The University of Texas at Dallas

UT Dallas is a STEM powerhouse, with 18% of undergraduates majoring in computer science—its most popular program—followed by psychology (7%) and digital arts (7%). The Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science is a standout, with a 98% job placement rate for MS graduates. The university offers a blend of technical and liberal arts programs, including a growing arts and humanities school. The 4-year graduation rate is 63%, rising to 76% in 5 years, reflecting its focus on research and practical career preparation. Classes are rigorous, with an academic rating of 76/99 by The Princeton Review.

Campus life at UT Dallas is more academically focused than party-centric, with a vibe that leans toward clubs, research, and tech-driven organizations. The student body is diverse and socially active, with events like 'Weeks of Welcome' to foster connections. Instagram and Facebook pages highlight a mix of traditions, cultural events, and academic competitions. While not a traditional sports school, students bond over esports, hackathons, and networking opportunities in nearby Dallas. The overall atmosphere is described as friendly but studious, with plenty of spaces to collaborate or unwind.

UT Dallas delivers strong ROI, with graduates earning an average salary of $68,227 early in their careers. The 6-year graduation rate is 79%, outperforming the national midpoint for public universities. Computer science and engineering graduates are particularly sought after, with many landing jobs in Dallas’s booming tech sector. The university’s SeekUT platform provides detailed salary data by major, showing robust outcomes for STEM fields. Retention rates are solid, with most students persisting into their second year.

For Texas residents, UT Dallas is a relative bargain, with an average net price of $16,094 after aid. The total cost of attendance?Cost of attendanceThe full estimated yearly cost of a college: tuition, fees, housing, food, books, and other expenses, before any financial aid. for on-campus students is estimated at $18,267 annually, below the national average for 4-year schools. About 47% of students receive financial aid, with average packages reducing costs significantly. The university offers merit scholarships, and its net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator helps families estimate out-of-pocket expenses. Out-of-state students pay higher tuition but still benefit from strong aid options.

UT Dallas shines as a high-value tech incubator with low costs and high outcomes, especially for computer science and engineering students. Its suburban Dallas location offers access to internships and jobs without the urban campus chaos. The culture is unapologetically academic, attracting students who prioritize research and career prep over football tailgates. Unique perks include automatic admission for Texas Top 10% students, a 98% job placement rate for CS grads, and a campus life that balances collaboration with indie spirit. It’s the kind of school where hackathons draw bigger crowds than keggers—and that’s exactly the point.