Best Computer Science Colleges in Texas for 2026
GradeToGrad Editorial Team
May 7, 2026
Compare top CS programs in Texas by tuition, graduate earnings, and admission rates using real federal data.
Texas is home to some of the strongest computer science programs in the country. Whether you want the prestige of Rice or the massive engineering ecosystem at Texas A&M, here are the top CS schools in Texas ranked by graduate outcomes.
Best Computer Science Colleges in Texas: Data-Driven Rankings
Texas is home to some of the strongest computer science programs in the country. Whether you want the prestige of Rice or the massive engineering ecosystem at Texas A&M, here are the top CS schools in Texas ranked by graduate outcomes.
Quick Comparison Table
| School | In-State Tuition | CS Bachelor's Median Earnings | Admission Rate | 6-Year Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UT Austin | $11,678 | $97,550 | 29.1% | 87.7% |
| Rice University | $58,128 | — | 7.9% | 94.7% |
| Texas A&M | $13,099 | $87,126 | 63.3% | 83.7% |
| University of Houston | $9,711 | $76,427 | 69.5% | 64.1% |
| SMU | $64,460 | — | 61.2% | 82.8% |
| Baylor University | $54,844 | — | 51.0% | 80.8% |
| TCU | $57,220 | — | 42.6% | 84.7% |
Top Picks by Category
Best Value: University of Houston
With in-state tuition of just $9,711 and CS graduates earning a median of $76,427, UH offers the best dollar-for-dollar return in Texas. The Cullen College also has strong industry connections in Houston's energy and tech sectors. Computer Engineering graduates earn $80,438.
Highest Earnings: UT Austin
UT Austin's CS program produces graduates earning a median of $97,550 — the highest in the state for a bachelor's degree. Located in Austin's booming tech hub, students have direct access to internships at Dell, Apple, Google, and hundreds of startups. In-state tuition of $11,678 makes this an exceptional value for Texans.
Best for Engineering Crossover: Texas A&M
Texas A&M's CS graduates earn $87,126, while Computer Engineering majors pull $91,029. With the largest engineering school in the country and tuition at $13,099, A&M offers breadth across all computing disciplines. The CS Master's program graduates earn $121,728.
Best Private Option: Rice University
Rice's 94.7% graduation rate is the highest in Texas, and overall graduates earn $79,751 within 6 years. With a net price of just $12,640 after financial aid (and only $3,221 for families earning under $30K), Rice is surprisingly affordable for qualified students.
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| School | CS General (BS) | Computer Engineering (BS) | CS Master's |
|---|---|---|---|
| UT Austin | $97,550 | — | — |
| Texas A&M | $87,126 | $91,029 | $121,728 |
| U of Houston | $76,427 | $80,438 | — |
How to Choose
If cost is your priority: University of Houston ($9,711) or transfer from a community college to UT Austin or Texas A&M to save on your first two years.
If outcomes matter most: UT Austin's $97K median earnings are hard to beat anywhere in the state.
If you want a smaller environment: Rice's 7.9% admission rate means small classes and generous financial aid.
Transfer Path: Save $20K+
Many students start at a Texas community college and transfer to UT Austin or A&M. With the Texas Common Course Numbering System, your credits transfer seamlessly. A typical 2+2 path saves $15,000-$25,000 compared to four years at a university.
Compare CS programs nationwide →
Data sourced from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect median salary of graduates working and not enrolled 6 years after enrollment.