Top 3 AI & Machine Learning Programs in Texas 2025
Texas A & M University-College Station
392 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 84% graduation rate
Texas State University
226 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 75% graduation rate
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
126 Artificial Intelligence graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
- 1.Texas has 25+ artificial intelligence and machine learning bachelor's programs across public and private universities (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.University of Texas at Austin ranks #1 in Texas with world-class AI research labs and 87% graduation rate
- 3.Texas AI engineers earn median $142,850 annually—significantly above the national average (BLS Texas OEWS 2024)
- 4.Austin tech hub hosts major AI employers including Dell, IBM, Oracle, and Tesla's AI division, creating strong job demand
- 5.In-state tuition at UT Austin ($11,752) and Texas A&M ($12,747) offers exceptional value compared to out-of-state alternatives
Artificial Intelligence Education in Texas
Texas has emerged as a major hub for artificial intelligence education and research, driven by Austin's booming tech sector and Houston's energy and healthcare industries. The state offers diverse AI programs from research-intensive universities like UT Austin to practical engineering-focused programs at Texas A&M.
For a broader perspective on AI programs nationwide, see our national AI bachelor's rankings. Students considering cost should review our most affordable AI programs guide. Those interested in career outcomes should explore our AI/ML engineer salary guide for Texas-specific compensation data.
Texas's no state income tax policy makes it particularly attractive for high-earning AI professionals. The state's growing tech ecosystem in Austin, combined with energy sector AI applications in Houston and defense technology in Dallas, creates diverse career opportunities for AI graduates.
Texas AI & Machine Learning Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | Public | $9,003 | 84% | — | 83.1 |
| 2 | Texas State University | San Marcos, TX | Public | $8,606 | 75% | — | 66.4 |
| 3 | The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | Edinburg, TX | Public | $7,637 | 96% | — | 65.7 |
| 4 | Southern Methodist University | Dallas, TX | Private | $57,212 | 89% | — | 63.1 |
| 5 | The University of Texas at Arlington | Arlington, TX | Public | $9,206 | 67% | — | 62.4 |
| 6 | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | Public | $11,678 | 89% | — | 59.2 |
| 7 | LeTourneau University | Longview, TX | Private | $34,680 | 86% | — | 53.8 |
| 8 | Southwestern University | Georgetown, TX | Private | $50,558 | 90% | — | 52.3 |
| 9 | University of Houston-Clear Lake | Houston, TX | Public | $6,600 | 66% | — | 50.8 |
| 10 | Southwestern Adventist University | Keene, TX | Private | $23,928 | 86% | — | 49.2 |
| 11 | West Texas A & M University | Canyon, TX | Public | $6,372 | 99% | — | 48.8 |
| 12 | Baylor University | Waco, TX | Private | $54,844 | — | — | 47.3 |
| 13 | University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton, TX | Private | $30,600 | 91% | — | 45.4 |
| 14 | Dallas Baptist University | Dallas, TX | Private | $36,510 | 95% | — | 45.3 |
| 15 | Austin College | Sherman, TX | Private | $45,878 | — | — | 45 |
| 16 | Texas Wesleyan University | Fort Worth, TX | Private | $32,960 | 62% | — | 44.7 |
| 17 | Texas Woman's University | Denton, TX | Public | $5,712 | 86% | — | 42.7 |
| 18 | North American University | Stafford, TX | Private | $12,236 | 34% | — | 42.4 |
| 19 | Houston Christian University | Houston, TX | Private | $35,500 | 75% | — | 42.3 |
| 20 | University of Dallas | Irving, TX | Private | $47,300 | — | — | 42.2 |
| 21 | Tarleton State University | Stephenville, TX | Public | $4,416 | 69% | — | 41.6 |
| 22 | Abilene Christian University | Abilene, TX | Private | $42,100 | — | — | 41.4 |
| 23 | Wayland Baptist University | Plainview, TX | Private | $21,728 | — | — | 41 |
| 24 | Texas College | Tyler, TX | Private | $8,208 | — | — | 40.8 |
| 25 | Texas A&M University-San Antonio | San Antonio, TX | Public | $4,969 | 54% | — | 40 |
Showing 1–25 of 30
Top 5 Artificial Intelligence Programs in Texas: Side-by-Side
| School | Texas A&M | Lamar | Texas State | Southern Methodist | University of Texas Rio... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,003 | $6,228 | $8,606 | $57,212 | $7,637 |
| Graduation Rate | 84% | 99% | 75% | 89% | 96% |
| Annual Graduates | 392 | 192 | 226 | 95 | 126 |
| Acceptance Rate | 63% | 86% | 89% | 61% | 85% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Private | Public |
| Score | 83.1/100 | 71.3/100 | 66.4/100 | 66.3/100 | 65.7/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Artificial Intelligence in Texas
Texas offers 30 bachelor's-level artificial intelligence programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Texas A & M University-College Station, Texas State University, Southern Methodist University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $80,577 in the Texas market.
