Barry PhilipsTexas is one of the best states in the United States for students who want to study engineering. With major industries in technology, aerospace, energy, construction, manufacturing, healthcare and transportation, the state offers engineering students access to a wide range of academic and career opportunities.
From highly competitive research universities to affordable public institutions, there are numerous engineering schools in Texas offering undergraduate and graduate programs. Students can study popular disciplines such as mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering and petroleum engineering.
However, choosing an engineering school involves more than looking at rankings. Prospective students should consider admission requirements, tuition, accreditation, available engineering majors, internship opportunities, research facilities and career prospects.
In this article, we explore 25 of the top engineering schools in Texas and their requirements, helping prospective students understand what each institution offers and what they generally need to qualify for admission.
Top Engineering Schools In Texas
1. University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin is one of the most recognized universities in Texas and is home to the Cockrell School of Engineering.
Students can choose from numerous engineering disciplines, including aerospace engineering, architectural engineering, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, electrical and computer engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering and petroleum engineering.
Because admission to UT Austin is competitive, students interested in engineering should have a strong academic background, particularly in mathematics and science.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of required high school courses
- Strong mathematics and science preparation
- Competitive academic record
- Application and supporting documents
- Personal essays
- Transcripts
- Any applicable standardized-test requirements
- Evidence of calculus readiness for engineering
Applicants should note that admission to the university does not automatically mean admission to their preferred engineering major.
2. Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University in College Station has one of the largest engineering programs in Texas. Its College of Engineering covers numerous disciplines and provides extensive research and industry opportunities.
Popular fields include aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering and petroleum engineering.
General admission requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school coursework
- Strong mathematics and science preparation
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Essays and short-answer responses
- Extracurricular activities and achievements
- Applicable standardized-test information
Texas A&M uses a holistic approach in reviewing engineering applicants, meaning academic performance is considered alongside other aspects of an applicant’s profile.
3. Rice University
Rice University is a private research university in Houston with a respected engineering and computing school.
Its engineering programs cover areas such as biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, civil and environmental engineering, electrical and computer engineering, materials science and mechanical engineering.
Rice is particularly attractive to students who want a research-focused education in a relatively small university environment.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Excellent academic preparation
- Strong mathematics and science coursework
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Essays
- Required recommendations
- Other supporting materials
- Standardized-test information according to the current admissions policy
Competition for admission can be high, so applicants should demonstrate strong academic achievement and meaningful extracurricular involvement.
4. University of Houston
The University of Houston is a major public research university located in one of America’s largest energy and industrial centers.
The Cullen College of Engineering offers programs in chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, petroleum engineering and several other fields.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required secondary-school coursework
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Academic transcripts
- University application
- Applicable test scores
- Engineering-specific requirements where applicable
Students interested in energy, technology, manufacturing and engineering careers may benefit from the university’s Houston location.
5. Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University in Lubbock is home to the Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering.
The college provides programs in areas including chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering and petroleum engineering.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school curriculum
- Mathematics and science courses
- Academic transcripts
- University application
- Applicable standardized-test information
- Additional requirements for specific engineering programs
Students should check the requirements for their intended major because prerequisites can differ between programs.
6. The University of Texas at Dallas
The University of Texas at Dallas is particularly well known for its technology, computer science and engineering programs.
The Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science offers programs such as electrical engineering, computer engineering, biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science and systems engineering.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required secondary-school coursework
- Strong mathematics and science preparation
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Applicable test scores
- Major-specific requirements where applicable
Its location in the Dallas-Fort Worth technology and business corridor also provides opportunities for internships and industry exposure.
7. The University of Texas at Arlington
The University of Texas at Arlington offers a broad range of engineering programs and is located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.
Engineering students can explore aerospace, civil, electrical, industrial, mechanical, software and other disciplines.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of required high school courses
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Applicable SAT or ACT information
- Program-specific prerequisites
Students should pay particular attention to mathematics requirements because engineering programs typically require students to progress into calculus.
8. Southern Methodist University
Southern Methodist University is a private university in Dallas with engineering programs offered through the Lyle School of Engineering.
Students can study fields including civil engineering, environmental engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma
- Strong academic record
- Mathematics and science coursework
- Application
- Academic transcripts
- Essays
- Required recommendations
- Other supporting documents
- Applicable test scores
SMU may appeal to students seeking a private university education while remaining close to Dallas’s business and technology ecosystem.
9. University of North Texas
The University of North Texas in Denton offers engineering education through its College of Engineering.
