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UT Austin Named Best Public University in Texas

Campus view of the University of Texas at Austin

Austin, September 25, 2025

News Summary

The University of Texas at Austin has been honored as the best public university in Texas, ranking 7th nationally among public universities. This recognition underscores its commitment to academic excellence, with many programs achieving top national standings. The university’s outstanding graduation and retention rates further highlight its dedication to student success, making it a notable institution for higher learning.

Austin

The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) has recently been recognized by U.S. News & World Report in its “Best National Universities Rankings,” achieving the distinction of being the best public university in Texas and ranking 7th in the nation among public universities. This recognition emphasizes the university’s academic excellence and dedication to student success.

UT Austin excelled in a comprehensive evaluation of over 400 eligible colleges, with assessment criteria including classroom resources, graduation and retention rates, degree conferral, and graduates’ debt and starting salaries. This impressive accomplishment showcases the university’s robust academic programs and positive outcomes for students.

In addition to being ranked as the top public university in Texas, UT Austin also holds the 30th position overall among public and private universities nationally. A total of 37 undergraduate programs were evaluated, with 24 of these programs earning a place in the top 10 nationally. Noteworthy programs include Accounting, Finance, and Marketing from the McCombs School of Business, which ranked in the top five nationally. Similarly, Petroleum, Chemical, and Civil Engineering programs from the Cockrell School of Engineering also attained high rankings.

Further solidifying its status as an educational leader, UT Austin boasts that 32 programs are ranked No. 1 in Texas. Across the institution, a total of 76 undergraduate and graduate programs secured a position in the top 10 among public and private universities. This illustrates UT Austin’s diverse and high-quality academic offerings.

Among other accolades, UT Austin is recognized as the best university for veterans in Texas and ranks 7th nationally among public universities for veteran services. The university also ranks 9th for most innovative public universities and 4th for study abroad programs, enriching opportunities for students.

In recent academic performance metrics, UT Austin achieved a record four-year graduation rate of 75.7% during the 2024-25 academic year, along with a first-year retention rate of 97.1%. These results reflect the university’s commitment to ensuring student success and engagement. In the last academic year, UT Austin conferred a remarkable 15,963 degrees, further demonstrating the university’s effectiveness in producing graduates who are ready to enter the workforce.

Looking ahead, UT Austin has reported record enrollment figures for the 2025-26 academic year, indicating its continued appeal and growth as an institution of higher learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What rank does UT Austin hold among public universities in Texas?

UT Austin ranks as the top public university in Texas and is 7th in the nation for public universities.

How many undergraduate programs at UT Austin are ranked in the top 10 nationally?

24 undergraduate programs at UT Austin are ranked in the top 10 nationally.

What notable rankings does UT Austin have regarding veterans?

UT is recognized as the best university for veterans in Texas and the 7th nationally among public universities.

What was UT Austin’s four-year graduation rate for the 2024-25 academic year?

During the 2024-25 academic year, UT Austin achieved a four-year graduation rate of 75.7%.

How many degrees did UT Austin confer last academic year?

UT Austin conferred a record 15,963 degrees in the last academic year.

What is the first-year retention rate at UT Austin?

UT Austin achieved a first-year retention rate of 97.1%, setting a new record.

Key Features of UT Austin’s Rankings

Feature Ranking Category
Best Public University in Texas 1st State-level
National Rank Among Public Universities 7th Nationwide
Overall Rank (Public and Private Universities) 30th Nationwide
Top 10 Undergraduate Programs 24 Nationwide
Veteran University Rank in Texas 1st State-level
Four-Year Graduation Rate (2024-25) 75.7% Nationwide
First-Year Retention Rate 97.1% Nationwide

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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Additional Resources

STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER

The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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