Most
Affordable Colleges in Houston in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Houston, TX offers preparation for careers across industries. Typical courses include accounting, economics, finance, marketing, management, business law, and statistics. Students may develop leadership, communication, and analytical skills through projects and internships. Houston options include the University of Houston's Bauer College of Business, Texas Southern University, Houston Christian University, and the University of St. Thomas. Graduates pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations supervisors, or sales managers.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Houston offers opportunities to explore human behavior, mental processes, and community needs. Typical coursework includes research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and counseling foundations. Popular choices include the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, University of St. Thomas, and Houston Christian University. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, or research assistant. Licensed counseling and clinical careers require graduate study and appropriate credentials.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Houston, TX offers access to a growing technology and energy economy. Programs typically cover programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. Students build practical skills through projects, internships, and research. Popular local options include the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, and the University of Houston-Downtown. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, or IT consultants locally.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Houston, TX can prepare students to support people across schools, clinics, and community agencies. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group therapy, and supervised practicum experiences. Graduates may pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, or case managers, depending on degree and licensure. Houston-area options include the University of Houston, Houston Christian University, and Texas Southern University, which offer counseling degrees.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Houston, TX, combines coursework with placements in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, and maternal-child care. Programs range from associate to bachelor's and graduate degrees. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, and long-term-care facilities, or pursue public health and specialty care. Local colleges include UTHealth Houston, the University of Houston, Texas Woman's University, and Houston Community College.

Best Colleges in Houston, TX Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $20,352, compared with $37,086 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $16,734.
• An average of 99.1% of students receive financial aid, compared with 77.67% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 77.67%. Schools receive an average of 10,434.44 applicants, while top-10% schools average 31,867.4 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 2,629, compared with 3,922 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,170.67 on the SAT and 24.0 on the ACT.
• Schools average 9,834.53 enrolled students. Average enrollment is 593.67 men and 764.11 women.
• The average graduation rate is 45.31%, compared with 68.2% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 50.0% for men and 52.0% for women.
• Seven institutions offer associate's degrees, 16 offer bachelor's degrees, 10 offer master's degrees, and seven offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 16 coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside graduation rates, since these figures vary substantially between the overall group and top-10% schools. Also consider the available degree levels, admissions context, test-score averages, enrollment, and school setting to find an option that fits your academic goals and preferences.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Houston, TX, is $23,077.56. For a student comparing options such as the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, or Houston Community College, this figure offers a useful starting point - but your actual bill will vary by school, degree level, residency, and living arrangements.

• Average tuition and fees: $18,857.88.
• Average room and board: $12,874.70.
• Average books and supplies: $1,145.45.

Use these averages to sketch a Houston budget, then ask campuses about financial aid, scholarships, payment plans, and commuter options. Living at home or sharing housing may reduce expenses. Costs at Rice can differ from those at public universities or community colleges, so compare net prices. Also check whether your program adds lab fees, equipment costs, or clinical expenses. A campus financial aid office can estimate your bill after grants and scholarships, helping make your degree plan feel more manageable and achievable.

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

In Houston, TX, the time to earn a degree depends on your program and pace. An associate degree at Houston Community College takes about two years, while a bachelor's degree at the University of Houston, Rice University, or Texas Southern University typically takes four years. Some students need longer if they attend part time, change majors, or balance work and family. After a bachelor's, many master's programs require another one to two years.

Graduation-rate data show that finishing is achievable but not automatic: the average rate is 45.31%, or about 45 in 100 students; among the top 10% of schools, it is 68.2%. Rates average 46.92% for men and 44.77% for women.

You may finish sooner by bringing AP, IB, or dual-credit coursework, transferring credits, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated schedule. Ask advisors to map credits before enrolling, so your work moves you toward graduation without extra semesters.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Houston, TX, can expect a median alumni salary of about $51,868. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $82,566 - a promising benchmark if you're weighing the cost of a degree against your future earning potential.

Your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and employer. Houston offers a wide range of places to study, including the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, and Houston Community College, so you can explore programs that fit your goals and budget. Comparing degrees and career paths can help you find a route toward the kind of income you hope to earn after graduation.

People also ask

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

Costs depend on the school, your Texas residency, course load, and whether you live at home. As a rough tuition-and-fees estimate, a community college may cost a few thousand dollars per year, while an in-state public university can cost around $10,000 or more. Housing, books, transportation, and other expenses add to the total, so check each school's current cost estimate.

What college in Houston has the lowest tuition?

Houston Community College (HCC) is a strong place to start if keeping tuition low is a priority. Community colleges generally cost less than four-year universities, and eligible local students may qualify for resident tuition rates. Your actual bill depends on credits, program, and residency, so compare HCC's current tuition with other nearby community colleges before deciding.

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

Located in Houston, the University of Houston is a large public research university offering broad academic options and access to the city's professional networks. With 48,950 enrolled students, it provides a sizable campus community. Its 65% graduation rate and 74% acceptance rate offer useful context as you compare programs. Estimated total study cost is $21,515, while median alumni salary is $54,525. Houston students can explore internships, healthcare, energy, business, and cultural opportunities nearby while building academic and career connections.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a specialized health sciences institution in Houston, best known for cancer research, treatment, and education. Its enrollment is 359, suggesting a much smaller community than the city's large universities. Published graduation and acceptance rates are unavailable in this dataset. The estimated total study cost is $22,153, and median alumni salary is $80,328. For Houston-based students pursuing relevant health fields, its specialized setting may offer close ties to clinical and research environments.

Texas Southern University is a historically Black public university in Houston with programs across fields such as business, law, education, and the sciences. It enrolls 8,704 students, offering a campus experience within the city. Its 22% graduation rate and 97% acceptance rate are important figures to weigh alongside academic support and program fit. Estimated total cost is $19,737, and median alumni salary is $40,744. Living and studying in Houston can connect students with community organizations, employers, and a vibrant city.

University of Houston-Clear Lake is a public university serving Houston and the surrounding Gulf Coast region. Its campus offers a more compact setting than the main UH campus, with 8,137 enrolled students. The graduation rate is 52%, and acceptance rate is 91%. Estimated total cost of study is $20,544; median alumni salary is $51,138. For students, the location can make commuting and maintaining Houston-area connections practical, while students compare programs, campus resources, and career pathways before choosing a degree.

The University of Houston-Downtown is a public university in the heart of Houston, with an urban campus suited to students seeking city-based study. It enrolls 13,558 students and reports a 33% graduation rate and 90% acceptance rate. Its estimated total cost is $15,978, the lowest among these five institutions, while median alumni salary is $51,531. Downtown access may help Houston residents reach public transit, employers, internships, and cultural destinations. Compare majors, support services, and commuting needs when evaluating its fit.