Most
Popular Colleges in Dallas in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Dallas, TX offers access to programs at Southern Methodist University, Dallas Baptist University, and the University of North Texas at Dallas. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, business law, economics, statistics, and organizational behavior. Many programs also emphasize communication, data analysis, entrepreneurship, and internships with local employers. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, sales representative, or management trainee across Dallas's economy.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Dallas, Texas offers varied local undergraduate programs. Typical coursework includes research methods, statistics, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Programs build skills in assessment, communication, and understanding human behavior. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources specialist, or research assistant; clinical and counseling positions generally require advanced degrees and licensure. Popular Dallas-based options include Southern Methodist University, Dallas Baptist University, and UNT Dallas.

Computer Science

Studying a computer science program in Dallas, TX offers a foundation in computing theory and practical problem-solving. Students typically take courses in programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, software engineering, and cybersecurity. Popular local options include Southern Methodist University, the University of North Texas at Dallas, and Dallas Baptist University. Graduates may pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, or database administrators. Internships and projects help students build experience early.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Dallas, Texas, typically combines psychology, counseling theory, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum experience. Students may pursue bachelor's preparation or graduate degrees leading toward licensure, depending on career goals. Popular options include Southern Methodist University and Dallas Baptist University, both offering counseling-related graduate study. Graduates commonly work as professional counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, career counselors, or mental health clinicians in schools, clinics, hospitals, and private practice.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Dallas, TX combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, pediatrics, mental health, and medical-surgical nursing. Dallas options include Baylor University's Louise Herrington School of Nursing, Texas Woman's University's Dallas campus, and Dallas College. Graduates may become registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, patient care technicians, or public health nurses, depending on degree level, licensure, and experience requirements.

Best Colleges in Dallas, TX Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $20,500, compared with $46,804 at schools in the top 10%.
• On average, 100% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 71.14% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 71.14%. Schools receive an average of 4,328.14 applicants, while schools in the top 10% receive an average of 9,795.8. The median numbers of male and female applicants are 1,146 and 1,942, respectively.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,138.75 and 24.67, respectively.
• Schools enroll an average of 3,156.57 students, including averages of 193.86 men and 247.43 women.
• The average graduation rate is 48.17%, compared with 70.5% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 41.5% for men and 42.5% for women.
• Three institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, six offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• Seven schools are coeducational; zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions measures such as acceptance rates and applicant numbers. Also consider graduation outcomes, available degree levels, and how enrollment and student composition fit your needs; the figures show that the top 10% of schools have higher median costs but also higher average graduation rates.

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

The reported average total cost of studying in Dallas, TX, is $26,421.43, a useful planning benchmark for local students considering a degree. This figure is an average, not a guaranteed bill: what you pay can vary with your college, program, housing choice, and how long you study.

• Average tuition and fees are $28,059.86.
• Average room and board: $12,401.33.
• Average books and supplies: $1,315.
• These reported categories may not add up to the reported total.

For a Dallas-area student, schools such as UT Dallas, SMU, UNT Dallas, and Dallas College offer different pathways, and actual charges vary by institution and program. Compare each school's tuition, fees, housing, and program length before enrolling. Living with family, commuting, or receiving grants or scholarships may lower your out-of-pocket cost; campus housing or a longer program may raise it. These averages give you a practical starting point, and planning ahead can make your degree goal feel manageable.

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

In Dallas, TX, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. Your timeline can vary with major requirements, course availability, work, and family responsibilities; students at UT Dallas, Southern Methodist University (SMU), UNT Dallas, or Dallas College should check each program's degree map and advising options. There are practical ways to finish sooner without sacrificing support:

• Bring in eligible AP, IB, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits to reduce remaining coursework.
• Take summer or winter-term classes and plan a manageable full course load with an adviser.
• Ask about accelerated schedules, online sections, and credit for prior learning where available.

Graduation rates offer a reality check: the average is 48.17%, versus 70.5% among the top 10% of schools. Rates average 46.17% for men and 48.67% for women. With advising and a sustainable course load, you can feel encouraged while working toward a degree.

Salary

College graduates in Dallas, TX, can expect a median alumni salary of about $44,685. For graduates of schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $54,154. These figures offer a useful benchmark, though your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and chosen employer.

Dallas offers a range of college options, including UT Dallas, Southern Methodist University, UNT Dallas, and Dallas College. Comparing programs and career services can help you find a path that fits your goals and make the most of the region's opportunities.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Dallas?

Dallas College is generally the best answer if "most attended" means the institution serving the most students in the Dallas area. It is a public community college system with several campuses, rather than a single campus, and serves a large student population each year. Its broad range of programs can make it an accessible starting point for local students.

What is the richest university in Dallas?

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is generally considered Dallas's wealthiest university when wealth is measured by endowment. Its endowment is valued in the billions of dollars, though figures change over time and depend on the reporting year. A substantial endowment supports scholarships, academic programs, research, and campus resources; it does not mean every student's tuition is automatically covered.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in Dallas, TX Ranking in 2026-2027

Southern Methodist University offers a Dallas-area option for students seeking a private university experience in University Park, close to the city's cultural and professional opportunities. It enrolls 12,544 students, with an 84% graduation rate and 63% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $59,500, while median alumni salary is $61,050. For a student based in Dallas, SMU combines access to a campus community with strong completion and earnings figures, though its cost is the highest among these five schools.

The University of North Texas at Dallas is a public university serving students in southern Dallas, making it a choice for commuters and residents. Its enrollment is 3,732, graduation rate 42%, and acceptance rate 84%. Total study cost is listed as $20,139, with median alumni salary of $49,556. For Dallas students comparing affordability and access, these figures offer a starting point; the university's location can also keep study connected to communities, employers, and the life of Dallas, Texas.

Dallas Baptist University is a Christian university in the Dallas area, offering students an environment shaped by faith alongside college study. It enrolls 4,186 students and reports a 57% graduation rate and an 89% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $38,340, and median alumni salary is $46,195. For someone pursuing a degree while living in Dallas, DBU provides a nearby campus option with a midrange cost among these schools and outcomes to weigh against personal academic, career, and spiritual priorities.

Dallas Christian College is a small Christian college in Dallas, suited to students who may value a close-knit setting and faith-centered education. Its enrollment is 255, with a 29% graduation rate and a 22% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $20,500, and median alumni salary is $44,685. For a Dallas-based student, the college offers a nearby, specialized campus choice; consider its smaller student body and reported outcomes alongside program availability, learning preferences, and long-term career goals when deciding.

Paul Quinn College is a historically Black college in southern Dallas and proudly serves its community locally. It enrolls 628 students; its graduation rate is 27%, and its acceptance rate is 40%. Total study cost is listed at $8,898, while median alumni salary is $38,435. For Dallas students seeking a degree, its reported cost is the lowest among these five colleges. Compare that affordability with completion and earnings data, academic offerings, and the campus environment that best fits your goals.