What Are the Best Software Engineering Schools in Texas?

Rice University is a prestigious private research university. It was founded in 1912 and now offers over 50 undergraduate majors as well as minors, interdisciplinary programs, and pre-professional programs. It also has a graduate college that offers professional and research-oriented programs. It has a total enrollment of around 8,200 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1.

Rice University Overview

• School Type: Private
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Acceptance Rate: 11%
• Graduation Rate: 94%
• US News National Ranking: 17
• Times Higher Education Ranking: 136

Rice University Software Engineering Overview

• Software Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
• GRE Requirements for Software Engineering Grad Students: Not required
• Software Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $54,100/year
• Software Engineering Graduate Tuition: $2,893/credit
• Software Engineering Acceptance Rate: 14% (doctoral); 51% (master’s); 9.5% (bachelor’s)
• US News Computer Science National Ranking: 28
• Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: 77

Best Rice University Software Engineering Programs

• Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. This program teaches students about algorithms and software systems. Graduates will be skilled language programmers and will be able to design and develop software. There are 120 required credit hours which be completed in up to six years.
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Students who want to gain an in-depth understanding of computer science and who are also interested in a software engineering specialization should consider this degree program. It requires a minimum of 128 credit hours and can be completed over the course of four to six years.
• Master of Computer Science. This is a non-thesis master’s program designed to prepare students to solve advanced computer science problems. It requires a minimum of 30 credit hours and the completion of a ten-week to six-month internship and a design project. There are 12 areas of specialization, including software engineering.
• Master of Computer Science and Master of Business Administration. This is a joint program in which students earn both Master of Computer Science and Master of Business Administration degrees. Students who complete this program will have advanced computer science experience and strong strategic management skills. There is a minimum 75 credit hour requirement which is usually fulfilled in two academic years.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science. This degree gives students a solid foundation in advanced computer science as well as the opportunity to build strong written and oral communication skills. Students will also conduct independent research.

Founded in 1911, Southern Methodist University is a private research institution. SMU has 109 bachelor’s degrees, 112 master’s degrees, and 29 post-graduate degrees offered through seven different schools. There were 12,385 students in attendance in 2021, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1.

Southern Methodist University Overview

• School Type: Private
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Acceptance Rate: 53%
• Graduation Rate: 79%
• US News National Ranking: 68 (tie)
• Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A

Southern Methodist University Software Engineering Overview

• Software Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
• GRE Requirements for Software Engineering Grad Students: Not required
• Software Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $55,012/year
• Software Engineering Graduate Tuition: $1,200/credit hour
• Software Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
• US News Computer Science National Ranking: 122 (tie)
• Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A

Best Southern Methodist University Software Engineering Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. This degree will build students' computer engineering skills and prepare them for careers in the field. It requires the completion of at least 120 credit hours and covers areas of study like linear algebra, computer engineering, and data structures. Students can choose one of five specializations, including software engineering.
• Master of Science in Computer Engineering. This master’s program teaches students advanced computer engineering skills. It requires either 24 credit hours and the completion of a thesis, or 54 credit hours. If you want a computer engineering master’s degree but you don’t have a bachelor’s degree in the field, this could be the program for you.
• Master of Science in Computer Engineering and Master of Business Administration. This joint degree program covers core engineering and business administration topics. It requires a total of 74 credit hours.
• PhD in Computer Engineering. This research-intensive doctoral degree encourages students to solve real-life problems over the course of their studies. Candidates will build their research skills and also gain advanced knowledge of computer engineering. Software engineering, digital computer design, and programming languages are some of the topics covered.

Texas A&M University is a public land-grant research university founded in 1876. It’s one of the oldest public universities in Texas and one of the largest universities in the US. It offers 133 undergraduate programs, 175 master’s degree programs, 92 doctoral programs, and five professional programs. It has a total enrollment of around 73,000 students.

Texas A&M University Overview

• School Type: Public
• Accreditation: Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
• Acceptance Rate: 63%
• Graduation Rate: 83%
• US News National Ranking: 68 (tie)
• Times Higher Education Ranking: 193

Texas A&M University Software Engineering Overview

• Software Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
• GRE Requirements for Software Engineering Grad Students: Not required for the 2022 - 2023 academic year, may be required in the future
• Software Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $799/credit hour
• Software Engineering Graduate Tuition: $717/credit hour (in state); $1,247/credit hour (out of state)
• Software Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
• US News Computer Science National Ranking: 38
• Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: 251 - 300

