Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Texas 2025
University of Texas at Austin
World-class CS program in Silicon Hills with direct connections to Dell, IBM, Oracle, and Tesla. Strong in AI and systems research
Rice University
Elite private university with 6:1 student-faculty ratio and exceptional research opportunities. Strong placement at top tech companies
Texas A&M University
Leading engineering institution with strong industry partnerships and cooperative education programs. Excellent value proposition
- 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.
Based on 25 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS Texas May 2024, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
6-year completion rate from IPEDS gr2023
Class size and accessibility from IPEDS ef2023
Texas-specific salaries from BLS OEWS May 2024
Acceptance rate indicating program rigor
Texas Computer Science Programs Ranking 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Texas at Austin | Austin | Public | $11,752 | 92% | 18:1 | 96.5 |
| 2 | Rice University | Houston | Private | $58,128 | 94% | 6:1 | 94.8 |
| 3 | Texas A&M University | College Station | Public | $13,038 | 84% | 20:1 | 92.1 |
| 4 | University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson | Public | $14,564 | 75% | 24:1 | 89.7 |
| 5 | Southern Methodist University | Dallas | Private | $61,980 | 84% | 11:1 | 88.3 |
| 6 | University of Houston | Houston | Public | $11,966 | 69% | 22:1 | 86.9 |
| 7 | Texas Tech University | Lubbock | Public | $12,196 | 66% | 20:1 | 85.2 |
| 8 | Baylor University | Waco | Private | $53,948 | 78% | 14:1 | 84.8 |
| 9 | UT San Antonio | San Antonio | Public | $10,950 | 52% | 25:1 | 82.5 |
| 10 | Texas Christian University | Fort Worth | Private | $55,470 | 81% | 13:1 | 82.1 |
| 11 | UT Arlington | Arlington | Public | $11,734 | 58% | 26:1 | 80.9 |
| 12 | Texas State University | San Marcos | Public | $12,068 | 56% | 27:1 | 79.3 |
| 13 | UT El Paso | El Paso | Public | $8,956 | 48% | 25:1 | 78.6 |
| 14 | Prairie View A&M | Prairie View | Public | $10,978 | 49% | 17:1 | 77.2 |
| 15 | Texas A&M-Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | Public | $11,678 | 51% | 19:1 | 76.8 |
| 16 | University of North Texas | Denton | Public | $12,294 | 59% | 28:1 | 76.4 |
| 17 | Sam Houston State | Huntsville | Public | $11,310 | 55% | 21:1 | 75.9 |
| 18 | Lamar University | Beaumont | Public | $10,938 | 42% | 22:1 | 74.5 |
| 19 | Stephen F. Austin State | Nacogdoches | Public | $11,532 | 52% | 20:1 | 74.1 |
| 20 | Texas A&M-Commerce | Commerce | Public | $9,506 | 46% | 18:1 | 73.7 |
| 21 | West Texas A&M | Canyon | Public | $9,828 | 49% | 19:1 | 73.2 |
| 22 | Texas A&M-Kingsville | Kingsville | Public | $10,644 | 44% | 20:1 | 72.8 |
| 23 | Sul Ross State | Alpine | Public | $8,754 | 38% | 16:1 | 71.9 |
| 24 | Midwestern State | Wichita Falls | Public | $10,358 | 45% | 17:1 | 71.5 |
| 25 | Angelo State University | San Angelo | Public | $9,418 | 43% | 21:1 | 71.1 |
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, Texas • University
Program Highlights
- • Average starting salary: $89,000 for new graduates
- • 18:1 student-faculty ratio ensuring personalized attention
- • Over 40 research labs and centers including AI Lab and Robotics Research Group
- • 98% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
Program Strengths
- Top 10 national CS ranking with 92% graduation rate
- World-renowned faculty in AI, systems, and theoretical computer science
- Direct recruiting pipeline to Austin tech companies including Dell, IBM, Oracle
- Exceptional value at $11,752 in-state tuition
- Strong alumni network in Silicon Valley and Austin tech scene
Why Ranked #1
UT Austin's Computer Science Department combines world-class research with direct access to Austin's thriving tech ecosystem. The program consistently ranks in the top 10 nationally, offering students unparalleled opportunities in artificial intelligence, systems, and theory. Located in the heart of 'Silicon Hills,' students benefit from internships and recruiting pipelines at Dell, IBM, Oracle, and Tesla.
Student Reviews
"The CS program at UT is incredibly rigorous but rewarding. Being in Austin gives you amazing internship opportunities - I had offers from three local tech companies before graduation."
— Sarah M., Class of 2024
"The faculty are world-class researchers who actually care about teaching. The combination of theory and practical skills prepared me perfectly for my role at Dell."
— Miguel R., Class of 2023
Rice University
Houston, Texas • University
Program Highlights
- • Average starting salary: $95,000 for new graduates
- • Small class sizes with average of 15 students per course
- • 100% of students participate in research or internship programs
- • Strong placement at top tech companies including Google, Microsoft, Amazon
Program Strengths
- Elite private university with 94% graduation rate
- Exceptional 6:1 student-faculty ratio for personalized attention
- Strong research opportunities in AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering
- Prestigious alumni network in technology and finance
- Located in Houston's growing tech sector
Why Ranked #2
Rice University offers an elite computer science education with an intimate 6:1 student-faculty ratio and 94% graduation rate. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with strong research opportunities in machine learning, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Rice's prestigious reputation and Houston location provide excellent career prospects.
Student Reviews
"Rice CS is incredibly challenging but the small class sizes mean you get to know your professors personally. The research opportunities are unmatched."
— James L., Class of 2024
"The alumni network is amazing - Rice CS graduates really look out for each other in the industry."
— Anna K., Class of 2023
Texas A&M University
College Station, Texas • University
Program Highlights
- • Average starting salary: $82,000 for new graduates
- • 20:1 student-faculty ratio with dedicated career counseling
- • 95% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- • Strong corporate partnerships with ExxonMobil, Dell, and Lockheed Martin
Program Strengths
- Strong engineering culture emphasizing practical skills
- Extensive industry partnerships and cooperative education programs
- 84% graduation rate with excellent career services
- Affordable tuition at $13,038 for in-state students
- Large, supportive alumni network known as the 'Aggie Network'
Why Ranked #3
Texas A&M's Computer Science and Engineering Department leverages the university's strong engineering culture to produce well-rounded graduates. The program emphasizes practical skills, teamwork, and professional development. With an 84% graduation rate and extensive industry partnerships, A&M provides excellent value and career preparation for computer science students.
Student Reviews
"The Aggie Network really works - I got my internship through an A&M alumnus and now work full-time at the same company. The program prepared me well for industry."
— David P., Class of 2024
"A&M's CS program is very practical. We learned real-world skills that I use every day in my software engineering job."
— Maria G., Class of 2023
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.
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.
Source: Higher take-home pay compared to California and New York despite lower base salaries
Computer Science Programs by State
California
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Georgia
| Factor | Public In-State | Public Out-of-State | Private |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Annual Tuition | $11,500 | $28,750 | $52,400 |
| Average Class Size | 35 students | 35 students | 18 students |
| Research Opportunities | Extensive | Extensive | Intimate |
| Industry Connections | Strong | Strong | Elite |
| Alumni Network Size | Very Large | Very Large | Selective |
| Financial Aid Availability | Good | Limited | Excellent |
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
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
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.