Best
Colleges in Houston in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Houston, TX, can prepare you to manage organizations across industries, including energy, healthcare, and logistics. Courses typically cover accounting, marketing, finance, economics, management, business law, and data analytics. Popular Houston options include the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, and the University of Houston-Downtown. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, operations supervisor, human resources specialist, project coordinator, or sales manager, with opportunities shaped by experience.

Psychology

Studying a psychology program in Houston, Texas offers coursework in research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, cognition, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students may also explore neuroscience, counseling, and cultural influences on mental health. Houston-area options include the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, and Houston Christian University. Depending on degree level and experience, graduates pursue roles such as case manager, research assistant, human resources specialist, behavioral health technician, or continue toward graduate training.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Houston, TX, combines programming, mathematics, and practical problem-solving. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students may build projects through internships and collaborate with Houston's technology, healthcare, energy, and aerospace industries. Popular local options include Rice University, University of Houston, and Texas Southern University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, web developers, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, or database administrators.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Houston, Texas, combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice. Students may also complete supervised fieldwork in schools, clinics, or community agencies. Houston-area options include the University of Houston, Texas Southern University, and Houston Christian University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, case managers, or college advisers. Licensure requirements vary by role and may require graduate study.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Houston combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child care, and mental health nursing. Students build communication, patient safety, and evidence-based care skills. Houston options include UTHealth Houston's Cizik School of Nursing, Texas Southern University, Houston Community College, and Texas Woman's University's Houston campus. Graduates pursue roles such as registered nurse, nurse educator, or community-health nurse.

Best Colleges in Houston, TX Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 20352.0, compared with 37086.0 for schools in the top 10%, indicating a substantially higher median cost among the top-ranked group.
• An average of 98.5% of students receive financial aid, compared with 76.8% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 76.8%. Schools receive an average of 9394.5 applicants, while top-10% schools average 31791.7 applicants. The median numbers of male and female applicants are 1871.0 and 2843.0, respectively.
• Average test scores are 1170.67 for the SAT and 24.0 for the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 9042.37; the averages for enrolled men and women are 535.7 and 764.11, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 48.6%, compared with 83.4% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 50.0% for men and 52.0% for women.
• By degree level, 9 institutions offer associate's degrees, 17 offer bachelor's degrees, 12 offer master's degrees, and 8 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 18 coeducational schools. The number of schools for men is 0, and the number of schools for women is 0.
• When choosing a college, potential students should weigh cost and financial aid alongside graduation outcomes, admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, and the degree levels offered. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and average applicant numbers, but also higher average graduation rates; comparing these factors can help students identify schools that fit their academic goals and financial circumstances.

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

The average reported cost of studying for a degree in Houston, TX, is $23,077.56. For you, that figure offers a useful starting point, but your actual bill will depend on the college, program, housing choice, and financial aid. Houston students can explore options such as the University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University, and the University of Houston-Downtown, then compare each school's current cost of attendance.

Reported average expenses are:

• Tuition and fees: $18,857.88.
• Room and board: $12,874.70.
• Books and supplies: $1,145.45.

Because these categories exceed the total, use them as reference figures, not an itemized budget; check school cost breakdowns. At the University of Houston, UH-Downtown, Texas Southern, or Rice, program and living arrangement can change what you pay. Commuting, applying for scholarships, and asking financial-aid staff may make options feel manageable. Compare net prices after grants - not just sticker prices - before choosing your campus.

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

In Houston, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study; an associate degree at Houston Community College often takes about two. At the University of Houston or Rice University, your timeline depends on major requirements, course availability, transfer credits, and whether you study part time. The supplied graduation-rate average is 48.6%, compared with 83.4% for the top 10% of schools, showing that completion outcomes can vary substantially. The averages are 50.27% for men and 48.53% for women. These figures provide broad context and should not be read as Houston-specific rates.

To graduate faster, consider:

• Transfer college or exam credits.
• Take summer classes or heavier loads.
• Choose accelerated terms and map courses early.
• Ask HCC and UH about transfer pathways and credit for prior learning.

An advisor can confirm which credits count, helping you save time, stay on track, and feel confident about your plan.

Salary

College graduates in Houston, TX, have a median alumni salary of about $51,531. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $81,830 - a promising benchmark if you're aiming for a strong post-graduation outcome.

Your earnings will depend on your major, experience, and career path. Students at Houston institutions such as the University of Houston, Rice University, and Texas Southern University can explore programs aligned with the city's range of industries, then build experience through internships and local employers while studying.

People also ask

How many colleges are in Houston?

There isn't one official number, because counts vary depending on whether you include community-college campuses, medical schools, and institutions in the greater Houston area. The city has at least a dozen major colleges and universities, as well as multiple community-college locations. That variety gives students a wide range of programs and campus experiences to explore.

What is the main college in Houston?

If you mean the city's best-known large public university, the University of Houston is a strong answer. Its central Houston campus offers a broad selection of undergraduate and graduate programs, and its student community adds a lively feel to campus. Houston also has prominent institutions such as Rice University and Texas Southern University, each with its own character.

Where do college students go in Houston?

Students spend time around their campuses, but popular options for getting out and exploring include Hermann Park, the Museum District, Buffalo Bayou Park, and the food and entertainment areas of Midtown and Montrose. What's nearby depends on where you study and what you enjoy: Houston offers relaxed green spaces, cultural outings, cafés, live music, and plenty of places to eat with friends.

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

Rice University offers Houston students a selective, research-focused campus experience with a small community of 9,071 enrolled students. Its 8% acceptance rate and 95% graduation rate indicate a demanding admissions process and strong completion outcomes. The total study cost is $60,314, while median alumni salary is $67,619. Located in Houston, Rice lets students study in a major Texas city while accessing campus resources and urban opportunities. Compare financial aid and program costs before deciding whether its price fits your plans.

The University of Houston is a large public university suited to students seeking broad academic options and an urban campus. It enrolls 48,950 students, with a 74% acceptance rate and 65% graduation rate. Its total cost of study is $21,515, and median alumni salary is $54,525. For Houston, TX residents, studying locally can make commuting and access to the city's employers practical considerations. Explore majors, housing, and financial aid, since individual expenses and outcomes can vary by program and student.

Texas Southern University is a public historically Black university in Houston, offering students a campus rooted in the city's educational and cultural life. It enrolls 8,704 students; its acceptance rate is 97%, while its graduation rate is 22%. The total cost of study is $19,737, and median alumni salary is $40,744. Houston, TX students may value the chance to pursue a degree close to home. Review departments, student support, and completion resources when weighing affordability against academic fit and goals.

University of Houston-Clear Lake is a public university serving students in the Houston area, with a campus in the Clear Lake community. It enrolls 8,137 students and reports a 91% acceptance rate and 52% graduation rate. Its total study cost is $20,544, and median alumni salary is $51,138. For Houston, TX students, the location offers a nearby option beyond central Houston, with access to the region's academic and professional networks. Check degree offerings, commute times, and aid to assess fit.

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is a Houston institution focused on cancer care, research, and education, making it distinct from an undergraduate campus. It enrolls 359 students; acceptance and graduation rates are unavailable in the data. The total cost of study is $22,153, and median alumni salary is $80,328. Houston, TX residents interested in advanced health or biomedical study may find its focused setting relevant. Confirm programs, admissions requirements, and costs, as offerings differ from universities.