Best Private Colleges in Texas 2024
Private colleges, unlike large public institutions, can be a great option for students wanting a more intimate campus experience, more personal attention from excellent professors, and more immediate access to support services. Here is our list of the best private colleges in Texas.
10 Best Private Colleges in Texas
- Rice University
- Southern Methodist University
- Baylor University
- Texas Christian University
- Trinity University
- Abilene Christian University
- St. Mary's University, Texas
- University of Dallas
- University of the Incarnate Word
- Austin College
- Rice University
- Southern Methodist University
- Baylor University
- Texas Christian University
- Trinity University
- St. Mary's University, Texas
- University of Dallas
- Abilene Christian University
- Southwestern University
- Wiley College
- University of St. Thomas 97%
- University of the Incarnate Word 94%
- Dallas Baptist University 91%
- Hardin–Simmons University 88%
- St. Mary's University, Texas 86%
- Concordia University Texas 86%
- St. Edward's University 85%
- Schreiner University 85%
- Houston Christian University 84%
- Wayland Baptist University 70%
- Paul Quinn College 20 to 1
- Concordia University Texas 18 to 1
- Wiley College 18 to 1
- Dallas Baptist University 17 to 1
- Texas College 17 to 1
- Hardin–Simmons University 16 to 1
- Schreiner University 15 to 1
- Baylor University 15 to 1
- Houston Christian University 15 to 1
- Texas Wesleyan University 14 to 1
- Southern Methodist University $61,980
- Rice University $54,960
- Texas Christian University $53,980
- Baylor University $51,738
- St. Edward's University $50,766
- Trinity University $49,264
- Southwestern University $48,650
- University of Dallas $48,000
- Austin College $44,950
- Abilene Christian University $40,500
- Rice University $51,634
- Baylor University $38,772
- University of Dallas $33,750
- Texas Christian University $33,660
- Southern Methodist University $31,590
- Austin College $29,415
- St. Edward's University $28,980
- Abilene Christian University $24,174
- Trinity University $23,597
- Schreiner University $22,752
- LeTourneau University
- Hardin–Simmons University
- Wayland Baptist University
- Paul Quinn College
- Schreiner University
- Texas Wesleyan University
- Our Lady of the Lake University
- Wiley College
- University of St. Thomas
- Dallas Baptist University
- Our Lady of the Lake University
- LeTourneau University
- Schreiner University
- Concordia University Texas
- Hardin–Simmons University
- Wayland Baptist University
- Texas Wesleyan University
- Paul Quinn College
- Houston Christian University
- St. Edward's University
- Rice University 9%
- Trinity University 31%
- Southwestern University 45%
- Baylor University 46%
- LeTourneau University 49%
- Southern Methodist University 52%
- Austin College 54%
- Texas Christian University 56%
- Paul Quinn College 57%
- University of Dallas 59%
- Rice University 6 to 1
- Wayland Baptist University 8 to 1
- Trinity University 9 to 1
- St. Mary's University, Texas 11 to 1
- Our Lady of the Lake University 11 to 1
- Southern Methodist University 11 to 1
- Southwestern University 11 to 1
- Austin College 11 to 1
- University of Dallas 12 to 1
- Abilene Christian University 13 to 1
- Texas College $10,008
- Wiley College $13,500
- Paul Quinn College $13,798
- Wayland Baptist University $22,368
- Our Lady of the Lake University $31,124
- Hardin–Simmons University $31,686
- University of St. Thomas $32,484
- University of the Incarnate Word $34,400
- LeTourneau University $34,470
- St. Mary's University, Texas $35,226
- Paul Quinn College $9,456
- Houston Christian University $10,924
- Concordia University Texas $12,308
- Wayland Baptist University $14,112
- Hardin–Simmons University $14,310
- Texas Wesleyan University $15,869
- LeTourneau University $16,875
- Our Lady of the Lake University $17,316
- University of the Incarnate Word $18,900
- St. Mary's University, Texas $19,224
Colleges and Universities in Texas
Texas offers more than 30 colleges and universities that serve communities of 10,000 students or more. The largest school in the bunch (and in the nation), Texas A&M University in College Station serves more than 65,000 students. The University of Texas at Austin is the next largest, serving about 45,000 students - but it too has a big claim to fame, as the wealthiest public university in the United States. Texas’s private colleges and universities, including Baylor University and Southern Methodist University, are also impressive in size and scope. The majority of these schools have religious affiliations and offer degrees in a variety fields, such as nursing, religious studies, criminal justice, business, and education.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
For students who prefer a more intimate educational environment, Texas offers a long list of smaller public and private colleges and universities, such as Abilene Christian University and University of Texas of the Permian Basin. Additionally, Texas has generous loan forgiveness programs for qualifying nurses, physicians, teachers, legal aid attorneys, and lawyers who work in the Texas Attorney General’s office.
