Best
Public Colleges in Houston in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Houston, Texas offers access to a strong economy and career pathways. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, statistics, and organizational behavior. Popular local colleges include University of Houston, University of Houston-Downtown, Texas Southern University, and Houston Christian University. Graduates pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales manager, operations supervisor, or financial analyst. Internships prepare students for industries including energy, healthcare, and logistics.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Houston, TX offers coursework in research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, cognition, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and understanding human behavior. Popular options include the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, and the University of St. Thomas. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources specialist, research assistant, or community outreach coordinator; clinical practice generally requires graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Houston, TX offers access to diverse programs and a thriving technology market. Coursework typically includes programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular local choices include the University of Houston, Rice University, and Texas Southern University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or database administrators. Internships and research opportunities can help students build practical skills, professional connections, and career prospects.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Houston, TX combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum experiences. Popular options include the University of Houston, Texas Southern University, and the University of St. Thomas. Depending on the degree and required credentials, graduates may pursue work as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or community support specialists. Programs emphasize communication, cultural awareness, and ethical practice with communities.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Houston offers pathways from associate degrees to bachelor's and advanced practice programs. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and supervised clinical practice. Popular options include UTHealth Houston's Cizik School of Nursing, the University of Houston, Houston Community College, and Texas Southern University. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, or community health, with some pursuing specialties or graduate study.

Best Colleges in Houston, TX Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 20,544.0, compared with 28,260.6 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 7,716.6.
• An average of 93.4% of students receive financial aid, higher than the 88.0% average at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 88.0%. Schools receive an average of 12,502.5 applicants, compared with 25,018.5 at top-10% schools.
• The median number of applicants is 2,886.0 men and 5,085.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,073.0 on the SAT and 21.0 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 20,585.29; average enrollment is 1,030.5 men and 1,344.5 women.
• The average graduation rate is 37.8%, compared with 59.8% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 23.0% for men and 42.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 1 offers an associate's degree, 7 offer bachelor's degrees, 6 offer master's degrees, and 4 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 7 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and applicant averages, while their average graduation rate is also higher; consider which factors best fit your financial circumstances and educational priorities.

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

The average total cost of studying in Houston, TX, is about $20,139, giving you a useful starting point as you compare degree options. Your actual bill depends on the school, program, and whether you live on campus, but local choices span public universities such as the University of Houston and Texas Southern University, private Rice University, and community colleges like Houston Community College.

For a quick budget check, the reported averages are:

• Total cost of studying: $20,139
• Tuition and fees: $9,390.86
• Room and board: $11,752.60
• Books and supplies: $1,117.80

Because these figures may use different reporting bases, don't simply add them; ask each school's financial-aid office for a personalized cost of attendance. At UH, compare commuting with campus housing; Rice and TSU publish aid options, while HCC offers a lower-cost path for education credits. Scholarships, grants, and transfer planning can make earning a degree here feel manageable.

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

In Houston, TX, a full-time bachelor's degree typically takes four years, while an associate degree at Houston Community College often takes two. Master's programs commonly add one to two years. Your timeline depends on major requirements, course load, transfers, and whether you study full-time.

Graduation rates offer a useful snapshot of completion: the average rate is 37.8%, compared with 59.8% for the top 10% of schools. Average rates are 31.0% for men and 43.0% for women, showing that outcomes vary. You can explore ways to make your path more efficient:

• At the University of Houston or Rice, ask whether summer classes, heavier course loads, or transfer credits can shorten your bachelor's path.
• Houston Community College students may use dual-credit, AP, or prior college credits toward a degree; confirm transfer rules with the receiving university.
• Some programs offer accelerated schedules or year-round study, but check prerequisites, financial aid limits, and workload before committing.

Salary

College graduates in Houston, TX, can expect a median alumni salary of about $51,531. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median rises to approximately $82,106, offering an encouraging picture of the earning potential a degree may bring.

Houston students can explore a range of institutions, including the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, and Houston Community College. Your eventual earnings will depend on factors such as your field of study, experience, and career path, so researching programs connected to your goals can help you make the most of studying in the city.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in Houston?

Rice University is generally considered Houston's most prestigious college. Its reputation rests on selective admissions, strong academics, respected research, and a close-knit campus near the Museum District. For students who want a challenging education in a vibrant city, Rice is an exciting option. The best fit still depends on your goals, interests, and budget.

Does Houston have good public schools?

Houston has good public schools, but the experience varies substantially by school and neighborhood. Houston ISD includes schools with different strengths, and nearby districts may offer additional options. Families can compare individual schools' programs, performance, and support services rather than relying on the citywide label. With some research, it's possible to find a school that fits a student's needs.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Public Colleges Ranking in Houston, TX Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Houston is a large public research university in Houston, giving local students access to a broad campus community and the city's professional opportunities. It enrolls 48,950 students, with a 65% graduation rate and a 74% acceptance rate. Its reported total cost of study is $21,515, while median alumni salary is $54,525. For a Houston, TX student, staying nearby may ease relocation, though budgeting should include housing and transportation. Compare programs and aid before choosing your best fit.

Texas Southern University is a historically Black public university in Houston, offering an urban setting for students who want to study close to home. Its enrollment is 8,704; the graduation rate is 22%, and acceptance rate is 97%. Total study cost is reported as $19,737, and median alumni salary is $40,744. Houston residents can weigh the lower listed cost against degree completion outcomes, then explore academic programs, campus services, and aid to decide whether the university fits their personal goals.

University of Houston-Clear Lake is a public university in the Houston area, offering a nearby option for students seeking a campus outside central Houston. It enrolls 8,137 students, reports a 52% graduation rate and a 91% acceptance rate, and lists total study cost at $20,544. Median alumni salary is $51,138. For students living in Houston, TX, commuting may be practical depending on campus location and schedule. Review specific degree pathways, transportation, and aid to assess the overall fit before enrolling.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a specialized institution focused on cancer care, research, and education, making it distinct among Houston-area choices. It enrolls 359 students; graduation and acceptance rates are not available in the supplied data. Reported total study cost is $22,153, and median alumni salary is $80,328. Houston, TX students considering health or biomedical careers should investigate eligible programs, admissions requirements, clinical or research opportunities, and financial support because these vary by program and degree.

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston is a health-focused institution serving students pursuing advanced education in medical and related fields. Enrollment is 4,938; graduation and acceptance rates are not available in the supplied data. Its reported total study cost, $37,422, is the highest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $84,773, also the highest. For Houston, TX residents, proximity may support local study, but compare program-specific costs, prerequisites, and aid before making a decision carefully.