University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlights the best programs for economics in Texas.

What is Economics?


Considering an economics degree in Texas can be a great decision for your future. Top schools in the state offer some of the best programs in the country. Earning an economics degree provides you with strong analytical skills and many opportunities for applied learning through research, internships, and practical coursework.

Academic institutions have diverse offerings including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in economics. These programs cater to various academic and career aspirations. Completing an economics degree from a reputable institution in Texas equips you with the knowledge to understand human behavior and economic principles, making it easier to pursue a career as an economist, in banking, finance, and a variety of industries.

Additionally, the Texas economy is robust and offers numerous opportunities for economics graduates. Whether you aim to work in academia, the private sector, or public policy, Texas provides a fertile ground for launching a successful career. Choosing to study in Texas not only gives you access to excellent educational opportunities but also positions you in a thriving economic environment.

Top Ranked Campus & Online Economics Programs in Texas


1

Rice University

Score: 94.3

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $58,128
    • Out-of-State: $58,128
  • Net Price: $19,902
  • Acceptance Rate: 9%
  • Retention Rate: 98%
  • Graduation Rate: 94%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,672
  • Undergrad Students: 4,494
  • Graduate Students: 4,178
  • Grads Salary: $92,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 6:1
  • Rice University
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2
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,678
    • Out-of-State: $42,778
  • Net Price: $17,434
  • Acceptance Rate: 31%
  • Retention Rate: 95%
  • Graduation Rate: 88%
  • Total Enrollment: 52,384
  • Undergrad Students: 41,309
  • Graduate Students: 11,075
  • Grads Salary: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • The University of Texas at Austin
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3
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,099
    • Out-of-State: $40,328
  • Net Price: $20,375
  • Acceptance Rate: 63%
  • Retention Rate: 95%
  • Graduation Rate: 84%
  • Total Enrollment: 74,014
  • Undergrad Students: 57,512
  • Graduate Students: 16,502
  • Grads Salary: $80,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Texas A&M University-College Station
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4
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,564
    • Out-of-State: $40,064
  • Net Price: $13,555
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 87%
  • Graduation Rate: 70%
  • Total Enrollment: 31,570
  • Undergrad Students: 21,617
  • Graduate Students: 9,953
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 27:1
  • The University of Texas at Dallas
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5
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $51,352
    • Out-of-State: $51,352
  • Net Price: $30,038
  • Acceptance Rate: 31%
  • Retention Rate: 91%
  • Graduation Rate: 76%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,692
  • Undergrad Students: 2,512
  • Graduate Students: 180
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Trinity University
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6
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,846
    • Out-of-State: $19,382
  • Net Price: $5,383
  • Acceptance Rate: 48%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Total Enrollment: 8,505
  • Undergrad Students: 6,979
  • Graduate Students: 1,526
  • Grads Salary: $80,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Texas A&M International University
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7
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $64,460
    • Out-of-State: $64,460
  • Net Price: $45,094
  • Acceptance Rate: 52%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 82%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,053
  • Undergrad Students: 7,056
  • Graduate Students: 4,997
  • Grads Salary: $85,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Southern Methodist University
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8
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,711
    • Out-of-State: $22,191
  • Net Price: $14,056
  • Acceptance Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Graduation Rate: 63%
  • Total Enrollment: 46,700
  • Undergrad Students: 37,943
  • Graduate Students: 8,757
  • Grads Salary: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • University of Houston
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9
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,852
    • Out-of-State: $24,451
  • Net Price: $17,896
  • Acceptance Rate: 67%
  • Retention Rate: 86%
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Total Enrollment: 40,378
  • Undergrad Students: 32,579
  • Graduate Students: 7,799
  • Grads Salary: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • Texas Tech University
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10