Best Texas A&M University Software Engineering Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. Students who want to learn about hardware and software as it relates to computer engineering can consider this Texas A&M degree program. Other topics covered include circuit design and systems design. There are 97 required credit hours.
• Master of Science in Computer Science. This thesis master’s program requires at least 18 hours of coursework and a total of 30 credit hours. Students will complete independent research and oral thesis defense.
• Master of Science in Computer Engineering. Like the computer engineering bachelor’s program at Texas A&M, the master’s program covers both the hardware and software aspects of computer engineering. There is a 30-hour minimum credit requirement and a thesis requirement. Graduates will be well prepared for careers in the field.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering. Students who want to enroll in this program must have previous degrees in computer engineering or a related field. This degree will give students expert knowledge of the field and build their independent research skills. It requires a minimum of 96 credit hours for Bachelor of Science holders and 64 credit hours for Master of Science graduates.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science. This is a similar program to the computer engineering PhD, and it also requires 96 credits. Students in the computer science program will focus on the software side of the field.

The University of Texas at Dallas is one of the largest public universities in Dallas. UT Dallas was founded in 1969 and currently offers over 140 academic programs through eight schools. It has a student body of approximately 29,690 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 24:1.

The University of Texas at Dallas Overview

• School Type: Public
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Acceptance Rate: 79%
• Graduation Rate: 70%
• US News National Ranking: 136
• Times Higher Education Ranking: 351 - 400

The University of Texas at Dallas Software Engineering Overview

• Software Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
• GRE Requirements for Software Engineering Grad Students: Required
• Software Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $1,917/credit hour (guaranteed tuition plan, in state); $5,219/credit hour (guaranteed tuition plan, out of state); $1,700/credit hour (variable tuition plan, in state); $4,633/credit hour (variable tuition plan, out of state)
• Software Engineering Graduate Tuition: $1,866/credit hour (guaranteed tuition plan, in state); $2,765/credit hour (guaranteed tuition plan, out of state); $1,651/credit hour (variable tuition plan, in state); $2,437/credit hour (variable tuition plan, out of state)
• Software Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
• US News Computer Science National Ranking: 63
• Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: 301 - 400

Best The University of Texas at Dallas Software Engineering Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. This program is offered through the school’s computer science department. Its core curriculum features courses like algorithms, data structures, and programming. It requires a minimum of 123 credit hours and can be completed in four years.
• Executive Master of Science in Software Engineering. This is a 20-month, 33-credit-hour program for working professionals who want to update their knowledge and skills. The curriculum covers artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering. Students in this doctoral program tailor their programs of study to their educational needs. Candidates work with their graduate advisor to design their course program and fulfill the 75 credit hour requirement.

Texas Tech University is a public university and the main institution of the Texas Tech University System. It was established in 1923 and is classified as a “Tier One” Very High Research Activity university by Carnegie Classifications. Its approximately 40,666 students are enrolled across 13 schools and colleges.

Texas Tech University Overview

• School Type: Public
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
• Graduation Rate: 62%
• US News National Ranking: 213
• Times Higher Education Ranking: 351 - 400

Texas Tech University Software Engineering Overview

• Software Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
• GRE Requirements for Software Engineering Grad Students: Required
• Software Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $11,852/year (in state and bordering county in New Mexico or Oklahoma); $12,752/year (residents of New Mexico and Oklahoma); $24,122 (out of state)
• Software Engineering Graduate Tuition: $9,984/year (in state); $17,512/year (out of state)
• Software Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
• US News Computer Science National Ranking: 122 (tie)
• Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: 501 - 600

Best Texas Tech University Software Engineering Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. This program will give students the know-how necessary to work as computer engineering professionals. There is significant coursework in software engineering, computer networks, data structures, and digital system design. There are a minimum of 128 credit hours required to graduate.
• Master of Science in Software Engineering. This program focuses on advanced software engineering topics such as software design, software modeling, and quality assurance.
• Master of Science in Software and Security Engineering. This curriculum is geared toward advanced software and security engineering with an emphasis on information and computer security, quality assurance methodologies, and software design. The program can be completed fully online.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science. This program will help to hone students' expertise in computer science. The program requires a minimum of 60 hours of coursework, 12 hours of dissertation-focused work, and a candidacy exam.

The University of Texas at Arlington is a public institution of higher education that was founded in 1895 as part of the University of Texas System. It is a tier-one university and R1 doctoral university. It has a total student body of around 45,949, with 32,962 undergraduates and 12,987 graduates. It offers over 180 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

The University of Texas at Arlington Overview

• School Type: Public
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Acceptance Rate: 88%
• Graduation Rate: 58%
• US News National Ranking: 288
• Times Higher Education Ranking: 601 - 800

The University of Texas at Arlington Software Engineering Overview

• Software Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Phd
• GRE Requirements for Software Engineering Grad Students: Required
• Software Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $12,208/year (in state); $27,494/year (out of state)
• Software Engineering Graduate Tuition: $11,044/year (in state); $23,486/year (out of state)
• Software Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
• US News Computer Science National Ranking: 89
• Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: 401 - 500

Best The University of Texas at Arlington Software Engineering Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. This 123-credit program is designed to teach students the knowledge and skills necessary to become professional software engineers. Students will complete internships, course projects, and one capstone project.
• Master of Science in Software Engineering. This program is designed to enrich students' knowledge of software engineering and build their professional skills. Graduates will be prepared to work professionally in areas like cloud computing, system design, and quality assurance. The completion of a thesis is optional.
• PhD in Computer Engineering. Students can enroll in this program after completing their bachelor’s degree or master’s degree. It can be completed within four to five years and requires students to conduct independent research.

