Best
Private Colleges in Dallas in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Dallas, TX offers a practical foundation in how organizations operate. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, management, business law, finance, and data analytics. Students build communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Graduates commonly pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, sales representatives, or operations managers. Dallas-area options include Southern Methodist University, Dallas Baptist University, University of North Texas at Dallas, and Dallas College. Programs vary in format and focus.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Dallas offers pathways from associate degrees to bachelor's and graduate study. Courses include developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and counseling fundamentals. Dallas institutions offering psychology study include Southern Methodist University, Dallas Baptist University, and Dallas College. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, or community support worker. Clinical psychologist and licensed counselor careers require advanced education, supervised experience, and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Dallas, TX offers access to a growing technology community and internships. Typical coursework includes programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Dallas schools offering the degree include Southern Methodist University, University of North Texas at Dallas, and Dallas College. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, or IT project coordinators. Coursework also builds problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills valued across industries.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Dallas, Texas, can prepare students to support people through emotional, behavioral, and relationship challenges. Typical coursework covers counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised clinical skills. Graduates may pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, marriage and family therapists, or substance-use counselors, depending on degree and licensure. Dallas institutions offering counseling-related study include Southern Methodist University and Dallas Baptist University. Both offer graduate counseling degree programs.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Dallas, Texas, offers pathways from associate degrees to bachelor's and graduate programs. Students take courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, and maternal-child, mental-health, and community health. Clinical rotations build patient-care skills in hospitals and clinics. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, nurse educators, or care coordinators, depending on credentials. Dallas options include Dallas College, Texas Woman's University's Dallas campus, and Baylor University's Louise Herrington School of Nursing.

Best Colleges in Dallas, TX Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 20,500.0, compared with 42,572.0 at schools in the top 10%.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students, compared with 69.0% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 69.0%. Schools receive an average of 4,211.33 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 10,704.0 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 756.5, compared with 1,120.0 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,205.0 on the SAT and 28.0 on the ACT.
• Schools average 2,659.43 enrolled students, including an average of 197.0 men and 239.83 women.
• The average graduation rate is 53.57%, compared with 78.0% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 52.0% for men and 56.0% for women.
• Six institutions offer associate's degrees, nine offer bachelor's degrees, eight offer master's degrees, and four offer doctor's degrees.
• There are seven coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, graduation rates, degree offerings, and school type. In particular, consider how the overall figures differ from those for top 10% schools and whether the available information fits your academic and financial priorities.

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

The average reported cost of studying in Dallas, TX, is $24,554.22. For a local student, that figure is a useful starting point - not a guaranteed bill for completing an entire degree, since the amount you pay depends on your college, program, living arrangements, and time to graduate.

Other reported averages offer a budgeting picture:

• Tuition and fees: $27,158.67.
• Room and board: $12,401.33.
• Books and supplies: $1,315.

These categories are separate averages, so don't add them to the overall figure as though they form one matched student's bill. At schools such as Dallas College, UT Dallas in Richardson, and Southern Methodist University, costs vary substantially. Community-college pathways can make starting locally manageable, while scholarships, grants, commuting, and lower-cost housing may reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Compare each campus's net price and ask its financial-aid office for a personalized estimate before enrolling; this can make your degree plan clearer and achievable with greater financial confidence.

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

Most students in Dallas, TX, need about four years for a bachelor's degree and roughly two years for an associate degree, though program requirements and part-time study can extend that timeline. At Southern Methodist University, UT Dallas in nearby Richardson, or UNT Dallas, bachelor's students generally follow the standard four-year path.

Finishing sooner may be possible through summer classes, heavier course loads, AP or dual-enrollment credits, accepted transfer coursework, or accelerated online options. Before enrolling, ask an advisor how credits apply to your specific major; Dallas College transfer pathways can also help students start affordably and move into a bachelor's program.

Completion data provide context: the average graduation rate is 53.57%, while the rate for the top 10% of schools is 78%. Rates average 53% for men and 53.57% for women. These figures describe completions, not individual timelines; your major, transferred credits, enrollment pace, and access to required classes matter.

Salary

After graduating from college in Dallas, TX, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $43,277. Graduates of top-performing schools earn a median of about $51,728 - a promising benchmark as you plan your career and next steps.

Dallas offers a range of college options, including The University of Texas at Dallas, Southern Methodist University, and the University of North Texas at Dallas. Your earnings will depend on factors such as your degree, career field, and experience, so these figures are useful benchmarks rather than guaranteed starting salaries.

• Median alumni salary: about $43,277
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: about $51,728

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Dallas?

Beauty is personal, but Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a strong choice if you love historic architecture and leafy grounds. Its red-brick Dallas Hall, shaded walkways, and carefully kept lawns give the campus a welcoming, classic feel. It's especially lovely to explore in spring, when campus is in bloom.

What is the most selective college in Dallas?

Among Dallas's major four-year undergraduate universities, SMU is generally one of the most selective. Admissions standards and acceptance rates change from year to year, and some programs are more competitive than others. For a local applicant, strong grades, challenging coursework, and a thoughtful application can help make an application stand out.

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

Southern Methodist University offers Dallas students a sizable campus community, with 12,544 enrolled students and a graduation rate of 84%. Its 63% acceptance rate suggests a selective admissions process compared with several local options. Annual study cost is $59,500, while median alumni salary is $61,050. Known as a private research university with a strong campus identity, SMU can suit learners seeking broad academic choices and Dallas connections. Consider whether its higher cost aligns with your budget and career plans locally.

Paul Quinn College presents a smaller Dallas option, enrolling 628 students. Its 27% graduation rate and 40% acceptance rate offer useful context when assessing admission and completion expectations. The listed total study cost is $8,898, the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $38,435. As a historically Black college with a community-centered identity, it may appeal to students seeking a close-knit learning environment in Dallas. Compare program offerings, support services, and transfer options before deciding locally.

Criswell College is a very small Dallas institution, with 163 enrolled students and a 100% acceptance rate. Its graduation rate is 50%, and listed total study cost is $14,880. Median alumni salary reaches $39,890. The college is known for Christian higher education and ministry-focused study, which may fit students seeking faith-integrated learning. Its compact enrollment may create a more personal campus setting than larger Dallas-area universities. Ask about degree pathways, career preparation, and financial aid when evaluating your plans.

Dallas Christian College enrolls 255 students, making it another small option for students studying in Dallas, TX. Its 22% acceptance rate is the lowest among these five schools, while its graduation rate is 29%. The listed total study cost is $20,500, and median alumni salary is $44,685. The college offers a Christian educational environment, appealing to learners who value faith alongside academics. Before applying, review admission requirements, degree options, and student support. Its smaller scale may suit those preferring close-knit communities.

Dallas Baptist University has 4,186 enrolled students and an 89% acceptance rate, offering Dallas-area applicants a comparatively accessible admissions profile. Its graduation rate is 57%, while total study cost is $38,340 and median alumni salary is $46,195. The university combines a Christian identity with a broad university setting, which may appeal to students seeking faith-informed study and varied campus opportunities. For a Dallas, TX student, consider how its programs, commute, and costs fit your academic goals and budget before choosing.