION SESSIONS AND CAMPUS TOURS

Campus walking tours.

Walking tours are currently only offered to high school juniors, seniors and admitted freshmen. The campus tour is an extensive walking tour that will highlight student life, research, and the educational experience of The University of Texas at Austin. Guests will get an inside look at what makes The University of Texas at Austin one of the top universities in the country!

In-Person Interest Sessions

Learn about UT Austin's colleges, schools, academic programs and more. These sessions are hosted across campus and provide guests the chance to learn more about a particular resources or academic opportunity on campus. In-person Fine Arts sessions are available most Fridays.

Virtual Information Sessions

Admissions Information Sessions are held once or twice a month. Many academic programs, including Fine Arts , also offer virtual sessions.

Fine Arts Information Sessions

The in-person and virtual sessions for prospective students include a presentation overview of the College of Fine Arts followed by department-specific breakout sessions during which you can view our facilities (in-person only) and ask questions about the many creative opportunities available to our students! Advance registration is required.

SHADOW DAYS FOR PROSPECTIVE MUSIC MAJORS

Experience a day in the life of a Butler School student with a music major host! We invite you to spend a day attending music classes and rehearsals. Plan to reserve 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for your Shadow Day. Your final schedule may differ based on your host student's class and rehearsal schedule.

High school seniors will be invited to schedule a Shadow Day in the fall 2024 semester. Shadow Days will be available Monday to Friday between Sept. 18 and Nov. 22. The request form will be available beginning Sept. 4. Requests submitted prior to that date will be reviewed after Sept. 4. We require at  least two weeks-notice (ten business days)  to make arrangements.

The University of Texas at Austin will not take custodial responsibility of minors while participating in a Shadow Day. Custodial responsibility will remain with teachers, parents, legal guardians and chaperones .

BUTLER SCHOOL OF MUSIC TOURS

Guided tours.

Guided tours are available as a part of the Fine Arts Information Session and Tour , which is offered most Fridays.

Self-Guided Tours

We invite you to participate in a self-guided tour of the Butler School of Music facilities for an inside look at some of the classrooms and rehearsal spaces.

APPOINTMENTS FOR PROSPECTIVE UNDERGRADUATE MUSIC MAJORS

Sarah Goerg, Assistant Director for Admissions, is happy to arrange meetings with prospective freshmen and transfer applicants who are interested in majoring in music. Sarah is not available to meet with prospective non-music majors or evaluate transcripts.

At least one week advance notice is required to schedule an individual appointment.  Please understand that appointments are for informational purposes and do not influence admissions decisions.

Appointment Availability

• In person: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 - 4 p.m.
• Virtual and phone: Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 - 4 p.m.
• In person, virtual and phone: Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 - 4 p.m.
• Appointments are not available when the university is closed : Labor Day; Thanksgiving Day; the day after Thanksgiving; Dec. 23, 2024-Jan. 1, 2025; Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; Memorial Day; Emancipation Day (Juneteenth); Independence Day. 

Request an Undergraduate Admissions Appointment

If you would like to visit with a member of the Butler School of Music faculty, please email them directly to request an appointment.

​​​​​​to top ∧  

Visiting our Graduate Programs

Appointments for prospective graduate students.

Dan Seriff, Graduate Admissions Coordinator, is happy to arrange meetings with prospective graduate applicants.

• In person: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 - 4 p.m..

Request a Graduate Admissions Appointment

SELF-GUIDED BUTLER SCHOOL OF MUSIC TOUR

We invite you to participate in a self-guided tour of the Butler School of Music facilities for an inside look at some of the classrooms and rehearsal spaces. Guided facility tours are not available at this time.

College Fairs

We invite you to visit with Butler School representatives at the following college fairs!

Music Admissions Roundtable Virtual College Fairs

Smu meadows performing and visual arts college fair, houston-area performing and visual arts college fair.

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. Moores Opera House, Moores School of Music at the University of Houston 3333 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204

Texas Music Educators Association Convention

Thursday, February 13, 2025 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Friday, February 14, 2025 from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. (College Night 5 p.m. until 8 p.m.) Saturday, February 15, 2025 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Henry B González Convention Center - 900 E. Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Information for Non-Music Majors

Are you planning to attend UT Austin in a major outside of music? Do you still want to play your instrument, sing or study music?

The Butler School welcomes non-music majors to take coursework, register for lessons and audition for ensembles.

Butler School of Music ensembles are open to any currently enrolled university student who can pass the ensemble audition. Visit the ensembles webpage for information.

Private Lessons & Group Instruction

Private lesson and group instruction courses for non-music majors are available in certain areas.

Academic Music Coursework

Visit the course schedule for a list of music coursework. Most classes will appear under the MUS field of study. Many academic music courses (theory, history, etc.) are restricted to allow only music majors to register, however, all MUS courses fulfilling the Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) core curriculum requirement are open and unrestricted. Non-music majors are required to obtain instructor approval to register for restricted courses. The process for receiving instructor approval for a restricted course is described on the non-music major webpage . The Butler School of Music does not advise non-music majors, so music courses taken for degree purposes must be approved by your advisor for your major.

Undergraduate Certificates & Minors

Although the Butler School of Music does not offer a transcriptable certificate , students with an interest in fine arts might consider the certificates in Digital Arts & Media ,  Innovation, Creativity & Entrepreneurship , Museum Studies and Textile Conservation and Museum Studies .

Transcript-recognized minors are available to students following the 2016-2018 catalog or later. The Butler School does not offer a minor in music. Students with an interest in fine arts might consider the Minor in Arts Management and Administration , the Art History Minor  and the Studio Art Minor .

Group Visits and Tours

We are able to accommodate groups of up to 50 people total, including chaperones. We suggest visits coincide with the rehearsal schedules of our flagship large ensembles on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The Concert Chorale, Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble rehearse from 12-2 p.m.

Request a Group Visit

Maps, Directions and Parking Information

For information on navigating to and parking at the Butler School, visit our Directions & Parking page . 

The University of Texas at Austin is located in the heart of the city of Austin, just north of the downtown area. Campus is just two miles from the State Capitol. Main thoroughfares around campus include Guadalupe to the west, MLK to the south, Red River to the east and 26th (Dean Keeton) to the north.

The AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center is the university's premiere hotel and meeting site, and the only hotel located on the campus itself. Other hotels close to the Butler School of Music are Days Inn - University and Rodeway Inn - University .

The Butler School of Music cannot arrange or provide accommodations for any applicant or visitor.

Experience University of Texas at Austin

Virtually explore University of Texas at Austin in a fully immersive 360-degree experience.

Aria doesn't work without JavaScript.

Need to know how to enable it? Go here.

15 Places to Check out on Your UT-Austin Visit

By Emily Brehe

January 17, 2020

So you’re thinking about becoming a Longhorn? A campus visit should be your next step.

