Many of the best colleges in Texas offer various degree programs ranging from Philosophy to Medical Science. With the ability to attend one of the top-ranked schools in the state, finding gainful employment post-graduation will be simpler. As such a large state, you can guarantee there are dozens of colleges in Texas looking for prospective students.
Accredited Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Whether you want to become a marine biologist or an agriculturist, the options are endless. We’ll explore ten of the best colleges in Texas, listed from least to most costly per year. We also ranked the schools based on the following criteria:
- An average annual cost of under $29,000
- An expected median annual salary starting at $21,000
- Accredited programs recognized by reputable organizations
Best Colleges in Texas
1. College of Biblical Studies – Houston
4 Year; Houston, TX
Average Annual Cost: $5,657
The College of Biblical Studies – Houston is a fantastic solution for students looking for an affordable, accessible, and accredited education. At this school, there’s a combination of in-person and online courses and fully online programs. When it comes to establishing a flexible schedule, this is one of the top schools in Texas to consider.
The central premise of the school is to equip students with a well-rounded education with a strong basis in religion. Upon graduation, students will have the necessary tools to help them positively impact underserved communities worldwide.
With a 45% graduation rate, almost the majority of students graduate in their respective fields. On average, you can expect to earn between $21,052 and $28,309 upon graduation in your desired career.
2. The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
4 Year; Houston, TX
Average Annual Cost: $5,890
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has an impressive graduation rate of 89%. As a student, you’ll be enrolled in the School of Health Professions, which encompasses an assortment of careers. Also, the MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School is ideal for those interested in a post-graduate degree.
While attending the School of Health Professions, students can obtain a Bachelor of Science Degree in multiple fields, including:
- Molecular Genetic Technology
- Histotechnology
- Clinical Laboratory Science
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Radiation Therapy
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Cytogenetictechnology
Graduates working towards a Master of Science Degree can find post-graduate studies for the following two programs:
- Radiologic Sciences
- Diagnostic Genetics & Genomics
One of the features that make The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center unique is its course offerings. Students will have flexibility on when and how they take their courses. You’ll find an assortment of part-time, weekend, online, hybrid, and standard class options to match your schedule.
3. Texas A&M International University
4 Year; Laredo, TX
Average Annual Cost: $7,348
Are you searching for a rewarding career in an international field? If so, Texas A&M International University is a fantastic solution. As a part of the Texas A&M University System, this school focuses on state, national, and global societies to prepare students for their careers.
With a foundation built on arts and sciences, there are various baccalaureate and master’s programs available. Also, students can work towards a Ph.D. if they wish to further their schooling beyond post-graduate studies. As such a diverse college, there’s undoubtedly an impressive number of programs available.
In their undergraduate program, students can look for degree options in the following studies:
- Education
- Arts and Sciences
- Business
- Nursing and Health Sciences
There are also pre-professional programs to help you quickly transition from college to your career as an added benefit.
In addition to undergraduate degrees, students can also obtain a Master’s degree in the following:
- Business
- Arts and Sciences
- Education
- Nursing and Health Sciences
Like many modern colleges and universities, Texas A&M International University offers flexible programs. Students can opt to take online degree programs and attend continuing education courses to improve their resumes. Not to mention the school also has a considerable number of certificate programs.
4. The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
4 Year; San Antonio, TX
Average Annual Cost: $8,325
Students looking for a successful school in Texas will want to pay close attention to The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. The school boasts a 90% graduation rate, with most students earning up to $60,358 as an entry-level salary with their degrees. There are multiple schools with various health-related programs within the college’s umbrella for you to consider.
Upon enrollment, students can choose from four different degree programs offered through the:
- School of Nursing
- Joe R. & Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine
- School of Health Professions
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
Within each program, you’ll be able to get your hands-on practical and clinical experience in your desired specialty. Students will experience a variety of opportunities to improve their research skills while establishing compassionate care. There are several health-related professions to explore, including:
- Medical Laboratory Sciences
- Occupational Medicine
- Emergency Health Services
- Physical Therapy
- Pathology
- Physician Assistant Studies
5. The University of Texas Medical Branch
4 Year; Galveston, TX
Average Annual Cost: $9,062
Also known as UTMB Health, The University of Texas Medical Branch is a well-rounded college for those looking for a degree in health sciences. The school was initially founded in 1891 and has since grown to acquire over 3200 students with 900 faculty members. At UTMB Health, there are numerous fields of study for students to explore, including:
- Health Professions
- Graduate Biomedical Sciences
- Medicine
- Nursing
On campus, you’ll be able to experience one of the state’s most impressive medical libraries paired with astounding research facilities. Each course also incorporates specialized and modern medical care alongside state-leading clinics and hospitals. Depending on the specialty you choose, you’ll find many fantastic degree offerings, including:
School of Health Professions
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Respiratory Care
- Clinical Laboratory Sciences
Health Professions
- Nutrition and Metabolism
Medicine
- MD/MPH
- MD/MS
- MD/MBA
- MD/PhD
- PA
- MD
Nursing
- Traditional BSN Program
- Honors BSN Program
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care (Master’s)
- Family Nurse Practitioner (Master’s)
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (Doctoral)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Doctoral)
You must have access to the latest healthcare technologies when pursuing a medical career, and UTMB has innovative tech. When studying, you’ll have access to state-of-the-art equipment to help you better prepare for clinical and hospital experiences.
6. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
4 Year; Lubbock, TX
Average Annual Cost: $9,389
Attending the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center opens the door for many future career opportunities. They have a multitude of course offerings paired with numerous medical school subsidiaries. Students will be able to explore specialties and general degree options.
One unique difference between this college and others is that they also have the Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy. The other options include:
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences
- School of Medicine
- School of Nursing
- School of Health Professions
There are three central tenets that every program at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston follows. First, their students will need to show excellence in education paired with exceptional patient care. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in groundbreaking research to help further medical science.
With a combination of in-class and hands-on experience, students will get an authentic feel for what their future career entails. Some classes enable you to learn alongside students in an emergency room or shadow medical professionals in hospitals. Overall, you can guarantee you’ll obtain a well-rounded education to prepare you for the future.
7. Texas Woman’s University
4 Year; Denton, TX
Average Annual Cost: $9,617
This is a diverse school with many course offerings, from Social Sciences to Business, with multiple specialties in between. There are various degree options, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate.
An added benefit to this school is they have a complete list of certificate programs. Certificate programs are ideal to diversify your experience in a specific area or take extra courses while employed. Students can obtain certificates in Informatics, Communication Sciences, Chemistry, Leadership, Literacy, and many more industries.
Currently, the school has up to 15,000 students, making it one of the largest universities primarily for women. Most of their programs focus on liberal arts, business, health sciences, and education. You’ll also find they have an extensive teaching program and liberal arts curriculum.
8. The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
4 Year; Houston, TX
Average Annual Cost: $13,025
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston is another excellent option for students pursuing a health-related career. The school has a 92% graduation rate, with students earning between $33,993 and $66,603 upon graduation. You’ll find this college offers many of the same programs as other health science colleges.
When searching for a degree in health sciences, Houston’s University of Texas Health Science Center is a great option. They have a vast number of health-related courses through the McGovern Medical School and Cizik School of Nursing. Students can also explore unique opportunities through the MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.
You can work towards various certifications and degree options during your studies, including MDs, DNP‘s, Ph.D.’s, and certificates. Even if you’re interested in pursuing a career in dentistry, the School of Dentistry has impressive program options. Every area of the healthcare industry is covered through the courses at this school.
There are several notable accomplishments The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston has experienced. They have the highest number of healthcare graduates in the state of Texas. Also, the Cizik School of Nursing is ranked in the top five percent in the United States.
9. Strayer University – Texas
4 Year; Austin, TX
Average Annual Cost: Tuition and Fees
Strayer University – Texas is a uniquely designed college meant to help students from enrollment to graduation. You’ll be able to prepare for your future career through your studies through select on-campus courses. However, most of their classes are entirely online, making it a highly flexible option for students.
Instead of focusing on a specific specialty, like health sciences, Strayer University has many degree programs. Students can enroll in programs ranging from a Bachelor of Applied Science in Management to a Master of Education. With the added benefit of online courses, you can also pursue your professional career while attending college.
One of the fundamental aspects of this school is to ensure all students get the support they need. With that said, you’ll be assigned a student services coach that offers to mentor and support to ensure you meet academic expectations. Also, there are several in-person opportunities to help you diversify your learning.
For example, students can enroll in research workshops and career workshops year-round. If you maintain a high GPA, you could also be invited to exclusive honor student celebrations. By networking with your peers, you can have a much more enjoyable college experience.
Students looking to go further with their education will surely appreciate the school’s Honors Program. It’s available to those who are the most academically talented and can help to improve your future career potential. Each person in the Honors Program is hand-selected and will have access to enhanced course offerings.
10. Chamberlain University – Texas
4 Year; Houston, TX
Average Annual Cost: $28,938
Chamberlain University – Texas is a specialty school for prospective nurses. When enrolled, students can participate in a three-year BSN degree program with many benefits. The college offers a modernized high-tech nursing skills lab paired with instruction from expert practitioners.
As one of the largest nursing schools in the country, Chamberlain University – Texas has many degree programs in their College of Nursing. Students can pursue the following degree options:
- RN to BSN
- RN to MSN
- Master of Science in Nursing
- MSN – Adult-Gerontology Nursing
- MSN – Family Nurse Practitioner
- MSN – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Doctor of Nursing
Along with their diverse nursing-related courses, other students can pursue post-graduate studies in other specialties. Chamberlain University – Texas currently has Master of Public Health and Master of Social Work programs for graduate students. If you’re interested in furthering your education, be sure to consider their Public Health Certificate Programs as well.
As mentioned, the benefits for students enrolled at this college are extensive. With a unique focus on the healthcare sector, you’ll be able to experience small class sizes, allowing for more personalized instruction. Students will also learn and work in diverse clinical settings, helping you prepare for your future career.
Upon graduation, students are also allowed to get direct entry into a nursing program. After learning from the diverse faculty of nursing mentors, you’ll feel more equipped to begin your career than ever before. Regarding the school’s reputation, you can guarantee it’s one of the best in the country.
In fact, Chamberlain University – Texas was named a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education by the National League for Nursing. They have also received other distinguished accreditations and awards for their excellent curriculum.
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