Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Texas 2025
Texas A & M University-College Station
392 Computer Science graduates annually, 84% graduation rate
Texas State University
226 Computer Science graduates annually, 75% graduation rate
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
126 Computer Science graduates annually, 96% graduation rate
- 1.Texas has 70+ accredited computer science bachelor's programs across UT System, Texas State University System, and private institutions
- 2.UT Austin ranks #1 in Texas with 92% graduation rate and direct recruiting pipeline to Austin's Silicon Hills tech sector
- 3.Rice University offers elite private CS education with 6:1 student-faculty ratio and 94% graduation rate
- 4.Texas software developers earn median $118,420 annually with no state income tax, offering higher take-home pay than many coastal states
- 5.Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Houston provide 285,000+ software developer jobs with major employers including Dell, Oracle, IBM, and Tesla
Computer Science Education in Texas
Texas offers one of the most comprehensive computer science education landscapes in the United States, with over 70 accredited programs spanning world-class research universities, regional comprehensive institutions, and innovative private colleges. The state combines academic excellence with practical advantages: no state income tax, lower cost of living, and direct access to three major tech hubs in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Houston.
The University of Texas System leads with flagship programs at UT Austin, while the Texas A&M University System provides engineering-focused education. Private institutions like Rice University offer intimate learning environments with exceptional outcomes. For context on national rankings, see our best computer science bachelor's programs nationwide.
Texas's tech industry has exploded over the past decade, driven by corporate relocations and the rise of Austin as 'Silicon Hills.' Major employers include Dell Technologies, Oracle, IBM, and Tesla. Students benefit from abundant internship opportunities, cooperative education programs, and direct recruiting pipelines. Our software engineer salary guide provides detailed compensation data for Texas markets.
Texas Computer Science Programs Ranking 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 | Austin College | Sherman, TX | Private | $45,878 | — | — | 45 |
| 14 | Texas Wesleyan University | Fort Worth, TX | Private | $32,960 | 62% | — | 44.7 |
| 15 | North American University | Stafford, TX | Private | $12,236 | 34% | — | 42.4 |
| 16 | Houston Christian University | Houston, TX | Private | $35,500 | 75% | — | 42.3 |
| 17 | University of Dallas | Irving, TX | Private | $47,300 | — | — | 42.2 |
| 18 | Tarleton State University | Stephenville, TX | Public | $4,416 | 69% | — | 41.6 |
| 19 | Abilene Christian University | Abilene, TX | Private | $42,100 | — | — | 41.4 |
| 20 | Wayland Baptist University | Plainview, TX | Private | $21,728 | — | — | 41 |
| 21 | Texas College | Tyler, TX | Private | $8,208 | — | — | 40.8 |
| 22 | Texas A&M University-San Antonio | San Antonio, TX | Public | $4,969 | 54% | — | 40 |
| 23 | Saint Edward's University | Austin, TX | Private | $50,484 | — | — | 39.6 |
| 24 | Concordia University Texas | Austin, TX | Private | $35,750 | — | — | 34.4 |
| 25 | St. Mary's University | San Antonio, TX | Private | $35,144 | — | — | 34.4 |
Showing 1–25 of 27
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Texas: Side-by-Side
| School | University of Texas at... | Rice | University of Texas at... | U of North Texas | Texas A&M |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,678 | $57,210 | $14,564 | $8,319 | $9,003 |
| Graduation Rate | 89% | 93% | 77% | 70% | 84% |
| Annual Graduates | 455 | 281 | 831 | 822 | 392 |
| Acceptance Rate | 29% | 8% | 65% | 72% | 63% |
| Type | Public | Private | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 82.1/100 | 81.8/100 | 80.9/100 | 77.4/100 | 71.6/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Texas
Texas offers 62 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas at Dallas, Rice University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $80,577 in the Texas market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Texas
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Texas at... | $11,678 | 89% | 455 | 82.1 |
| #2 University of Texas at... | $14,564 | 77% | 831 | 80.9 |
| #3 Rice | $57,210 | 93% | 164 | 76.7 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Texas
For graduate study, Texas offers 30 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include Rice University, University of North Texas, 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 Science Master's Programs in Texas
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Rice | $57,210 | 93% | 281 | 81.8 |
| #2 U of North Texas | $8,319 | 70% | 822 | 77.4 |
| #3 University of Texas at... | $14,564 | 77% | 625 | 76.2 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Texas
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Texas are at Tarleton State University ($4,416/year), Angelo State University ($4,495/year), Texas A & M University-Commerce ($4,790/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 Computer Science 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 Angelo State | $4,495 | $17,980 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 Texas A & M University-Co... | $4,790 | $19,160 | 0.4 years | Public |
Texas University Systems Overview
Texas organizes its public higher education through several major university systems, each offering distinct advantages for computer science students. Understanding these systems helps prospective students choose the right fit for their academic goals and career aspirations.