For advice on things to do on a University of Texas at Austin (UT-Austin) campus visit, we turned to the President of KD College Prep, David Dillard, UT ‘78, and Thomas Dang, current freshman at UT and former KD student. They each shared their favorite places on campus and insight on what makes each site an authentic piece of the UT-Austin experience.

Scheduling Your Visit

First things first—you need to schedule your UT-Austin campus visit .

A guided tour for prospective students gives families a chance to see various aspects of campus, ranging from campus hangout spots to classrooms to dormitories. Tours are usually led by current college students who can answer your specific questions about the school and tell you what to expect.

Remember to have fun, and don’t forget to look for these 5 Hidden Things to Spot on a College Visit .

UT-Austin offers a lot to do without ever leaving campus. You can spend hours exploring the campus’ variety of museums, landmarks, shops, and restaurants. Try to dedicate a full day to your tour in order to see all that the campus has to offer.

1. The UT Tower

History, Culture, Insta-worthy

The UT Tower , aka the Main Building, is hard to miss. The 307-foot-tall landmark can be seen from virtually anywhere on campus and is one of the most recognizable symbols of the university. At night, the tower is lit up to honor special occasions, such as a UT sports victory.

“During the first week of school, they light up the windows with the freshmen class’ graduation year. And then they’ll do the same thing when you graduate,” said Dang.

One hidden gem within the tower is the Life Sciences Library. It’s the original library on campus, and it has a Harry Potter vibe. Dang says it’s a great place to take photos for Instagram.

“Of course, you’ll have to stand on the front steps of the Tower to get your photo taken in front of the words inscribed there,” Dang said. “ …It’s one of the more Instagram-worthy spots on campus.”

During “Tower Tours,” visitors can view the campus from the Observation Deck, located at the top of the Tower. You may even catch a glimpse of Tower Girl , the building’s resident peregrine falcon.

2. Harry Ransom Center

Art, History

The Ransom Center is home to UT-Austin’s vast archive of manuscripts, rare books, art, film and more. The library houses famous pieces such as the Gutenberg Bible, Edgar Allen Poe’s desk, Albert Einstein’s unpublished notes, and original works by Frida Kahlo, to name a few.

Visitors can take a look at these rare items in the Reading and Viewing Room. If you’re interested in getting up close to these rare and historical materials, view the guidelines here .

3. Littlefield Home

The Littlefield Home is a Victorian house located north of the UT Tower. This historic building was home to Civil War veteran George Littlefield and his wife Alice, who reportedly still haunts the building. The two made significant contributions to UT-Austin in its early years, providing funds for the Main Building, the Littlefield Fountain, and the Littlefield Dormitory.

4. Little Campus

The Little Campus was built in 1857 and is home to some of the oldest buildings on UT-Austin’s campus. The facility predates the university by nearly 30 years.

Over time, this area has served as the Texas Asylum for the Blind, General George Armstrong Custer’s family residence, a barracks for World War I & II, the Texas Hospital for the Senile, and a men’s dormitory.

5. Blanton Museum of Art

Art, Coffee, Insta-worthy

If you like art, the Blanton Museum has it all. With a collection that ranges from ancient Greek pottery to digital comics, you’re bound to find something that piques your interest. You can also grab coffee or a sandwich at the museum’s cafe.

6. The Drag

Coffee, Food, Shops, Culture, Insta-worthy

UT-Austin has its own shopping and arts district on the edge of campus. Here, you can take Instagram pics next to murals, grab coffee at Lucky Lab Coffee Co. or Caffe Medici, pick up Longhorn merch at the University Co-op, or get queso at the Kerbey Lane Cafe—open 24/7.

“The Drag is the hub where students go after classes. It’s the ideal hang-out spot,” Dang said.

7. The Skyspace

Art, Insta-worthy

UT-Austin is home to one of Texas’ three Skyspace exhibits by artist James Turrell. “The Color Inside” is open to the public. Visit during sunrise and sunset to see color fill the space for about an hour.

“Sitting in this room will make you think about how we see things and how we think about color,” Dang said.

8. Scholz Garten

History, Food, Culture

Scholz Garten is a 150-year-old German restaurant and bar. A mix of college students and congressmen frequent this location, creating a unique atmosphere.

9. Dirty Martins

Want to grab a burger near campus? Try Dirty Martin’s (also known as Dirty’s). This old-school burger joint has fed college students for nearly 100 years.

10. Broken Spoke

History, Food, Dancing

After a long day walking around campus, you’re probably ready to kick off your shoes and get a little Footloose. Luckily, Austin has its very own Honky Tonk bar where you can learn how to two-step or catch a country music legend in the making. Check the calendar to see if there are any interesting events happening while you’re in town.

11. Home Slice Pizza

Food, Culture

Home Slice Pizza is one of the more student-friendly restaurants in Austin. It has a hipster vibe, and you can snag dinner for under $20. They have two locations and also offer delivery.

12. Ladybird Lake

While in Austin, you can choose from a wide range of parks, trails, and recreational activities. For those who love the outdoors, we recommend renting a paddle board or kayak at Ladybird Lake. You’ll fall in love with the breath-taking views of downtown Austin from the shoreside.

“There’s this really awesome trail. If you go in the morning, the water shimmers, and over the lake you can see the Austin skyline,” Dang said.

13. Zilker Park

Recreation, Insta-worthy

This 351-acre park is most well-known as the location for Austin City Limits Music Festival that occurs every October. Dang says that if you’re going to live in Austin, you have to check it out.

Barton Springs

Within Zilker Park, you’ll find this pool fed by an underground spring that keeps the water cool year-round. The pool itself has a lot of history and is home to Barton Springs Salamander, an endangered species.

“The water is very, very cold so a lot of people go here to swim. It’s really nice in the summer or fall,” Dang said.

14. South Congress Bridge

Large groups of locals and tourists gather at South Congress Bridge from around 7:30 to 8:30 pm to watch thousands of bats take flight . From March to November, these Mexican free-tailed bats congregate under the bridge. They fly out at night and feed on moths, mosquitoes, crickets, and other small insects.

15. Mount Bonnel

For an even better view of the city, we recommend taking the short trek up Mt. Bonnell. The paved trail is 0.3 miles long and will bring you the highest point in Austin.

“Once you hike up the trail, you have this wonderful view. If you go in the evening you can even see the sunset,” Dang said.

So, what’s next?

As you can see, there’s plenty to do on and off campus. After you’ve visited the college, it’s time to decide whether or not you want to apply. We offer college counseling services to help guide you through the college admissions process. Contact a campus near you to learn more.

Photos courtesy of Thomas Dang

WE’RE ALWAYS READY TO CHAT

Reach out to schedule your free consultation today.

