Most
Popular Colleges in Texas in 2027

Business Administration

Studying a business administration program in Texas combines management skills with knowledge. Students take courses in accounting, finance, marketing, economics, business law, human resources, operations, and organizational behavior. Popular options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, the University of Houston, and Baylor University. Graduates pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, sales manager, or entrepreneur. Internships and concentrations help students align studies with career goals.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Texas offers coursework in research methods and statistics alongside developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology. Students may also explore personality, behavioral neuroscience, and counseling. Popular options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Rice University, and the University of Houston. Graduates with a bachelor's degree often pursue roles in human resources, case management, market research, or behavioral support. Some continue to graduate study for licensed clinical or counseling careers.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Texas combines programming fundamentals with opportunities across a technology economy. Typical coursework includes algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates pursue roles as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, systems engineers, or IT consultants. Options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Rice University, the University of Houston, and the University of Texas at Dallas, where students can connect with local employers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Texas combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, multicultural practice, assessment, group counseling, and career guidance. Students also complete supervised clinical experiences to build skills. Graduates may pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, career counselors, or mental health therapists, depending on degree level and licensure requirements. Popular Texas options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, the University of North Texas, and Baylor University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Texas combines classroom learning, simulation, and clinical placements in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care, or public health and advanced practice. Popular Texas options include the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, and UT Health San Antonio.

Best Colleges in Texas Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $21,515, compared with $48,376.80 at schools in the top 10%, a substantially higher median cost at those schools.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100% of students across the colleges, compared with 74.67% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 74.67%. Colleges receive an average of 9,954.35 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 31,716 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 2,143, compared with 2,886 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,108.24 on the SAT and 22.83 on the ACT.
• Colleges average 10,654.56 enrolled students, including averages of 696.35 men and 914.78 women.
• The average graduation rate is 52.51%, while the average for top 10% schools is 82.4%. The median graduation rate is 45% for men and 54% for women.
• There are 29 institutions offering associate's degrees, 79 offering bachelor's degrees, 72 offering master's degrees, and 48 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 79 coeducational schools, with no schools for men and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid to understand likely affordability, and consider acceptance rates, applicant numbers, test scores, enrollment, graduation rates, degree offerings, and school type. Top 10% schools have higher median costs and applicant numbers, as well as higher average graduation rates, so weigh those differences against your academic goals and financial circumstances.

How much does studying at a college in Texas cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Texas is $25,848.09. For a prospective student, treat this as a useful benchmark - not a guaranteed full-degree price: the figures do not specify how many years a degree takes, and costs vary by campus, program, residency status, and living choices. At popular public universities such as The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and the University of Houston, compare each program's current tuition and required fees before budgeting.

Provided averages list tuition and fees at $22,873.21, room and board at $12,480.08, and books and supplies at $1,194.60. These are separate reported averages and do not add up to the stated total, so avoid treating them as one itemized bill. Your actual expenses may be lower if you live at home or use grants, scholarships, and in-state tuition eligibility; housing, course materials, and fees can also raise your bill. Planning ahead helps.

How long does it take to finish college in Texas?

In Texas, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree often takes two. Your timeline can stretch if you attend part-time, change majors, or need to balance work and family - but a flexible plan can keep college achievable.

Across the reported Texas data, the average graduation rate is 52.51%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 82.4%. Rates are 48.63% for men and 56.15% for women, underscoring that support and fit matter alongside your schedule.

At UT Austin, Texas A&M, or the University of Houston, ask advisers about:

• Using AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits earned in high school.
• Taking summer classes or heavier course loads, if manageable.
• Transferring eligible credits or choosing an accelerated program.

These options shorten your timeline, save tuition, and make progress feel rewarding; confirm course sequencing and credit-transfer rules before enrolling to ensure your route meets degree requirements.

Salary

After graduating from college in Texas, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $46,453. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median rises to about $60,210 - a promising benchmark as you consider where to study and what career to pursue.

Texas offers many well-known options, including The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and Rice University. Your own earning potential will depend on factors such as your field, experience, and location, so compare programs with your career goals in mind.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Texas?

By total student enrollment, Texas A&M University in College Station is generally the largest single-campus university in Texas. Its student body is around 80,000, though enrollment changes each year. That scale brings a lively campus atmosphere, lots of student organizations, and a broad range of academic and social opportunities.

What is the most popular school in Texas?

"Most popular" depends on what you mean: applications, enrollment, or public recognition can point to different schools. If you mean the school with the largest student community, Texas A&M is a strong answer. If you mean a school many Texans aspire to attend, the University of Texas at Austin is also a leading choice.

What is the most famous university in Texas?

There is no official measure of fame, but the University of Texas at Austin is arguably Texas's best-known university nationally and internationally. Its academic reputation, prominent research programs, and instantly recognizable Longhorn identity give it wide visibility. For students, that name recognition can make the campus feel connected to opportunities well beyond Texas.

What is the hardest university to get into in Texas?

Rice University in Houston is generally among the hardest Texas universities to enter, with a highly selective admissions process and a small incoming class. Admission rates vary from year to year, so no single figure tells the whole story. If Rice is your goal, strong grades, thoughtful essays, and a distinctive application can help you present your best self.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in Texas Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Houston, Rice University offers Texas students a highly selective, research-focused education in a compact campus setting. Its 9,071 enrolled students and 95% graduation rate suggest strong academic support and completion outcomes, while its 8% acceptance rate makes admission especially competitive. The listed total study cost is $60,314, so applicants should compare aid packages and living expenses. Rice graduates report a median alumni salary of $67,619. Its strengths include engineering, science, architecture, and close-knit residential colleges for student life.

Trinity University, a private liberal arts university in San Antonio, gives Texas students a smaller-campus alternative with broad undergraduate study and personal faculty engagement. It enrolls 2,588 students, posts an 84% graduation rate, and admits 26% of applicants. The listed total cost is $53,352, making financial aid and housing costs important to review. Its median alumni salary is $47,147. Students can explore disciplines across the arts, sciences, business, and humanities while enjoying San Antonio's cultural and professional opportunities near campus.

The University of Texas at Austin is a large public research university and a flagship choice for students seeking a broad range of programs in Texas's capital. Its 55,000 students, 89% graduation rate, and 27% acceptance rate offer scale alongside competitive admission. The listed total study cost is $44,908, and median alumni salary is $53,267. Students benefit from extensive research, student organizations, and Austin's technology, government, and arts communities, though the size of campus may require initiative to find support.

LeTourneau University in Longview is a private Christian university known for engineering, aviation, and applied technical programs, offering Texas students a career-oriented campus experience. It enrolls 3,010 students, with a 59% graduation rate and 38% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost is $36,340, while median alumni salary is $56,424. Prospective students can weigh its specialized academic focus and smaller community against their preferred majors, faith environment, and the costs of studying and living in East Texas for their goals.

Huston-Tillotson University, a historically Black university in Austin, offers Texas students a small, mission-centered setting with close community connections. It enrolls 1,043 students, has a 34% graduation rate, and reports a 39% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $24,013, the lowest among these five schools. Median alumni salary data is unavailable, so students should seek career-outcome details directly. Its liberal arts and professional programs, Austin location, and affordability may appeal to students seeking an accessible urban campus experience.