Rankings / By State

Best Colleges in Texas

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$53,946

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

51%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$15,449

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

Texas is home to a diverse array of colleges, each offering unique opportunities and challenges. With 50 institutions on this list, families are evaluating their options based on key factors like graduation rates, earnings, and student debt. Understanding these elements can help students make informed decisions about their future.

What sets the higher-performing schools apart from the rest? It boils down to a few critical outcomes: how much graduates earn, their chances of completing their degree, the level of student debt they incur, and their mobility after college. The list below highlights schools that excel in these areas, providing a clearer picture of where students might find success.

Take Rice University and the University of Texas at Austin, for example. Rice boasts impressive earnings of $89,718 and a graduation rate of 95%, while UT Austin has earnings of $75,121 with an 88% graduation rate. This difference in earnings may reflect the distinct career paths and support systems available at each institution, giving students valuable insights as they consider their choices.

Key Findings

Rice University graduates earn $89,718 on average, the highest on this list.

The University of Texas at Austin has a solid graduation rate of 88%, making it a strong contender.

Texas A&M University-College Station has a net price of $21,315, which is higher than others like University of Houston at $14,276.

The average earnings across these institutions are $53,228, showing that a degree can significantly impact financial stability.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $53,946

Avg. graduation rate 51%

Avg. net price $15,449

Avg. median debt $17,610

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions in Texas

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Rice University

Houston, TX

Graduation95%

Earnings$89,718

Net Price$13,370

View full profile →

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX

Graduation88%

Earnings$75,121

Net Price$19,857

View full profile →

Trinity University

San Antonio, TX

Graduation83%

Earnings$71,668

Net Price$23,464

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Rice University exemplifies academic excellence, making it a solid choice for students looking for a supportive environment. Located in Houston, Texas, this private university has a small student body of just 4,776, allowing for close interactions between students and faculty, which can enhance learning and personal growth.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

The University of Texas at Austin is a vibrant public university known for its large student population of 42,855, which creates a dynamic campus atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 88%, students can find a wealth of resources and opportunities to thrive both academically and socially in Texas's capital city, a hub of culture and innovation.

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

Trinity University

San Antonio, TX · 2,505 students · Private nonprofit

Trinity University in San Antonio is a private nonprofit institution with a strong liberal arts focus and a tight-knit community of just over 2,500 students. The 83% graduation rate reflects the supportive environment that encourages students to pursue their passions and succeed academically.

26% accepted 83% graduate $71,668 earnings

Trinity's full profile

The University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, TX · 21,751 students · Public

The University of Texas at Dallas offers a unique blend of academic rigor and innovation, with an enrollment of 21,751 students. With a graduation rate of 75%, it fosters a supportive environment for students looking to excel in various disciplines, especially in STEM fields, thanks to its strong emphasis on research and technology.

65% accepted 75% graduate $68,227 earnings

The University of Texas at Tyler

Tyler, TX · 7,440 students · Public

The University of Texas at Tyler is an inviting choice for students looking for a close-knit community. With an acceptance rate of 94%, it caters to a broad array of applicants, providing an accessible pathway for those eager to pursue higher education while maintaining a focus on student success, as indicated by its 51% graduation rate.

94% accepted 51% graduate $57,053 earnings

Texas Woman's University

Denton, TX · 8,767 students · Public

Texas Woman's University in Denton, TX caters specifically to women, creating an empowering environment for its 8,767 students. While its graduation rate is 47%, the supportive community and diverse academic programs encourage personal growth and resilience among students.

96% accepted 47% graduate $56,544 earnings

East Texas A&M University

Commerce, TX · 9,912 students · Public

92% accepted 44% graduate $50,296 earnings

University of North Texas

Denton, TX · 34,341 students · Public

Located in Denton, the University of North Texas is home to over 34,000 students and has cultivated a reputation for creativity and innovation. With a graduation rate of 60%, the university provides a nurturing environment where students can thrive, and its 72% acceptance rate opens doors for many who apply, including a notable 38% of Pell Grant recipients.

72% accepted 60% graduate $57,010 earnings

University's full profile

The University of Texas Permian Basin

Odessa, TX · 3,911 students · Public

At the University of Texas Permian Basin, which serves around 3,911 students, you'll find a close-knit community focused on academic and personal growth. The acceptance rate is an impressive 95%, reflecting a strong desire to accommodate students from various backgrounds, including 39% who receive Pell Grants, which often supports first-generation college students.