• Student Full Name *
• Parent Full Name *
• Phone Number *
• Expected Graduation Year *
• I'm interested in: * Select One Test Prep College Counseling Both
• Choose a Location * Choose a Campus Coppell (In-Person or Online) Flower Mound (In-Person or Online) Frisco (In-Person or Online) Plano (In-Person or Online) Virtual (Outside of the DFW Area)
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

The University of Texas at Austin (UT) Transfers: 2024 Requirements, Dates, GPAs & More

How long do the university of texas at austin (ut) tours last.

CampusReel hosts a total of about 40 tour videos for The University of Texas at Austin (UT), so you can expect to spend between 120 to 200 minutes total watching content. Of course, we are constantly adding new content. Come back to CampusReel often to see new videos and campus tours of The University of Texas at Austin (UT) and stay informed on campus life.

Where do The University of Texas at Austin (UT) tours start?

On CampusReel, you can start your The University of Texas at Austin (UT) tour wherever you’d like. If you’re touring The University of Texas at Austin (UT) in person with a traditional walking tour you’ll likely start at the admissions office. The school’s address is listed as Austin, TX so we recommend plugging that into your GPS. Before beginning a tour at The University of Texas at Austin (UT), make sure you check the weather and plan out your itinerary and accommodations appropriately. Austin weather can be unpredictable, so bring comfortable shoes in case it rains. Also, check what stops the tour includes to make sure you’ll see everything you’re interested in! The The University of Texas at Austin (UT) website likely outlines important information for tour visitors.

When do The University of Texas at Austin (UT) tours start?

Needless to say, a CampusReel virtual tour of The University of Texas at Austin (UT) starts whenever you want. However, most schools provide 2-3 different start times for group tours in-person: in the morning, afternoon, and late afternoon. We recommend choosing the second available timeslot because The University of Texas at Austin (UT) students will likely be up and about by then. You can explore Austin if you wake up early and want to gain a deeper understanding of the surrounding community. Check the The University of Texas at Austin (UT) admissions site or student services to confirm tour times.

What are the best landmarks and locations at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)?

Below is a list of every The University of Texas at Austin (UT) building that has a tour on CampusReel.

• Gregory Gymnasium at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• Pluckers at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• Littlefield Fountain at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• Frank C Erwin Special Events Center at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• B. Iden Payne Theatre at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• The Drag at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• Belo Center for New Media at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• F.L. Winship Drama Bldg. (WIN) at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• The University of Texas at Austin at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• The Perry-Castañeda Library at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• Jester West Residence Hall at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)
• Sanger Learning Center at The University of Texas at Austin (UT)

What will I see on a The University of Texas at Austin (UT) tour?

All CampusReel tours for The University of Texas at Austin (UT) include everything from dorms to dining halls to student interviews and gameday videos. Most importantly, you will see The University of Texas at Austin (UT) students!

What is city Austin, TX like?

Austin is listed as East South Central. You need to evaluate the area carefully to make sure this is an environment you want to go to college in. Some people love a town this size, and others don’t. Either way, it will affect your time at The University of Texas at Austin (UT).

Who are the tour guides for The University of Texas at Austin (UT) on CampusReel?

Scroll up to the top of the page to select from a number of tour guides available at The University of Texas at Austin (UT). Keep in mind anyone can upload content to CampusReel, so the available tour guides are constantly increasing.

Summary and Overview of The University of Texas at Austin (UT) tours:

The University of Texas at Austin (UT), like all colleges and universities, has its pros and cons. At the end of the day, your goal with these tour videos is to try to decide if The University of Texas at Austin (UT) is the right school for you. After you’ve taken the time learn about the campus, Austin and overall experience, then you can consider taking your search one step further and visiting The University of Texas at Austin (UT) in person.

Check out these related virtual tours:

• Campus tour to Grand Canyon University (GCU)

2024 College Admissions Calculator

Predict your chance of acceptance

2024 College Comparison Tool

$10,000 Scholarship - No Essay

sponsored by Edvisors

Video landing page link

Your message (optional):

We're happy to see you again 😊

• Prospective Students
• Current Students

Your Place in the Sun

There’s a place for you at UT, and a visit to campus is the first step in finding it. See why so many students call this place home, and get a feel for what it would be like to live and study here. 

• Request More Information
• Social Media
• Contact Information
• Tour Campus
• Virtual Visit
• Tour Guides

Visit In Person

An in-person visit to campus is the best way for undergrads to get a feel for life here at UT. Every visit starts with an info session, followed by a tour with a current student who will answer any and all questions that come up. View the schedule and sign up online. 

Daily Visit Times

Monday through Friday: 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. See the calendar for current availability. 

Visit Digitally

Virtual visits include a 30-minute information session hosted by an admissions counselor. Note: Please contact your admissions counselor directly or admissions@ut.edu to update your contact information for invitation-only events. For transfer and major-specific sessions, find additional virtual visit sessions.

YouTube Playlist

Campus Tours

Attend an Open House Event

Open House events are an opportunity for prospective students to experience a day at UT for themselves. Tour the campus, hear directly from Admissions staff, professors and current UT students about their experiences and areas of study, and attend specific breakout sessions based on your academic interests.

#UTampaOpenHouse

Connect with current students.

Explore campus with a student tour guide and hear firsthand about their experience at UT. Tour guides can offer insider information about what it’s like to live and learn in this community. 

Know Before You Go

Top 10 Tips for Visitors

Take the guesswork out of a trip to UT with these helpful tips on how to get the most out of your time on campus. 

Take a Virtual Visit

Visit From Home

Get a feel for UT without the travel commitment. Explore digital tours on our UT YouTube video channel, follow us on social media for the day-to-day and sign up for a 30-minute information session hosted by an admissions counselor to get a live introduction to the admissions process.

POV: You're at UT

Campus Tours on YouTube

About Tampa Bay

The Hype is Real

There’s a reason Tampa has been consistently ranked as one of the top places in the country to live, and it’s not just the year-round sunshine and beaches. In addition to the abundant natural beauty, Tampa has made a name for itself as an epicenter of business, innovation, sports, entertainment, culture and opportunity. From day one, UT students are in the thick of a thriving community that’s only getting better. 

Directions and Hotels

Getting Here

The UT campus is located at the heart of downtown Tampa, surrounded by a bustling cityscape and bordered by the picturesque Hillsborough River. A giant, 21-foot-tall pink flamingo named Phoebe welcomes visitors flying into the Tampa International Airport, and UT is just a short drive away, easily accessible by I-275. Visitors can enjoy their Tampa stay at one of the many nearby hotels that offer discounted rates to UT guests. 

401 W. Kennedy Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33606-1490

(813) 253-3333  

EASE Grant Performance Measures

© 2024 The University of Tampa. All Rights Reserved.

