Top 3 Computer Engineering Programs in Texas 2025
Texas A & M University-College Station
163 Computer Engineering graduates annually, 84% graduation rate
The University of Texas at Dallas
98 Computer Engineering graduates annually, 77% graduation rate
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
52 Computer Engineering graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
- 1.Texas has 35+ accredited computer engineering bachelor's programs across public universities and private institutions (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.UT Austin ranks #1 in Texas with 87% graduation rate and direct pipeline to Austin's booming tech sector
- 3.Rice University offers elite education with 94% graduation rate and 6:1 student-faculty ratio for personalized attention
- 4.Texas computer engineers earn median $118,240 annually—8% above the national median with no state income tax (BLS Texas 2024)
- 5.Major tech employers include Dell, IBM, Texas Instruments, Oracle, Tesla, and Samsung with facilities across Austin, Dallas, and Houston
Computer Engineering Education Landscape in Texas
Texas offers one of the most comprehensive computer engineering education ecosystems in the nation, with programs spanning from elite private universities to affordable public institutions. The state's rapid tech growth, particularly in Austin's Silicon Hills, Dallas-Fort Worth's telecom corridor, and Houston's energy tech sector, creates exceptional opportunities for computer engineering graduates.
For national context, see our best computer engineering bachelor's programs ranking. Students considering costs should review our most affordable engineering programs guide. Career-focused students can explore our computer engineering salary guide for Texas-specific compensation data and our broader engineering careers overview.
Texas's unique advantages include no state income tax, lower cost of living compared to California, and a rapidly growing tech sector that rivals Silicon Valley. Major employers like Dell Technologies, Texas Instruments, IBM, Oracle, Tesla, and Samsung have significant operations across the state, creating abundant internship and career opportunities.
Texas Computer Engineering Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | Public | $9,003 | 84% | — | 83.1 |
| 2 | The University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, TX | Public | $14,564 | 77% | — | 69.2 |
| 3 | The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | Edinburg, TX | Public | $7,637 | 96% | — | 62.5 |
| 4 | Texas Tech University | Lubbock, TX | Public | $8,935 | 81% | — | 61.7 |
| 5 | University of Houston | Houston, TX | Public | $8,685 | 91% | — | 60.5 |
| 6 | LeTourneau University | Longview, TX | Private | $34,680 | 86% | — | 55.9 |
| 7 | University of North Texas | Denton, TX | Public | $8,319 | 70% | — | 55.8 |
| 8 | Prairie View A & M University | Prairie View, TX | Public | $7,387 | 99% | — | 53.8 |
| 9 | The University of Texas at Arlington | Arlington, TX | Public | $9,206 | 67% | — | 52.1 |
| 10 | University of Houston-Clear Lake | Houston, TX | Public | $6,600 | 66% | — | 51.7 |
| 11 | The University of Texas at San Antonio | San Antonio, TX | Public | $6,239 | — | — | 51 |
| 12 | Southern Methodist University | Dallas, TX | Private | $57,212 | 89% | — | 50.7 |
| 13 | Texas A & M International University | Laredo, TX | Public | $3,818 | 82% | — | 47.1 |
| 14 | St. Mary's University | San Antonio, TX | Private | $35,144 | — | — | 39.2 |
Top 5 Computer Engineering Programs in Texas: Side-by-Side
| School | Texas A&M | University of Texas at... | University of Texas Rio... | Lamar | Rice |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,003 | $11,678 | $7,637 | $6,228 | $57,210 |
| Graduation Rate | 84% | 89% | 96% | 99% | 93% |
| Annual Graduates | 825 | 342 | 232 | 192 | 15 |
| Acceptance Rate | 63% | 29% | 85% | 86% | 8% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 83.1/100 | 78.6/100 | 64.4/100 | 63.3/100 | 62.2/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Engineering in Texas
Texas offers 45 bachelor's-level computer engineering programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Texas A & M University-College Station, The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas at Dallas. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $80,577 in the Texas market.
A bachelor's in computer engineering typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Engineering Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Engineering Bachelor's Programs in Texas
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Texas A&M | $9,003 | 84% | 825 | 83.1 |
| #2 University of Texas at... | $11,678 | 89% | 342 | 78.6 |
| #3 University of Texas at... | $14,564 | 77% | 345 | 67.9 |
Top Computer Engineering Schools for Master's Degrees in Texas
For graduate study, Texas offers 25 master's-level computer engineering programs. Leading institutions include Texas A & M University-College Station, Lamar University, The University of Texas at Dallas. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Texas reaching $149,643 or more.
Top 3 Computer Engineering Master's Programs in Texas
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Texas A&M | $9,003 | 84% | 344 | 83.1 |
| #2 Lamar | $6,228 | 99% | 192 | 63.3 |
| #3 University of Texas at... | $14,564 | 77% | 164 | 60.6 |
Most Affordable Computer Engineering Colleges in Texas
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer engineering programs in Texas are at Texas A & M International University ($3,818/year), Tarleton State University ($4,416/year), Texas A & M University-Commerce ($4,790/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Texas's competitive tech salaries.
At Texas A & M International University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $15,272 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $80,577, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.3 years.