95% accepted 42% graduate $56,073 earnings

The University of Texas at Arlington

Arlington, TX · 32,294 students · Public

With over 32,000 students, The University of Texas at Arlington is a vibrant hub for those seeking a diverse educational experience. The school's 55% graduation rate reflects a commitment to student support, and its 80% acceptance rate suggests an inclusive approach to admissions that welcomes a wide range of students.

80% accepted 55% graduate $63,199 earnings

Western Texas College

Snyder, TX · 599 students · Public

Western Texas College, located in Snyder, Texas, is a smaller public college with around 599 students. It focuses on accessibility and community education, providing a welcoming atmosphere for students who may appreciate a more personalized learning experience.

56% graduate $42,508 earnings

Western's full profile

#12

Texas Christian University

Fort Worth, TX · 11,026 students · Private nonprofit

Texas Christian University, located in Fort Worth, TX, offers a private education to around 11,000 students, fostering a close-knit community. With an impressive graduation rate of 86%, TCU emphasizes student success and support, helping students reach their academic potential.

44% accepted 86% graduate $68,424 earnings

Texas State University

San Marcos, TX · 36,177 students · Public

Texas State University in San Marcos, TX, is home to 36,177 students and stands out with a graduation rate of 56%. Graduates enjoy a median income of $56,906 ten years after enrolling, suggesting that the university effectively prepares its students for successful careers in various fields.

89% accepted 56% graduate $56,906 earnings

Austin College

Sherman, TX · 1,165 students · Private nonprofit

Austin College, a private nonprofit institution, is home to a tight-knit community of about 1,165 students. With a graduation rate of 68%, it emphasizes personalized education, and the median earnings of $61,296 for graduates ten years after enrollment reflect the benefits of its small class sizes and dedicated faculty.

48% accepted 68% graduate $61,296 earnings

Austin's full profile

#15

Texas A&M University-College Station

College Station, TX · 59,615 students · Public

Texas A&M University in College Station has a rich tradition and a large community, with 59,615 students contributing to its unique culture. The university graduates 84% of its students, indicating a strong support system and academic resources that help students succeed in their studies and beyond.

57% accepted 84% graduate $72,097 earnings

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, TX · 17,743 students · Public

In Huntsville, Sam Houston State University caters to over 17,000 students and boasts a 55% graduation rate. The university provides a range of programs that prepare graduates for a variety of career paths, with median earnings of $54,211 ten years after graduation, demonstrating solid outcomes for its alumni.

90% accepted 55% graduate $54,211 earnings

The University of Texas at San Antonio

San Antonio, TX · 30,580 students · Public

With a vibrant campus in San Antonio, this public university serves around 30,580 students, making it a central hub for education in South Texas. The acceptance rate of 87% indicates a welcoming environment for many prospective students, and the diverse community includes 44% Pell Grant recipients, highlighting a commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

87% accepted 52% graduate $57,131 earnings

Texas Tech University

Lubbock, TX · 32,394 students · Public

With a vibrant campus community of over 32,000 students, Texas Tech University in Lubbock, TX is a hub for innovation and academic achievement. The school has a solid graduation rate of 68%, suggesting that students find support and resources to succeed as they pursue their degrees.

73% accepted 68% graduate $62,454 earnings

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX · 8,150 students · Public

At Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, students can immerse themselves in a vibrant campus community with a strong emphasis on engineering and health professions. While the graduation rate is lower at 37%, the school still prepares graduates for a solid earning potential of $49,652 after ten years. This focus on practical career pathways attracts many students looking to enter the workforce equipped with relevant skills.

86% accepted 37% graduate $49,652 earnings

Angelo State University

San Angelo, TX · 5,643 students · Public

Angelo State University, located in San Angelo, Texas, welcomes over 5,600 students into a vibrant educational community. The school’s graduation rate of 42% indicates a strong track record in supporting students through to their degrees, while the 83% acceptance rate means that many can find a place here to pursue their goals without excessive competition.

83% accepted 42% graduate $50,116 earnings

Angelo's full profile

#21

Stephen F Austin State University

Nacogdoches, TX · 8,728 students · Public

Stephen F. Austin State University, located in Nacogdoches, TX, is home to 8,728 students pursuing a range of academic interests. With a graduation rate of 53%, the university works hard to ensure students can finish their degrees and enter the workforce prepared. The median earnings of $49,634 at ten years suggest that graduates are making solid strides in their careers, which speaks to the quality of education and resources available here.

