DALLAS (KRLD) — Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to issue a cease-and-desist order against Texas American Muslim University at Dallas, also known as TexAM University, requiring it to immediately stop offering degree programs.
The Richardson-based institution, located at 1100 E. Campbell Road, has been advertising and enrolling students in online and on-campus STEM degrees that include mandatory Islamic studies coursework. It began its first semester in October 2025 with about 26 students but never obtained the required Certificate of Authority from the state, officials said.
Under Texas law, private postsecondary institutions must receive explicit state approval before granting degrees or using the term “university.” The THECB determined TexAM was operating without that authorization and in violation of Chapter 61 of the Texas Education Code. The order, sent May 7, 2026, demands the school immediately cease all advertising, student enrollment, and use of protected terms such as “university.”
I directed the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to issue a Cease & Desist to "TexAM," an unauthorized Islamic educational institution operating illegally in Texas.
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) May 7, 2026
If they refuse to comply, legal action will follow.
Texas will not allow illegal educational… pic.twitter.com/JoxvIvrgJg
The letter gives TexAM until May 8 to confirm in writing that it has “voluntarily, permanently, and immediately” halted those activities. Failure to comply could lead to referral to the Texas Attorney General and local prosecutors for possible civil and criminal penalties.
Abbott stated the action protects Texas education standards. “Texas will not allow illegal educational institutions to operate in our state,” he said. The school is not listed in the U.S. Department of Education’s database of accredited institutions.
In a statement Thursday, school founder Shahid Bajwa said TexAM was actively working with state officials to address the matter and secure proper approvals. He noted the institution has not yet granted any degrees or credentials and is primarily donation-funded.
The move affects a small number of current and prospective students but does not involve any reported safety issues or public health concerns. The THECB emphasized the order is strictly about regulatory compliance.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