Austin College

Score: 72.75

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $46,500
    • Out-of-State: $46,500
  • Net Price: $24,739
  • Acceptance Rate: 54%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Graduation Rate: 73%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,182
  • Undergrad Students: 1,167
  • Graduate Students: 15
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Austin College
11
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $33,660
    • Out-of-State: $33,660
  • Net Price: $19,207
  • Acceptance Rate: 97%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 66%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,588
  • Undergrad Students: 2,646
  • Graduate Students: 942
  • Grads Salary: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • University of St. Thomas-Houston
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12

University of Dallas

Score: 72.16

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $50,880
    • Out-of-State: $50,880
  • Net Price: $27,250
  • Acceptance Rate: 59%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 72%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,328
  • Undergrad Students: 1,453
  • Graduate Students: 875
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • University of Dallas
13
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $51,058
    • Out-of-State: $51,058
  • Net Price: $31,014
  • Acceptance Rate: 45%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 72%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,483
  • Undergrad Students: 1,483
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $74,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Southwestern University
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14
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $57,220
    • Out-of-State: $57,220
  • Net Price: $44,190
  • Acceptance Rate: 56%
  • Retention Rate: 92%
  • Graduation Rate: 84%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,273
  • Undergrad Students: 10,523
  • Graduate Students: 1,750
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Texas Christian University
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15
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,728
    • Out-of-State: $29,660
  • Net Price: $14,262
  • Acceptance Rate: 81%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 53%
  • Total Enrollment: 43,946
  • Undergrad Students: 30,791
  • Graduate Students: 13,155
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • The University of Texas at Arlington
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16
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,164
    • Out-of-State: $21,244
  • Net Price: $15,283
  • Acceptance Rate: 79%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 59%
  • Total Enrollment: 44,767
  • Undergrad Students: 33,023
  • Graduate Students: 11,744
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 23:1
  • University of North Texas
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17
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,310
    • Out-of-State: $12,260
  • Net Price: $11,361
  • Acceptance Rate: 92%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Graduation Rate: 41%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,784
  • Undergrad Students: 4,818
  • Graduate Students: 966
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Midwestern State University
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18
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,991
    • Out-of-State: $21,965
  • Net Price: $12,664
  • Acceptance Rate: 87%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Total Enrollment: 34,393
  • Undergrad Students: 29,686
  • Graduate Students: 4,707
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • The University of Texas at San Antonio
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19
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,450
    • Out-of-State: $23,210
  • Net Price: $14,120
  • Acceptance Rate: 88%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 38,171
  • Undergrad Students: 33,834
  • Graduate Students: 4,337
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • Texas State University
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20

St. Mary's University

Score: 68.25

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $36,242
    • Out-of-State: $36,242
  • Net Price: $21,379
  • Acceptance Rate: 86%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,253
  • Undergrad Students: 2,001
  • Graduate Students: 1,252
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • St. Mary's University
21
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,744
    • Out-of-State: $25,512
  • Net Price: $9,563
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Graduation Rate: 47%
  • Total Enrollment: 23,880
  • Undergrad Students: 20,165
  • Graduate Students: 3,715
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • The University of Texas at El Paso
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22
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,859
    • Out-of-State: $19,939
  • Net Price: $8,105
  • Acceptance Rate: 88%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 53%
  • Total Enrollment: 31,559
  • Undergrad Students: 26,434
  • Graduate Students: 5,125
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
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23
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,228
    • Out-of-State: $19,020
  • Net Price: $13,632
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 21,480
  • Undergrad Students: 18,235
  • Graduate Students: 3,245
  • Grads Salary: $69,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • Sam Houston State University
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24
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $51,384
    • Out-of-State: $51,384
  • Net Price: $27,193
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 81%
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,470
  • Undergrad Students: 2,769
  • Graduate Students: 701
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Saint Edward's University
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25
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,319
    • Out-of-State: $18,399
  • Net Price: $12,838
  • Acceptance Rate: 79%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Graduation Rate: 41%
  • Total Enrollment: 10,599
  • Undergrad Students: 9,066
  • Graduate Students: 1,533
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Angelo State University
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Economics Programs Overview in Texas


Programs for an economics degree emphasize a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. These programs prepare you for roles - such as economist or statistician - through rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences.

