The Cockrell School of Engineering Unclaimed
Higher Education & Academic Research
A leading public engineering school at UT Austin focused on education, research and industry partnerships to solve real-world problems.
The Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin is a leading public engineering school dedicated to educating engineers, advancing technology through research, and serving society. It emphasizes hands-on, world-class education, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and partnerships with industry. Grounded in a century of achievement, the school pursues a strategic plan to deliver high-impact education and research, foster innovation, and build a welcoming, collaborative community. It serves undergraduate and graduate students, spans multiple engineering departments, and operates through programs and centers that connect academia with industry, government, and the broader public. Its mission focuses on developing engineers who identify and solve challenging problems through education, research and service.
Our mission is to develop engineering leaders who identify and solve challenging problems through engineering education, research and service.
What we offer
Texas Engineering Executive Education
TxEEE equips engineers with advanced skills for impactful careers through innovative education.
executive.engr.utexas.edu/Semiconductor Degrees
Transform your career with comprehensive semiconductor degrees tailored for the modern technological landscape.
cockrell.utexas.edu/academics/graduate-education/programs/semiconductor-science-and-engineering/Longhorn Startup Program
Empowers students to turn innovative ideas into successful startups through mentorship and structured support.
www.cs.utexas.edu/longhorn-startupBlackstone LaunchPad
Empowers students to pursue entrepreneurship through resources and mentorship.
www.blackstone.com/our-impact/blackstone-launchpad/Genesis Program
Empowering UT Austin startups with essential resources for success.
www.genesisprogram.org/Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute
Empowers students with entrepreneurship skills through mentorship and community support.
kswelinstitute.utexas.edu/Harkey Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies
Supports aspiring entrepreneurs with education, funding, and mentorship.
www.mccombs.utexas.edu/centers-and-initiatives/harkey-institute-for-entrepreneurial-studies/Texas Inventionworks
Empowering students to transform ideas into innovative projects in a collaborative environment.
inventionworks.engr.utexas.edu/Texas Innovation Center
Accelerates the commercialization of STEM innovations and supports collaborative industry partnerships.
texasinnovationcenter.utexas.edu/Semiconductor Master of Science in Engineering (MS) – 2025
A hands-on educational experience preparing students for careers in the semiconductor industry.
cockrell.utexas.edu/academics/graduate-education/programs/semiconductor-science-and-engineering/Market segments
Market size by segment
Growth potential (CAGR)
Student entrepreneurship and accelerator programs
Programs that provide mentorship, curricular credit, funding, and launch pathways to help undergraduate and graduate students validate ideas and transition to market-ready ventures.
Executive and professional engineering education
Continuing education, executive degrees, graduate certificates, and custom corporate training for working engineers and technical leaders, delivered on-site and online.
Semiconductor workforce development and industry collaboration
Degree, certificate, and research programs co-developed with industry partners to train engineers and address workforce needs in semiconductor design, fabrication, and research.
Technology commercialization and prototyping infrastructure
Facilities and industry-facing hubs that enable prototyping, product development, and translation of academic research into market-ready technologies through co-working, partnerships, and startup support.
More information about our offering
Texas Engineering Executive Education
Texas Engineering Executive Education (TxEEE) is the Cockrell School’s continuing education and professional development arm for working engineers. It offers executive master’s degrees, graduate certificates, conference services, and custom training courses with open-enrollment programs delivered on-site or online, led by Cockrell School faculty and industry leaders.
- Expands Educational PathwaysDiverse degree offerings cater to the varying needs and aspirations of engineers seeking to advance their careers.
- Accelerates Career AdvancementDesigned for experienced professionals, these programs emphasize strategic skills critical for leadership roles.
- Enables Lifelong LearningFlexible learning options for engineers allow professionals to maintain competitive advantages and adapt to industry changes.
- Delivers Relevant LearningCourses developed by leading experts ensure cutting-edge content and practical applications in real-world settings.
- Facilitates Customized LearningTailored training programs enhance skill sets for organizations and individuals, aligning with industry needs.
- Increases AccessibilityOpen-enrollment courses attract diverse participants, fostering a collaborative learning environment across various fields.
- Specializes ExpertiseCertificates allow engineers to gain focused knowledge in specific areas without committing to a full degree program.
- Enhances Safety and ComplianceTraining programs ensure industry professionals meet critical safety standards and regulations.
Semiconductor Degrees
Semiconductor Degrees at UT Austin include a Master of Science in Engineering with a major in semiconductor science and engineering, a semiconductor minor, and graduate certificates focused on continuing education and career advancement. The program sits in extensive research facilities with strong industry partnerships.
- Leverage Industry ConnectionsEngage with leading companies such as Apple, Cadence, NXP, and Silicon Labs.
- Curriculum Designed for RelevanceCourses tailored to meet current industry demands and innovations.
