Top 3 Data Analytics Programs in Texas
University of Houston
111 Data Analytics graduates annually, 91% graduation rate
The University of Texas at Dallas
116 Data Analytics graduates annually, 77% graduation rate
Southern Methodist University
42 Data Analytics graduates annually, 89% graduation rate
- 1.Texas ranks 2nd nationally for data science jobs with over 45,000 positions available
- 2.Average data analyst salary in Texas is $72,400, with Austin and Dallas offering the highest compensation
- 3.The state offers 24 accredited data analytics programs across public and private institutions
- 4.Texas universities report s for data analytics graduates within six months
- 5.In-state tuition averages $12,800 annually for public universities offering data analytics degrees
Texas Data Analytics Job Market Overview
Texas has emerged as a leading destination for data analytics professionals, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 35% growth in data analyst positions through 2032. The state currently hosts over 45,000 data-related jobs across major metropolitan areas including Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio.
Major employers driving this demand include Dell Technologies, AT&T, Texas Instruments, and ExxonMobil, along with rapidly growing tech startups in Austin's Silicon Hills. The average salary for entry-level data analysts in Texas ranges from $65,000 to $75,000, with experienced professionals earning upwards of $120,000 annually.
Texas universities have responded to this market demand by expanding their data analytics programs. Our analysis of data analytics degree programs nationwide shows Texas institutions consistently rank among the top 50 for program quality, affordability, and graduate outcomes.
Complete Data Analytics Program Rankings - Texas
| 1 | University of Houston | Houston, TX | $8,685 | 91% | 82.7 |
| 2 | The University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, TX | $14,564 | 77% | 80.9 |
| 3 | Southern Methodist University | Dallas, TX | $57,212 | 89% | 67 |
| 4 | Trinity University | San Antonio, TX | $50,712 | 97% | 65.3 |
| 5 | University of North Texas | Denton, TX | $8,319 | 70% | 58.1 |
| 6 | LeTourneau University | Longview, TX | $34,680 | 86% | 55.6 |
| 7 | Texas Wesleyan University | Fort Worth, TX | $32,960 | 62% | 52.7 |
| 8 | University of Houston-Downtown | Houston, TX | $6,080 | 64% | 46.9 |
| 9 | Baylor University | Waco, TX | $54,844 | — | 45.4 |
| 10 | The University of Texas at Arlington | Arlington, TX | $9,206 | 67% | 42.9 |
| 11 | The University of Texas at San Antonio | San Antonio, TX | $6,239 | — | 42 |
| 12 | University of the Incarnate Word | San Antonio, TX | $33,700 | 75% | 39.1 |
| 13 | Hardin-Simmons University | Abilene, TX | $30,694 | — | 35.4 |
Top 5 Data Analytics Programs in Texas: Side-by-Side
| School | Southern Methodist | University of Texas at... | U of North Texas | Rice | U of Houston |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $57,212 | $11,678 | $8,319 | $57,210 | $8,685 |
| Graduation Rate | 89% | 89% | 70% | 93% | 91% |
| Annual Graduates | 790 | 97 | 420 | 45 | 111 |
| Acceptance Rate | 61% | 29% | 72% | 8% | 70% |
| Type | Private | Public | Public | Private | Public |
| Score | 85.0/100 | 67.8/100 | 67.7/100 | 65.9/100 | 60.5/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Data Analytics in Texas
Texas offers 16 bachelor's-level data analytics programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Houston, 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 data analytics typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in Texas
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Houston | $8,685 | 91% | 111 | 60.5 |
| #2 University of Texas at... | $14,564 | 77% | 117 | 58.3 |
| #3 Rice | $57,210 | 93% | 45 | 65.9 |
Top Data Analytics Schools for Master's Degrees in Texas
For graduate study, Texas offers 21 master's-level data analytics programs. Leading institutions include Southern Methodist University, Rice University, The University of Texas at Austin. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Texas reaching $149,643 or more.
