Best
Public Colleges in Texas in 2027

Business Administration

A business administration program in Texas builds skills in management, finance, marketing, accounting, economics, and organizational behavior. Students may study analytics, entrepreneurship, operations, and business law. Texas offers options at the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, the University of Houston, Baylor University, and Texas Tech University. Graduates pursue roles such as management trainee, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, financial analyst, operations supervisor, or business development associate. Internships and networking strengthen career prospects.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Texas offers opportunities to explore human behavior, mental health, and research at universities. Typical coursework includes introductory psychology, statistics, research methods, developmental psychology, social psychology, cognition, and abnormal psychology. Popular choices include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, the University of Houston, and Baylor University. Graduates may pursue roles in human resources, case management, social services, market research, or behavioral health support; advanced education is required for clinical practice.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Texas offers access to technology industries and diverse academic options. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students often develop software engineering, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Graduates may pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, or IT consultants. Popular choices include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Rice University, the University of Houston, and Texas Tech University.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Texas prepares students to help people address personal, behavioral, academic, and relationship challenges. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group work, and supervised practicum. Popular Texas universities for counseling degrees include UT Austin, Texas A&M, the University of North Texas, and Sam Houston State. Graduates may pursue careers as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, career counselors, or community mental-health practitioners, with graduate training and licensure.

Nursing

For many students, studying nursing in Texas prepares them to provide patient care in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nutrition, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and clinical rotations. Graduates may become registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses (with appropriate credentials), nurse educators after further study, or care coordinators. Popular Texas options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, UTHealth Houston, and Baylor University.

Best Colleges in Texas Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 15,525.5, compared with 23,680.1 at schools in the top 10%, a higher cost among the top-ranked schools.
• On average, 97.0% of students receive financial aid, versus 84.23% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 84.23%. Schools receive an average of 15,933.54 applicants, compared with 34,272.0 applicants at top 10% schools.
• The median number of applicants is 4,018.0 for men and 6,365.0 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,072.75 on the SAT and 21.36 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 19,330.9. Average enrollment is 1,338.91 men and 1,726.26 women.
• The average graduation rate is 40.88%, compared with 56.5% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 33.0% for men and 42.0% for women.
• There are 30 institutions offering associate's degrees, 66 offering bachelor's degrees, 43 offering master's degrees, and 34 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 67 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, test scores, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. Consider which degree level and campus environment suit your goals, and weigh the differences between the overall averages and the figures for top 10% schools.

How much does studying at a college in Texas cost?

The average total cost of studying in Texas is $14,807.93. That figure gives you a useful starting point, but it is not a guaranteed price for an entire degree: your actual bill depends on the college, program, residency status, and how long you study. At popular options such as The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, the University of Houston, or Texas Tech, compare each school's current cost estimate before planning your budget.

• Average tuition and fees: $8,203.09.
• Average room and board cost: $11,722.18.
• Average books and supplies cost: $1,306.11.

Housing and course materials can affect your budget, so plan for them alongside tuition. These category averages are separate figures, not a combined bill; campus choices and arrangements affect what you pay. Comparing schools, aid, scholarships, and commuting options can make a degree feel more manageable and help you choose a campus and program that fit your goals.

How long does it take to finish college in Texas?

In Texas, plan on about four years for a traditional bachelor's degree and around two years for an associate degree, though your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you attend full time. At UT Austin or Texas A&M, many bachelor's programs follow the four-year path, but changing majors or taking fewer credits can add time.

To finish faster, earn AP or dual-enrollment credit, transfer approved community-college courses, take summer classes, or consider accelerated and online options. Confirm transfer rules with your Texas college so credits apply to your major. Graduation figures offer perspective: the average rate is 40.88%, compared with 56.5% at schools in the top 10%. The average is 36.2% for men and 44.37% for women. These rates show degree completion can be challenging, not how long each student takes. A manageable course load and supportive advising can keep your goal feeling positive, realistic, and achievable.

Salary

College graduates in Texas earn a median alumni salary of about $48,008. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is higher, at about $63,547. These figures offer a helpful benchmark, though your own earnings can vary by degree, experience, and where you work.

Your choice of school can connect you with different opportunities across the state. Students at the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, the University of Houston, Texas Tech, and Rice University may pursue careers in major Texas job markets such as Austin, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio. The best fit for you depends on your goals, field of study, and the opportunities available in your chosen area.

When comparing colleges, look beyond the salary benchmark: consider the program's strengths, internship options, and career support. Choosing a path that matches your interests and builds practical skills can make the move from graduation to a rewarding Texas career feel more within reach.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in Texas?

Rice University is often considered Texas's most prestigious private university, known for its strong academics, research, and close-knit campus. The University of Texas at Austin is another highly prestigious choice, especially among public universities, with broad program offerings and a lively student experience. The best fit depends on your field, finances, and preferred campus atmosphere.

Which city in Texas has the best public schools?

There is no single official "best" city, since school quality depends on the district, campus, and what matters to your family. Highland Park is often recognized for its strong public schools through Highland Park ISD. Southlake is another well-regarded option. Before deciding where to live, compare specific schools and current Texas Education Agency information.

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

The University of Texas at Austin is a major public research university in Texas's capital, offering students a large campus community and broad academic choices. With 55,000 enrolled students, it is the largest school in this comparison. Its 89% graduation rate and 27% acceptance rate may appeal to students seeking strong outcomes in a competitive setting. Total study cost is $44,908, while median alumni salary is $53,267. Austin's state-capital location adds access to Texas culture, public service, and employers nearby.

University of Houston is a public research university in Houston, giving Texas-based students access to a large metropolitan setting and diverse academic communities. It enrolls 48,950 students, with a 65% graduation rate and a 74% acceptance rate. Reported total study cost is $21,515, the lowest among these five schools, and median alumni salary is $54,525. Houston's urban location can suit students interested in city life, internships, and industries across the Texas economy, while campus programs provide routes to a degree.

Texas Tech University is a public university in Lubbock, known for its broad academic offerings and distinctive West Texas campus environment. It enrolls 42,209 students; its 69% graduation rate and 73% acceptance rate provide context for prospective Texans comparing access and completion. Total cost of studying is $21,240, and median alumni salary is $52,102. Students who prefer a substantial university community outside Texas's largest cities may value Lubbock's setting, while pursuing degrees connected to industries and communities throughout the state.

The University of Texas at Arlington is a public research university in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, placing Texas students near a metropolitan job market. Its 44,956 students make it a campus community, while the 54% graduation rate and 80% acceptance rate help frame expectations around completion and admissions. Total study cost is $26,838, and median alumni salary is $66,474, the highest reported here. Its North Texas location may appeal to students seeking access while earning a degree in Texas.

The University of Texas at Dallas is a public research university in Richardson, within the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and offers students a North Texas base for career exploration. Enrollment is 30,139, with a 76% graduation rate and 65% acceptance rate. Total cost of studying is $36,139, while median alumni salary is $55,955. For Texas residents comparing campus scale, admissions, and outcomes, UT Dallas combines a student body with access to the region's employers and communities while pursuing degrees.