The University of Texas Permian Basin

UTPB leans heavily into workforce-aligned programs, with business, education, and psychology as its most popular majors. The College of Arts & Sciences offers BS degrees in biology, chemistry, computer science, and criminal justice, while niche programs include parks/recreation (56 degrees awarded in 2023) and linguistics (21 degrees). The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary options, like combining energy commerce with environmental science—a nod to the Permian Basin's oil industry. Graduate programs are limited, with undergraduate studies dominating the academic profile.

Life at UTPB revolves around its compact Odessa campus, where the Student Activity Center anchors social activity. The university promotes itself as a hub for first-generation students (nearly 50% of enrollees) with programs like Falcon Success for academic support. Student organizations range from Greek life to industry groups like the American Chemical Society. Instagram posts show campus tours and STEM fairs, while Niche reviews note the social scene is quiet but friendly, with many students commuting from nearby Midland.

UTPB struggles with retention, with just 41.7% of students graduating within six years (bottom quartile nationally). Gender disparities are stark: 38% of men vs. 47% of women complete degrees. However, alumni earnings outpace expectations—$51,000 median salary after 10 years, well above the $34,300 national median. The university touts its SeekUT tool for tracking graduate outcomes, which is critical given its vocational focus. Recent initiatives aim to boost graduation rates, including expanded advising and summer bridge programs.

UTPB is a bargain by Texas standards, with an average net price of $10,370/year after aid. The university distributes $51 million annually in financial aid, with 69% of students receiving packages averaging $16,478. Grants (not loans) dominate, with typical awards around $5,399 federal and $2,901 institutional. The FAFSA deadline is June 30, though rolling aid continues. For context, 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. is roughly 60% of the UT-Austin sticker price, making UTPB a pragmatic choice for budget-conscious West Texans.

UTPB carves its niche as the only public university in the Permian Basin oilfields, offering direct pipelines to energy jobs. Its 93% acceptance rate and sub-$11k net price make it one of Texas' most accessible four-year options, particularly for first-gen?First-generation (first-gen)A student who would be the first in their immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Many colleges consider this in context. students. While graduation rates lag, its industry-aligned programs (like petroleum engineering tech) and SeekUT outcome tracking reflect a transparency rare for regional publics. The campus vibe is no-frills but supportive—a place where commuter students and future roughnecks find their footing.