• Development and University Relations
• Hotels and Directions
• Campus Safety
• Employment Opportunities
• ADA/Compliance
• Online Comment Card

Subscribe to News and UT Life

401 W. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33606-13490 (813) 253-3333

This website uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance visitor experiences. By using this website, you consent to the use of your cookies in accordance with  UT's privacy statement.

Top Universities Offering In-Person Campus Tours This Summer

Last year, many students were unable to visit the schools they dreamed of attending due to coronavirus precautions. This resulted in students applying to more schools than they usually would, which in turn produced some of the lowest acceptance rates in modern history. 

The good news, Class of 2026, is that many schools are starting to open their doors to prospective students once again. (College tour road trip, anyone?) Of course, that’s not to say that schools still aren’t taking precautions: While all schools will require students and families to register online before attending an in-person tour, some will go as far as to require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test. Make sure to check all of the in-person visit criteria on the school’s website before signing up!

Visiting all the schools on your list isn’t always an option, especially if you’re applying to universities across the country (or the world!). Luckily, most schools allow for virtual tours through their websites. Our advice? Take advantage of the virtual option if you need, but visit in-person if the option is available to you. Being able to walk around campus and absorb the vibe is extremely helpful when it comes time to narrow down your school list.

Read on to see which of your top schools are offering in-person tours this summer!

About CEA HQ

View all posts by CEA HQ »

We're here to help.

Written by CEA HQ

Category: College Admissions , Summer Preparation

Tags: college tours , summer 2021-22

Want free stuff?

We thought so. Sign up for free instructional videos, guides, worksheets and more!

One-On-One Advising

Common App Essay Prompt Guide

Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

• YouTube Tutorials
• Our Approach & Team
• Undergraduate Testimonials
• Postgraduate Testimonials
• Where Our Students Get In
• CEA Gives Back
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Private School Admissions
• International Student Admissions
• Common App Essay Guide
• Supplemental Essay Guide
• Coalition App Guide
• The CEA Podcast
• Admissions Stats
• Notification Trackers
• Deadline Databases
• College Essay Examples
• Academy and Worksheets
• Waitlist Guides
• Get Started

Header Helpful Links

• Current Students
• Faculty & Staff
• Families & Visitors
• Search Search
• Campus & Community : Campus Destinations
• Campus Visitor Guide

Come Visit the Forty Acres!

Come for a visit and explore world-class history exhibits, view inspirational public art or take a relaxing stroll under the oaks.

Art, History & Science

See what's happening this summer at the Blanton Museum of Art, Harry Ransom Center, Landmarks public art project, LBJ Presidential Library, Texas Memorial Museum and Briscoe Center.

Campus Photo Guide

When visiting UT Austin's campus check out the iconic landmarks, inspiring art and breathtaking landscapes at these share-worthy spots.

Parking and Transportation

Parking and Transportation Services is your source of information for travelling to and from the Forty Acres.

Footer Helpful Links

• Access Course Syllabi and Instructor CVs
• Campus Carry
• Counseling and Mental Health
• Disability Resources
• Emergency Information
• Fraud, Waste, or Abuse
• Hazing Prevention and Response
• HEERF/CARES Act Compliance
• Online Institutional Resumes
• Public Forum On Campus
• Site Policies
• State of Texas
• Statewide Search
• Texas Homeland Security
• Texas Veterans Portal
• Title IX Reporting (Sexual Misconduct)
• Web Accessibility Policy
• Web Privacy Policy

• Schedule A Tour

The Standard Austin is a UT Austin off campus housing community that provides students with a living experience a step above. Fall in love with luxury amenities, such as a sauna, yoga room, academic lounge, gameroom, and more. We offer modernly styled apartments complete with private bedrooms and bathrooms, open-layout floor plans, and furnished options. Want to know more? We offer guided tours, self-guided tours, live video tours, and virtual tours so you can find the best tour type for you!

Self-Guided Tour

Tour in person at your own pace.

Are you constantly on the go with school, work, social events, or other engagements? Don’t have time to schedule a property tour during office hours? Try our self-guided tour option! You can tour the community at your own pace to see all of the amenities we have to offer without having to set up an appointment with a leasing agent. All you need is your phone and the Tour24 app!

Click below to learn more about setting up a self-guided tour!

Guided Tour

Tour in person with a leasing agent, live video tour, get a live walkthrough of our community.

Are you long-distance or just can’t make it in to view the property in person? Our leasing team is happy to give you the full tour of the property through a live video chat platform of your choice. You get all of the benefits of being here in person, but you can schedule time between classes, during a break, or just from the comfort of your couch, instead of taking additional time to come out.

Contact us today to schedule a date and time for your live video tour!

Virtual Tour

A virtual look at our property.

If you don’t have time for a tour in person or through video chat, you can still roam around our property virtually. Start in the clubhouse and look around the entire property to see firsthand all of the amenities available in our community. You can even see a sample floor plan to get a feel for our apartments. There’s no registration, and you can move through the tour as fast or as slow as you like and can repeat it at a later time.

Click below to start your virtual tour!

Austin Insider Blog

This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of.

Self Guided Tour of UT Austin

Nestled in the middle of Austin is the University of Texas , home of the Texas Longhorns. Although the university is nicknamed the "Forty Acres," it actually sits on about 431-acres and plays host to nearly 51,000 students annually. Visit one of the many on-campus museums or opt for a self-guided walking tour to see the historic buildings, sculptures and other points of interest.

110 Inner Campus Dr. Standing tall with 27-floors, the UT Tower is the most recognizable building on campus. Take a tower tour and catch a glimpse of the full campus from the observation deck. Also, be sure to spot the Tower glowing burnt orange for special events and after any Longhorn win.

Littlefield Fountain

201 W. 21st St. Just south of the tower, at the university's South Mall entrance sits a World War I memorial fountain, sculpted by Italian-born Pompeo Coppini in 1933. The fountain is a great place to stop to see a full view of the Tower and snap a quick photo. Plus, look south from the fountain for a view of the Capitol building and downtown Austin.

Blanton Museum of Art

200 E. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. Continue southeast from the fountain to visit one of the largest university art museums in the nation. The Blanton Museum of Art  features an impressive permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. From the first step inside, you are met with " Stacked Waters ," an ombre, blue permanent installation by Teresita Fernández that surrounds the museum's staircase. Make sure to visit the unique marble building and colorful installation aptly named " Austin ," designed by Ellsworth Kelly and located behind the main building.

Bullock Texas State History Museum

1800 Congress Ave. Just across East Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard from the Blanton is the Bullock Texas State History Museum . For history buffs of all ages, the Bullock is filled with interactive Texas history exhibits and is home to the city's IMAX theater. Don't forget to snap a photo with the 35-foot star in front that represents the Texas flag's lone star.

