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Public, 4-year

The University of Texas of the Permian Basin

Odessa, Texas · www.utpb.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

94.9%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$21,900

In-state $9,607

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

4,218

Student-faculty ratio 19:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

23.4%

4-year; 6-year rate 39.8%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

The University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) is a public university located in Odessa, Texas, which is part of the larger University of Texas System. Established in 1973, UTPB is known for its strong commitment to providing a quality education, fostering research, and serving the community. The university's motto, "Transforming Lives, Building Futures," reflects its mission to empower students through education and to prepare them for successful careers in various fields.

One of the notable features of UTPB is its emphasis on a diverse and inclusive campus culture, which encourages students from different backgrounds to collaborate and share their experiences. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with strong offerings in business, education, engineering, and natural sciences. UTPB also places a significant focus on research, particularly in areas relevant to the Permian Basin, such as energy, environmental science, and engineering, capitalizing on its location in one of the most productive oil regions in the United States. Students benefit from modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories and research centers, which enhance their learning experience. Additionally, UTPB has a vibrant student life with numerous clubs and organizations, promoting engagement and community involvement among students.

Analysis of Key Metrics at The University of Texas Permian Basin

The data regarding tuition, graduation rates, and student demographics at The University of Texas Permian Basin reveals significant trends that warrant attention. One notable observation is the sharp increase in in-state undergraduate tuition, which rose from $5,250 in 2014 to $9,234 by 2023. This 75% increase raises concerns about accessibility for local students, especially in light of economic pressures from inflation and the rising cost of living. Furthermore, the out-of-state tuition has seen an alarming jump to $21,474, nearly doubling over the same period, which could deter potential students from outside Texas.

Graduation rates also reflect a complex picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates fluctuated, peaking at 26% in 2022 before dropping to 23% in 2023. This inconsistency suggests potential challenges within the academic support system or curriculum that may impact students' ability to complete their degrees in a timely manner. Conversely, the 150% graduation rate shows a more stable trend, suggesting that while students may take longer to graduate, they still ultimately succeed.

Retention rates have remained relatively stable, hovering around 66% to 69% in recent years. While this indicates a commendable level of student satisfaction and engagement, it also highlights a need for continuous improvement, especially when compared to national averages that often exceed 70%.

Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio experienced a decline, dropping from 19:1 in 2013 to 13:1 by 2022 before slightly increasing to 18:1 in 2023. A lower ratio is generally favorable, suggesting more personalized attention for students, which is critical for academic success.

In summary, while The University of Texas Permian Basin exhibits strengths in retention and faculty accessibility, the rising tuition costs and fluctuating graduation rates present challenges that must be addressed to ensure the institution remains an attractive option for prospective students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
El Paso, about 240 mi
Nearest international airport
El Paso International Airport (ELP), about 240 mi
Odessa, Texas
Also known as
UT Permian Basin
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Sandra K. Woodley (President)
Phone
4325522020
City
Odessa, Texas
Address
4901 E University Blvd, Odessa, TX 79762-0001

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
92.9%
Women
96.5%

In 2020: men 86.9%, women 89.6%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates at The University of Texas Permian Basin

The admission data from The University of Texas Permian Basin over the years reveals significant trends that reflect both the institution's evolving reputation and the competitive landscape of higher education. Initially, in 2009, the admission rates for both males and females were remarkably high, with acceptance rates exceeding 96%. However, a noticeable decline in acceptance rates occurred between 2011 and 2022, where male acceptance plummeted to just over 65%.
This trend suggests a growing demand for admission, possibly due to the university's increasing recognition and the overall expansion of higher education in Texas. The dip in acceptance rates could also be attributed to a rise in applications, making the admission process more selective. Notably, in 2023, the acceptance rates rebounded significantly, with rates for both genders surpassing 94%. This resurgence may indicate a strategic effort by the university to balance enrollment with an influx of applications following previous years of stricter admission criteria.
Moreover, the fluctuation in enrollment numbers and the increase in deferred admissions highlight the complexities of college admissions today. The data points to a broader trend across many universities where students are applying to more institutions than ever before, leading to a more competitive environment. As prospective students navigate their options, understanding these trends can be vital in making informed decisions about their educational paths. Overall, the changing admission landscape at The University of Texas Permian Basin reflects broader shifts in educational access and institutional priorities.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 37% submitted SAT, 5% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total910–1130Peer median 1080
ACT composite17–23
SAT Reading
470–570
600700800
SAT Math
440–560
600700800
ACT composite
17–23
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at The University of Texas Permian Basin

The admission test score data from The University of Texas Permian Basin over the years reveals notable trends in student performance and the institution's admission practices. The data shows a general fluctuation in the SAT scores submitted by applicants, with the 25th percentile starting scores typically remaining in the low to mid 400s, while the 75th percentile scores have gradually risen over the years, reaching a peak of 570 in 2019. This upward trend in the upper range of scores could indicate a more competitive applicant pool or improved preparation among prospective students.

