Top 3 Computer Programming Programs in Texas 2025
Texas A & M University-College Station
392 Computer Programming graduates annually, 84% graduation rate
Texas State University
226 Computer Programming graduates annually, 75% graduation rate
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
126 Computer Programming graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
- 1.Texas has 50+ accredited computer programming bachelor's programs across UT System, Texas State University System, and private institutions (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.University of Texas at Austin ranks #1 in Texas with 87% graduation rate and direct access to Austin's Silicon Hills tech corridor
- 3.Texas programming graduates earn median $128,450 annually—8% above national median—with no state income tax (BLS Texas OEWS 2024)
- 4.Austin ranks as America's #2 tech hub with 285,000+ technology jobs and major employers including Dell, IBM, Oracle, Tesla, and Samsung
- 5.In-state tuition at top Texas public universities averages $12,045—significantly lower than California or Northeast alternatives
Computer Programming Education Landscape in Texas
Texas offers one of the nation's most robust computer programming education ecosystems, anchored by world-class public universities and a thriving technology sector. From UT Austin's prestigious computer science program to specialized programming tracks at regional universities, Texas provides exceptional value with in-state tuition averaging $12,000—half the cost of comparable programs in California or the Northeast.
The state's programming programs benefit from proximity to major tech employers including Dell (Round Rock headquarters), IBM (Austin), Oracle (Austin), Tesla Gigafactory, Samsung semiconductor facilities, and hundreds of startups in the Silicon Hills ecosystem. This geographic advantage translates to abundant internship opportunities, industry partnerships, and direct recruitment pipelines.
For students considering nationwide options, review our national computer programming rankings for comparative analysis. Career-focused students should explore our software engineer salary guide for Texas-specific compensation data and our programming skills development guide for complementary learning paths.
Texas Computer Programming Bachelor's Programs 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 | LeTourneau University | Longview, TX | Private | $34,680 | 86% | — | 53.8 |
| 7 | University of Houston-Clear Lake | Houston, TX | Public | $6,600 | 66% | — | 50.8 |
| 8 | Southwestern Adventist University | Keene, TX | Private | $23,928 | 86% | — | 49.2 |
| 9 | West Texas A & M University | Canyon, TX | Public | $6,372 | 99% | — | 48.8 |
| 10 | Baylor University | Waco, TX | Private | $54,844 | — | — | 47.3 |
| 11 | University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton, TX | Private | $30,600 | 91% | — | 45.4 |
| 12 | Dallas Baptist University | Dallas, TX | Private | $36,510 | 95% | — | 45.3 |
| 13 | Lamar University | Beaumont, TX | Public | $6,228 | 99% | — | 45.2 |
| 14 | Austin College | Sherman, TX | Private | $45,878 | — | — | 45 |
| 15 | Texas Wesleyan University | Fort Worth, TX | Private | $32,960 | 62% | — | 44.7 |
| 16 | North American University | Stafford, TX | Private | $12,236 | 34% | — | 42.4 |
| 17 | Houston Christian University | Houston, TX | Private | $35,500 | 75% | — | 42.3 |
| 18 | University of Dallas | Irving, TX | Private | $47,300 | — | — | 42.2 |
| 19 | Tarleton State University | Stephenville, TX | Public | $4,416 | 69% | — | 41.6 |
| 20 | Abilene Christian University | Abilene, TX | Private | $42,100 | — | — | 41.4 |
| 21 | Wayland Baptist University | Plainview, TX | Private | $21,728 | — | — | 41 |
| 22 | Texas College | Tyler, TX | Private | $8,208 | — | — | 40.8 |
| 23 | Texas A&M University-San Antonio | San Antonio, TX | Public | $4,969 | 54% | — | 40 |
| 24 | Saint Edward's University | Austin, TX | Private | $50,484 | — | — | 39.6 |
| 25 | Concordia University Texas | Austin, TX | Private | $35,750 | — | — | 34.4 |
Showing 1–25 of 30
Top 5 Computer Programming 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 Computer Programming in Texas
Texas offers 30 bachelor's-level computer programming 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 computer programming typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Programming Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Programming 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 Computer Programming Schools for Master's Degrees in Texas
For graduate study, Texas offers 12 master's-level computer programming 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 Computer Programming 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 Computer Programming Colleges in Texas
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer programming programs in Texas are at Austin Community College District ($2,010/year), Tarleton State University ($4,416/year), Texas A&M University-San Antonio ($4,969/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Texas's competitive tech salaries.
At Austin Community College District, a 4-year degree costs approximately $8,040 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $80,577, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.2 years.
Most Affordable Computer Programming Programs in Texas (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Austin Community College... | $2,010 | $8,040 | 0.2 years | Public |
| #2 Tarleton State | $4,416 | $17,664 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 Texas A&M University-San... | $4,969 | $19,876 | 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 Programming Graduates: 392 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 63%
- • Ranking Score: 83.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 84% graduation rate
- 392 computer programming 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.
Why Choose This Program
The computer science curriculum is based upon IEEE Computer Society and ACM recommendations, includes a 12-hour area of concentration in another department, and offers electives across diverse areas from AI to computational science. The program is designed to prepare students for the rapidly expanding field of computing with sound preparation in science, mathematics, and computing.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,228 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 192 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 86%
- • Ranking Score: 71.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 192 computer programming 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.