Darrell K Royal - Texas Memorial Stadium

2139 San Jacinto Blvd. Back on campus, walk north on San Jacinto Boulevard to pass through the heart of Longhorn sports. On your way towards DRK Stadium, keep an eye out for the Lee & Joe Jamail Texas Swimming Center and the Mike Meyers Track & Soccer Stadium. Home to the Longhorn football team since 1924, the massive Darrell K Royal Stadium  holds approximately 100,119 fans and is the heartbeat of the University on game day.

LBJ Library and Museum

2313 Red River St. Just one block northwest of the stadium, pass by the LBJ Fountain on your way to the  LBJ Presidential Library  (temporarily closed). For those interested in political history, you won't want to miss this museum covering President Lyndon Baines Johnson's presidency, political career and American history during his time in office.

Botany Greenhouse + Turtle Pond

205 W. 24th St. From the museum, head west towards the UT Tower, passing by the statue of Martin Luther King Jr. between the College of Liberal Arts and the Jackson School of Geosciences. Follow Inner Campus Drive just north of the tower to find the turtle pond and Biological Greenhouse, one of several on campus. Pick up lunch from the Texas Union (and peek inside the Cactus Cafe to spot posters of past performers lining the walls), then have a picnic under the grove of trees and take in the view or watch the turtles in the small pond for a peaceful retreat.

Barbara Jordan Statue

307 W. 24th St. Follow Whitis Avenue one block north from the Turtle Pond to see the memorial to Barbara Jordan. Jordan, the first Southern African-American woman elected to the United States House of Representatives, was a politician, a Civil Rights Leader and a Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient. Her iconic statue stands underneath the stately Battle Oaks , three live oak trees that are believed to have stood there since before the American Civil War. Just across the street, you'll spot the Littlefield House (not open to the public). Gifted to the university by Civil War veteran George Littlefield in 1935, the Littlefield House is one of the last Victorian style homes in the city. The historic abode was initially built in 1893 for Littlefield, a significant benefactor to UT.

Battle Hall

302 Inner Campus Dr. Walk two blocks south to see one of the best examples of Spanish-Mediterranean Revival architecture on campus. Recognized for its blue doors, Battle Hall was built in 1911 and was the first on-campus building to be added to the National Register of Historic Places. Once the main library on campus, Battle Hall is now home to the Architecture and Planning Library and other Architectural Archives. The building was designed by architect Cass Gilbert, who helped design for the U.S. Supreme Court Building.

César Chávez Statue

West Mall near Battle Hall Nearby, visit the stunning bronze statue of Mexican-American Civil Rights leader César Chávez, located between Battle Hall and the West Mall Office Building. Unveiled in 2007, the figure was designed by sculptor Pablo Eduardo and mostly funded by students. Chávez was an activist and farm worker who co-founded the National Farm Workers Association.

The University of Texas campus is also home other museums: see dinosaur fossils at the Texas Science & Natural History Museum or head over to the Harry Ransom Center  to see one of the world's 20 remaining Gutenberg Bibles and other artifacts. There are more than 40 noteworthy public sculptures located throughout campus, including the Red Steel Clock Knot located along Dean Keeton Street. Walk across the street directly South of the Blanton Museum and explore the Capitol Mall, which leads you directly to the Texas State Capitol . Or, head west to "The Drag" - a section of Guadalupe Street known for shopping, dining and music offerings. Find more Central Austin hotspots here  and learn more about the University of Texas at Austin (along with information about official tours) here .

Guest Blogger

• SI SWIMSUIT
• SI SPORTSBOOK

Payton Thorne Ready to Take Auburn Tigers Offense to 'Next Level'

Keith cummings | 17 hours ago.

• Auburn Tigers

Much of the buzz on the Auburn Tigers campus this offseason has been the stratospheric talent of star receiver Cam Coleman .

Take a deep breath everyone. The 18-year-old from Phenix City celebrated a birthday on Wednesday and Alabama comes as advertised thus far. The season really can't roll around quick enough. 

Lest we forget, head coach Hugh Freeze has successfully put together an explosive pass catching unit, one which tight end Rivaldo Fairweather said just the other day opponents " would not be able to stop. "

Look no further than starting quarterback Payton Thorne for even more compelling evidence that the 2024 crop of wide receivers has got more than just Coleman to hurt defenses, it's also got speedster Malcolm Simmons.

"First thing starts with the amazing speed," said Thorne of Simmons. "The kid can fly and that’s obviously showing you his track speed. His jumping ability. I think his Instagram is something like ‘freak-something ( freak0fnatureee ).’ He lives up to the name. He is a freak.

"But you look out there and we’ve got a lot of guys like that," Thorne continued. "We’ve got a lot of guys that can run in that room, and we’ve got a lot of guys that can shake in that room too… and that can run. That’s a rare combo.

After last season's well-documented trials and tribulations, it's entirely understandable that Thorne is currently salivating at the thought of several speed burners breaking the field wide open for him.

That being said, in order to swing the window of opportunity wide open - Thorne is fully aware that if he can blend his veteran chops with quarterback coach Kent Austin, they can bust open Pandora's Box in 2024.

"We were going over some stuff today that's just really refreshing to be going over, just next-level stuff," Thorne enthused during Tigers media availability last week. "We can sit down and break down defenses. That's going to be awesome... that's huge for me obviously. Now that I'm a veteran guy and I've been around for quite a while now in the college game."

Tigers fans' ears will really prick up when they hear their signal caller say that himself and Austin are taking things to the next-level. 

Due to Thorne coming into the mix just too late last year, project Freeze on the offensive side never got on track with the former Michigan State man pulling the strings, or Austin taking a much more hands-on role.

That is about to change dramatically moving forward. Isn't it funny how new talented faces stretching the field can really put the spring back in the step of a quarterback?

KEITH CUMMINGS

Jump to navigation

• Cost & Aid

You are here

Mccombs school of business in-person information sessions.

We hope you will join us for one of our upcoming in-person sessions. Please select a highlighted date on the calendar to see a list of available sessions. Note that all times are Central Standard Time.  If no dates are highlighted on the calendar, no sessions are currently available. We encourage you to attend a general admissions session  to learn about your major of interest. A full listing of in-person sessions can be found here .

• Back to Menu myHilltop
• Mail and Calendar
• Collegiate Link
• Academic Calendar
• Back to Menu Current Students
• Future Students
• Parents and Families
• Athletes and Fans
• Faculty and Staff
• Request Info

Graduate Programs

Graduate Education Menu

• International Graduate Students
• Support Services
• Professional Studies

Take on Bigger Opportunities with a Graduate Degree that Opens Doors

At St. Edward’s, our graduate programs allow you to fine-tune your professional goals and shore up durable skills that keep you thriving and resilient in a fast-changing job market and economy.