The number of students submitting SAT scores has varied significantly, with a high of 381 submissions in 2021 and a low of 177 in 2022. This decline in submissions might reflect broader trends in standardized testing, especially in light of the ongoing discussions around the necessity of such tests for college admissions. The proportion of students submitting SAT scores has also decreased, dropping from 85% in 2007 to just 39% in 2023, suggesting a shift towards a more holistic approach in admissions or the increasing acceptance of alternative measures.

Moreover, the ACT scores reflect similar patterns. The range of scores for the ACT demonstrates a stabilization in competitive performance, which may be attributed to changing educational priorities or testing policies. As universities across the country re-evaluate their admissions criteria, the trends at The University of Texas Permian Basin could serve as a microcosm of the larger conversation surrounding standardized testing in higher education. Overall, while the data highlights some positive trajectories in student performance, it also raises questions about the evolving landscape of college admissions.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

1,565 applicants in 2025, 94.9% admitted

1,485 admitted 80 not admitted Yield 44.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's85649 international (5.7%)
Master's43260 international (13.9%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Psychology, General
121
Business Administration and Management, General
76
Accounting
68
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
63
Education, General
43
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
43
Mechanical Engineering
42
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
37
Communication, General
31
Finance, General
31

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's185 (13% international)
  • Spanish Language and Literature · Master's36 (8% international)
  • Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's31 (10% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's24 (8% international)
  • Public Administration · Master's24 (0% international)
  • Accounting · Master's16 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from The University of Texas Permian Basin (2023)

The graduation data from The University of Texas Permian Basin reveals intriguing trends in various academic disciplines for the year 2023. Notably, the field of Business Administration and Management, which is a cornerstone of higher education, produced a significant number of master's degree graduates, with 234 graduates, including 26 international students. This indicates a strong interest in business education, likely driven by the current job market's demand for skilled professionals in this area.

In contrast, the Psychology program saw a robust output at the undergraduate level, with a total of 134 graduates, including five international students. This aligns with the growing recognition of mental health issues and the increasing need for trained professionals in psychology to address these challenges.

Interestingly, fields like Engineering and Health Sciences show limited graduation numbers. For instance, the Registered Nursing program produced only 43 bachelor's degree graduates, although it remains a critical area in the healthcare sector. This might reflect broader trends in workforce shortages and the urgency for educational institutions to adapt their offerings to meet industry needs.

Moreover, the data highlights the importance of international students in certain programs. For example, the Educational Leadership program had a notable count of international master's degree holders, indicating the global appeal of this field and the university's role in fostering a diverse educational environment.

Overall, the data underscores the university's strengths in business and psychology while also pointing to potential areas for growth, particularly in engineering and health-related disciplines, which are essential for future workforce demands. The insights derived from this data can guide the university's strategic planning and curriculum development in the coming years.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 426 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$62,226-$94,269
Research and Development Management.$62,226-$94,269
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other.$62,226-$94,269
Accounting.$56,608
Finance, General.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$54,598
Psychology has 130 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$46,073
Experimental Psychology.-
Educationhas 128 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Bilingual and Multilingual Education.$61,032
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$66,490
Special Education and Teaching, General.$59,290
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Teacher Education, Multiple Levels.-
Reading Teacher Education.-
Engineeringhas 77 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemical Engineering.-
Electrical and Electronics Engineering.-
Mechanical Engineering.$87,329
Petroleum Engineering.$100,059
Health professionshas 69 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$86,141
Social sciencehas 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminology.$40,887
Political Science and Government, General.$39,272
Sociology, General.$49,886
Biologyhas 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Computer and information sciencehas 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, General.$46,796
Information Science/Studies.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$51,699
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$51,699
Foreign languages has 40 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Public administrationhas 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Public Administration.$69,597
Social Work.-
Communication has 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication, General.$55,254
Human science has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Human Development and Family Studies, General.$42,922
Physical scienceshas 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Geology/Earth Science, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Financial Mathematics.-
English has 22 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Homeland security has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$44,927
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$44,927
Visual and Performing artshas 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Art/Art Studies, General.-
Music, General.-
Engineering technologieshas 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Industrial Technology/Technician.$91,215
History has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.$53,932
Liberal arts has 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.$47,249