Most Affordable Computer Engineering Programs in Texas (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Texas A & M International | $3,818 | $15,272 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #2 Tarleton State | $4,416 | $17,664 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 Texas A & M University-Co... | $4,790 | $19,160 | 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)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 825 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 63%
- • Ranking Score: 83.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 84% graduation rate
- 825 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 83.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (84%), program size (825 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (63% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,678 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 89% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 342 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 29%
- • Ranking Score: 78.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- 342 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 78.6 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (89%), program size (342 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (29% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,637 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 232 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 85%
- • Ranking Score: 64.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 232 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 64.4 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (232 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (85% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UTRGV's Computer Engineering program provides ABET-accredited education with a rigorous foundation in both software and hardware engineering practice at the industry level. Students benefit from hands-on learning in modern labs, supervised research opportunities, and preparation for both industry careers and graduate studies.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,228 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 192 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 86%
- • Ranking Score: 63.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 192 computer engineering graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 63.3 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 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.
Why Choose This Program
Lamar University's Computer Engineering program offers flexible scheduling with both on-campus and online options taught simultaneously, allows students to double major in Electrical Engineering with only 31 extra credit hours, and provides opportunities for cutting-edge research collaboration with distinguished faculty in emerging fields like AI and robotics.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $155,020
- Top Employers: Computer technology companies, Technology and electronics manufacturers, Power and energy plants, Household appliances distributors, Government agencies, Healthcare
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Rice University
Houston, TX • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $57,210 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Engineering Graduates: 15 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 8%
- • Ranking Score: 62.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 15 computer engineering graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 62.2 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (15 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (8% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Rice's Computer Engineering program is ranked Top 25 nationally and rated highest in student satisfaction within Rice Engineering, offering four specialized tracks including emerging areas like AI & Systems and Neuroengineering. The program features an amazing sense of camaraderie and provides extensive undergraduate research opportunities through VIPs and faculty with National Academy of Engineers recognition.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •PHYS 101/102
- •MATH 101/102
- •COMP 140
- •ELEC 220
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.2
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 60 semester hours
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop software systems, applications, and embedded solutions for consumer and enterprise markets
Hardware Engineer
SOC 17-2061Design and test computer hardware components including processors, circuit boards, and embedded systems
Systems Engineer
SOC 15-1199Design and manage complex computer systems and infrastructure for large-scale applications
Embedded Systems Engineer
SOC 15-1132Develop software and hardware for embedded systems in automotive, IoT, and consumer electronics
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1299Bridge development and operations teams to improve software deployment and infrastructure management
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299Develop artificial intelligence and machine learning systems, particularly focusing on hardware optimization
Texas University Systems for Computer Engineering
Texas's higher education landscape offers multiple pathways to a computer engineering degree, each with distinct advantages and characteristics.
The University of Texas System includes flagship UT Austin with its top-ranked ECE program, along with strong regional options like UT Dallas (known for its growing tech programs), UT Arlington (engineering focus), and UT San Antonio (emerging Hispanic-serving institution). The UT system benefits from shared resources and consistent academic standards across campuses.
The Texas A&M University System offers the flagship College Station campus plus specialized programs at regional universities. A&M's engineering tradition, extensive alumni network, and industry connections make it particularly strong for students seeking traditional engineering careers in Texas.
Private institutions like Rice University and SMU provide smaller class sizes and more personalized attention, though at significantly higher tuition costs. Rice, in particular, offers research opportunities typically found only at graduate-focused institutions.
For students considering other degree paths, our computer science programs in Texas and software engineering programs in Texas provide related options with different career focuses.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Texas
Computer Engineering Programs in Other States
Which Should You Choose?
- No state income tax and lower cost of living than California
- Access to rapidly growing Austin, Dallas, and Houston tech scenes
- Strong public university options with affordable tuition
- Warm weather year-round with diverse geographic regions
- Growing presence of major tech companies and startups
- Traditional engineering culture with modern innovation
- Established tech ecosystems like Silicon Valley or Seattle
- More temperate climates with four distinct seasons
- Higher concentration of venture capital and startup funding
- More diverse industry options beyond energy and tech
- Extensive public transportation systems
- Higher baseline salaries despite higher cost of living
Texas Computer Engineering Programs FAQ
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Engineering 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 computer engineering salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Computer Engineering Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Official federal database providing graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional data for all accredited colleges and universities
State-specific salary and employment data for computer engineering and related occupations
State agency data on Texas higher education programs, enrollment trends, and workforce outcomes
Federal education statistics including program accreditation and completion rates
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Austin Chamber of Commerce 2024
Next Steps for Texas Computer Engineering Programs
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements for target schools, focusing on math and science prerequisites. Most programs require calculus, physics, and chemistry.
Establish Texas Residency
If you're from out-of-state, begin the residency process 12+ months before enrollment to qualify for in-state tuition rates.
Visit Campus Programs
Attend campus visits and information sessions to understand program culture, facilities, and industry connections at target universities.
Explore Financial Aid Options
Apply for FAFSA, Texas state grants, and university-specific scholarships. Many engineering programs offer merit-based aid.
Connect with Industry
Attend Texas tech meetups, join professional organizations like IEEE, and start building connections in Austin, Dallas, or Houston tech communities.
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.