Taught by faculty members who are experts in their fields, our academically challenging programs give you the knowledge, industry insights, global perspective and professional network you need to take your career to a new level.

Designed for Busy Professionals

The selection of in-person and online programs we offer are convenient for busy lifestyles. In-person courses are held at our main campus near downtown Austin, through online and blended formats, and most include evening and weekend classes.

Accredited Education 

Our school maintains high academic standards with accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Releated Educational Programs (CACREP), and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Programs that Lead to Success

— U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019

— SEU Satisfaction Survey, 2017

St. Edward's University has the highest student satisfaction and the best faculty responsiveness in Texas among online business masters (non-MBA) according to U.S. News and World Report (2024).

Online Programs

Whether online or in person, St. Edward’s graduate school strives to provide all our students with the same quality education, networking opportunities and skill-building curriculum. The only difference for our online students is that courses are more flexible, making it easy to learn on your schedule without having to sacrifice the things that are important to you.

Courses are a blend of live online sessions and asynchronous coursework, so you have the flexibility to balance life and school without sacrificing your goals.

30 Credit Hours | 16 Months | AACSB Accredited

Master of Science in Digital Marketing and Analytics (MSDGMA)

Join a dynamic and rapidly evolving industry where you can create an exciting and successful career from one of the few online MSDMA programs. In this top digital marketing program, you’ll use your creativity and analytical skills to address the ever-evolving landscape of marketing. Gain the knowledge you need for business intelligence and analytics, digital and social media analytics, marketing automation systems, user interface design and digital innovations in mobile marketing.

30 Credit Hours | 21 Months

Online Master of Education In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Learn to assess, analyze and help individuals with a range of abilities that present challenging behaviors, including those with developmental disabilities and autism. Our MEd program will advance your skills and give you clinical experiential feedback in preparation for the Board-Certified Behavior Analyst exam.

36 credit hours | 12-24 month program | AACSB Accredited

Online Master of Business Administration (MBA)

The hybrid and online MBA at St. Edward’s is ethically driven to set you apart as someone who can make a difference. It covers core business topics such as accounting, finance, marketing, big data and data analytics, delivered in small classes with individual attention from expert faculty in a choice of five concentrations.

60 Credit Hours | 39 Months

Online Doctorate (Ed.D.) of Education in Leadership and Higher Education

Evolve your leadership skills into a career with this Doctor of Education degree. Designed for busy working professionals, this fully online EdD program is both flexible and customizable, and it can be completed in as little as 39 months. Gain the knowledge, skills and abilities to identify critical issues challenging all aspects of higher education administration and learn to examine and define approaches to creatively and comprehensively address those challenges. You will also conduct practice-based dissertation research while completing your coursework.

Online Master of Science in Accounting Analytics (MSAA)

Our fully online master’s in accounting analytics program is designed to prepare ethically focused accounting professionals to sit for the CPA exam and propel you into executive-level roles in accounting and finance. Both flexible and customizable, you can complete your master’s in accounting in under two years. Gain high-demand skills, take on virtual accounting environments and unstructured big data, and learn to solve business problems by constructing meaning out of vast amounts of data.

30 Credit Hours | 18 Months | AACSB Accredited

Online Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA)

Earn your MSBA fully online and learn business analysis. Think critically, analyze problems and make responsible and strategic decisions — all through a lens of moral reasoning and ethics unique to St. Edward’s University. Gain the skills needed to be descriptive, diagnostic, predictive and prescriptive through real-world case studies from across several sectors and functional areas of business.

30 Credit Hours | 16 months

Online Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL)

Acquire the skills to manage positive organizational change in this leadership training program. Earn your online MS in Organizational Leadership at St. Edward’s University and gain an understanding of leadership from the individual, group, organizational and global perspectives and apply them to your career path.

Learn More About Our Online Programs

“I value the relationships that I built with my professors and former classmates, some of which, 10 years later, are now dear friends and colleagues."

Evening Programs

Master of arts in counseling (mac).

Gain professional insights into human behavior through an experiential program and accomplished faculty; prepare to pass the LPC and/or LMFT.

• 60 credit hours
• 2- to 3-year program

Take Your Next Step

Harris and Walz set to wrap up battleground state tour in Nevada

Aug. 10 (UPI) -- The 2024 Democratic presidential ticket of Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz are set to wrap up their five-day campaign tour of key swing states with a rally in Nevada on Saturday.

The duo are scheduled to appear at 5:30 p.m. PDT at the 19,500-seat Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of the University of Nevada at Las Vegas, capping off their initial of barnstorming tour of battleground states with previous stops in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan and Arizona.

On Friday, Walz and Harris staged a rally at a packed Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Ariz., where they were introduced by U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., and his wife, former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz.

Kelly, who was on Harris' shortlist as a possible running mate, proclaimed his support for the Harris-Walz ticket, while Giffords, the survivor of an assassination attempt in 2011, related her story of learning to speak and walk again after the gun violence incident.

"We are living in challenging times," she told the crowd . "We're up to the challenge."

In a theme that was expected to be repeated Saturday in Las Vegas, Harris in Arizona concentrated her attention on the issue of immigration, responding to frequent charges from the GOP ticker of former President Donald Trump and Sen. JD Vance of Ohio that she "oversaw" the Biden administration's "failed immigration policies" as its "border czar."

Much as Kelly did earlier this year in the Senate, Harris voiced strong support for a bipartisan border security bill brokered by Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz., and backed by President Joe Biden, under which thousands of additional Border Patrol agents and Customs and Border Protection personnel would have been added.

The agreement, however, failed in the Senate in May after Trump urged Republicans not to give Biden a pre-election legislative victory.

"Earlier this year, we had a chance to pass the toughest bipartisan border security bill in decades," Harris said. "But Donald Trump tanked the deal because he thought by doing that it would help win an election. But when I am president, I will sign the bill."

Local and national Republicans kept up their attacks on the Democrats over immigration in Las Vegas on Friday prior to the rally there.

At the state's GOP headquarters in Henderson, Nev., state party chairman Michael McDonald again referred to Harris as the Biden administration's "border czar," asking reporters , "How'd that work out?"

Democrats dispute the characterization that Harris has ever been placed in charge of securing the nation's southern border as a "czar." Rather, they say, in 2021 she was chosen to head a wide-ranging, cross-agency effort to address the root causes of illegal border crossings through diplomatic engagements with Latin American nations such as Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador.

Harris this week has sought to toughen her message on immigration with the unveiling of a new ad running in Arizona and Nevada, emphasizing her support of the bipartisan border bill and touting her credentials as a "border state prosecutor."

"Fixing the border is tough, so is Kamala Harris," the ad states .

