Top 3 Data Analytics Programs in Texas
University of Texas at Austin
McCombs Business School analytics program with industry partnerships
Rice University
Small class sizes and cutting-edge research facilities
Texas A&M University
Strong industry connections and career placement services
- 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 89% job placement rates 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.
Based on 24 programs from College Scorecard, IPEDS, institutional data
Faculty credentials, curriculum rigor, accreditation status
Employment rates, starting salaries, employer partnerships
Tuition costs, financial aid availability, ROI metrics
Career services, academic advising, technology resources
Curriculum updates, industry certifications, research opportunities
Complete Data Analytics Program Rankings - Texas
| 1 | University of Texas at Austin | Austin | $11,574 | 8700% | 92 |
| 2 | Rice University | Houston | $54,960 | 9400% | 89 |
| 3 | Texas A&M University | College Station | $13,360 | 8200% | 86 |
| 4 | University of Houston | Houston | $11,966 | 6500% | 83 |
| 5 | Southern Methodist University | Dallas | $61,980 | 8200% | 81 |
| 6 | Texas Tech University | Lubbock | $12,106 | 6400% | 78 |
| 7 | University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson | $14,564 | 7200% | 76 |
| 8 | Baylor University | Waco | $51,738 | 7800% | 74 |
| 9 | Texas Christian University | Fort Worth | $53,980 | 8100% | 72 |
| 10 | University of Texas at San Antonio | San Antonio | $12,036 | 5000% | 69 |
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, Texas • University
Program Highlights
- • 97% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- • Average starting salary of $78,500 for program graduates
- • Required capstone project with real industry partners
Program Strengths
- Industry-leading faculty with extensive research backgrounds
- Partnerships with Austin's thriving tech ecosystem
- State-of-the-art analytics labs and computing resources
- Strong alumni network in major corporations
Why Ranked #1
UT Austin's data analytics program combines rigorous statistical training with practical application through the McCombs Business School. The program offers extensive industry partnerships and consistently high graduate employment rates.
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
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.
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
4 years
Average Program Length
120-128
Required Credit Hours
25-30
Average Class Size
78%
Industry Internship Rate
42%
Graduate School Acceptance
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.
| Factor | Public Universities | Private Universities | Community Colleges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Annual Tuition | $12,500 | $54,000 | $3,800 |
| Class Size | 25-40 | 15-25 | 20-30 |
| Research Opportunities | Extensive | Moderate | Limited |
| Industry Connections | Strong | Very Strong | Regional |
| Career Services | Good | Excellent | Basic |
| Financial Aid Availability | Good | Excellent | Limited |
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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
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.