Best
Value Colleges in Austin in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Austin, TX offers access to a business community and internships. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, data analytics, and entrepreneurship. Austin options include The University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, Concordia University Texas, and Huston-Tillotson University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, sales representative, or financial analyst. Programs often combine classroom learning with projects and networking.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Austin, Texas, offers access to research universities and smaller campuses. Students commonly study cognition, developmental psychology, social behavior, statistics, research methods, and abnormal psychology. Popular options include The University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, and Concordia University Texas. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources specialist, or research assistant. Advanced clinical or counseling careers generally require graduate study, supervised experience, and appropriate licensure.

Computer Science

Studying a computer science program in Austin, TX combines theory and hands-on practice in a technology hub. Students typically take courses in programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, software engineering, and artificial intelligence. Popular choices include The University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, and Austin Community College. Graduates pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, or quality assurance engineers. Internships and Austin's employer network can support career development.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Austin, Texas, typically combines psychology, human development, ethics, counseling theories, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum or internship experience. The University of Texas at Austin and St. Edward's University offer graduate counseling-related programs, with curricula addressing career interests and licensure requirements. Graduates may work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, career counselors, substance-use counselors, or mental health therapists in schools, clinics, hospitals, agencies, and private practice. Licensure requires supervised experience and examinations.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Austin, Texas, can prepare students for compassionate, evidence-based patient care in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical rotations. Graduates may pursue roles as registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, or specialized nurses after further education. Popular local options include The University of Texas at Austin's School of Nursing, Austin Community College's nursing program, and Concordia University Texas in Austin campus.

Best Colleges in Austin, TX Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 31108.0, compared with 48253.6 for schools in the top 10%, a higher median cost among those top-ranked schools.
• An average of 99.2% of students receive financial aid, compared with 59.5% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 59.5%. Schools receive an average of 21076.5 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 52768.5 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 1834.5 for men and 2672.5 for women.
• Average test scores are 1097.67 on the SAT and 22.33 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 20048.8. Average enrollment is 1063.5 men and 1463.5 women.
• The average graduation rate is 50.2%, compared with 78.6% for top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 45.0% for men and 47.0% for women.
• Two institutions offer associate's degrees, five offer bachelor's degrees, seven offer master's degrees, and three offer doctor's degrees.
• There are five coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside graduation rates, admissions selectivity, test scores, and available degree levels. The figures show that top 10% schools have higher median costs and lower average financial aid, but also higher average graduation rates and applicant totals; consider which trade-offs best fit your academic goals and finances.

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

The average total cost of studying for a degree in Austin, TX, is $32,112.60. For a student planning a budget, the reported average tuition and fees are $22,066.20, while room and board average $13,956.40 and books and supplies cost about $861.75. Your personal bill can differ depending on school, housing, course load, and financial aid. Because these averages do not reconcile, use the total as the benchmark.

• Ask whether tuition estimates include mandatory campus fees, and check residency classification.
• Compare commuting or housing options, since room and board is a substantial budget item.
• Look for scholarships, grants, and transfer pathways that may lower your out-of-pocket cost.

UT Austin, Austin Community College, and St. Edward's University give Austin students options to investigate. Compare tuition schedules, mandatory fees, housing arrangements, and aid policies by program; request a personalized estimate before applying so your budget reflects the school and degree path you choose.

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

In Austin, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at Austin Community College takes around two. At The University of Texas at Austin, your timeline may vary with major requirements, course availability, and whether you study full time; working while enrolled can also extend it. A master's degree often adds one to two years.

Depending on your preparation and program, you may finish sooner by:

• Transferring eligible credits, including AP/IB or prior college coursework, after confirming how they apply to your degree.
• Taking summer classes or a course load that fits your schedule, while protecting time for work and rest.
• Asking about accelerated schedules and online sections; availability depends on the college and program.

The average graduation rate is 50.2%, compared with 78.6% among the top 10% of schools. Rates are 50.0% for men and 50.2% for women, showing why persistence and support matter.

Salary

Graduates in Austin, TX, can use about $51,805 as a median alumni salary benchmark. The median for graduates of schools in the top 10% is about $64,300, suggesting stronger outcomes are possible depending on the school and your career path.

As you compare local options such as The University of Texas at Austin and Austin Community College, keep in mind that these figures are broad benchmarks - not guaranteed starting salaries for graduates of either school. Your major, experience, and chosen industry can all affect what you earn.

• Median alumni salary benchmark: approximately $51,805.
• Median alumni salary benchmark for graduates of top 10% schools: approximately $64,300.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Austin?

A practical count is four universities in Austin: The University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, Huston-Tillotson University, and Concordia University Texas. Counts can vary depending on whether a source includes nearby cities, colleges, or specialized institutions, so it's useful to check what each list considers a university.

What is the largest university in Austin?

The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) is the city's largest university by student enrollment. Its size brings a lively campus atmosphere, extensive academic options, and a wide range of student activities. For someone living in Austin, its central campus also makes it a prominent part of the city's cultural and educational life.

How many universities are there in Austin?

Using the same city-based definition, the answer is four. The number is a useful starting point, but Austin-area students may also consider schools in nearby communities. Comparing campus locations and programs can help you decide whether you want an urban Austin experience or are open to commuting farther.

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

The University of Texas at Austin is a large public research university with 55,000 enrolled students. Its 89% graduation rate and 27% acceptance rate make it the most selective option listed. Total cost of studying is $44,908, while median alumni salary is $53,267. For an Austin, TX student, the city's flagship campus offers broad degree choices, research opportunities, and access to local employers and cultural life. Its scale can mean large classes, so compare departments, aid, and housing before enrolling.

Huston-Tillotson University is a small private historically Black university in Austin, TX, with 1,043 enrolled students. Its 34% graduation rate and 39% acceptance rate offer a different profile from the city's large public campus. Total cost of studying is $24,013; median alumni salary is not available in the supplied data. The university emphasizes a close-knit undergraduate experience and a liberal arts foundation. For Austin-area students, its setting can keep community connections nearby; investigate program options, financial aid, and outcomes carefully.

Saint Edward's University is a private Catholic liberal arts university in Austin, TX, enrolling 3,077 students. Its 63% graduation rate and 81% acceptance rate may appeal to students seeking a smaller campus environment. Total cost of studying is $50,484 and median alumni salary is $44,584. Set in Austin, the university offers access to the city's internships, arts, and employers while retaining a campus-centered feel. Compare degree requirements, scholarships, and living expenses to decide whether its cost fits your academic goals.

Concordia University Texas is a private Lutheran university in Austin with 1,397 enrolled students. Its 45% graduation rate and 91% acceptance rate indicate a comparatively accessible admissions profile, while students should review program fit and support services. Total cost of studying is $31,108 and median alumni salary is $69,028. For students living in Austin, TX, the campus offers a smaller university setting within the region. Explore degree choices, aid, and salary outcomes before weighing its costs against your career plans.

Austin Community College District is a public community college system serving Austin, TX, with 39,727 enrolled students. Its total cost of studying, $10,050, is the lowest among these five schools, and median alumni salary is $50,342. The graduation rate is 20%; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. ACC offers an affordable route to associate degrees, workforce training, or transfer preparation. For local students, compare campus locations, transfer agreements, and program requirements to map a practical path toward a bachelor's degree or career.