Texas is known for doing things big. Big cities, big open spaces and, of course, big fun. Whether you’re hitting up the live music scene in Austin, catching a Cowboys game in Dallas, or strolling down the River Walk in San Antonio, you’re sure to have a good time. And, with more than 150 higher education institutes, it’s safe to say The Lone Star State is big on education too.
If you’re looking to earn your degree in the state of Texas, you’ll have plenty of higher learning institutes to choose from.
What are Texas’s Colleges & Universities?
- 28 Research Universities
- 46 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 43 Graduate Schools
- 36 Public Colleges & Universities
- 38 Private Colleges & Universities
- 36 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 39 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 46 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 53 Community Colleges
- 36 Online Colleges
Texas’s Best Overall
What is the difference between public and private colleges?
Public and private colleges and universities operate under different business models. Public colleges and universities are owned by the state and receive both state and federal funding to operate. Private colleges and universities are private companies with private funding. If you’re looking at the pros and cons of private vs. public colleges, consider that many public colleges provide diverse course offerings, influential professors, and an excellent return on your investment.
Public colleges are schools that receive most of their funding from tax revenues. As a result, the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a public university is often lower than the equivalent cost at a private college — especially for students attending a public school in their home state. Attending a college in-state is usually the cheapest option. Private universities and colleges can be very competitive with their funding opportunities, so do not simply believe that private colleges are always going to be more expensive. According to National Center for Educational Statistics, the average annual cost (tuition, fees, room and board for full-time students) at a public university was slightly over $20,000. In contrast, private universities cost, on average, nearly $43,000 annually. But in the end, the cost of college comes down to each student’s academic and financial situation.
This list is composed entirely of private colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 38 private universities in Texas. To be included in the list below of the 30 best private universities in Texas, schools must be fully accredited, private, non-profit institution, and must offer a broad range of bachelor’s degrees.
Best Private Colleges in Texas 2023
- #19 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
Other Rankings
- #15 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #19 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #24 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #24 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #24 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #3 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
- #8 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
Tuition + fees
$55K
Acceptance
9%
Graduation
94%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/35
Career Outlook for degree at Rice University
Cost of Degree: $58,128Expenses: $20,150Starting Salary: $91,600Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Rice University known for?
Rice University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Business
- History
- Earth Sciences
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2024 #5 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024 #5 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity 2025
- #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
- #10 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs 2025
- #10 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #11 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
- #17 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
52%
Graduation
82%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1440/32
Career Outlook for degree at Southern Methodist University
Cost of Degree: $64,460Expenses: $21,630Starting Salary: $77,900Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Southern Methodist University known for?
Southern Methodist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Law
- Anthropology
- Business
- Social Work
- Earth Sciences
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- History
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #4 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #6 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #10 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2024
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #6 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
- #6 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
- #16 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
- #2 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs 2025
- #2 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Speech Pathology
- #3 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees 2025
- #5 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024
- #5 Best Online MBA in Marketing Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #6 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity 2025
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
- #7 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #7 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs) 2025
- #7 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
- #8 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #8 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #10 Best Online Master’s in Communications 2025
- #11 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #16 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #16 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2025
- #16 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #18 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
- #18 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
- #12 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$52K
Acceptance
46%
Graduation
81%
Student body
23K
Median SAT/ACT
1320/30
Career Outlook for degree at Baylor University
Cost of Degree: $54,844Expenses: $19,425Starting Salary: $58,400Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Baylor University known for?
Baylor University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2024 #20 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025 #22 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
- #9 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
- #12 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN 2025
- #14 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice 2025
- #17 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #17 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #18 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #15 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
56%
Graduation
84%
Student body
13K
Median SAT/ACT
1250/28
Career Outlook for degree at Texas Christian University
Cost of Degree: $57,220Expenses: $19,840Starting Salary: $62,600Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Texas Christian University known for?
Texas Christian University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Criminal Justice
- History
- Business
- Medical
- Sociology
- Earth Sciences
- Mathematics
- Nursing
- Chemistry
Most Influential Alumni
Texas Christian University’s Online Degrees
BSN in to DNP
Degree Concentrations
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Required Credits: 66
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2025 #4 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2024 #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$49K
Acceptance
31%
Graduation
76%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1390/31
Career Outlook for degree at Trinity University
Cost of Degree: $51,352Expenses: $16,872Starting Salary: $68,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Trinity University known for?