- Pursue Advanced StudiesAchieve a recognized graduate degree that prepares you for leadership roles.
- Access Cutting-Edge FacilitiesUtilize over 400,000 square feet of specialized research, cleanroom, and fabrication laboratory space.
- Explore Research OpportunitiesParticipate in cutting-edge research across various semiconductor applications.
- Advance Your CareerGain specialized knowledge through graduate certifications designed for professionals.
- Enhance Your Undergraduate DegreeBolster your engineering education with specialized knowledge in semiconductors.
Longhorn Startup Program
Longhorn Startup Program is a Cockrell School entrepreneurship initiative combining classroom instruction with hands-on startup development to help UT students launch scalable technology ventures.
- Earn Academic CreditStudents gain formal recognition for their entrepreneurial efforts while pursuing their degrees.
- Develop Startup SkillsHands-on lab experience helps students to create viable startups with professional guidance.
- Learn from ExpertsStudents gain insights from successful entrepreneurs, enhancing their understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape.
- Expand Professional NetworkStudents benefit from introductions to industry contacts, enhancing their career prospects and startup potential.
Blackstone LaunchPad
Blackstone LaunchPad is an interdisciplinary, cross-campus entrepreneurship program designed to introduce entrepreneurship as a viable career path and cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset across UT Austin students, faculty, and staff.
- Foster Entrepreneurial ThinkingEncourages students, faculty, and staff to engage in innovative thinking, problem-solving, and risk-taking within an entrepreneurial context.
- Validate EntrepreneurshipProvides essential resources, workshops, and mentorship to support students in transitioning entrepreneurship from an idea to a career.
- Encourage CollaborationsFacilitates interdisciplinary partnerships to enhance the entrepreneurial ecosystem at UT Austin.
- Provide Startup ResourcesEquips students with vital tools, mentorship, and funding to launch their entrepreneurial ventures.
Genesis Program
Genesis is a Cockrell School program that provides resources to encourage more successful startup companies within UT Austin’s community, created by alumni and students in 2016.
- Provides Startup SupportThe program provides essential support, mentorship, and investment opportunities critical for startup development and success.
- Fosters Community EngagementThe Genesis Program nurtures community connections among student innovators to enhance collaborative efforts in entrepreneurship.
- Cultivates Future LeadersThe program prepares participants for leadership by involving them in decision-making and strategic discussions in startup scenarios.
- Enables Student InvestmentGenesis allows students to engage directly in the investment process, boosting their understanding and connection to the startup ecosystem.
Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute
Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute (KS WELI) provides hands-on entrepreneurship programming, mentorship, leadership development, and a supportive community for UT Austin students.
- Facilitates Practical LearningEnables students to engage in real-world entrepreneurial practices through immersive projects.
- Connects Students with MentorsLinks aspiring entrepreneurs with experienced professionals for guidance and support.
- Builds Leadership SkillsEnhances students' abilities to lead effectively within entrepreneurial settings.
- Fosters Collaborative NetworkingEncourages students to collaborate and share experiences to enhance their entrepreneurial journey.
- Accelerates Startup DevelopmentGuides students through the startup creation process, providing resources and mentorship.
Harkey Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies
Harkey Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies offers entrepreneurship-focused education, including minor programs, summer academy, funding opportunities, mentorship, and the Spark Founders initiative.
- Launch Your StartupThe Spark Founders initiative offers students the tools and networks necessary to turn their ideas into viable businesses.
- Access Significant FundingStudents can secure funds for their entrepreneurial projects, ensuring they have the resources needed to innovate.
- Earn An Entrepreneurship MinorStudents can earn a minor in entrepreneurship to supplement their engineering degree, equipping them with vital business skills.
- Connect With Experienced MentorsParticipants gain valuable insights and guidance from industry mentors to refine their business ideas and strategies.
- Participate In Summer AcademyThis program immerses students in entrepreneurship principles through hands-on learning experiences.
Texas Inventionworks
Texas Inventionworks is a 23,000-square-foot invention and creation space that enables students to design and build a wide range of devices, from biomedical tools to satellites.
- Enables PrototypingStudents have access to tools and resources for prototyping, essential for turning theoretical concepts into tangible innovations.
- Facilitates Diverse ProjectsStudents can engage in a wide variety of projects, spanning multiple domains including healthcare and aerospace, enhancing creativity and practical experience.
- Offers Extensive FacilitiesThe dedicated space encourages collaboration and resource sharing, vital for student innovation and cross-disciplinary projects.
Texas Innovation Center
Texas Innovation Center is a hub for translating UT engineering and science discoveries into market-ready technologies, facilitating cross-disciplinary collaboration and industry-facing innovation.
- Facilitates Market-Ready TechnologiesProvides essential resources and support for converting academic research into viable commercial products.