Its location within the Dallas-Fort Worth region provides students with proximity to companies in technology, manufacturing, aviation and other industries.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school coursework
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Applicable test scores
- Major-specific requirements
Applicants should review the requirements for their specific engineering program before applying.
10. University of Texas at San Antonio
UT San Antonio offers engineering programs through the Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design.
Students can pursue areas such as civil engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering and other technology-related fields.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school coursework
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Applicable test scores
- Program-specific requirements
The university’s San Antonio location also places students near aerospace, cybersecurity, defense and technology industries.
11. University of Texas at El Paso
The University of Texas at El Paso provides engineering education through its College of Engineering.
Its programs include civil engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering and other disciplines.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school curriculum
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Applicable test scores
- Program-specific prerequisites
UTEP can be particularly interesting to students interested in engineering applications related to infrastructure, manufacturing, aerospace and technology.
12. Baylor University
Baylor University in Waco offers engineering and computer science education through its School of Engineering and Computer Science.
Students can pursue fields including mechanical engineering and electrical and computer engineering.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Strong mathematics and science preparation
- Competitive academic record
- Application
- Academic transcripts
- Essays
- Required supporting materials
- Applicable test scores
Baylor offers students the opportunity to study engineering within a private university environment.
13. Texas State University
Texas State University in San Marcos offers engineering programs through its College of Science and Engineering.
Its engineering-related programs include manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering and industrial engineering.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- University admission requirements
- Required mathematics coursework
- Calculus readiness
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Applicable test scores
Students should ensure they meet the mathematics prerequisites necessary to begin their intended engineering program.
14. Prairie View A&M University
Prairie View A&M University is a historically Black university in Texas with a long-standing engineering tradition.
Its Roy G. Perry College of Engineering provides programs in several engineering disciplines.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school curriculum
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Applicable SAT or ACT requirements
- Engineering-specific academic requirements
Prairie View A&M can be an important option for students seeking engineering education in an HBCU environment.
15. Texas Southern University
Texas Southern University in Houston offers engineering education through its College of Science, Engineering and Technology.
Its engineering programs provide students with opportunities to develop technical knowledge and prepare for careers in engineering and related industries.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school coursework
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Applicable SAT or ACT requirements
- Engineering department requirements
Applicants should review the latest engineering admission criteria before submitting an application.
16. Lamar University
Lamar University in Beaumont is another Texas institution with established engineering programs.
Its College of Engineering offers programs in areas including chemical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering and mechanical engineering.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required college-preparatory courses
- Academic transcripts
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Application
- Applicable admission requirements
Lamar’s engineering programs can be worth considering for students interested in engineering careers connected to the energy, manufacturing and industrial sectors.
17. University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers engineering programs designed to serve students across the Rio Grande Valley.
Engineering and technical fields include civil engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering and manufacturing-related programs.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school curriculum
- Mathematics and science courses
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Applicable test scores
- Major-specific requirements
UTRGV provides another option for students looking for a public university engineering education in South Texas.
18. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi offers engineering and technology education in a coastal university setting.
Its academic offerings include engineering-related programs that can prepare students for careers in technical, infrastructure and environmental fields.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- University admission requirements
- Required mathematics and science courses
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Program-specific prerequisites
Students interested in coastal, environmental or infrastructure-related engineering applications may find the university’s location relevant.
19. Tarleton State University
Tarleton State University provides engineering and engineering-related academic programs and is part of the Texas A&M University System.
The university offers students opportunities to study engineering in a public university environment outside the state’s largest metropolitan areas.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school coursework
- Academic transcripts
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Application
- Major-specific requirements
Prospective students should confirm the exact degree requirements for their intended engineering major.
20. Angelo State University
Angelo State University in San Angelo provides engineering-related educational opportunities within a smaller public university environment.
The institution can be considered by students who prefer a smaller campus and want to pursue technical and engineering-related studies.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school coursework
- Academic transcripts
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Application
- Applicable test scores
- Program-specific requirements
21. Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Texas A&M University-Kingsville has a notable engineering presence and provides students with opportunities to study technical disciplines in South Texas.
Its engineering offerings include areas such as civil, electrical and mechanical engineering.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Required high school curriculum
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Applicable test scores
- Program-specific prerequisites
22. Abilene Christian University
Abilene Christian University provides engineering and technology-focused education in a private university setting.
Students interested in combining engineering education with a liberal arts and Christian university environment may consider its available engineering pathways.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Academic transcripts
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Application
- Essays or other supporting materials
- Applicable standardized-test information
- Program-specific requirements
23. University of St. Thomas
The University of St. Thomas in Houston offers engineering education within a private university environment.