Trinity University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Literature
- Psychology
- Medical
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- Business
- Education
- Computer Science
- Anthropology
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #10 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #17 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2025
- #6 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2024
- #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees
- #3 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Ranked for Students in 2025
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2025
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Texas 2025
- #7 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2025
- #9 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration 2025
- #9 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
- #9 The Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Bachelor's Degrees
- #9 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies 2025
- #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2025
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2025
- #13 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
- #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
- #17 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
- #19 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #19 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees 2025
- #24 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #12 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$41K
Acceptance
66%
Graduation
60%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1175/24
Career Outlook for degree at Abilene Christian University
Cost of Degree: $42,240Expenses: $17,022Starting Salary: $48,900Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Abilene Christian University known for?
Abilene Christian University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Social Work
- Chemistry
- History
- Physics
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
Abilene Christian University’s Online Degrees
BS in Digital Media
Degree Concentrations
- Film Production
- General Track
- Graphic Design
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Management
Degree Concentrations
- Leadership
- Human Resource Management
- Operations
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Marketing
Degree Concentrations
- General Track
- Analytics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Information Technology Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Cyber Security
- App Development
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Integrated Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Customized
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Applied Communication
Degree Concentrations
- Organizational Change
- Healthcare Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Child and Family Services
Degree Concentrations
- General Track
- Child Life
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Christian Service and Formation
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Communication Disorders
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Health and Human Performance
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Healthcare Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Change Management
- General Track
- Public and Community Health
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2025 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024 #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #6 Best Online Master's in Theology 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
56%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at St. Mary's University, Texas
Cost of Degree: $36,242Expenses: $16,120Starting Salary: $52,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is St. Mary's University, Texas known for?
St. Mary's University, Texas’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Law
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Engineering
- Religious Studies
- Economics
- Business
- History
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024 #5 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2024 #7 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$48K
Acceptance
59%
Graduation
72%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1285/27
Career Outlook for degree at University of Dallas
Cost of Degree: $50,880Expenses: $18,980Starting Salary: $51,400Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Dallas known for?
University of Dallas’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #15 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #1 Best Online Associate in Health Science Degree Programs #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Texas 2024 #8 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology 2025
Other Rankings
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2025
- #9 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #10 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates 2025
- #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
- #14 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration 2025
- #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #15 Best Online Associate in General Studies
- #17 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
- #20 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
53%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1021/19
Career Outlook for degree at University of the Incarnate Word
Cost of Degree: $35,660Expenses: $18,310Starting Salary: $52,500Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of the Incarnate Word known for?
University of the Incarnate Word’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
University of the Incarnate Word’s Online Degrees
BBA in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Accounting
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Human Resources
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Organizational Development
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Public Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- General Business
- Information Systems
- Marketing
- Social Marketing
- Management
- Project Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Leadership Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Health Sciences
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2025 #9 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$45K
Acceptance
54%
Graduation
73%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1265/27
Career Outlook for degree at Austin College
Cost of Degree: $46,063Expenses: $16,120Starting Salary: $52,800Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Austin College known for?
Austin College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- History
- Medical
- Economics
- Education
- Mathematics
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
- Anthropology
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
- #19 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #21 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024 #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees 2025
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Degree Programs 2025
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's of Theology Degree Programs in 2025
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
- #11 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
- #13 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
- #13 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies 2025
- #19 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
49%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1145/24
Career Outlook for degree at Houston Christian University
Cost of Degree: $38,100Expenses: $17,018Starting Salary: $52,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Houston Christian University known for?
Houston Christian University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Philosophy
- Medical
- Law
- Nursing
- Literature
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Business
- Criminal Justice
Most Influential Alumni
Houston Christian University’s Online Degrees
BBA in Managerial Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Marketing
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Managerial Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Management
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Theological Studies
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Biblical Studies
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
- Required Credits: 27
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #5 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2025 #7 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$49K
Acceptance
45%
Graduation
72%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1237/27
Career Outlook for degree at Southwestern University
Cost of Degree: $50,858Expenses: $16,548Starting Salary: $63,400Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Southwestern University known for?
Southwestern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Philosophy
- Chemistry
- Literature
- Sociology
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- Economics
- Mathematics
- History
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024 #10 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$10K
Graduation
16%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Texas College
Cost of Degree: $10,108Expenses: $11,800Starting Salary: $28,000Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Texas College known for?
Texas College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
- Mathematics
- Religious Studies
- Education
- Computer Science
- Biology
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
- #23 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #25 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$51K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
65%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1150/23
Career Outlook for degree at St. Edward's University
Cost of Degree: $51,384Expenses: $19,468Starting Salary: $55,700Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is St. Edward's University known for?
St. Edward's University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Political Science
- Communications
- Economics
- Business
- Biology
- Philosophy
- History
- Religious Studies
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #14 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas #23 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024 #24 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
39%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Concordia University Texas
Cost of Degree: $36,690Expenses: $17,592Starting Salary: $51,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Concordia University Texas known for?
