Most
Popular Colleges in Houston in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Houston, TX offers access to a diverse economy, internships, and networking opportunities. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and operations. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or sales representative. Houston-area options include the University of Houston, Texas Southern University, University of St. Thomas, and Houston Christian University. Programs combine theory with practical projects and career preparation.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Houston, TX, helps explain behavior, cognition, development, and mental health. Typical coursework includes statistics, research methods, abnormal psychology, social psychology, and neuroscience. Students gain experience through labs, internships, or community services. Popular options include the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, and the University of St. Thomas. Graduates pursue roles such as case manager, human resources specialist, behavioral health technician, or research assistant; clinical practice requires graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Houston, TX, offers access to technology, energy, healthcare, and aerospace employers. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. Students build skills through labs, projects, internships, and teamwork. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as software developer, systems analyst, data analyst, cybersecurity specialist, or IT consultant. Houston institutions offering computer science degree programs include Rice University, the University of Houston, and Texas Southern University.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Houston, TX, offers training in human development, counseling theories, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, and group counseling. Programs often include supervised practicum or internship experience. Graduates may pursue roles such as school counselor, mental health counselor, substance-use counselor, or career counselor, depending on degree level and Texas licensure requirements. Houston-area options include the University of Houston, Texas Southern University, and Houston Christian University, which offer counseling-related graduate study and preparation for professional practice.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Houston, TX offers pathways from associate to bachelor's and graduate degrees. Courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child care, mental health, and clinical practice. Houston options include UTHealth Houston's Cizik School of Nursing, University of Houston, Houston Christian University, Texas Southern University, and Houston Community College. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, community health agencies, or long-term care settings, supporting patients.

Best Colleges in Houston, TX Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 20,544.0, compared with 41,462.8 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% figure more than twice as high.
• An average of 97.3% of students receive financial aid, compared with 76.8% at top 10% schools; the overall average is higher by 20.5 percentage points.
• The average acceptance rate is 76.8%. Schools receive an average of 9,394.5 applicants, while top 10% schools average 31,791.7 applicants. The median applicant counts are 1,871.0 for men and 2,843.0 for women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,170.67 and 24.0, respectively.
• Average enrollment is 10,000.4 students, with averages of 535.7 enrolled men and 764.11 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 55.8%, compared with 93.2% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 54.5% for men and 56.5% for women.
• Among the institutions, 3 offer associate's degrees, 8 offer bachelor's degrees, 7 offer master's degrees, and 6 offer doctor's degrees. There are 10 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid alongside admissions measures, available degree levels, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top 10% schools have higher median costs and applicant numbers, but also substantially higher average graduation rates; consider which trade-offs best fit your priorities.

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

The average total cost of studying in Houston, TX, is $26,971.33 per year. This is an annual budget estimate, not the full cost of a multi-year degree; your expenses depend on college, program, living choices, and time to graduation. Compare Houston options including the University of Houston, Rice University, and Texas Southern University, and check each school's current costs and financial aid before making your enrollment decision.

• Average tuition and fees: $24,387.33.
• Average room and board: $13,345.38; books and supplies: $1,141.67.
• These category averages may not add up to the reported total because figures can reflect different school samples or calculations.
• Your actual bill may be lower with grants, scholarships, or commuting from home, and higher for housing, specialized programs, or personal expenses. Seeing the numbers upfront can help you make a confident plan and focus on finding a Houston campus and degree that fit your goals.

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

In Houston, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. At the University of Houston, Rice University, or Texas Southern University, your timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, and whether you study full time; Houston Community College can be a starting point before transferring. These routes make a goal feel manageable and local.

Graduation figures suggest many students do finish, though persistence matters: the average graduation rate is 55.8%, compared with 93.2% among the top 10% of schools. The averages are 55.6% for men and 57.1% for women. These numbers can encourage you to compare support, advising, and completion outcomes as you choose.

To finish sooner, ask about AP or dual-enrollment credits, transfer credits, summer classes and heavier loads. Some offer accelerated or online courses. Check credits apply to your major before enrolling; planning helps you finish earlier.

Salary

After graduating from college in Houston, TX, a useful benchmark is a median alumni salary of about $51,700 per year. Graduates of top-10% schools have a higher median of about $69,855 per year - an encouraging possibility as you plan your career.

Your actual earnings will depend on your field, degree, experience, and employer. Houston offers options such as the University of Houston, Rice University, and Texas Southern University, where you can pursue different paths and build skills for the region's job market.

• About $51,700 per year: median alumni salary
• About $69,855 per year: median alumni salary for graduates of top-10% schools

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Houston?

By total student enrollment across its campuses, Houston Community College (HCC) is generally the largest higher-education institution in Houston. HCC is a multi-campus community college system, so its enrollment is not the same as attendance at one campus. If you mean a single university campus, the University of Houston is also among the city's largest.

What is the richest university in Houston?

Rice University is generally considered Houston's wealthiest university when wealth is measured by endowment. Its endowment is worth several billion dollars, substantially more than those of other Houston universities. For students, that financial strength supports research, campus resources, and financial aid, though the aid available to an individual student depends on their circumstances.

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

Rice University is a selective private research university in Houston, TX, offering an intimate academic environment near the city's museums, medical center, and energy employers. With 9,071 enrolled students, it reports a 95% graduation rate and an 8% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $60,314, while median alumni salary is $67,619. Students seeking rigorous academics and close-knit campus life should weigh the substantial price against strong completion outcomes and Houston's broad internship and career opportunities across research, healthcare, and business.

The University of Houston is a large public research institution in Houston, TX, with academic offerings and access to internships across energy, healthcare, engineering, and business. Its 48,950 enrolled students experience a 65% graduation rate and a 74% acceptance rate. Total cost of studying is $21,515, and median alumni salary is $54,525. For students who want a vibrant campus, student resources, and comparatively lower costs, UH can offer a route to a degree while building connections throughout the Houston region.

Chamberlain University-Texas is a career-focused institution in Houston, TX, especially relevant to students pursuing nursing and healthcare education. It enrolls 2,270 students, with a 25% graduation rate and an 84% acceptance rate. Total cost of studying is $20,160, and median alumni salary is $89,977, the highest figure among these five schools. Prospective students should investigate program-specific outcomes, clinical placements, and completion support, while considering Houston's extensive hospital and healthcare network as a setting for gaining experience and exploring employment opportunities.

Houston Christian University is a private Christian university in Houston, TX, providing a faith-informed campus experience and a range of undergraduate study options. It has 4,693 enrolled students, a 49% graduation rate, and an 84% acceptance rate. Total cost of studying is $36,750; median alumni salary is $51,868. Students considering HCU can compare its smaller enrollment with larger city institutions and explore internships, service, and career opportunities throughout Houston, TX. Assess academic programs, campus community, and financial fit before enrolling.

The University of St. Thomas-Texas is a private Catholic university in Houston, TX, offering a smaller campus community and liberal arts education near the city's medical districts. It enrolls 4,333 students, reports a 69% graduation rate and a 90% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $33,784, and median alumni salary is $58,949. Students may value attention and learning while comparing costs, majors, and career services. Studying in Houston can provide access to internships and cultural experiences across a metropolitan area.