Top 3 Data Analytics Master's Programs in Texas
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Southern Methodist | $57,212 | 89% | 790 | 85.0 |
| #2 Rice | $57,210 | 93% | 76 | 71.8 |
| #3 University of Texas at... | $11,678 | 89% | 97 | 67.8 |
Most Affordable Data Analytics Colleges in Texas
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable data analytics programs in Texas are at Texas A & M University-Kingsville ($5,137/year), Sam Houston State University ($5,856/year), University of Houston-Downtown ($6,080/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Texas's competitive tech salaries.
At Texas A & M University-Kingsville, a 4-year degree costs approximately $20,548 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $80,577, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.5 years.
Most Affordable Data Analytics Programs in Texas (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Texas A & M University-Ki... | $5,137 | $20,548 | 0.5 years | Public |
| #2 Sam Houston State | $5,856 | $23,424 | 0.5 years | Public |
| #3 U of Houston-Downtown | $6,080 | $24,320 | 0.5 years | Public |
Data Analytics Curriculum in Texas Programs
Texas data analytics programs typically require 120-128 credit hours over four years, combining foundational mathematics and statistics with specialized analytics coursework. Core subjects include calculus, linear algebra, statistical inference, database management, and programming languages such as Python, R, and SQL.
Advanced coursework varies by institution but commonly includes machine learning, data visualization, business intelligence, and predictive modeling. Many programs require students to complete real-world projects with industry partners, providing practical experience with tools like Tableau, SAS, and cloud computing platforms.
For students interested in specialized training beyond traditional degrees, data analytics bootcamps offer intensive, career-focused alternatives that can complement or substitute for formal education.
Texas Data Analytics Job Market by Metro Area
Austin leads Texas in data analytics job opportunities, with over 12,000 open positions and average salaries of $78,400. The city's concentration of tech companies, including Dell, IBM, and numerous startups, creates exceptional demand for analytics professionals. Major employers actively recruit from UT Austin and other local programs.
Dallas-Fort Worth represents the largest job market by volume, with approximately 15,000 data analytics positions across finance, telecommunications, and healthcare sectors. Companies like AT&T, American Airlines, and Texas Instruments offer competitive salaries averaging $74,200 for entry-level positions.
Houston's energy sector drives significant demand for data analytics talent, particularly in oil and gas companies like ExxonMobil and Chevron. The city offers about 8,500 data-related positions with average salaries of $72,800. For students considering related fields, artificial intelligence programs in Texas are also expanding rapidly to meet industry demand.
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $57,212 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 89% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 790 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 61%
- • Ranking Score: 85.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- 790 data analytics graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 85.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (89%), program size (790 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 both a STEM-designated MSBA program ranked #11 nationally and an online M.S. in Data Science with flexible attendance options. The programs feature multi-disciplinary curriculum jointly owned by IT Operations Management and Marketing departments, with opportunities for credit from prior boot camp learning.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •at least one quantitative discipline or college-level coursework in statistics, calculus I and II or another quantitative methods course
- •basic understanding of programming language such as SAS, JAVA, C, C++, Python or R
Program Details
- Credits: 33 credit hours
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: JP Morgan Chase, Infosys Consulting, Inc., American Airlines
Available Specializations / Concentrations
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,678 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 89% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 97 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 29%
- • Ranking Score: 67.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- 97 data analytics graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.8 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (89%), program size (97 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 offers both undergraduate and graduate data analytics programs with strong industry connections to major employers like Amazon and Goldman Sachs. The programs combine statistical foundations with modern data science skills, preparing graduates for roles as data scientists and analysts with competitive average salaries over $105,000.