• Museum Store

Search the site

Edwin austin abbey in the studio .

Edwin Austin Abbey, compositional study (detail) for The Spirit of Light in the Pennsylvania State Capitol, ca. 1902–8. Oil on canvas. Yale University Art Gallery, Edwin Austin Abbey Memorial Collection 

One of the foremost muralists in Britain and America at the turn of the 19th century, Edwin Austin Abbey (1852–1911, Hon. 1897) created hundreds of preparatory paintings to both develop his larger compositions and experiment with his materials. Sharing the results of archival research and close study of Abbey’s paintings, Kelsey Wingel, Associate Conservator of Paintings, discusses Abbey’s 20-year career, including his technical growth, carefully selected materials, and singular working practice in a barnlike studio. Offered in conjunction with the exhibition The Dance of Life: Figure and Imagination in American Art, 1876–1917 .    

Major support for  The Dance of Life is made possible by the Henry Luce Foundation, with additional support provided by the Wyeth Foundation for American Art.   

No registration required; space is limited. 

Attacks on Walz’s Military Record

By Robert Farley , D'Angelo Gore and Eugene Kiely

Posted on August 8, 2024 | Updated on August 12, 2024 | Corrected on August 9, 2024

In introducing her pick for vice presidential running mate, Kamala Harris has prominently touted Tim Walz’s 24 years of service in the Army National Guard. Now, however, GOP vice presidential nominee JD Vance and the Trump campaign are attacking Walz on his military record, accusing the Minnesota governor of “stolen valor.”

We’ll sort through the facts surrounding the three main attacks on Walz’s military record and let readers decide their merit. The claims include:

• Vance claimed that Walz “dropped out” of the National Guard when he learned his battalion was slated to be deployed to Iraq. Walz retired to focus on a run for Congress two months before his unit got official word of impending deployment, though the possibility had been rumored for months.
• Vance also accused Walz of having once claimed to have served in combat, when he did not. While advocating a ban on assault-style weapons, Walz said, “We can make sure that those weapons of war that I carried in war, is the only place where those weapons are at.” Update, Aug. 12: The Harris campaign says that Walz “misspoke.”
• The Republican National Committee has criticized Walz for misrepresenting his military rank in campaign materials. The Harris campaign website salutes Walz for “rising to the rank of Command Sergeant Major.” Walz did rise to that rank, but he retired as a master sergeant because he had not completed the requirements of a command sergeant major.

A native of West Point, Nebraska, Walz joined the Nebraska Army National Guard in April 1981, two days after his 17th birthday. When Walz and his wife moved to Minnesota in 1996, he transferred to the Minnesota National Guard, where he served in 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery.

“While serving in Minnesota, his military occupational specialties were 13B – a cannon crewmember who operates and maintains cannons and 13Z -field artillery senior sergeant,” according to a statement released by Army Lt. Col. Kristen Augé, the Minnesota National Guard’s state public affairs officer.

According to MPR News , Walz suffered some hearing impairment related to exposure to cannon booms during training over the years, and he underwent some corrective surgery to address it.

On Aug. 3, 2003, “Walz mobilized with the Minnesota National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery … to support Operation Enduring Freedom. The battalion supported security missions at various locations in Europe and Turkey. Governor Walz was stationed at Vicenza, Italy, during his deployment,” Augé stated. The deployment lasted about eight months.

“For 24 years I proudly wore the uniform of this nation,” Walz said at a rally in Philadelphia where he was announced as Harris’ running mate on Aug. 6. “The National Guard gave me purpose. It gave me the strength of a shared commitment to something greater than ourselves.”

Walz’s Retirement from the National Guard

In recent years, however, several of his fellow guard members have taken issue with the timing of Walz’s retirement from the National Guard in May 2005, claiming he left to avoid a deployment to Iraq.

Vance, who served a four-year active duty enlistment in the Marine Corps as a combat correspondent, serving in Iraq for six months in 2005, advanced that argument at a campaign event on Aug. 7.

“When the United States of America asked me to go to Iraq to serve my country, I did it,” Vance said. “When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, you know what he did? He dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him, a fact that he’s been criticized for aggressively by a lot of the people that he served with. I think it’s shameful to prepare your unit to go to Iraq, to make a promise that you’re going to follow through and then to drop out right before you actually have to go.”

In early 2005, Walz, then a high school geography teacher and football coach at Mankato West High School, decided to run for public office. In a 2009 interview Walz provided as part of the Library of Congress’ veterans oral history project, Walz said he made the decision to retire from the National Guard to “focus full time” on a run for the U.S. House of Representatives for Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District (which he ultimately won in 2006). Walz said he was “really concerned” about trying to seek public office and serve in the National Guard at the same time without running afoul of the Hatch Act , which limits political speech by federal employees, including members of the National Guard.

Federal Election Commission records show that Walz filed to run for Congress on Feb. 10, 2005.

On March 20, 2005, Walz’s campaign put out a press release titled “Walz Still Planning to Run for Congress Despite Possible Call to Duty in Iraq.”

Three days prior, the release said, “the National Guard Public Affairs Office announced a possible partial mobilization of roughly 2,000 troops from the Minnesota National Guard. … The announcement from the National Guard PAO specified that all or a portion of Walz’s battalion could be mobilized to serve in Iraq within the next two years.”

According to the release, “When asked about his possible deployment to Iraq Walz said, ‘I do not yet know if my artillery unit will be part of this mobilization and I am unable to comment further on specifics of the deployment.’ Although his tour of duty in Iraq might coincide with his campaign for Minnesota’s 1st Congressional seat, Walz is determined to stay in the race. ‘As Command Sergeant Major I have a responsibility not only to ready my battalion for Iraq, but also to serve if called on. I am dedicated to serving my country to the best of my ability, whether that is in Washington DC or in Iraq.'”

On March 23, 2005, the Pipestone County Star reported, “Detachments of the Minnesota National Guard have been ‘alerted’ of possible deployment to Iraq in mid-to-late 2006.”

“Major Kevin Olson of the Minnesota National Guard said a brigade-sized contingent of soldiers could be expected to be called to Iraq, but he was not, at this time, aware of which batteries would be called,” the story said. “All soldiers in the First Brigade combat team of the 34th Division, Minnesota National Guard, could be eligible for call-up. ‘We don’t know yet what the force is like’ he said. ‘It’s too early to speculate, if the (soldiers) do go.’

“He added: ‘We will have a major announcement if and when the alert order moves ahead.’”

ABC News spoke to Joseph Eustice, a retired command sergeant major who served with Walz, and he told the news organization this week that “he remembers Walz struggling with the timing of wanting to serve as a lawmaker but also avoiding asking for a deferment so he could do so.”