94% accepted 53% graduate $49,634 earnings

Stephen's full profile

#22

Southern Methodist University

Dallas, TX · 7,277 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Dallas, Southern Methodist University caters to around 7,277 students and is known for its strong programs and vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 84%, students here benefit from a rigorous academic environment and a supportive network, although the admission rate of 63% suggests a competitive application process, especially for the 13% of students who are Pell Grant recipients.

63% accepted 84% graduate $78,354 earnings

Southern's full profile

#23

University of Dallas

Irving, TX · 1,403 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $58,285 ten years after graduation, the University of Dallas in Irving, Texas, presents a compelling opportunity for students seeking a solid financial future. The school emphasizes a strong liberal arts education, fostering critical thinking and communication skills, which are highly valued in today’s job market. With a graduation rate of 70%, many students find their way to successful careers after completing their studies here.

53% accepted 70% graduate $58,285 earnings

University's full profile

#24

Concordia University Texas

Austin, TX · 1,185 students · Private nonprofit

91% accepted 42% graduate $60,883 earnings

Concordia's full profile

#25

Brazosport College

Lake Jackson, TX · 2,622 students · Public

Brazosport College is an excellent option for students who prefer a more intimate educational setting, with around 2,600 students. While the graduation rate is at 47%, the college emphasizes a supportive environment and strong community ties that can enhance the educational journey.

47% graduate $45,910 earnings

Brazosport's full profile

#26

The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX · 21,005 students · Public

The University of Texas at El Paso is a vibrant campus with a 100% acceptance rate, making it an inclusive choice for many students. With a student body of over 21,000, UTEP emphasizes the importance of diversity and community, which enriches the academic experience for everyone involved.

100% accepted 48% graduate $50,923 earnings

Midwestern State University

Wichita Falls, TX · 4,087 students · Public

With 4,087 students, Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, TX, is a vibrant community where a significant 94% acceptance rate welcomes diverse learners. The university's median earnings at ten years post-graduation stand at an impressive $55,747, suggesting that graduates find solid career opportunities in their fields. The commitment to helping students succeed is reflected in the 41% Pell Grant recipients, indicating a focus on accessibility and support for those in need.

94% accepted 42% graduate $55,747 earnings

Midwestern's full profile

#28

Temple College

Temple, TX · 3,178 students · Public

29% graduate $38,678 earnings

Temple's full profile

#29

North Central Texas College

Gainesville, TX · 5,863 students · Public

North Central Texas College is a vibrant institution in Gainesville with nearly 6,000 students, where a focus on community and affordable education is evident. With a graduation rate of 35%, students who persist often find meaningful employment opportunities, as reflected in the median earnings of $45,809 a decade after graduation. This suggests that hard work here can lead to solid financial outcomes.

35% graduate $45,809 earnings

Northeast Texas Community College

Mount Pleasant, TX · 1,973 students · Public

Northeast Texas Community College, located in Mount Pleasant, TX, has a student body of 1,973, fostering an intimate learning environment. With a graduation rate of 46%, many students find their footing here, leading to median earnings of $37,870 at the 10-year mark, which reflects a reasonable return on investment for those who complete their programs.

46% graduate $37,870 earnings

Northeast's full profile

#31

Wharton County Junior College

Wharton, TX · 4,585 students · Public

With 4,585 students, Wharton County Junior College in Wharton, TX, offers a tight-knit community where students can thrive academically and socially. The median earnings for graduates at 10 years are $44,960, indicating a solid potential for financial stability as they launch their careers.

24% graduate $44,960 earnings

Wharton's full profile

#32

Tarleton State University

Stephenville, TX · 12,673 students · Public

90% accepted 50% graduate $53,040 earnings

Tarleton's full profile

#33

Baylor University

Waco, TX · 14,785 students · Private nonprofit

51% accepted 80% graduate $65,793 earnings

Baylor's full profile

#34

Amarillo College

Amarillo, TX · 7,399 students · Public

Located in the heart of Texas, Amarillo College serves approximately 7,400 students and fosters a strong sense of community. Despite a graduation rate of only 31%, the college remains a crucial stepping stone for many who are navigating their educational journeys, especially those seeking an affordable option in higher education.

31% graduate $41,302 earnings

Amarillo's full profile

#35

Odessa College

Odessa, TX · 4,654 students · Public

Located in Odessa, Texas, Odessa College serves over 4,600 students with a commitment to accessible education. The school’s graduation rate is 32%, which reflects its focus on helping students complete their degrees, while the strong median earnings of $42,026 at ten years post-graduation suggest that a degree from here can lead to a solid financial future.