Students

5,585 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 39:61 · Freshman retention 60.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (4,218)

Hispanic
2,247 · 53.3%
White
1,092 · 25.9%
Black
308 · 7.3%
International
235 · 5.6%
Unknown
116 · 2.8%
Two or more races
106 · 2.5%
Asian
98 · 2.3%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
7.7%
18–19
22.9%
20–21
19.9%
22–24
17.1%
25 and over
32.5%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.8%
22–24
11.9%
25–29
20.9%
30–34
15.5%
35 and over
49.8%

Data insights

Demographic Insights of The University of Texas Permian Basin in 2023

The student composition data from The University of Texas Permian Basin for 2023 reveals interesting trends in enrollment demographics. The university has a diverse student body, with a significant number of both undergraduate and graduate students. Notably, the number of undergraduate new students is 673, comprising approximately 43.5% male and 56.5% female, indicating a healthy gender balance that favors female enrollment.

The undergraduate continuing students, totaling 2,731, show an even more pronounced gender disparity, with 39.4% male and 60.6% female representation. This trend appears to be consistent across other categories, such as undergraduate transfer students and graduate students, where female students outnumber their male counterparts.

Racial and ethnic diversity is also a focal point, although specific breakdowns for the continuing and transfer undergraduate students are not yet available. However, the new undergraduate students show a range of backgrounds, with significant representation from various ethnic groups. For instance, among the new undergraduate students, white students make up a portion of the student body, but there is also a presence of Hispanic, Asian, and other ethnicities.

This demographic data reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions are striving for inclusivity and diversity. The higher enrollment of female students might correlate with ongoing societal shifts that encourage women to pursue higher education and professional careers. As universities continue to adapt to these changes, it will be essential to monitor how these dynamics evolve over the coming years.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at The University of Texas Permian Basin

The age demographic data from The University of Texas Permian Basin reveals interesting trends about the student population. Notably, the largest group of undergraduate males is found in the 22-24 age category, comprising 498 students, while the corresponding group of undergraduate females in the same age range is also significant, with 636 students. This suggests that many students are likely to enter college directly after high school and may be taking advantage of traditional age opportunities for higher education.

The data also highlights a pronounced gender disparity among younger students. In the <18 category, there are 202 male and 308 female students, indicating a higher enrollment of females in this age group. This trend continues into the 18-19 age group, where 407 males are enrolled compared to 558 females.

Interestingly, as students age, the number of males and females begins to balance out, particularly in the 25-29 range where the total numbers are relatively close, with 176 males and 344 females. Furthermore, in the older age categories, such as 40-49 and 50-64, the total male and female counts begin to show more parity, indicating that adult education may attract a more diverse age range of students seeking further education or career advancement.

Overall, the data reflects a robust undergraduate presence, particularly among females, and suggests that the university serves a wide age range of students, including those returning to education later in life. This diversity is essential for creating a rich educational environment and preparing students for a competitive workforce.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates5.6%

235 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.8%2017: 1.5%2018: 1.8%2019: 2.0%2020: 2.3%2021: 2.2%2022: 2.6%2023: 5.6%2024: 5.9%2025: 5.6%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students11.0%

151 in 2025 · 3.7% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 3.7%2017: 2.1%2018: 2.7%2019: 2.3%2020: 2.4%2021: 2.7%2022: 4.8%2023: 13.6%2024: 13.4%2025: 11.0%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at The University of Texas Permian Basin

The data reveals a significant increase in the enrollment of international students at The University of Texas Permian Basin over the past two decades. Beginning in 2004, the number of undergraduate international students was merely five, accounting for only 0.21% of the total undergraduate population. However, by 2023, this figure surged to 259 students, representing an impressive 5.58% of the undergraduate cohort. This growth indicates a growing appeal of the institution to international students, which may be attributed to various factors including academic offerings, campus facilities, and supportive programs for international students.

