Best
Private Colleges in Austin in 2027

Business Administration

Studying a business administration program in Austin, TX, offers training in management, accounting, finance, marketing, economics, and business analytics. Students develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills through coursework, projects, and internships. Popular options include The University of Texas at Austin, whose McCombs School offers undergraduate business degrees, and St. Edward's University, which offers business programs. Graduates commonly pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, financial analysts, human resources specialists, or operations managers across industries.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Austin, Texas, combines coursework on cognition, development, behavior, research methods, statistics, and abnormal psychology with opportunities to explore the city's diverse communities. Students may attend the University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, or Concordia University Texas. Programs typically include social psychology, neuroscience, and counseling foundations. Graduates often pursue roles in human resources, case management, social services, behavioral health support, or research assistance; clinical practice usually requires graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Austin, TX offers access to a thriving technology hub and hands-on learning. Typical coursework includes programming, data structures, algorithms, computer architecture, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates often pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, or computer systems engineers. Popular options include the University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, and Austin Community College, which offers computing pathways for students beginning their studies.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Austin, TX prepares students to support people facing emotional, behavioral, and challenges. Typical courses cover counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural counseling, and supervised practicum or internship training. Local options include The University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, and Concordia University Texas. Graduates may work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, or career counselors, depending on degree, licensure, and employer requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Austin, Texas, offers pathways to associate or bachelor's degrees through colleges such as Austin Community College, The University of Texas at Austin, and Concordia University Texas. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical practice. Programs combine classroom learning with supervised patient care. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health settings, providing care, educating patients, and coordinating treatment.

Best Colleges in Austin, TX Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $31,108, compared with $46,608.80 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of $15,500.80.
• Financial aid is common across the schools: an average of 99.6% of students receive aid. The average at top-10% schools is lower, at 70.33%.
• The average acceptance rate is 70.33%. Schools receive an average of 3,807 applicants, while top-10% schools average 5,302. The median applicant counts are 1,509 men and 1,681 women.
• Average test scores are 964 on the SAT and 18.5 on the ACT.
• Schools average 1,839 enrolled students. Average enrollment is 135.67 men and 170.33 women.
• The average graduation rate is 47.33%, compared with 59.4% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 45% for men and 47% for women.
• Among the institutions, 1 offers associate's degrees, 3 offer bachelor's degrees, 6 offer master's degrees, and 2 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 3 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside graduation outcomes. Also consider acceptance rates, applicant and enrollment figures, test scores, degree offerings, and whether a school's student population and coeducational setting suit your preferences.

How much does studying at a college in Austin, TX cost?

The average reported cost of studying in Austin, TX, is $35,201.67. Treat this as a planning estimate rather than the guaranteed price of an entire degree: your actual expenses depend on your school, program, enrollment, and living arrangements. At the University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, or Austin Community College, comparing tuition and fees alongside housing and other expenses can help you build a budget that fits your goals.

The available cost figures provide a useful snapshot:

• Average tuition and fees: $30,701.67
• Average room and board: $12,040.67
• Average books and supplies: $761.50

These figures are averages, so they may not match any one college's published cost or your personal bill. In particular, don't assume the listed categories add up to the reported total; use each amount as a separate reference when planning. Your housing choice, course materials, and financial aid can all affect what you pay. The good news is that Austin offers several routes to a degree, giving you options to explore and compare as you work toward an education that feels right for you.

How long does it take to finish college in Austin, TX?

In Austin, TX, a full-time bachelor's degree typically takes four years, while an associate degree at Austin Community College often takes two. Students at The University of Texas at Austin or St. Edward's University generally follow the four-year path, but major requirements, course availability, work, or changing programs can add time. Part-time study usually takes longer.

You can speed things up with AP, IB, dual-enrollment, or transferable credits; summer courses; and approved online or accelerated classes. ACC students may transfer eligible credits to a four-year university, while UT Austin students should confirm outside courses count toward their degree. A planned course sequence can save time and make the workload feel more manageable.

Reported average graduation rates are 47.33% overall, 59.4% for the top 10% of schools, 48.33% for men, and 46.0% for women. Ask about advising, tutoring, and financial support early; encouragement and steady guidance can help you persist through your degree.

Salary

After graduating from college in Austin, TX, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $56,806. Graduates of schools ranked in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $66,584. These figures offer a useful benchmark, though your earnings will depend on your field, experience, and chosen school.

Whether you study at the University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, or Austin Community College, your degree can help you pursue opportunities in Austin's diverse job market. Your major and career path will play a big role in how much you earn.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Austin?

Beauty is subjective, but the University of Texas at Austin is a strong contender. Its leafy campus combines historic buildings, the iconic UT Tower, fountains, and welcoming green spaces right in the heart of the city. St. Edward's University is another lovely option, known for its hilltop setting and distinctive architecture. A campus visit can help you find your favorite.

What is the most selective college in Austin?

The University of Texas at Austin is generally considered the most selective large university in the city. Admission is competitive, and chances can vary substantially by major, academic record, and applicant circumstances. For Austin students, its strong academic options and lively campus make it an exciting goal - though it's wise to build a balanced college list with other good-fit schools.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Austin, TX Ranking in 2026-2027

Huston-Tillotson University is a private, historically Black university in Austin, offering a city-based college experience for students who want to study close to the capital's cultural and professional opportunities. It enrolls 1,043 students. Its 39% acceptance rate suggests a more selective admissions process than some nearby options, while its 34% graduation rate is a useful outcome measure to investigate. Reported total study cost is $24,013. Median alumni salary data is unavailable, so compare aid, program fit, and career outcomes directly.

Saint Edward's University is a private Catholic institution in Austin, giving students access to the city's academic, cultural, and employment environment while studying on campus. It enrolls 3,077 students and reports a 63% graduation rate and an 81% acceptance rate. Its reported total cost is $50,484, and median alumni salary is $44,584. For an Austin-based applicant, compare financial aid and program-specific costs carefully; the graduation rate may be one point in evaluating fit, alongside class experience and career support.

Concordia University Texas is a private university in northwest Austin with a Christian, Lutheran identity, offering an option for students seeking an education within the Austin area. It enrolls 1,397 students, reports a 45% graduation rate, and has a 91% acceptance rate. The stated total cost is $31,108, while median alumni salary is $69,028. For prospective students living in Austin, compare the commute, available programs, financial aid, and outcomes by major; these figures provide context, but individual results can vary.

Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest, based in Austin, is a specialized option for students pursuing theological education rather than a broad undergraduate college experience. The supplied figures do not report enrollment, graduation or acceptance rates, total study cost, or median alumni salary, so prospective students should request current details from the seminary. Studying in Austin can place students near local congregations, nonprofit organizations, and the Texas faith community. Review degree requirements, placement opportunities, tuition, and financial support before applying.

Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a graduate-level theological school in Austin, suited to students seeking ministry preparation or religious study rather than an undergraduate degree. The supplied data lists no enrollment, graduation or acceptance figures, total cost, or median alumni salary. Ask the school for tuition, financial aid, program formats, and placement information. Its Austin setting may connect students with congregations and organizations, while housing and transport costs should be included when estimating the expense of studying in Austin.