Its programs can provide students with technical preparation while giving them access to the broader Houston economy.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Strong mathematics and science background
- Academic transcripts
- Application
- Essays and supporting documents
- Applicable test scores
- Major-specific requirements
24. St. Mary’s University
St. Mary’s University in San Antonio provides engineering and technology-related academic opportunities within a private university environment.
Students can benefit from studying in the San Antonio metropolitan area, which has significant technology, healthcare, aerospace and defense industries.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Academic transcripts
- Required mathematics and science coursework
- Application
- Essays or supporting materials
- Applicable standardized-test information
- Program-specific prerequisites
25. University of Dallas
The University of Dallas is a private university in Irving that offers engineering-related academic pathways in addition to its broader undergraduate curriculum.
Its location in the Dallas-Fort Worth area places students near one of the largest business and technology markets in Texas.
General requirements include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Academic transcripts
- Strong mathematics and science preparation
- Application
- Essays
- Supporting documents
- Applicable test scores
- Program-specific requirements
General Admission Requirements for Engineering Schools in Texas
Although requirements differ from one university to another, most engineering schools in Texas look for several common qualifications.
1. High School Diploma
Undergraduate applicants generally need a high school diploma or recognized equivalent.
International students may need to provide documentation showing that their secondary-school qualification is equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma.
2. Mathematics Courses
Mathematics is one of the most important subjects for aspiring engineers.
Students should expect to encounter subjects such as:
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Trigonometry
- Precalculus
- Calculus
- Differential equations
- Statistics
Taking advanced mathematics courses in high school can help students prepare for university-level engineering.
3. Science Courses
Engineering students should also have a strong science foundation.
Physics and chemistry are particularly important because they form the foundation for many engineering courses.
4. Competitive GPA
There is no universal GPA requirement for all engineering schools in Texas.
Some universities publish minimum GPA requirements, while highly competitive institutions may consider GPA alongside class rank, coursework, extracurricular activities and other factors.
Students should therefore distinguish between a minimum admission requirement and the academic profile of students who are actually competitive for admission.
5. SAT or ACT Scores
Testing policies differ among Texas universities.
Some schools are test-optional, while others may use SAT or ACT results for admission, placement, scholarships or particular engineering pathways.
Applicants should check the current policy of both the university and their intended engineering program.
6. Application Essays
Some universities require personal essays, short-answer questions or statements as part of the application.
These essays give applicants an opportunity to explain their academic interests, experiences, goals and reasons for choosing engineering.
7. Extracurricular Activities
Engineering applicants can benefit from participating in activities such as:
- Robotics
- Coding
- Science competitions
- Mathematics competitions
- STEM clubs
- Research projects
- Engineering camps
- Community service
- Leadership activities
These activities can also help students determine which engineering discipline interests them.
8. Transcripts
Universities generally require academic transcripts showing the applicant’s coursework and grades.
International applicants may need additional documentation, translations or credential evaluations.
9. English Language Proficiency
International students whose previous education was not conducted in English may need to demonstrate English proficiency through an accepted examination such as TOEFL, IELTS or another approved test.
Requirements differ by university, so international applicants should verify the specific policy of their institution.
10. ABET Accreditation
Students should investigate the accreditation status of the specific engineering program they intend to study.
ABET accreditation can be particularly important for students who eventually want to pursue professional engineering licensure.
It is important to check the specific program, rather than assuming that every engineering degree offered by a university has the same accreditation status.
How Much Does It Cost to Study Engineering in Texas?
Engineering tuition varies considerably between institutions.
Public universities generally have different tuition rates for Texas residents and non-residents, while private universities usually charge the same base tuition regardless of state residency.
In addition to tuition, students should budget for:
- Housing
- Meals
- Books
- Engineering equipment
- Transportation
- Student fees
- Health insurance where applicable
- Personal expenses
International students should also consider visa-related costs, travel expenses and proof-of-funding requirements.
Scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities and institutional financial aid can significantly reduce the overall cost.
How to Choose an Engineering School in Texas
The right engineering school depends on the student’s academic goals and circumstances.
Before applying, compare the following:
Engineering Major
First identify the specific discipline you want to study. A university may have an excellent overall reputation but may not offer the particular engineering specialization you want.
Accreditation
Check whether your intended engineering program has the accreditation needed for your long-term career plans.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Compare total cost rather than tuition alone. Housing, transportation, books and other fees can substantially increase the cost of attendance.
Internship Opportunities
Engineering is a practical profession. Look for universities with strong connections to companies, research institutions and professional organizations.