The graduate program also saw a considerable rise in international enrollment, particularly in recent years. In 2004, there were three international students in the graduate program, a mere 0.44%, while in 2023, the number skyrocketed to 164, making up 13.58% of the graduate student body. This increase is notable and reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the value that international students bring to campus diversity and academic excellence.

The upward trajectory in both undergraduate and graduate international student enrollment at The University of Texas Permian Basin aligns with the national trends observed in many U.S. universities, where international student enrollment has rebounded after declines during the pandemic. As institutions continue to adapt to the evolving landscape of global education, the sustained growth in international student numbers at this university highlights its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$35,998

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$21,900
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$9,607
Room and board
$14,098
Graduate tuition
$19,116
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 260% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 58%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$207M

Government grants and contracts
$67.7M32.7%
Tuition and fees
$28.5M13.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$6.6M3.2%
Gifts and private grants
$5.2M2.5%
Investment return
$2.9M1.4%
Sales and services of educational activities
$1.6M0.8%
Other
$94.8M45.7%

Expenses$186M

Instruction
$44.1M23.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$18.2M9.8%
Institutional support
$16.9M9.1%
Academic support
$15.1M8.1%
Scholarships
$11.7M6.3%
Student services
$6.0M3.2%
Public service
$5.7M3.0%
Research
$5.4M2.9%
Other
$63.1M33.9%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$84,196peers $80,690
Professor
$105,974peers $98,841
Associate professor
$86,492peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$81,610peers $74,446
Lecturer
$68,291peers $60,351

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Lone Star Conference

Lone Star Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division II with footballMENWOMEN
Football156-
Baseball44-
Swimming and Diving (combined)2313
Basketball1519
Soccer-23
Softball-20
Tennis1010
Volleyball-20
Golf75
Cross Country-7
2024
NWACMENWOMEN
Football120-
Swimming3117
Baseball44-
Basketball1317
Soccer-23
Softball-23
Tennis912
Volleyball-17
Golf96
Cross Country-6
2023
NWACMENWOMEN
Football123-
Soccer3225
Baseball52-
Swimming2923
Basketball1513
Softball-26
Tennis1113
Volleyball-18
Golf67
Cross Country38

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near The University of Texas Permian Basin:

  1. Texas Tech University - Ranked 216 in the 2024 US News rankings, Texas Tech University is a comprehensive university located in Lubbock, Texas. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields.

  2. Trinity University - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Trinity University has a rank of 59. It is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and offers a personalized learning experience.

  3. Texas Christian University - With a rank of 98, Texas Christian University is a comprehensive university located in Fort Worth, Texas. It provides a vibrant campus life and a commitment to academic excellence.

  4. Baylor University - Ranked 93, Baylor University is a private Christian university in Waco, Texas. It is known for its strong academic programs and a rich campus culture.

  5. University of New Mexico-Main Campus - This comprehensive university is ranked 236 and offers a diverse range of programs and research opportunities in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, offering various academic programs and unique campus experiences.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug arrests
33
Drug referrals
19
Burglary
16
Liquor referrals
16
Weapons arrests
12
Liquor arrests
8

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at The University of Texas Permian Basin

The crime statistics at The University of Texas Permian Basin over the last decade present a concerning trend. The data indicates a significant spike in crime rates from 2016 to 2017, where the average number of incidents per 1,000 students surged to 17.47, the highest recorded during the period analyzed. This increase raises alarms as it suggests a deterioration in campus safety and may reflect broader societal issues, including rising crime rates in surrounding communities.

Interestingly, following this peak, there appears to be a gradual decline in the average crime rate up until 2022, with a low of 8.02 reported that year. However, 2023 shows a troubling resurgence, with the average crime rate rising again to 3.97 per 1,000 students. This fluctuation highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and effective crime prevention strategies on campus.

Among the various types of incidents reported, arrests related to firearms and alcohol seem to be of particular concern. The presence of violent crimes such as assault and domestic violence, albeit fewer in number, also indicates that there are serious safety issues that need to be addressed. The university administration, in collaboration with local law enforcement, must prioritize creating a safer environment for students, possibly through enhanced security measures and community outreach programs.

As crime rates can have a profound impact on the overall campus experience, it is crucial for the university to actively engage with students and foster a culture of safety and awareness. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can visit this link.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of The University of Texas of the Permian Basin include Justin Banned for Life Knapp (First person to make over one million Wikipedia edits), Gloria Feldt (Feminist activist and author) and Sandy Collins (Retired American professional tennis player).

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.