Texas State University is a public institution that was founded in 1899. This school offers over 200 academic programs in many fields of study. It has about 38,000 enrolled students.

Texas State University Overview

• School Type: Public
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Acceptance Rate: 85%
• Graduation Rate: 61%
• US News National Ranking: 299 - 391
• Times Higher Education Ranking: 1001 - 1200

Texas State University Software Engineering Overview

• Software Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
• GRE Requirements for Software Engineering Grad Students: Required
• Software Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $11,860/year (in state); $24,100/year (out of state)
• Software Engineering Graduate Tuition: $357/credit (in state); $765/credit hour (out of state)
• Software Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
• US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
• Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: 501 - 600

Best Texas State University Software Engineering Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Students in this program are required to complete at least 120 hours of coursework throughout the program. Graduates will be ready to join the workforce in fields like software development, computer applications, and environment management.
• Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science. To graduate with this BA, students must complete coursework in computer science and mathematics as well as general education and advanced electives. There are a minimum of 120 required credit hours.
• Master of Science in Computer Science with a Concentration in Software Engineering. This is one of the multiple computer science master’s programs at Texas State University. The concentration in software engineering is designed for students who want to gain advanced knowledge of software processes, automated processes, and program analysis.
• PhD in Computer Science. This program requires candidates with bachelor’s degrees to complete 78 credit hours and candidates with master’s degrees to complete 54 credit hours. The program includes two research tracks, in software systems and information management. If you’re interested in software engineering, choose the software systems track.

Established in 1914, The University of Texas at El Paso is a member of the University of Texas System. Its student body is over 80 percent Hispanic and as of 2021, enrollment was approximately 25,000 students. UTEP offers 169 degree programs through nine colleges and schools.

The University of Texas at El Paso Overview

• School Type: Public
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Acceptance Rate: 100%
• Graduation Rate: 49%
• US News National Ranking: 299 - 391
• Times Higher Education Ranking: 801 - 1000

The University of Texas at El Paso Software Engineering Overview

• Software Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
• GRE Requirements for Software Engineering Grad Students: Required
• Software Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $8,508/year (in state); $21,164/year (out of state)
• Software Engineering Graduate Tuition: $7,696/year (in state); $17,530/year (out of state)
• Software Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
• US News Computer Science National Ranking: 179
• Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A

Best The University of Texas at El Paso Software Engineering Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This four-year program gives students the tools they need to become problem-solvers in the industry. Students complete 120 credit hours of software engineering and other relevant coursework.
• Master of Science in Computer Science. This degree has two options, a thesis track, and a non-thesis track. The thesis track requires the completion of 33 coursework credit hours, while the non-thesis track requires 36 coursework credit hours. Topics of study include networks, machine learning, and computer security.
• Master of Science in Software Engineering. This is a 30-credit non-thesis degree. Students are required to have a bachelor’s degree in a science or engineering field to apply. Once accepted, students will be able to take courses like software construction, software architecture, and software project management.
• PhD in Computer Science. This 72-credit-hour degree program produces experts in the field of computer science. There are five main areas of study which include topics such as security, intelligent and interactive systems, and data management and analytics.

St. Mary’s University is a private institution and the oldest and largest Catholic university in Texas. It offers over 50 undergraduate programs, many graduate programs, and online programs in various fields of study. It prides itself on having a holistic curriculum that educates the mind, body, and spirit.

St. Mary's University-San Antonio, Texas Overview

• School Type: Private
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Acceptance Rate: 85%
• Graduation Rate: 59%
• US News National Ranking: 10 (Regional Universities)
• Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A

St. Mary's University-San Antonio, Texas Software Engineering Overview

• Software Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s
• GRE Requirements for Software Engineering Grad Students: Required
• Software Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $17,077/semester
• Software Engineering Graduate Tuition: $1,068/credit hour
• Software Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
• US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
• Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A

Best St. Mary's University-San Antonio, Texas Software Engineering Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. This is a 128-credit-hour major program that prepares students to be professional software engineers. The curriculum includes graphics and design, programming languages, and data structures.
• Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This is a 30-credit-hour program designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in electrical and computer engineering. Some of the courses that will be covered in this program include computer networking, machine learning, and data sciences.
• Master of Science in Software Engineering. This program includes classroom training and hands-on experience to give its students the knowledge required to work in the field. The degree has a 30-credit-hour requirement and can be earned fully online.
• Combined Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Software Engineering. This combined degree program allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in only five years. It requires the completion of at least 133 credit hours and the master’s degree curriculum starts during the third year of study.