Economic Theory vs. Practical Application

Colleges and universities usually incorporate both economic theories and practical applications in their curricula. You should study economic principles, such as supply and demand, to understand human behavior. These theories are essential for foundation courses that lead to advanced studies. This mix helps you develop critical thinking and analytical skills needed for real-world economic issues.

Online vs. On-campus Educational Platforms

Choosing the right platform for your economics degree can significantly impact your learning experience and career outcomes. You may want to consider factors like flexibility, interaction with peers, and access to resources.

Online Platforms

Online economics degrees offer flexibility, allowing you to fit your studies around professional and personal commitments. Institutions often emphasize the development of analytical skills and offer virtual internships and research opportunities. This path suits working professionals or those with family responsibilities.

On-campus Platforms

On-campus programs provide a traditional college experience, with face-to-face interactions, networking opportunities, and access to on-site resources. These types of programs may involve writing-intensive courses and close collaboration with peers and professors, which can be beneficial if you prefer a structured learning environment.

Online Educational Pathways for an Economics Degree in Texas


Online Associate Degree in Economics (AS)

An associate degree in economics is an undergraduate program that provides you with foundational knowledge in economic theory and practice. These programs usually take about two years to complete and can be a steppingstone to a bachelor's degree. Completing one of these degrees online allows flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with work or other commitments.

National Rankings - Online AS in Economics

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Economics (BS)

A bachelor’s degree in economics deepens undergraduate students understanding of economic principles and their applications. Most often offered as a Bachelor of Science, these degrees usually require four years of study and include advanced topics like econometrics, international economics, and economic policy and decision making. Online bachelor's programs can provide flexibility and affordability.

National Rankings - Online BS in Economics

Online Master’s Degree in Economics (MS)

A master’s degree in economics builds on undergraduate knowledge and offers a rigorous curriculum that focuses on specialized areas such as economic theory, applied economics, and quantitative methods. Graduate studies in this field typically take one to two years to complete. They are ideal if you wish to advance your career, switch to a higher-paying job, or engage in research.

National Rankings - Online MS in Economics

Online PhD in Economics (PhD)

A PhD in economics is the highest academic qualification in the field, with a variety of graduate school options for those who are interested in expanding their knowledge of international business, quantitative skills, profit maximization, etc. These degrees emphasize original research and advanced economic analysis. Completing a PhD can take several years and they generally involve coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation. These degrees are suitable if you aim for academic, research, or high-level consulting positions.

Online Economics Certifications

Economics certifications can enhance your skills and employability. These certifications are usually shorter than degree programs and focus on specific areas like financial analysis, economic forecasting, or public policy. They are often found online through flexible courses and can be completed in a few months. Certifications can be a great way to update your skills or gain expertise in a new area of economics.

Funding Your Education


When pursuing an economics degree, understanding tuition costs and financial aid options can significantly ease the financial burden. You can explore these essential concepts below to help you manage your education expenses effectively.

Find Economics Schools

Tuition Cost and Fees

The cost of tuition and fees for an economics degree in Texas varies by institution. Public universities generally charge in-state students lower rates compared to out-of-state students. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, the average yearly tuition for in-state students at public universities is about $9,375.

You should always check the specific costs for the institution you plan to attend to avoid unexpected expenses.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Various financial aid options can help you fund your education. Federal and state grants, loans, and work-study programs are common forms of financial aid. Begin by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for these options.

  • Grants and Scholarships: You can look for general grants for students and those aimed at economics majors and students of particular universities.
  • Merit-based Aid: Some schools offer scholarships based on academic performance.

Combining all available resources can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for your economics degree. Always seek advice from your school's financial aid office to explore all available options.