Research Facilities
If you are interested in postgraduate study or research careers, investigate the laboratories, research centers and faculty working in your area of interest.
Location
Texas is a large state, so location matters. Universities in Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio and other metropolitan areas can provide different industry and internship opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Engineering Schools in Texas
What is the best engineering school in Texas?
Texas has several highly regarded engineering universities, including UT Austin, Texas A&M University, Rice University, the University of Houston, Texas Tech University and UT Dallas.
Rather than choosing a school solely because of its overall reputation, students should compare the specific engineering major, admission requirements, cost, accreditation and available opportunities.
What GPA do I need to study engineering in Texas?
There is no single GPA requirement for every engineering school in Texas. Requirements vary by university and major.
Some institutions have published minimum GPAs, while competitive universities may evaluate applicants holistically.
Is engineering difficult to study?
Engineering can be academically demanding because students typically study advanced mathematics, physics, programming, laboratory work and technical courses.
However, strong preparation, consistent study habits and access to academic support can help students succeed.
Which engineering field is most popular?
Popular engineering disciplines include mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering and chemical engineering.
The most appropriate field depends on the student’s interests and career objectives.
Do engineering schools in Texas require calculus?
Many engineering programs require calculus or expect students to demonstrate readiness for calculus. Some universities make calculus readiness part of their engineering admission or progression requirements.
Can international students study engineering in Texas?
Yes. Texas universities admit international students into engineering programs. International applicants typically need academic transcripts and may need to demonstrate English-language proficiency and provide financial documentation for immigration purposes.
Is ABET accreditation important?
ABET accreditation is important for many engineering career pathways, especially for students who may eventually seek professional engineering licensure.
Students should verify the accreditation status of the exact engineering program they plan to enter.
Comparison Table: Top 25 Engineering Schools in Texas
| Engineering School | City | Major Engineering Areas | General Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Texas at Austin | Austin | Aerospace, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Petroleum | Strong academics, math/science, application |
| Texas A&M University | College Station | Aerospace, Biomedical, Chemical, Mechanical, Petroleum | Strong academics, math/science, holistic review |
| Rice University | Houston | Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical | Highly competitive academic profile |
| University of Houston | Houston | Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Petroleum | University and major requirements |
| Texas Tech University | Lubbock | Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Petroleum | Academic and program requirements |
| UT Dallas | Richardson | Computer, Electrical, Biomedical, Mechanical | Strong math/science preparation |
| UT Arlington | Arlington | Aerospace, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical | University and engineering requirements |
| SMU | Dallas | Civil, Electrical, Computer, Mechanical | Competitive private admission |
| University of North Texas | Denton | Engineering and technology fields | University and program requirements |
| UT San Antonio | San Antonio | Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Biomedical | University and major requirements |
| UT El Paso | El Paso | Civil, Electrical, Computer, Mechanical | University and program requirements |
| Baylor University | Waco | Mechanical, Electrical/Computer | Strong academic preparation |
| Texas State University | San Marcos | Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing | Calculus readiness and admission |
| Prairie View A&M | Prairie View | Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical | Engineering-specific academic criteria |
| Texas Southern University | Houston | Engineering disciplines | GPA, math/science and test requirements |
| Lamar University | Beaumont | Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical | High school curriculum and admission requirements |
| UTRGV | Edinburg | Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Biomedical | University and program requirements |
| Texas A&M-Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | Engineering and technology fields | University and program requirements |
| Tarleton State University | Stephenville | Engineering and technology | University and major requirements |
| Angelo State University | San Angelo | Engineering-related fields | University and program requirements |
| Texas A&M-Kingsville | Kingsville | Civil, Electrical, Mechanical | Academic and program requirements |
| Abilene Christian University | Abilene | Engineering and technology | Academic and program requirements |
| University of St. Thomas | Houston | Engineering and technology | Academic and program requirements |
| St. Mary’s University | San Antonio | Engineering and technology | Academic and program requirements |
| University of Dallas | Irving | Engineering-related fields | Academic and program requirements |
Related
Conclusion
Texas offers a wide variety of options for students interested in engineering. From major research institutions such as the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University to private universities and regional public institutions, prospective engineers can find programs suited to different academic interests, budgets and career goals.
Before applying, students should carefully review the requirements for their intended engineering major. Pay particular attention to mathematics and science preparation, GPA expectations, standardized-test policies, English proficiency requirements for international students, application deadlines, tuition and accreditation.
Most importantly, do not choose an engineering school based solely on its name. Compare the exact program you want to study, the opportunities available to students, the total cost of attendance and how well the institution fits your long-term career plans.