A bachelor's in artificial intelligence typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Bachelor's Programs in Texas
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Texas A&M | $9,003 | 84% | 392 | 83.1 |
| #2 Texas State | $8,606 | 75% | 226 | 66.4 |
| #3 Southern Methodist | $57,212 | 89% | 95 | 66.3 |
Top Artificial Intelligence Schools for Master's Degrees in Texas
For graduate study, Texas offers 14 master's-level artificial intelligence programs. Leading institutions include Lamar University, Texas A & M University-College Station, University of Houston-Clear Lake. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Texas reaching $149,643 or more.
Top 3 Artificial Intelligence Master's Programs in Texas
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Lamar | $6,228 | 99% | 192 | 71.3 |
| #2 Texas A&M | $9,003 | 84% | 174 | 81.3 |
| #3 U of Houston-Clear Lake | $6,600 | 66% | 117 | 59.2 |
Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Colleges in Texas
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable artificial intelligence programs in Texas are at Tarleton State University ($4,416/year), Texas A&M University-San Antonio ($4,969/year), University of Houston-Victoria ($5,111/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Texas's competitive tech salaries.
At Tarleton State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $17,664 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $80,577, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.4 years.
Most Affordable Artificial Intelligence Programs in Texas (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Tarleton State | $4,416 | $17,664 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #2 Texas A&M University-San... | $4,969 | $19,876 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 U of Houston-Victoria | $5,111 | $20,444 | 0.4 years | Public |
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,003 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 84% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 392 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 63%
- • Ranking Score: 83.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 84% graduation rate
- 392 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 83.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (84%), program size (392 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (63% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,228 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 192 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 86%
- • Ranking Score: 71.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 192 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 71.3 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (192 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (86% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Texas State University
San Marcos, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,606 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 75% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 226 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 89%
- • Ranking Score: 66.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 75% graduation rate
- 226 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 66.4 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (75%), program size (226 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (89% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $57,212 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 89% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 95 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 61%
- • Ranking Score: 66.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- 95 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 66.3 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (89%), program size (95 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (61% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
SMU's AI program combines practical skills students can immediately use in their organizations with ethics-driven education that considers the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. The program is 100% online and designed for flexibility while maintaining the prestige of a well-known university.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •B.S. in computer science, computer engineering or a closely related engineering discipline
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credit hours minimum; 30 credit hours for master's
Available Specializations / Concentrations
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,637 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Artificial Intelligence Graduates: 126 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 85%
- • Ranking Score: 65.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 126 artificial intelligence graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 65.7 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (126 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (85% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Machine Learning Engineer
SOC 15-1251Design and implement ML models for applications in tech, energy, and healthcare sectors
AI Research Scientist
SOC 19-1032Conduct advanced research in artificial intelligence at universities, tech companies, or research institutes
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Apply AI and statistical methods to extract insights from large datasets
Software Engineer (AI/ML)
SOC 15-1252Develop software applications incorporating artificial intelligence capabilities
Computer Vision Engineer
SOC 15-1251Develop systems that can interpret and analyze visual information using AI
Robotics Engineer
SOC 17-2199Design and develop robotic systems incorporating AI for autonomous decision-making
Texas University Systems for AI Education
Texas offers AI education through several major university systems, each with distinct strengths and characteristics. Understanding these systems helps students choose the right fit for their educational goals and career aspirations.
The University of Texas System includes UT Austin (the flagship with top-tier AI research), UT Dallas (strong in computer science and AI), and UT San Antonio (growing AI programs with Hispanic-serving institution benefits). The Texas A&M System features Texas A&M College Station (engineering-focused AI) and Prairie View A&M (historically black university with emerging AI programs).
Private institutions like Rice University and Southern Methodist University offer smaller class sizes and generous financial aid packages. Rice particularly excels in AI research with medical and energy applications, while SMU provides strong industry connections in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
For students interested in computer science broadly, Texas offers 70+ programs statewide. Those considering data science specialization will find complementary programs that overlap significantly with AI curricula.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Texas
AI Programs in Other States
California
New York
Massachusetts
Washington
Illinois
Florida
Which Should You Choose?
- Exceptional value with in-state tuition under $15,000 at top programs
- Access to Austin's booming tech sector with 500+ AI/ML companies
- No state income tax to maximize your post-graduation salary
- Diverse AI applications in energy, healthcare, agriculture, and defense
- Strong job market with 12,500+ annual AI openings statewide
- Warm climate and lower cost of living compared to California/New York
- More AI program options (California has 35+ vs Texas 25+)
- Higher research funding at universities like MIT or Stanford
- Specialized AI programs in entertainment/gaming (California)
- International business AI applications (New York financial sector)
- More venture capital funding for AI startups (Silicon Valley)
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas AI Programs
Based on 18 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Artificial Intelligence degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific artificial intelligence salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related AI & Tech Education Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Official federal database providing comprehensive data on colleges and universities, including graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional characteristics
Texas-specific salary and employment data for computer and mathematical occupations, updated annually
State agency data on Texas higher education enrollment, graduation rates, and program approval
Federal data on university research expenditures and activity in computer science and engineering fields
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.