LeTourneau University is a private Christian university that was founded in 1946 by R.G. and Evelyn LeTourneau. It has a student body of 3,210 with 1,647 undergraduate students, 218 graduate students, and 1,345 high school dual enrollment students. It offers over 240 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in eight areas of study.

LeTourneau University Overview

• School Type: Private
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Acceptance Rate: 56%
• Graduation Rate: 51%
• US News National Ranking: 30 (Regional Universities)
• Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A

LeTourneau University Software Engineering Overview

• Software Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s
• GRE Requirements for Software Engineering Grad Students: N/A
• Software Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $33,670/year
• Software Engineering Graduate Tuition: N/A
• Software Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
• US News Computer Science National Ranking: N/A
• Times Higher Education Computer Science World Ranking: N/A

Best LeTourneau University Software Engineering Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science And Engineering. The curriculum of this 127-credit-hour program prepares students to work as computer scientists. It includes courses like software engineering, data structure, computer architecture, and operating systems. There are also required theology courses.
• Bachelor of Science in Information Systems. This program combines the concepts of computer science and business to equip students with the skills they’ll need as professionals in the information technology industry. It is available fully online and in person.

Texas State University provides its students with industry-standard education, affordable tuition, and a well-recognized degree. Students who attend this school for a software engineering degree will gain the relevant knowledge and skills required by employers. They also won’t have to worry about breaking the bank for tuition.

A part of the University of Texas System, this institution has a high acceptance rate and affordable tuition. UT Arlington is another great choice for students who want to avoid future financial constraints and want a high-quality education. There’s a bachelor’s to doctoral degree program in software engineering that you should definitely consider if you’re looking to expedite your education.

The University of Texas at Dallas is a respected Texas institution. Students who attend this school for a software engineering degree get a standard education, cheap tuition, and a recognized degree. Together, these factors make the University of Texas at Dallas a strong option for any student.

Texas Tech University offers software engineering programs at both graduate and post-graduate levels. Tuition rates are fairly low, making it a great option for students who are cost-conscious. If students are able to receive financial aid, Texas Tech can be extremely affordable to attend.

Texas A&M University is a high-quality college in Texas that offers students a lot for a relatively cheap rate. Students who attend this school for a degree in software engineering will definitely be getting their money’s worth. They’ll be equipped with the skills they’ll need to start their careers, and they’ll also have a degree from a well-known and well-respected institution.

An applications architect is a professional who oversees and manages the design and development of software applications. Applications architects are responsible for documenting information on software architecture, application design processes, and other relevant aspects. They also collaborate and coordinate with other teams involved with application design.

• Average Salary in Texas: $144,726
• Employment in Texas: 14,720
• Overall Job Growth: 5%
• Best Texas Software Engineering Program: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Rice University

Software developers design, build, and test software applications for computers, mobile devices, and other types of devices. They conduct research that improves the design process and the final product. They continually work to deliver quality applications that will satisfy users’ needs based on their clients' specifications and requirements.

• Average Salary in Texas: $111,830
• Employment in Texas: 103,510
• Overall Job Growth: 22%
• Best Texas Software Engineering Program: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Texas State University

A software engineer applies the principles of engineering to software development. They develop flowcharts, analyze and modify existing software, and find solutions for software problems. Attending any of the best schools in Texas will train you for this job by providing you with the relevant knowledge and skills.

• Average Salary in Texas: $102,648
• Employment in Texas: 103,510
• Overall Job Growth: 22%
• Best Texas Software Engineering Program: Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering at The University of Texas at Dallas

A mobile applications developer applies their programming and development skills to design, build, test, install, and maintain software applications for mobile devices. Earning a degree in software engineering from any of the top schools in Texas will equip you with the right development and programming skills required for this role.

• Average Salary in Texas: $95,284
• Employment in Texas: 103,510
• Overall Job Growth: 22%
• Best Texas Software Engineering Program: Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at Southern Methodist University

A QA engineer is in charge of developing tests that can be used to identify software issues before they are launched. You can start a career as a quality assurance engineer with a bachelor’s degree. By earning at one of the best software engineering schools in Texas, you will be prepared to join the field.

• Average Salary in Texas: $87,146
• Employment in Texas: 17,960
• Overall Job Growth: 22%
• Best Texas Software Engineering Program: Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering at The University of Texas at Arlington