2026 Best Value General Operations Research Schools in the Southwest Region

1

Rice University
Houston, TX

Leading the list is Rice University, our #1 best value for general operations research in the Southwest Region. Rice University is a moderately-sized private not-for-profit school located in the city of Houston. In-state tuition and fees average $61,247. General Operations Research graduates carry a median of $11,904 in student loans. Early-career general operations research graduates make about $75,299. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. The acceptance rate is 8%.

2

Texas A And M University College Station
College Station, TX

A rank of #2 makes Texas A And M University College Station one of the best values for general operations research. Set in the city of College Station, Texas A And M University College Station is a very large public institution. In-state tuition and fees average $12,995, compared with $40,124 for out-of-state students. General Operations Research graduates carry a median of $20,031 in student loans. Soon after graduation, general operations research degree recipients from Texas A And M University College Station generally make around $64,891. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. Roughly 57% of applicants are accepted.

3

Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX

Southern Methodist University is a great value for students pursuing a degree in general operations research, landing the #3 spot this year. Set in the suburb of Dallas, Southern Methodist University is a large private not-for-profit institution. Expect in-state tuition and fees of around $67,040. General Operations Research graduates carry a median of $20,500 in student loans. Early-career general operations research graduates make about $72,658. That is a strong return on a $20,500 median debt. Roughly 63% of applicants are accepted.