32% graduate $42,026 earnings

Odessa's full profile

#36

Tarrant County College District

Fort Worth, TX · 42,300 students · Public

Tarrant County College District, situated in Fort Worth, TX, serves a large student population of 42,300. Despite a graduation rate of 29%, students can still achieve a median income of $42,727 ten years after graduation, highlighting pathways to financial stability for those who complete their programs.

29% graduate $42,727 earnings

Tarrant's full profile

#37

Southwestern University

Georgetown, TX · 1,440 students · Private nonprofit

43% accepted 71% graduate $56,878 earnings

Southwestern's full profile

#38

Victoria College

Victoria, TX · 2,351 students · Public

Victoria College stands as a community-oriented institution in Victoria, Texas, with a student body of 2,351. Despite a graduation rate of just 27%, the college emphasizes accessibility and serves a diverse array of students, making it a welcoming place for those who may thrive in a more intimate educational setting.

27% graduate $42,382 earnings

Victoria's full profile

#39

Dallas Baptist University

Dallas, TX · 2,403 students · Private nonprofit

89% accepted 59% graduate $56,807 earnings

Dallas's full profile

#40

Southwestern Adventist University

Keene, TX · 570 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 47% graduate $52,946 earnings

Southwestern's full profile

#41

Abilene Christian University

Abilene, TX · 3,195 students · Private nonprofit

66% accepted 60% graduate $55,736 earnings

Abilene's full profile

#42

College of the Mainland

Texas City, TX · 3,368 students · Public

Located in Texas City, the College of the Mainland serves a tight-knit community of just over 3,300 students. With a graduation rate of 30%, it's clear that while some may find challenges, there are pathways to success for those who engage with their studies and seek support. The median earnings of $39,639 ten years after graduation speak to the potential for a stable future for graduates in various fields.

30% graduate $39,639 earnings

College's full profile

#43

Sul Ross State University

Alpine, TX · 1,396 students · Public

99% accepted 29% graduate $41,871 earnings

Hardin-Simmons University

Abilene, TX · 1,283 students · Private nonprofit

90% accepted 48% graduate $54,771 earnings

Hardin-Simmons's full profile

#45

McMurry University

Abilene, TX · 1,176 students · Private nonprofit

57% accepted 41% graduate $48,779 earnings

McMurry's full profile

#46

South Plains College

Levelland, TX · 6,005 students · Public

27% graduate $41,276 earnings

McLennan Community College

Waco, TX · 5,668 students · Public

Mclennan Community College in Waco, Texas, presents an appealing option for students looking to start their higher education journey with a solid foundation. With a graduation rate of 37%, this institution offers a welcoming environment for learners to explore various fields before deciding on a specific career path. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $39,163 after ten years, which can lead to a stable future.

37% graduate $39,163 earnings

McLennan's full profile

#48

Cisco College

Cisco, TX · 1,620 students · Public

Cisco College might be smaller, with around 1,620 students, but it offers a close-knit community for learners. Despite a graduation rate of only 30%, many students appreciate the practical education and skills they gain, preparing them for specific career paths, especially in fields that align with local industry needs.

30% graduate $39,092 earnings

University of the Incarnate Word

San Antonio, TX · 4,440 students · Private nonprofit

98% accepted 51% graduate $56,733 earnings

University's full profile

#50

Hill College

Hillsboro, TX · 2,253 students · Public

30% graduate $39,572 earnings

When we look closely at Rice University and Texas A&M University-College Station, a clear picture emerges. Rice graduates earn an average of $89,718, while Texas A&M graduates earn $72,097. The stark contrast in earnings reflects not only the academic environment but also the types of career opportunities available to graduates, underscoring the importance of aligning program strengths with career aspirations.

After reviewing 50 schools, it’s essential to find the right fit for your needs. Consider factors like location, specific programs, campus culture, and financial implications when weighing this data. For instance, while Rice offers higher earnings, its net price of $13,370 may not be feasible for all families. On the other hand, the University of Houston presents a lower debt burden with an average of $18,194. Use these insights to prioritize what matters most to you.

Ultimately, this data highlights the critical role a college education plays in shaping a stable financial future. Each family faces unique challenges and opportunities in this decision-making process. Carefully weighing these metrics can lead to a choice that sets students on a path to success and stability in life. A thoughtful decision today can pave the way for a better tomorrow.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility