These Are the Top-Ranked Engineering Schools in Texas

Texas is home to several universities known for engineering education, scientific research, and technology-focused programs. Students interested in engineering can choose from universities offering degrees in mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical, aerospace, computer, and petroleum engineering.

The 2026–2027 U.S. News undergraduate engineering rankings place the University of Texas at Austin at No. 11 nationally, while Rice University and Texas A&M University are both ranked No. 17. Other Texas universities also offer engineering programs worth comparing.

Here are 10 engineering schools in Texas to consider.

1. The University of Texas at Austin — Austin

<bold>Engineering school:</bold> Cockrell School of Engineering

The University of Texas at Austin is a major destination for students interested in engineering and technology. Its Cockrell School offers undergraduate programs across several engineering disciplines.

Popular areas of study include:

• Petroleum engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Aerospace engineering
• Electrical and computer engineering

Its undergraduate engineering school ranks No. 11 nationally in the 2026–2027 U.S. News rankings, making it a prominent option for prospective engineering students.

2. Rice University — Houston

<bold>Engineering school:</bold> George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing

Rice University offers engineering education with an emphasis on research, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning.

Students can explore areas such as:

• Biomedical engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Electrical and computer engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Civil and environmental engineering
• Materials science

Rice's undergraduate engineering school ranks No. 17 nationally in the 2027 U.S. News rankings. Its biomedical engineering program is also nationally recognized.

3. Texas A&M University — College Station

<bold>Engineering school:</bold> College of Engineering

Texas A&M University is known for its extensive engineering programs, research facilities, and large engineering student community.

Its engineering disciplines include:

• Aerospace engineering
• Petroleum engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Industrial engineering
• Civil and environmental engineering

Texas A&M ranks No. 17 nationally and No. 9 among public universities in the 2027 U.S. News undergraduate engineering rankings.

4. The University of Texas at Dallas — Richardson

<bold>Engineering school:</bold> Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science

UT Dallas provides engineering and computer science education with opportunities to explore technology, research, and innovation.

Students can consider programs in:

• Electrical engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Computer engineering
• Biomedical engineering
• Materials science and engineering
• Systems engineering

Its engineering school is particularly relevant to students interested in technology-oriented careers and research.

5. University of Houston — Houston

<bold>Engineering school:</bold> Cullen College of Engineering

The University of Houston offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate engineering programs.

Some of its major study areas include:

• Petroleum engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Computer engineering

Its location in Houston also provides access to an extensive energy, technology, manufacturing, and industrial environment.

6. Texas Tech University — Lubbock

<bold>Engineering school:</bold> Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering

Texas Tech University offers several engineering pathways supported by research, laboratory learning, and practical projects.

Students can explore:

• Mechanical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Petroleum engineering
• Computer engineering

The university is an option for students interested in traditional engineering disciplines and applied technical education.

7. The University of Texas at Arlington — Arlington

<bold>Engineering school:</bold> College of Engineering

The University of Texas at Arlington provides engineering education in the Dallas–Fort Worth metropolitan area.

Its academic offerings include:

• Aerospace engineering
• Biomedical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Computer engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Industrial engineering
• Mechanical engineering

Students can explore research, laboratory work, and engineering opportunities connected to the region's technology and industrial sectors.

8. Baylor University — Waco

<bold>Engineering school:</bold> School of Engineering and Computer Science

Baylor University offers engineering and computer science programs in a university environment that combines technical education with broader academic learning.

Students can explore:

• Electrical and computer engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Biomedical engineering
• Computer science
• Engineering-focused research opportunities

It is worth comparing for students looking for a private university with engineering and technology-related academic options.

9. Southern Methodist University — Dallas

<bold>Engineering school:</bold> Lyle School of Engineering

Southern Methodist University offers engineering education with opportunities to explore research, innovation, and technology development.

Its areas of study include:

• Mechanical engineering
• Civil and environmental engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Computer science
• Engineering management and related fields

Its Dallas location can also provide access to technology companies, business organizations, and professional networking opportunities.

10. University of Texas at El Paso — El Paso

<bold>Engineering school:</bold> College of Engineering

The University of Texas at El Paso offers engineering programs across several technical disciplines.

Students can explore:

• Civil engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Computer science and engineering
• Metallurgical and materials engineering
• Industrial engineering

The university provides opportunities for research, practical learning, and engineering education in West Texas.

What Should You Consider Before Choosing an Engineering School?

University rankings can help narrow down your choices, but students should also evaluate the following factors:

1. Program accreditation: Check whether the specific engineering degree is accredited by ABET where applicable.
2. Specialization: Compare the exact engineering discipline you want to study.
3. Tuition and financial aid: Review tuition, scholarships, grants, and living expenses.
4. Research facilities: Look for laboratories, research centers, and practical project opportunities.
5. Internships: Check industry partnerships, internship opportunities, and career placement support.
6. Admission requirements: Compare GPA expectations, prerequisite subjects, test requirements, and application deadlines.
7. Location: Consider housing, transportation, campus facilities, and proximity to potential employers.

Final Thoughts

Texas offers a variety of engineering education options, from large public research universities to private institutions with specialized academic environments.

The University of Texas at Austin, Rice University, and Texas A&M University have particularly strong national undergraduate engineering rankings. Other universities on this list provide additional options across different engineering disciplines.

Before applying, compare the specific degree program, accreditation, tuition, financial aid, research opportunities, and admission requirements to identify schools that match your academic and career goals.