Best
Private Colleges in Texas in 2027

Business Administration

Studying a business administration program in Texas combines core courses such as accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and data analytics. Students often gain practical experience through internships and team projects. Graduates may pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations managers, or financial associates. Popular Texas colleges offering this degree include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, the University of Houston, Baylor University, and Texas Tech University.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Texas offers paths from undergraduate foundations to graduate specialization. Typical courses include developmental psychology, cognitive processes, research methods, statistics, abnormal psychology, and social behavior. Programs often combine classroom learning with laboratories, internships, or community experience. Graduates may pursue roles in human resources, counseling support, case management, market research, or behavioral services, depending on degree and licensure. Popular Texas options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and Baylor University.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Texas combines rigorous technical coursework with opportunities across a major technology economy. Students typically study programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, computer architecture, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Rice University, and the University of Texas at Dallas. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, or database administrators throughout the state's growing technology sector.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Texas combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice. Programs include supervised clinical experience and prepare students for licensure. Graduates may work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, marriage and family therapists, or behavioral health clinicians, depending on their degree and credentials. Popular Texas options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, the University of North Texas, and Sam Houston State University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Texas offers pathways from associate to bachelor's degrees, combining learning with clinical practice. Courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, maternal-child nursing, and community health. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, or long-term care facilities; advanced study can lead to nurse practitioner roles. Popular Texas colleges include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Baylor University, and the University of Texas at Arlington.

Best Colleges in Texas Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 20,330.0, compared with 50,174.4 at schools in the top 10%, a substantially higher median among those schools.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 67.39% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 67.39%. Schools receive an average of 5,074.04 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 12,605.6. The median applicant counts are 993.0 men and 1,210.0 women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,139.14 and 24.27, respectively.
• Schools have an average of 2,234.96 enrolled students, including averages of 207.43 enrolled men and 269.3 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 50.11%, compared with 82.8% for schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 50.0% for men and 54.0% for women.
• There are 49 institutions offering associate's degrees, 74 offering bachelor's degrees, 63 offering master's degrees, and 27 offering doctor's degrees.
• The ranking includes 71 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid together, and consider how each school's acceptance rate, applicant pool, and average test scores fit your circumstances. Also weigh graduation rates - including the difference between the overall average and the top 10% - alongside enrollment and the degree level offered, so you can choose a school that fits your academic goals and financial needs.

How much does studying at a college in Texas cost?

The average total cost of studying in Texas is about $24,999.61, making that a useful annual planning benchmark for a prospective student. Your actual bill will vary by campus, program, residency status, and housing choices. For comparison, reported average costs include:

• Tuition and fees: $26,566.06.
• Room and board: $12,269.98.
• Books and supplies: $1,158.37.

These figures show why it helps to compare each college's published cost of attendance rather than relying on tuition alone; the categories listed are not necessarily additive to the overall average. At UT Austin, Texas A&M in College Station, and the University of Houston, compare school cost-of-attendance estimates, including housing, meals, and transportation. Checking grants, scholarships, payment plans, and resident tuition eligibility can make budgeting more manageable and help you choose a campus that fits your goals. Living at home, when practical, may lower expenses, while on-campus housing can offer convenience and community.

How long does it take to finish college in Texas?

In Texas, finishing college takes two years for an associate degree and four years of full-time study for a bachelor's degree; students may need longer if they attend part time, change majors, or balance work and family. At universities such as UT Austin or Texas A&M, a course plan and enrollment can help keep a bachelor's timeline on track. The average graduation rate is 50.11%, while the average at the top 10% of schools is 82.8%, showing that completion varies widely. Average rates are 48.4% for men and 52.7% for women.

To finish sooner, Texas students can:

• Apply AP, IB, or dual-credit courses toward degree requirements when accepted.
• Take summer classes or heavier course loads, if manageable, to earn credits year-round.
• Start at a community college, complete transferable credits, then move to a university such as Texas A&M or UT Austin.
• Check advising early to avoid lost credits and stay encouraged.

Salary

College graduates in Texas have a median alumni salary of about $45,695. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $69,048. These figures offer a useful sense of earning potential, though they aren't guaranteed starting salaries - your degree, experience, and career path all matter.

Texas offers a wide range of college options, from the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University to Rice University and the University of Houston. When comparing schools, consider how their programs fit your career goals, along with location, internships, and opportunities to build experience before graduating.

Your eventual earnings can vary substantially by field and where you work. A strong fit between your degree and your interests can help you make the most of your education and feel confident about the possibilities ahead.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Texas?

There's no objective winner, but the University of Texas at Austin is a strong choice for beauty and atmosphere. Its historic limestone buildings, leafy walkways, and famous UT Tower give the campus a distinctive look, while its location puts students close to Austin's music, food, and outdoor scene. You may find it especially appealing if you love a lively city campus.

What is the most selective college in Texas?

Rice University in Houston is generally considered Texas's most selective university, based on its very low acceptance rate. Its small undergraduate community, demanding academics, and residential college system make it a particularly sought-after option. Admission is highly competitive, so students interested in Rice should build a balanced college list and make time for thoughtful, personal application essays.

What is the richest university in Texas?

By the size of its own endowment, Rice University is among Texas's wealthiest individual universities. The comparison gets complicated because the University of Texas System manages a much larger pool of shared assets for multiple campuses. So, if you mean money held by a single university, Rice is a leading answer; if you mean a university system, UT System is wealthier.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Texas Ranking in 2026-2027

Rice University, located in Houston, offers a small-campus academic experience in one of Texas's largest and most diverse cities. It enrolls 9,071 students, with a 95% graduation rate and an 8% acceptance rate, making admission highly selective. The listed total study cost is $60,314, while median alumni salary is $67,619. For a Texas student, Houston provides access to a major employment and cultural hub; compare the cost with your aid offer and consider whether Rice's competitive admissions fit your plans.

Southwestern University in Georgetown offers a liberal arts setting near Austin, giving Texas students a smaller-campus option with access to the capital. It enrolls 1,431 students; its graduation rate is 73%, and its acceptance rate is 43%. The total cost of studying is $53,288, and median alumni salary is $41,517. Consider how its scale and location match your interests, then compare aid, housing, and transportation costs before deciding whether studying in Central Texas suits your budget and goals.

The King's University in Southlake is a Christian institution offering a faith-centered campus experience in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Its 540 enrolled students create a small community. The graduation rate is 47%, and the acceptance rate is 61%. Listed total study cost is $11,400, the lowest among these five schools; median alumni salary is $41,730. For a Texas applicant, explore degree programs, accreditation, and aid details, and weigh the school's smaller scale against your career plans and preferred campus environment.

Southern Methodist University, based in Dallas, combines a private-university setting with access to a Texas business and arts center. It enrolls 12,544 students, graduates 84%, and has a 63% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $59,500; median alumni salary is $61,050. Dallas can offer internships and cultural opportunities, though outcomes depend on field and choices. As a Texas student, compare aid and living expenses with the cost, and consider whether SMU's urban campus and size fit your priorities.

Texas Christian University in Fort Worth offers a private university experience in a lively North Texas city. Its 12,980 students, 86% graduation rate, and 44% acceptance rate provide useful indicators of campus scale and selectivity. The listed total cost of studying is $61,650, while median alumni salary is $58,442. Fort Worth's location gives Texas students access to regional employers and cultural attractions. Review program-specific outcomes and financial aid, and compare the overall cost with your budget and preferred campus community.