UTSA (Alvarez) vs Texas A&M Mays
Which MBA program is right for you?
UTSA (Alvarez)
Texas A&M Mays
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Metric | UTSA (Alvarez) | Texas A&M Mays |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | #134 | #53 |
| Acceptance Rate | 70% | 45% |
| Avg. GMAT | 520 | 660 |
| Avg. GPA | 3.3 | 3.24 |
| Class Size | 55 | 80 |
| Avg. Salary | $79,000 | $129,000 |
| Employment Rate | 80% | 96% |
| Annual Tuition | $12,000 | $31,240 |
The Verdict
Choose UTSA (Alvarez) if…
you want San Antonio's affordable MBA with cybersecurity and analytics strengths and military connections.
Full UTSA (Alvarez) Profile →Choose Texas A&M Mays if…
you want a much higher-ranked program (#34 vs #134) with the Aggie network and broader national placement.
Full Texas A&M Mays Profile →Why People Compare These Two
Both are Texas public MBAs, but the gap is significant. Texas A&M Mays (#34) in College Station is a top-35 nationally ranked program with one of the most loyal alumni networks in the country. UTSA Alvarez (#134) in San Antonio is a growing program with cybersecurity and analytics strengths. Mays produces higher salaries and has broader placement. UTSA costs less and San Antonio's military bases create specific career pipelines.
The Honest Take
Mays is the dramatically stronger MBA. Top-35 ranking, the Aggie network (one of the most passionate alumni bases in higher education), and broader career outcomes. UTSA wins on affordability and San Antonio-specific careers, particularly for military-connected students near JBSA and the growing cybersecurity sector. For ROI-focused Texas students with modest career ambitions, UTSA is budget-rational. For national career ambitions, Mays is the clear choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is higher ranked?
Texas A&M Mays (#34) dramatically outranks UTSA Alvarez (#134).
Which is more affordable?
UTSA Alvarez with San Antonio's low cost of living is the cheaper overall experience, even though both have competitive in-state tuition.
Which has the stronger alumni network?
Texas A&M Mays. The Aggie network is one of the most loyal and active alumni communities in American higher education.