If cost isn’t a problem than how would you rate Rice’s CS degree? Is it as good as UT and UTD or better or worse?
A number of schools outside of Texas have better computer science programs than the places you mention, but if you are looking Texas-only there are a couple of rankings that might be helpful. Niche ranks Rice’s undergraduate computer science degree #14 compared to #26 for UT, #50 for SMU and #62 for Texas A&M (UTD is too low to be ranked). College Choice also does rankings and they pegs Rice’s undergraduate computer science program at #13 compared to #24 for UT (with all other Texas schools including UTD too low to be ranked).
Broader rankings of computer science departments generally rank UT higher. For example the latest US News rankings of computer science departments place UT at #10 in the nation while Rice is #20 (for purposes of comparison UTD is #64).
What I take from these rankings is that Rice would be the better choice for a bachelor’s degree if cost isn’t a problem, while UT is probably the best in-state option for graduate CS work.
If cost and admission aren’t a problem than generally its better to go with an undergrad school which offers more prestige, better peers, better major, exclusive experience, smaller size and strong academics.
In this case, all three are good in CS, not much difference on undergrad level. For overall academics, rankings or prestige, UTD is weaker and can’t offer a comprehensive college experience either so you may eliminate it first.
In final round go with personal fit, pick Rice if you prefer smaller campus, prestige, residential system, strong 360 degree of academics and a supportive community.
If you like bigger school with more school spirit, larger alumni network, better sports, strong political vibe and party scene than pick UT. Those two are very different schools, both great but with automatic admissions, average student isn’t nearly as strong as Rice though you can find plenty of likeminded peers.
For graduate school, UT may make more sense but I would recommend going out of the state and enriching yourself with life experiences.
I’d place Rice first for undergraduate CS among the three schools you listed.