University of Texas System: The UT System includes the flagship UT Austin, which houses one of the nation's top CS programs. UT Dallas has emerged as a strong alternative with growing research programs and industry connections in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. UT San Antonio serves the South Texas region with affordable programs, while UT Arlington focuses on engineering and technology applications.
Texas A&M University System: Led by the College Station flagship, the A&M system emphasizes practical engineering education and strong industry partnerships. Texas A&M's computer science program benefits from the university's extensive corporate relationships and the famous 'Aggie Network' of alumni. Regional campuses in Corpus Christi, Commerce, and Kingsville provide accessible options throughout the state.
Texas State University System: This system includes Texas State University in San Marcos, Sam Houston State, and Lamar University. These institutions focus on undergraduate education and provide affordable pathways into technology careers. They're particularly strong for students seeking smaller class sizes and close faculty relationships.
Private Institutions: Rice University leads private CS education in Texas with its elite program and exceptional outcomes. Other notable private options include Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Baylor University in Waco, and Texas Christian University in Fort Worth. These institutions offer smaller class sizes and often have strong alumni networks in business and technology.
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,678 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 89% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 455 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 29%
- • Ranking Score: 82.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- 455 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 82.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (89%), program size (455 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (29% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UT Austin's Computer Science program ranks #9 nationally with top-10 rankings in AI and theory, offering rigorous and flexible education with access to distinguished faculty leaders in academia. The program provides over 50 courses spanning the full spectrum of modern computer science with multiple degree options including honors programs and accelerated BS+MS tracks.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Rice University
Houston, TX • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $57,210 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 281 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 8%
- • Ranking Score: 81.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 281 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 81.8 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (281 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (8% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Rice University offers both undergraduate and graduate Computer Science programs with research opportunities in cutting-edge areas like quantum computing and AI. The program provides flexibility with online options and has strong industry connections with alumni working at top tech companies earning competitive salaries.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.2
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $131,490
- Top Employers: Amazon, JP Morgan Chase, Microsoft, IBM, Chevron, Liongard
Available Specializations / Concentrations
The University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $14,564 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 77% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 831 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 65%
- • Ranking Score: 80.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 77% graduation rate
- 831 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 80.9 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (77%), program size (831 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (65% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UT Dallas Computer Science is one of the largest departments of its kind in the country with internationally recognized faculty and more than 2,800 students. The program operates one of the largest internship programs averaging 2,800+ annual placements with major tech companies, and is strategically located in the Technology Corridor, home of the second-largest high-tech economy in the U.S.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •elementary algebra
- •geometry
Program Details
- Credits: 124 semester credit hours
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: State Farm, Lockheed Martin, AT&T, Fujitsu Laboratories of America, Samsung Electronics, Cisco, Texas Instruments, Intel, Raytheon, IBM
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of North Texas
Denton, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,319 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 70% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 822 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 72%
- • Ranking Score: 77.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 70% graduation rate
- 822 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 77.4 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (70%), program size (822 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (72% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UNT's Computer Science program offers a high-quality education balancing theoretical and experimental aspects of hardware and software issues, with small classes allowing personal attention from faculty. The program operates at Discovery Park, a 300-acre research facility with cutting-edge equipment and multiple research centers including the award-winning Net-Centric Software and Systems Center.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 120
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $9,003 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 84% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 392 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 63%
- • Ranking Score: 71.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 84% graduation rate
- 392 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 71.6 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 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 designed to prepare students to enter the rapidly expanding field of computing and is based upon the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineer Computer Society and the Association for Computing Machinery recommendations. Students take a 12-hour area of concentration in another department and have electives available in multiple specialized areas including AI, robotics, and computational science.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and develop software applications, systems, and platforms. Texas offers abundant opportunities in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Houston tech scenes.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Analyze complex data sets to extract business insights and build predictive models. High demand in Houston energy sector and Austin tech companies.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational systems and data from cyber threats. Critical role in Texas energy, defense, and financial sectors.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1252Bridge development and operations teams to streamline software deployment and infrastructure management.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-2051Develop artificial intelligence and machine learning systems. Growing demand in Texas tech hubs and research institutions.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Texas
Computer Science Programs by State
California
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- No state income tax for higher take-home pay
- Access to three major tech hubs: Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston
- Affordable in-state tuition at world-class institutions like UT Austin
- Strong industry partnerships and internship opportunities
- Lower cost of living compared to California and New York
- Growing tech sector with companies relocating to the state
- Proximity to Silicon Valley ecosystem (California)
- Established fintech and media tech sectors (New York)
- Microsoft/Amazon headquarters access (Washington)
- Cooler climates and different cultural environments
- More established public transportation systems
- Higher baseline salaries despite higher taxes
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Computer Science Programs
Based on 25 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science 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 science salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Computer Science Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment data, and institutional characteristics from 2023 survey
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for Texas, May 2024 data
State higher education data and institutional accountability measures
Federal education statistics and college scorecard data
Source: Higher take-home pay compared to California and New York despite lower base salaries
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.