Most
Affordable Colleges in Austin in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Austin, TX offers access to a dynamic business community and internships. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and data analysis. Students develop communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Popular options include The University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, Huston-Tillotson University, Concordia University Texas, and Austin Community College, which offers business pathways. Graduates pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, or operations manager.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Austin, Texas, combines the study of behavior with opportunities to explore a vibrant city. Typical coursework includes statistics, research methods, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Students can pursue psychology degrees at The University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, or Concordia University Texas. Graduates commonly work in case management, human resources, community outreach, behavioral health support, or research assistance; clinical counseling roles generally require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Austin, TX offers access to a thriving technology community. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build problem-solving skills through projects, labs, and internships with local employers. Popular Austin colleges offering computer science degrees include the University of Texas at Austin, Austin Community College, and St. Edward's University. Graduates commonly pursue software developer, systems analyst, data scientist, or cybersecurity roles.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Austin, TX, can prepare you to support individuals, couples, and families. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural counseling, and supervised practicum. The University of Texas at Austin and St. Edward's University offer graduate study in counseling-related fields. Graduates commonly work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, or mental-health clinicians, depending on degree level, licensure, and employer requirements. Programs build listening, assessment, and intervention skills through practice.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Austin, Texas, offers pathways from associate to bachelor's degrees. Programs typically include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment, and supervised clinical practice. Students develop patient-care, communication, and evidence-based decision-making skills across diverse settings. Popular options include the University of Texas at Austin, Austin Community College, and Concordia University Texas. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care, or work in public health, school nursing, and care coordination.

Best Colleges in Austin, TX Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 31,108.0, compared with 48,253.6 at schools in the top 10%, making the overall group less costly by this measure.
• An average of 99.2% of students receive financial aid, compared with 59.5% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 59.5%. Schools receive an average of 21,076.5 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 52,768.5 applicants. The median number of applicants is 1,834.5 men and 2,672.5 women.
• Average test scores are 1,097.67 on the SAT and 22.33 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 20,048.8. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 1,063.5 and 1,463.5, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 50.2%, compared with 78.6% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 45.0% for men and 47.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 2 offer associate's degrees, 5 offer bachelor's degrees, 4 offer master's degrees, and 3 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 5 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare the cost of attendance and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that lower median costs and higher average financial-aid availability in the overall group do not necessarily coincide with the higher applicant counts and graduation rates reported for the top 10% of schools, so weigh these factors against your own priorities.

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

The average total cost of studying in Austin, TX, is $32,112.60. Treat this as a planning benchmark rather than the price of an entire degree: your actual total depends on the college, program, residency status, and how many years you attend. At options such as The University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, and Austin Community College, comparing each school's published cost of attendance can help you build a realistic budget.

Other average figures provide context for planning your semester expenses:

• Tuition and fees: $22,066.20
• Room and board: $13,956.40
• Books and supplies: $861.75

These figures may describe separate cost measures, so do not add them as one verified bill. Your budget may differ if you live at home, share housing, receive aid, or work part time. Check whether each campus estimate includes transportation and personal expenses. Comparing schools can make pursuing an Austin degree feel more manageable and exciting.

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

In Austin, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study; an associate degree at Austin Community College (ACC) commonly takes about two. At UT Austin, your timeline may extend if you attend part-time, change majors, or need prerequisite courses. A master's degree often adds one to two years after a bachelor's. Your pace depends on completed credits and course availability.

You may finish faster by bringing AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible coursework to UT Austin or ACC, taking summer classes, choosing an accelerated program, and meeting an adviser early to map required courses.

Graduation rates offer perspective: the average is 50.2%, compared with 78.6% among the top 10% of schools. Rates are 50.0% for men and 50.2% for women. Completion isn't automatic, so use advising, tutoring, and course planning to stay on track and feel confident about reaching your goal; ask about transfer credits, too.

Salary

Graduates in Austin, TX, can expect a median alumni salary of about $51,805. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $64,300. These figures offer a helpful benchmark as you compare programs, though your own earnings will depend on your field, degree level, experience, and career path.

Austin offers a range of college options, including The University of Texas at Austin, St. Edward's University, and Austin Community College. Your choice of school and program can shape your opportunities in the area, where graduates may pursue careers across fields such as technology, business, healthcare, and education. With the right fit, earning a degree in Austin can be an encouraging step toward your career and income goals.

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Austin?

For a Texas resident, a rough planning estimate for tuition and required fees at a public four-year college in Austin is about $8,000-$15,000 per year. Private colleges can cost considerably more. Housing, food, books, transportation, and personal expenses are additional, so your total budget depends on where you live and your program.

What college in Austin has the lowest tuition?

Austin Community College (ACC) is generally among the lowest-cost options for local students. Its district tuition is charged per credit hour, so the bill depends on how many classes you take; fees and course materials are extra. Confirm your residency classification and current rates with ACC, since these can change your final cost.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Austin, TX Ranking in 2026-2027

The University of Texas at Austin is a large public research university offering students a wide range of academic paths and campus opportunities. Its 55,000 enrolled students, 89% graduation rate, and 27% acceptance rate indicate a sizable, selective community. Listed total study cost is $44,908, while median alumni salary is $53,267. For an Austin, Texas student, UT offers the chance to study in the city's central university setting, with extensive courses, student organizations, and access to internships and cultural life.

Huston-Tillotson University is a private historically Black university in Austin, providing a smaller-campus alternative to the city's larger institutions. It enrolls 1,043 students and reports a 34% graduation rate and 39% acceptance rate. Its listed total cost is $24,013; median alumni salary data is unavailable. Austin students seeking a close-knit setting may value studying near the city's vibrant cultural and professional communities. Consider comparing its programs, support services, and financial aid with your intended degree and budget before applying there.

Austin Community College District is a college network serving Austin and communities, with options suited to students changing careers or preparing to transfer. It enrolls 39,727 students, has a 20% graduation rate, and lists a total cost of $10,050; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. Median alumni salary is $50,342. It offers an affordable route toward a degree, while students should verify program-specific tuition and transfer requirements. For Austin residents, campuses can ease commuting and help balance study with jobs and family.

Concordia University Texas is a private university in Austin with a faith-informed academic environment and programs for undergraduate and graduate study. Its 1,397 students, 45% graduation rate, and 91% acceptance rate offer one snapshot of the student experience. The listed total cost is $31,108, and median alumni salary is $69,028. Located in Austin, it may suit students who prefer a smaller university setting while remaining connected to the city. Compare degree offerings, campus resources, and costs with your own priorities.

Saint Edward's University is a private Catholic liberal arts university in Austin, known for a campus setting on the city's south side. It enrolls 3,077 students, with a 63% graduation rate and an 81% acceptance rate. Its listed total cost is $50,484, and median alumni salary is $44,584. For Austin students, the university combines a small student body with access to internships, arts, and community life. Review its programs and financial aid to judge whether the cost fits your plans.