- Encourages Collaborative InnovationBrings together diverse expertise from various fields to enhance the development and application of technologies.
- Connects with Industry PartnersBuilds meaningful relationships with industry stakeholders to ensure research has real-world applications and benefits.
- Offers Collaborative WorkspacesEnables students and faculty to collaborate on projects in a dedicated environment that promotes creativity and productivity.
- Supports New VenturesProvides access to mentorship, funding opportunities, and business development assistance for startups emerging from research.
- Facilitates Valuable NetworkingCreates opportunities for collaboration and mentorship through connections with established professionals in various industries.
Semiconductor Master of Science in Engineering (MS) – 2025
A new Master of Science in Engineering with a major in semiconductor science and engineering launching in 2025, the program is designed in partnership with industry leaders to prepare graduates for the growing semiconductor sector.
- Enhances Learning ExperienceThis feature ensures that students gain relevant knowledge and skills that meet current market demands, directly from industry leaders.
- Focuses On Semiconductor ScienceThis program is designed to equip students with specialized knowledge in semiconductor science, enabling them to advance in a fast-growth field.
- Practical Skill DevelopmentStudents engage in hands-on projects that allow them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, enhancing employability.
- Access To Latest InnovationsStudents benefit from learning about the latest developments and technologies in the semiconductor industry, preparing them for future challenges.
References
Methodology and sourcing behind the figures shown above.
Student entrepreneurship and accelerator programs
Estimated global market for student-focused entrepreneurship and accelerator programs (~$2.5B) derived as a conservative subset of the broader accelerator and incubator markets. Used published market sizes for accelerators ($6.07B in 2026) and incubators ($28.03B in 2026) as anchors, and assumed student/university programs represent a modest share of the combined market (roughly mid-single-digit to low-double-digit percent) given many university programs are non-profit/partially subsidized but expanding. Growth potential (≈11% CAGR) is set between the reported incubator CAGR (8.1%) and the higher accelerator growth (≈18.6%), reflecting faster adoption of university-led and hybrid virtual student programs but lower commercial monetization than top-tier accelerators.
Executive and professional engineering education
Search results show the global executive-education market ranges from ~USD 10.9B (FMI, 2025) to larger estimates (Credence Research USD 46.33B in 2024) depending on scope. I used FMI's 2025 USD 10.9B as the primary, comparable baseline for non-degree executive programs and applied a conservative 20% share assumption for the engineering/professional-engineering subset (based on typical professional-segment shares of corporate L&D and engineering headcount in technical industries). That yields ~USD 2.18B (~USD 2.2B). For growth potential I used FMI's reported CAGR for executive education (11.2%), which is consistent with other reports' double-digit growth (Credence 11.7%, The Business Research Company 9.7%). Estimates are subject to definitional and scope uncertainty (different reports include/exclude custom corporate programs, online-only offerings, and non-executive professional training).
Semiconductor workforce development and industry collaboration
Estimated current annual/global market for semiconductor workforce development and industry collaboration is anchored to recent CHIPS-era public and private investments (cumulative workforce-specific funding and commitments exceeding several hundred million dollars). Using CHIPS fact-sheet figures (nearly $300M workforce funds plus substantial state and private contributions) as a baseline and noting large semiconductor industry revenue growth (from roughly $575B toward $1T by 2030 and >$630B in 2024), demand for training, degree/certificate programs, and industry–academia partnerships should expand faster than the core semiconductor industry. I estimate the workforce development market at about $1.1B today with a high-growth trajectory (~15% CAGR) through the remainder of the decade given ongoing public funding, private commitments, and urgent talent shortfalls.
- Nearly $300M to date in dedicated CHIPS workforce funds to support over 25 CHIPS-funded manufacturing facilities.
- An analysis by McKinsey projects revenues growing from the current $575 billion to $1 trillion by 2030.
- Global semiconductor sales reached $630.5 billion in 2024.
- Micron plans to hire 75,000 new employees over the next 20 years.
Technology commercialization and prototyping infrastructure
Estimate based on explicit rapid-prototyping market data in the search results (Market Research Future: $10.01B market in 2024, ~10.48% CAGR). Technology-commercialization and prototyping infrastructure (incubators, maker/scale-up labs, TTO services, prototyping service providers, testbeds) expands beyond pure rapid-prototyping hardware/services; conservatively scaled the prototyping market by ~2x to capture facilities, commercialization support services, and university/corporate translation activity. Growth CAGR aligned with rapid-prototyping projection (~10.5%), supported by large trapped R&D ($1T) and active university spinout financing (~$3.5B) indicating strong demand for commercialization infrastructure.
Related Organizations
- AE
American University in the Emirates
American University in the Emirates (AUE) is a multi-college higher education institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple faculties.
aue.ae - GT
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Tech's Student Innovation Program connects student innovators with mentors and resources to build startups.
innovation.gatech.edu