Admission Prerequisites
- •M 408C Differential Calculus
- •M 408D Sequences, Series and Multivariable Calculus
- •C S 303E Elements of Computers and Programming
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $105,507
- Top Employers: Whole Foods, Walmart, Amazon, Dell, Expedia, Goldman Sachs
University of North Texas
Denton, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,319 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 70% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 420 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 72%
- • Ranking Score: 67.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 70% graduation rate
- 420 data analytics graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.7 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (70%), program size (420 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 Data Science program offers flexible online, blended and face-to-face classes with strong industry partnerships including Google Cloud and Dell, while being located 40 miles north of Dallas-Fort Worth area which is home to the nation's fourth largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •Linear Algebra
- •Calculus II
- •Probability and Statistics
- •programming languages (at least one language)
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.2 on the last 60 hours of a bachelor's degree, a 3.2 cumulative undergraduate GPA, or a 3.5 GPA on a completed master's degree
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $86,000
- Top Employers: Texas Instruments, Toyota, PepsiCo, Hitachi, IBM
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Rice University
Houston, TX • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $57,210 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 45 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 8%
- • Ranking Score: 65.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 45 data analytics graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 65.9 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (45 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's online Master of Data Science program offers specializations in Machine Learning and Business Analytics with 3 intakes per year and rolling admissions. The program is designed for data and analytics professionals who want to expand their careers and upskill through hands-on projects.
Admission Prerequisites
- •bachelor's degree
- •solid mathematical background including high-school level algebra and trigonometry, college-level calculus, basic discrete math skills, and boolean logic
- •basic programming skills in Python, R and/or SQL
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Houston
Houston, TX • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,685 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 91% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 111 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 70%
- • Ranking Score: 60.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 91% graduation rate
- 111 data analytics graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 60.5 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (91%), program size (111 graduates), state salary outcomes ($115,110), and selectivity (70% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Master of Science in Engineering Data Science and AI offers a comprehensive 30-credit curriculum with both thesis and non-thesis options, specialization tracks in Manufacturing, Cybersecurity, and Health, and flexible online delivery options. As a STEM-designated program, it provides F-1 visa students with a 24-month OPT extension for practical training.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •bachelor's degree in engineering or engineering related fields, or computer science and data science and statistics
Program Details
- Credits: 30 credit hours
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Design and implement machine learning models to extract insights from complex datasets
Business Intelligence Analyst
Transform raw data into actionable business recommendations through reporting and visualization
Data Analyst
Collect, process, and perform statistical analysis on large datasets to identify trends and patterns
Market Research Analyst
Study market conditions to examine potential sales of products and services
Operations Research Analyst
Use advanced analytics to help organizations solve complex business problems
Which Should You Choose?
- You want comprehensive research opportunities
- Cost is a primary consideration
- You prefer larger class sizes and diverse student bodies
- You want strong alumni networks in major corporations
- You prefer smaller class sizes and more individual attention
- Financial aid makes private tuition comparable to public options
- You want prestigious brand recognition
- You value close faculty relationships and mentorship
- You want to stay close to home or a specific metropolitan area
- You're looking for strong local industry connections
- You need flexible scheduling options
- You want competitive programs at lower cost points
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 24 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Data Analytics 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 data analytics salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database of college costs, graduation rates, and post-graduation earnings
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System for institutional statistics
Employment projections and salary data for data analyst occupations
State-specific data on Texas higher education institutions and programs
4 years
Average Program Length
120-128
Required Credit Hours
25-30
Average Class Size
78%
Industry Internship Rate
42%
Graduate School Acceptance
Steps to Apply for Data Analytics Programs in Texas
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements for each program, including GPA minimums, standardized test scores, and prerequisite courses in mathematics and statistics.
Prepare Application Materials
Gather transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and any required portfolio materials. Some programs may require coding samples or analytical projects.
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA and apply for Texas-specific scholarships and grants. Many universities offer merit-based aid for high-achieving students in STEM fields.
Visit Campuses
Schedule campus visits or virtual tours to meet faculty, tour facilities, and get a feel for the program culture and resources.
Submit Applications Early
Most Texas universities have application deadlines between December and February for fall admission. Apply early to maximize scholarship opportunities.
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.