FAQ
What kind of organization is Theta Tau?
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.
More for information, check out our Central Office Website!
What are the requirements?
Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of initiation
Must have a minimum GPA of 2.0
Must be a current engineering student of good standing
Must not be an active member of a competing fraternity
Must have at least one year of school left
Is Theta Tau an honor society?
Although we promote scholarship and require a certain GPA for initiates, Theta Tau is not an honor society.
However it is a professional organization similar to ACM, IEEE, UPE, ASME, and others.
Is Theta Tau Co-Ed?
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 1970’s.
Is Theta Tau a Social Fraternity?
We separate ourselves from being a social fraternity through our emphasis on professionalism. Nonetheless, we host and support numerous social events such as intramural sports teams, chapter retreats, formal dances, and much, much more!
Why should I consider Theta Tau?
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 and brotherhood go hand in hand, creating long lasting connections that can help members land a job and know more faces around campus.
Theta Tau is a strong professional and social network that will last for life.
What if I cannot make it to events due to conflicts?
Pledges and members are highly encouraged to attend their respective meetings and activities. However, we understand that 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 absent, pledges should contact the Pledge Marshal, and members should contact the Scribe.
What is “Rushing”?
“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 they 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.
What is “hazing” and will I be hazed?
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.
Hazing is any action taken to intentionally hurt the individual, degrade them, or humiliate them and will not be tolerated. Our chapter believes that everyone who joins our organization is equal.
What is “Pledging”?
“Pledging” Theta Tau is a continuing promise by the student to become an active member of the fraternity. If you choose to accept an extended bid, you will undergo the pledge process.
During this time, you will learn about the history of the fraternity and other important information about our chapter. Pledging is also a time to bond with your fellow pledges and active members.
Each pledge meeting lasts about an hour. Throughout the pledge period, different requirements are asked of the pledges, including attendance at every meeting.
As a pledge class you learn teamwork, professional development, and what it means to be a member of Theta Tau.
Are there any fees?
Yes, as with most student organizations on campus, there are initiation and member fees.
If you are concerned about paying the fees, contact the Treasurer and a payment plan can be arranged!
How do I correctly pronounce the “Tau”?
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. We pronounce it with a Minnesotan accent!