Get our resources and scholarships guide for business How to Pay for College guide

Accreditation and Licensing


Earning an economics degree requires, first, ensuring the program is accredited. Accreditation guarantees that the education you receive meets high standards set by the industry.

Accrediting Bodies and Organizations

Accreditation is essential for verifying the quality of your economics degree. In Texas, programs may have programmatic accreditation from organizations such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Regional accreditation is the bare minimum requirement for any degree.

For economics degrees, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is another important accrediting body that you might want to look for. All of these organizations assess the curriculum, faculty qualifications, and resources - ensuring that the program offers a rigorous education that prepares you for the workforce.

An accredited program increases your chances of qualifying for financial aid and improves the recognition of your degree in the job market.

Potential Careers and Salaries for Economics Graduates


An economics degree from a Texas university can open many doors. Graduates often secure well-paying positions in business, education, or a government economics department. Here are just a few potential career paths and their salaries.

Policy Analyst:

Job description: As a policy analyst, you evaluate and create public policies by examining data and research. You might work for the government, think tanks, or non-profits. Your job involves identifying social, economic, or environmental issues and proposing solutions.

Requirements:

  • Master's degree, Growth Potential 7% (Faster than average)
  • Research new proposed policies
  • Collect data from primary and secondary sources
  • Analyze the data and draft a proposal on the impacts
  • Develop solutions for affected organizations

Median Salary: $132,350

Statistician:

Job description: Statisticians gather, analyze, and interpret data to help solve problems in a wide range of fields such as economics, public health, and sports. As a statistician, you use mathematical theories to collect data and then apply statistical methods to interpret the data.

Requirements:

  • Master's degree, Growth Potential 30% (Much faster than average)
  • Decide what data are needed to answer specific questions or problems
  • Apply mathematical theories and techniques to solve practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, and other fields
  • Design surveys, experiments, or opinion polls to collect data
  • Develop mathematical or statistical models to analyze data

Median Salary: $109,190

Financial Advisor:

Job description: Financial advisors help individuals manage their finances including investments, savings, retirement planning, and taxes. They create financial plans that align with a client's goals and risk tolerance.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree, Growth Potential 13% (Much faster than average)
  • Advise clients on financial plans using knowledge of tax and investment strategies, securities, insurance, pension plans, and real estate
  • Meet with clients to discuss their financial goals
  • Explain to potential clients the types of financial services they provide
  • Educate clients and answer questions about investment options and potential risks

Median Salary: $150,670

Learn more

Postsecondary Economics Teacher:

Job description: If you enjoy teaching and sharing knowledge, becoming a postsecondary economics teacher might be a fulfilling career. These teachers instruct college students about economic principles, market structures, and financial systems.

Requirements:

  • PhD, Growth Potential 8% (Faster than average)
  • Teach courses in economics
  • Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as econometrics, price theory, and macroeconomics
  • Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts
  • Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media

Median Salary: $133,650

Learn more about all business careers and the outlook

Frequently Asked Questions


What are the requirements to obtain an economics degree?

To earn an economics degree in Texas, you'll typically need to complete a set number of credit hours in economics courses. These programs often include classes in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and statistical analysis. A bachelor’s degree will require that you have a high school diploma or GED, as well as some requiring SAT/ ACT scores and perhaps a set GPA in previous education. A master’s program, on the other hand will require that you have completed a pertinent undergraduate degree, among other things.

Are there colleges that offer accredited economics degrees in Texas?

Yes, several accredited universities in Texas offer economics degrees. Accreditation ensures that the program meets high educational standards.

Is it possible to earn an Economics Degree online from a Texas university?

Yes, there are Texas universities that now offer online economics degrees. These programs provide flexibility for students who need to balance their studies with other commitments. Options might include Liberty University, Texas A&M University – Commerce, WTAMU, etc.

Do I need to obtain certifications to enhance a career in economics?

Certifications can be beneficial for your career. They can complement your degree by providing specific skills in areas like data analysis, statistical software, or specialized economic topics.

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