Concordia University Texas’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Concordia University Texas’s Online Degrees
BA in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAAS in Business
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Computer Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice & Criminology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Communication
Degree Concentrations
- Public Relations and Advertising Concentration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Multidisciplinary
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2025 #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Texas 2024 #4 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies #6 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
- #8 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2025
- #14 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #18 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
- #21 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
57%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1085/22
Career Outlook for degree at Dallas Baptist University
Cost of Degree: $38,140Expenses: $14,730Starting Salary: $49,200Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Dallas Baptist University known for?
Dallas Baptist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Business
- Philosophy
- History
- Education
- Communications
- Psychology
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
Dallas Baptist University’s Online Degrees
BBS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBS in Finance
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Health Care Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBS in Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Management Information Systems
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBS in Management Information Systems
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Marketing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBS in Marketing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Biblical Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Christian Ministries
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Christian Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Christian Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BAS in Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #8 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2025 #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Associate's of Counseling Degree Programs #13 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
97%
Graduation
66%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1155/26
Career Outlook for degree at University of St. Thomas
Cost of Degree: $33,660Expenses: $15,244Starting Salary: $59,600Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of St. Thomas known for?
University of St. Thomas ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Psychology
- Communications
- Engineering
- Medical
- Business
- Political Science
- Philosophy
- Literature
- History
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$14K
Graduation
24%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Wiley College
Cost of Degree: $12,500Expenses: $6,800Starting Salary: $30,700Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wiley College known for?
Wiley College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Religious Studies
- Criminal Justice
- Sociology
- Education
- Literature
- Biology
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #19 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #7 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024 #14 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates) #16 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$31K
Graduation
38%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Our Lady of the Lake University
Cost of Degree: $31,728Starting Salary: $42,500What is Our Lady of the Lake University known for?
Our Lady of the Lake University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Our Lady of the Lake University’s Online Degrees
BSW in Social Work
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #25 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #12 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
33%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1005/17
Career Outlook for degree at Texas Wesleyan University
Cost of Degree: $37,934Expenses: $18,796Starting Salary: $44,400Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Texas Wesleyan University known for?
Texas Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Medical
- Biology
- History
- Criminal Justice
- Business
- Computer Science
- Education
- Political Science
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
Texas Wesleyan University’s Online Degrees
BBA in Pathway Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 54
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
50%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Schreiner University
Cost of Degree: $37,396Expenses: $12,032Starting Salary: $44,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Schreiner University known for?
Schreiner University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
57%
Graduation
29%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Paul Quinn College
Cost of Degree: $13,498Expenses: $11,250Starting Salary: $29,800Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Paul Quinn College known for?
Paul Quinn College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Medical
- Law
- Religious Studies
- Education
- Criminal Justice
- Political Science
- History
- Mathematics
- Literature
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$22K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
19%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at Wayland Baptist University
Cost of Degree: $23,186Expenses: $13,436Starting Salary: $47,200Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wayland Baptist University known for?
Wayland Baptist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Political Science
- Earth Sciences
- Religious Studies
- Law
- Education
- Mathematics
- Social Work
- Chemistry
Most Influential Alumni
- #14 Best Online Colleges in Texas 2024 #15 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs #17 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
58%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1104/21
Career Outlook for degree at Hardin–Simmons University
Cost of Degree: $31,686Expenses: $14,996Starting Salary: $48,300Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Hardin–Simmons University known for?
Hardin–Simmons University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- History
- Medical
- Criminal Justice
- Literature
- Earth Sciences
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
Hardin–Simmons University’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Science
- Required Credits: 124
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Texas 2025 #7 Best Online Associate Degrees in Texas 2024 #8 Best Online Associate in Cybersecurity #10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
67%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1250/24
Career Outlook for degree at LeTourneau University
Cost of Degree: $35,500Expenses: $16,758Starting Salary: $56,800Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is LeTourneau University known for?
LeTourneau University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Medical
- Business
- Religious Studies
- Communications
- History
- Nursing
- Computer Science
- Sociology
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
LeTourneau University’s Online Degrees
BS in Aviation
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBM in Business Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Accounting
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Aviation Management
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Cybersecurity
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Biblical Studies and Ministry
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Christian Ministry
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Education EC-6
- Education 4-6
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Scripture and Theology
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Theological Studies
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Human Services
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Health Care Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Health Information Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Texas’s Best Private Colleges in Your Area Interest
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.
- Rice University
- Southern Methodist University
- University of Dallas
- Houston Christian University
- St. Mary's University, Texas
- Trinity University
- Baylor University
- University of St. Thomas
- Southwestern University
- Hardin–Simmons University
- LeTourneau University
- Howard Payne University
- Abilene Christian University
- Texas Christian University
- St. Edward's University
- Austin College
- Dallas Baptist University
- Southwestern Assemblies of God University
- University of the Incarnate Word
- Texas Lutheran University
Check out our directory of private colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top private schools in every state.