Best
Value Colleges in Texas in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Texas gives students preparation for managing organizations across industries. Coursework typically includes accounting, finance, marketing, economics, management, business law, analytics, and entrepreneurship. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or sales representative. Popular Texas options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University in College Station, the University of Houston, Baylor University, and Texas Tech University. Programs offer internships and concentrations.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Texas offers options from research universities to regional colleges. Typical coursework includes developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, statistics, research methods, abnormal psychology, and counseling. Popular choices include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Rice University, and the University of Houston. A bachelor's degree can support careers in human resources, social services, case management, market research, or behavioral health support. Advanced study is generally needed for licensed clinical practice.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Texas offers access to a growing technology sector and diverse academic programs. Typical coursework includes programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students develop problem-solving skills through projects, internships, and research. Popular Texas colleges include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Rice University, and the University of Houston. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, or IT consultants.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Texas combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, group counseling, and research methods. Many programs include supervised practicum and internship experience. Graduates may pursue roles such as licensed professional counselor, school counselor, substance use counselor, or mental health counselor, subject to state licensure requirements. Popular Texas choices also include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Baylor University, and the University of North Texas.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Texas prepares students to deliver patient care across hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Coursework commonly includes anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, maternity care, mental-health nursing, and clinical practice. Popular options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Graduates may work as registered nurses in emergency departments, intensive-care units, schools, or public-health agencies.

Best Colleges in Texas Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 16,899.0, compared with 36,951.6 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 20,052.6.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid overall, compared with 74.67% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 74.67%. Schools receive an average of 9,598.83 applicants, while those in the top 10% average 29,827.8 applicants. The median number of applicants is 1,946.0 for men and 2,710.0 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,105.95 on the SAT and 22.76 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 10,475.45; the averages for enrolled men and women are 696.35 and 914.78, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 45.68%, compared with 75.2% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 39.0% for men and 49.0% for women.
• There are 79 institutions offering associate's degrees, 140 offering bachelor's degrees, 106 offering master's degrees, and 61 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 138 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, and graduation outcomes. Also consider the degree level and campus setting that suit your goals, and weigh overall averages against the figures for top-10% schools.

How much does studying at a college in Texas cost?

For a Texas student, the reported average total cost of studying is $19,977.62. Treat this as a useful planning benchmark, not a guaranteed price for completing an entire degree: actual costs depend on the college, program, and how long you attend.

The reported averages for common expenses are:

• Tuition and fees: $17,646.90
• Room and board: $11,985.75
• Books and supplies: $1,241.94

These figures are separate averages and should not be added together as though they describe one student's bill. For a Texas comparison, look at the cost of attendance for your campus and program. Students considering the University of Texas at Austin or Texas A&M University can compare tuition, housing, and book expenses, and check available aid and scholarships. Texas community colleges may also offer a more affordable starting point before transferring, depending on your pathway. A budget can make pursuing a degree feel manageable and exciting.

How long does it take to finish college in Texas?

Most full-time students in Texas take about four years to complete a bachelor's degree, while an associate degree commonly takes two; part-time study, changing majors, or balancing work and family can extend that timeline. At universities such as UT Austin and Texas A&M, your pace depends on credits completed each semester and course availability. The figures show that completing a degree is achievable but not automatic: the average graduation rate is 45.68%, rising to 75.2% among the top 10% of schools. Average rates are 42.54% for men and 48.67% for women.

You may be able to finish faster through:

• Bring in eligible AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits, after confirming how your Texas college accepts them.
• Start at a Texas community college, then transfer approved credits toward a bachelor's at a university.
• Take summer or winter courses and map prerequisites with an adviser to avoid waiting another term for classes.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Texas earn a median alumni salary of $46,297. At schools in the top 10%, the median rises to $68,887.10 - a promising benchmark if you're aiming for a higher-earning career.

Your own earnings can vary depending on your major, experience, location, and career path. Popular Texas schools such as The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, the University of Houston, and Texas Tech University offer different programs and opportunities, so it's worth comparing outcomes for the specific field you want to enter.

• Overall median alumni salary: $46,297
• Median at top 10% of schools: $68,887.10

People also ask

What college in Texas has the lowest tuition?

There isn't one college that is always the lowest-cost choice: tuition depends on residency, course load, fees, and whether you qualify for your local community-college district rate. Community colleges are generally among Texas's most affordable options, and South Texas College is one school worth comparing. Check the current tuition-and-fees estimate for your specific situation.

What are Tier 1 schools in Texas?

"Tier 1" is an informal label that can mean different things, often referring to universities with substantial research activity. Schools commonly described as Texas Tier One research universities include:

• Rice University
• Texas A&M University
• Texas Tech University
• University of Houston
• University of North Texas
• The University of Texas at Austin
• The University of Texas at Arlington
• The University of Texas at Dallas
• The University of Texas at El Paso

Lists can differ depending on the classification system and the year. If "Tier 1" matters for your decision, check which definition a particular college, scholarship, or ranking is using.

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

The University of Texas at Austin is a major public university in the state capital, offering a broad campus experience for students who want to study in Texas. It enrolls 55,000 students, with an 89% graduation rate and 27% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $44,908, while median alumni salary is $53,267. For a Texas-based student, Austin provides an in-state setting and access to the state's civic, cultural, and professional hub; compare program costs and outcomes before applying.

Rice University is a private research university in Houston, known for a close-knit campus and strong academic focus. It enrolls 9,071 students; its 95% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, while its acceptance rate is 8%. The listed total cost of studying is $60,314, and median alumni salary is $67,619. For a Texas student seeking a smaller university in a major city, Rice offers a Houston location, but its selectivity and cost merit careful planning before applying.

Southwestern University is a small liberal arts university in Georgetown, north of Austin, with a more intimate campus scale than Texas's largest schools. It enrolls 1,431 students, reports a 73% graduation rate, and admits 43% of applicants. Its listed total study cost is $53,288, and median alumni salary is $41,517. For a Texas-based student, Georgetown offers a quieter college-town setting within reach of Austin; consider whether its smaller environment and reported outcomes fit your academic and career plans and budget.

The University of Houston is a large public university in one of Texas's biggest metropolitan areas, appealing to students who want an urban campus. It enrolls 48,950 students, with a 65% graduation rate and 74% acceptance rate. The listed total cost of studying is $21,515, the lowest among these five institutions, and median alumni salary is $54,525. For Texas residents, Houston's location can bring city life close to campus; check your residency-based charges and intended program details before making decisions.

The King's University is a small private Christian university in Southlake, giving Texas students a close community in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Enrollment is 540, the graduation rate is 47%, and the acceptance rate is 61%. Its listed total cost of studying is $11,400, the lowest in this group, while median alumni salary is $41,730. If you prefer a faith-centered, smaller campus, compare its programs, student support, and career pathways, and confirm costs for your own circumstances carefully before enrolling.