FAQ

About the fraternity

  • Theta Tau is a Co-Ed Professional Engineering Fraternity.

    The purpose of Theta Tau is to develop and maintain a high standard of professional interest among its members, and to unite them in a strong bond of fraternal fellowship.

    For more information, check out our Central Office website at thetatau.org.

  • Although we promote scholarship and require a certain GPA for initiates, Theta Tau is not an honor society. It is a professional organization like ACM, IEEE, UPE, ASME, and more.

  • Yes. Theta Tau is a Co-Ed National Professional Fraternity; we recruit high-achieving men and women. Theta Tau has been Co-Ed since the late 1970s.

  • We separate ourselves from being a social fraternity because we emphasize professionalism as a common goal. Nonetheless, we hold many social events, such as intramural sports, camping, and fraternity potluck dinners, all of which foster brotherhood.

  • Good question. In your physics or math classes, “tau” probably rhymes with “how” or “cow,” which is the correct pronunciation for the modern Greek letter.

    Our name, “tau,” rhymes with “saw” or “law,” which is the pronunciation for the classical Greek letter.

Joining

  • Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of initiation.

    Minimum GPA of 2.5.

    Must be a current engineering student in good standing.

    Must not be an active member of a competing fraternity.

  • What makes Theta Tau great is the development of its members.

    The area between social fraternity and honor society allows us to create an environment where students can grow academically, professionally, and socially.

    Professionalism is paramount, yet at the same time we don't forget about the fundamental, social aspect of brotherhood; we ultimately help each other become well-rounded men and women.

    Theta Tau is a strong professional and social network that will last for life.

  • “Rushing” is an open invitation for eligible students to learn about becoming a member of Theta Tau. Rush is usually held during the first few weeks of the fall and spring semesters.

    During this time you will see flyers posted saying “Rush Theta Tau.” Theta Tau hosts rush events that provide opportunities to meet the members of the chapter. The purpose is to let the brothers of Theta Tau know you are interested in joining. You also learn about the fraternity and the upcoming pledge process so you can make an informed decision about joining.

    During rush, you are encouraged to come to as many rush events as possible. You should introduce yourself to the members and ask any questions you may have about Theta Tau. At the end of the rush period, the members of Theta Tau choose who will receive a bid to continue on to the pledge process.

  • Absolutely not. Theta Tau has a strict no-hazing policy.

    Our chapter defines “hazing” as an action taken or situation created, intentionally, whether on or off campus or fraternity premises, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. Any action taken to intentionally hurt an individual, degrade them, or humiliate them will not be tolerated. Our chapter believes that everyone who joins our organization is equal.

Membership

  • Pledges and members are highly encouraged to attend their respective meetings and activities. However, school comes first.

    As we are all students, we recognize the importance of having time to study. If a class or review conflicts with a meeting or activity, academics have top priority.

    If you know you are going to be absent, pledges should contact the Pledge Marshal; members should contact the Scribe.

  • Yes, as with most student organizations on campus, there are initiation and member fees.

    The initiation fee is $200, which covers your initiation badge as well as the cost of materials. This fee is paid only one time, in the semester you initiate. Member dues are $400 a year, or $40 a month.

    This fee covers the cost of materials, a T-shirt, and national fees. If you are concerned about paying the fees, contact the Treasurer and a payment plan can be arranged.