Cheapest Petroleum Engineering Colleges in Texas

Texas A&M International University delivers petroleum engineering education for just $3,061 net annually, making it the most affordable option among Texas's seven programs. While net costs span from this bargain to $20,924 at Texas A&M College Station, graduates can expect starting salaries between $67,380 and $92,124. Texas hosts major oil companies like ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips, creating strong demand for petroleum engineers across the Permian Basin and Gulf Coast refineries.

Programs

$3,061 – $20,924

Net Price Range

$83,817

Avg. Program Earnings

63.0%

Avg. Graduation Rate

7 Petroleum Engineering Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Texas A & M International University Laredo, Texas	$3,061	$7,846	48.9%	47.9%
2	The University of Texas Permian Basin Odessa, Texas	$9,144	$10,904	43.0%	94.7%
3	Texas A & M University-Kingsville Kingsville, Texas	$10,204	$9,892	45.6%	96.6%
4	University of Houston Houston, Texas	$13,853	$9,711	64.9%	66.2%
5	The University of Texas at Austin Austin, Texas	$19,678	$11,678	87.6%	31.4%
6	Texas Tech University Lubbock, Texas	$20,071	$11,852	67.5%	67.3%
7	Texas A & M University-College Station College Station, Texas	$20,924	$13,099	83.8%	62.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the dramatic cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Texas A&M International's $3,061 net cost reflects generous financial aid at a smaller regional campus, while Texas A&M College Station's $20,924 represents the flagship experience with higher base costs. The $17,863 gap between them shows how campus location and prestige affect affordability, though both offer the same degree credentials.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in petroleum engineering?

UT Austin commands the highest graduation rate at 87.6% alongside a $19,678 net cost, while the most affordable option at Texas A&M International maintains a 48.9% completion rate. Mid-range programs like University of Houston balance cost ($13,853) with solid outcomes (64.9% graduation rate).

Does attending the most expensive program guarantee the highest earnings?

Texas A&M College Station graduates earn $92,124 despite having the highest net cost at $20,924, while University of Houston graduates start at $67,380 with much lower costs. The $24,744 earnings gap suggests that program reputation and industry connections can justify higher tuition for career-focused students.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.