“He had a window of time,” Eustice told ABC News. “He had to decide. And in his deciding, we were not on notice to be deployed. There were rumors. There were lots of rumors, and we didn’t know where we were going until it was later that, early summer, I believe.”

Al Bonnifield, who served under Walz, also recalled Walz agonizing over the decision.

“It was a very long conversation behind closed doors,” Bonnifield told the Washington Post this week. “He was trying to decide where he could do better for soldiers, for veterans, for the country. He weighed that for a long time.”

In 2018, Bonnifield told MPR News that Walz worried in early 2005, “Would the soldier look down on him because he didn’t go with us? Would the common soldier say, ‘Hey, he didn’t go with us, he’s trying to skip out on a deployment?’ And he wasn’t. He talked with us for quite a while on that subject. He weighed that decision to run for Congress very heavy. He loved the military, he loved the guard, he loved the soldiers he worked with.”

But not all of Walz’s fellow Guard members felt that way.

In a paid letter to the West Central Tribune in Minnesota in November 2018, Thomas Behrends and Paul Herr — both retired command sergeants major in the Minnesota National Guard — wrote, “On May 16th, 2005 he [Walz] quit, leaving the 1-125th Field Artillery Battalion and its Soldiers hanging; without its senior Non-Commissioned Officer, as the battalion prepared for war. His excuse to other leaders was that he needed to retire in order to run for congress. Which is false, according to a Department of Defense Directive, he could have run and requested permission from the Secretary of Defense before entering active duty; as many reservists have.”

“For Tim Walz to abandon his fellow soldiers and quit when they needed experienced leadership most is disheartening,” they wrote. “When the nation called, he quit.”

Walz retired on May 16, 2005. Walz’s brigade received alert orders for mobilization on July 14, 2005, according to the National Guard and MPR News . The official mobilization report came the following month, and the unit mobilized and trained through the fall. It was finally deployed to Iraq in the spring of 2006.

The unit was originally scheduled to return in February 2007, but its tour was extended four months as part of President George W. Bush’s “surge” strategy , the National Guard reported. In all, the soldiers were mobilized for 22 months.

Responding to Vance’s claim that Walz retired to avoid deploying to Iraq, the Harris-Walz campaign released a statement saying, “After 24 years of military service, Governor Walz retired in 2005 and ran for Congress, where he was a tireless advocate for our men and women in uniform – and as Vice President of the United States he will continue to be a relentless champion for our veterans and military families.”

Walz on Carrying a Weapon ‘in War’

Vance also called Walz “dishonest” for a claim that Walz made in 2018 while speaking to a group about gun control.

“He made this interesting comment that the Kamala Harris campaign put out there,” Vance said, referring to a video of Walz that the Harris campaign posted to X on Aug. 6. “He said, ‘We shouldn’t allow weapons that I used in war to be on America’s streets.’ Well, I wonder, Tim Walz, when were you ever in war? What was this weapon that you carried into war given that you abandoned your unit right before they went to Iraq and he has not spent a day in a combat zone.”

In the video , Walz, who was campaigning for governor at the time, talked about pushing back on the National Rifle Association and said: “I spent 25 years in the Army and I hunt. … I’ve been voting for common sense legislation that protects the Second Amendment, but we can do background checks. We can do [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] research. We can make sure we don’t have reciprocal carry among states. And we can make sure that those weapons of war that I carried in war, is the only place where those weapons are at.”

But, as Vance indicated, there is no evidence that Walz carried a weapon “in war.”

Update, Aug. 12: In an Aug. 10 statement to CNN, the Harris campaign told CNN that Walz “misspoke.”

“In making the case for why weapons of war should never be on our streets or in our classrooms, the Governor misspoke,” campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt said in the statement. “He did handle weapons of war and believes strongly that only military members trained to carry those deadly weapons should have access to them.”

As we said, Augé, in her statement, said Walz’s battalion deployed “to support Operation Enduring Freedom” on Aug. 3, 2003, and “supported security missions at various locations in Europe and Turkey.” During his deployment, Walz was stationed in Vicenza, Italy, and he returned to Minnesota in April 2004, Augé said. There was no mention of Walz serving in Afghanistan, Iraq or another combat zone.

In the 2009 interview for the veterans history project, Walz said he and members of his battalion initially thought they would “shoot artillery in Afghanistan,” as they had trained to do. That didn’t happen, he said, explaining that his group ended up helping with security and training while stationed at an Army base in Vicenza.

“I think in the beginning, many of my troops were disappointed,” Walz said in the interview. “I think they felt a little guilty, many of them, that they weren’t in the fight up front as this was happening.”

In an Aug. 8 statement addressing his claim about carrying weapons “in war,” the Harris campaign noted that Walz, whose military occupational specialties included field artillery senior sergeant, “fired and trained others to use weapons of war innumerable times” in his 24 years of service.

Walz’s National Guard Rank

The Republican National Committee has criticized Walz for saying “in campaign materials that he is a former ‘Command Sergeant Major’ in the Army National Guard despite not completing the requirements to hold the rank into retirement.”

Walz’s biography on the Harris campaign website correctly says that the governor “served for 24 years” in the National Guard, “rising to the rank of Command Sergeant Major.” 

Walz’s official biography on the Minnesota state website goes further, referring to the governor as “Command Sergeant Major Walz.”

“After 24 years in the Army National Guard, Command Sergeant Major Walz retired from the 1-125th Field Artillery Battalion in 2005,” the state website says. 

Walz did serve as command sergeant major , but Walz did not complete the requirements to retire with the rank of command sergeant, Augé told us in an email. 

“He held multiple positions within field artillery such as firing battery chief, operations sergeant, first sergeant, and culminated his career serving as the command sergeant major for the battalion,” Augé said. “He retired as a master sergeant in 2005 for benefit purposes because he did not complete additional coursework at the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy.”

This isn’t the first time that Walz’s National Guard rank has come up in a campaign. 

In their 2018 paid letter to the West Central Tribune, when Walz was running for governor, the two Minnesota National Guard retired command sergeants major who criticized Walz for retiring before the Iraq deployment also wrote: “Yes, he served at that rank, but was never qualified at that rank, and will receive retirement benefits at one rank below. You be the judge.”

Correction, Aug. 9: We mistakenly said a 2007 “surge” strategy in Iraq occurred under President Barack Obama. It was President George W. Bush.

Editor’s note: In the interest of full disclosure, Harris campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt was an undergraduate intern at FactCheck.org from 2010 to 2011.

Editor’s note: FactCheck.org does not accept advertising. We rely on grants and individual donations from people like you. Please consider a donation. Credit card donations may be made through  our “Donate” page . If you prefer to give by check, send to: FactCheck.org, Annenberg Public Policy Center, 202 S. 36th St., Philadelphia, PA 19104.