Notable programs
George R. Brown School of Engineering
Enrolls roughly a third of all undergraduates and has been the priority for capital and faculty investment for the past decade. Particular strength in bioengineering, computational and applied mathematics, electrical engineering, and computer science. Adjacent to the Texas Medical Center for biomedical engineering applications.
Department of Computer Science
Subject of an aggressive 2023-2025 faculty expansion that roughly doubled tenure-track hires, drawing from Stanford, MIT, and CMU. New research centres in AI safety and systems. Median CS undergraduate starting salary clusters between USD 100,000 and USD 130,000.
Jones Graduate School of Business
Top 30 to 40 MBA programme globally with 2024 median base salary of approximately USD 130,000. Particular strength in energy finance and Houston-based corporate development. Expanded its undergraduate business minor and major in 2023-2024.
Wiess School of Natural Sciences
Strong programmes in chemistry (home to Nobel laureate Robert Curl's legacy), physics, biosciences, and mathematics. Tight integration with Texas Medical Center research labs and Houston Methodist Hospital following the 2024 affiliation.
School of Architecture
Small (roughly 200 undergraduates plus graduates) but academically excellent, consistently ranked in the top 10 nationally for undergraduate architecture. Six-year preceptorship programme places students in professional offices in major US and international cities.
Shepherd School of Music
One of the strongest conservatory programmes embedded within a research university, on par with Juilliard, Curtis, or Eastman in selectivity. Conducting, composition, and instrumental performance are particularly strong, supported by a custom-built concert hall.
Baker Institute for Public Policy
Founded by former Secretary of State James A. Baker III. Houston-based public policy think tank with particular strength in Middle East studies, energy policy, and US-Mexico relations. Provides undergraduate research and internship opportunities outside the formal curriculum.