Why Choose This Program
Lamar University's Computer Science program offers both online and on-campus options with strong industry connections through career forums featuring major employers. The program provides research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students with poster presentations to showcase work to potential employers.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Operating Systems
- •Programming in C/C++/JAVA
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: 32 percent of CS graduates had a starting salary of over $75,000, and 13 percent started at over $100,000
- Job Placement: computer science majors found jobs at a rate 11 percent higher than those with STEM majors overall, and 16 percent higher than college graduates overall
- Top Employers: NoMagic, Inc., SoftNice, Inc., Hernandez Offices Supply, MobilOil Credit Union, Federal Bureau of Investigation
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Texas State University
San Marcos, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,606 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 75% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 226 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 89%
- • Ranking Score: 66.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 75% graduation rate
- 226 computer programming 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.
Why Choose This Program
Texas State's Computer Science program offers both B.A. and B.S. degrees with a Computer Engineering concentration option, requiring students to complete 46 hours of Computer Science courses including a required project course. The program has strong industry connections with graduates employed at major companies like Dell Technologies, Amazon, and Disney.
Admission Prerequisites
- •CS 1319 Fundamentals of Computer Science
- •CS 1428 Foundations of Computer Science I
- •CS 2308 Foundations of Computer Science II
- •CS 2318 Assembly Language
- •MATH 2471 Calculus I
- •MATH 2472 Calculus II
- •PHYS 2325 & PHYS 2125 Mechanics and Mechanics Laboratory
- •PHYS 2326 & PHYS 2126 Electricity and Magnetism and Electricity and Magnetism Laboratory
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.5
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: H-E-B, Texas State University, Dell Technologies, Amazon, Round Rock ISD, Target, HCA Healthcare, The Walt Disney Company, Austin Independent School District
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $57,212 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 89% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 95 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 61%
- • Ranking Score: 66.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- 95 computer programming 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 offers Computer Science through multiple degree levels (BA, BS, Minor, MS, PHD) with specializations in artificial intelligence and machine learning that appear on student transcripts. The program integrates rigorous learning with hands-on experience and provides access to a global alumni network of 42,000+ professionals.
Admission Prerequisites
- •Math addendum for applicants without undergraduate coursework in math
- •Basic understanding of programming language such as SAS, JAVA, C, C++, Python or R
- •Quantitative skills demonstrated by bachelor's degree in quantitative discipline, college-level coursework in statistics/calculus, or work experience in data analysis
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credit hours
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)
- • Computer Programming Graduates: 126 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 85%
- • Ranking Score: 65.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 126 computer programming 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.
Why Choose This Program
The program is ABET-CAC accredited and offers comprehensive training from programming languages to robotics and computer animation, with cutting-edge labs and research opportunities. UTRGV is the second largest Hispanic-serving institution in the nation, providing valuable multicultural educational experiences.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop applications, systems software, and mobile applications for Texas's thriving tech sector
Web Developer
Create and maintain websites and web applications for Austin's numerous startups and established tech companies
Mobile Application Developer
Develop iOS and Android applications for consumer and enterprise markets
Systems Programmer
Develop and maintain system software, operating systems, and embedded systems for tech and energy sectors
Game Developer
Design and program video games for Texas's growing gaming industry including id Software and Gearbox
Automate deployment, scaling, and management of applications and infrastructure
Texas University Systems for Programming Education
Texas's public university systems provide exceptional programming education value through coordinated curriculum standards and shared resources. The University of Texas System leads with flagship campuses in Austin, Dallas, Arlington, and San Antonio, each offering specialized programming tracks tailored to regional industry needs.
The Texas A&M University System emphasizes engineering-focused programming education across College Station, Commerce, Kingsville, and other campuses. These programs particularly excel in systems programming, cybersecurity, and industrial applications. The Texas State University System provides accessible programming education with strong ties to regional employers and practical workforce development focus.
Students benefit from system-wide transfer agreements, shared online resources, and coordinated industry partnerships. For example, Microsoft Azure curriculum is standardized across UT System campuses, while Texas A&M campuses share NSA cybersecurity designations and defense industry connections. Community college transfer pathways are well-established, particularly through Austin Community College to UT Austin and Houston Community College to University of Houston.
Private institutions like Rice University, SMU, and TCU offer smaller cohort sizes and personalized attention but at significantly higher tuition costs. These programs typically provide stronger alumni networks in specific industries—Rice in energy and aerospace, SMU in finance and consulting, TCU in telecommunications and regional business applications.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Texas
Computer Programming Programs in Other States
California
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to one of America's largest tech ecosystems (Austin, Dallas, Houston)
- Exceptional value with no state income tax and affordable tuition
- Direct pipelines to major employers like Dell, IBM, Oracle, Tesla, Samsung
- Strong public university options with nationally recognized programs
- Growing startup scene with abundant internship opportunities
- Lower cost of living compared to California or Northeast tech hubs
- Warm climate and business-friendly environment
- Access to the largest tech companies (prefer California for Meta, Google, Apple)
- Extensive public transportation (Texas cities are car-dependent)
- Maximum program prestige (MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon)
- Specialized gaming industry connections (prefer California or Washington)
- International tech scene exposure (prefer New York or California)
- Maximum cultural diversity in tech workforce
- Proximity to venture capital ecosystem (Silicon Valley advantage)
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Programming Programs
Based on 25 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Programming 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 programming salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Programming Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing comprehensive higher education statistics including graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional characteristics
Texas-specific salary and employment data for computer programming occupations, May 2024 survey
State agency providing oversight and data on Texas public higher education institutions and programs
Federal tool providing detailed information about colleges and universities including admissions, costs, and student outcomes
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.