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Texas A&M Ranks No. 24 Among Public Universities in Latest U.S. News Report

Texas A&M University has been ranked No. 24 among American public universities, with its petroleum engineering program holding the top national spot.

Reese Fenn

September 22, 20262 min read

University Rankings - illustration, Jake Team LLC

Texas A&M University ranks No. 24 overall among the nation’s public universities and No. 59 among all American universities in the U.S. News & World Report 2026-27 Best Colleges rankings, according to an announcement released on September 22, 2026.

The university earned strong results in education abroad, service learning, first-year student experience, engineering, and business. The undergraduate petroleum engineering program remains the nation’s highest-ranked. U.S. News also ranked Texas A&M No. 24 in its Best Value Schools category, reflecting the institution's combination of academic quality and affordability.

Dr. Jerry R. Strawser, interim provost and executive vice president, stated that these results reflect the breadth of a Texas A&M University education. He noted the rigorous academic programs, meaningful opportunities to learn and serve beyond the classroom, and a student experience designed to help students thrive from their first year through graduation.

He added that the university is especially proud to see national recognition for areas central to its identity, including service, global learning, and the value provided to students and families.

In the category of study abroad, known at the university as Education Abroad, Texas A&M ranks first in Texas and No. 3 nationally among public universities. The university offers educational programs across all seven continents and maintains partnerships with institutions worldwide. Students have pursued experiences in locations ranging from established international academic centers to Antarctica.

Regarding service learning, which highlights schools that integrate community volunteering directly into the academic curriculum, Texas A&M ranks first among Texas public schools and No. 5 among all U.S. public universities. The American Association of Colleges and Universities has designated this method as a high-impact practice. Research indicates that linking coursework to real-world community needs boosts student graduation rates, social responsibility, and long-term career development.

The university also ranks first among Texas public universities in the first-year student experience category for the second consecutive year and No. 8 nationally among public institutions. Programs such as Fish Camp and Hullabaloo U help incoming students transition to college life, connect with the Aggie community, and gain access to support.

Fish Camp is a three-day, two-night orientation program introducing new students to traditions and resources.

Source: Texas A&M University.

Sources

today.tamu.edu

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Reese Fenn

Reese Fenn writes about community life, schools, public safety, and local events in College Station.

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