This guide covers schools in Texas offering associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs.
Texas is the second-largest U.S. state, known for its diverse geography—spanning deserts, forests, plains, and Gulf Coast beaches. Key cities like Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin serve as major economic and cultural centers.
Home to over 30 million people, Texas has a fast-growing, diverse population. Its economy is one of the largest in the world, powered by energy, tech, manufacturing, and healthcare, with a pro-business climate and no state income tax.
In this guide- Public vs. Private
- Notable initiatives
- Tuition and Fee
- Cost of attendance
- Financial aid & sponsorship
- Employment & career outlook
Public vs. private colleges and universities in Texas
Both public and private universities play vital, distinct roles in higher education in Texas.
Public universities, such as those in the University of Texas and Texas A&M systems, offer affordable tuition, diverse academic programs, and vibrant campus life, making education accessible to students across the state.
Private institutions like Rice University and Baylor University provide smaller class sizes, personalized support, strong alumni networks, and unique opportunities for research, internships, and leadership development. Together, they offer flexible and enriching pathways for students to achieve their academic and career goals.
Notable statewide higher education initiatives in Texas
Texas has launched several key initiatives to enhance education and workforce readiness statewide. The Building a Talent Strong Texas plan and Tri-Agency Workforce Initiative align education with job market demands, while Upskill Texas and TRUE (Texas Reskilling and Upskilling through Education) offer training and reskilling grants for in-demand careers.
Programs like Texas OnCourse, CTE pathways, and the College Work-Study Program guide students from high school to career. Early education quality is supported through the Texas Rising Star Program, and schools benefit from performance-based funding through the Teacher Incentive Allotment and CCMR Outcomes Bonus. These efforts reflect the state’s strong focus on accessibility, equity, and career-focused learning.
Tuition and Fee Overview in Texas
Public Universities
Public universities in Texas offer affordable tuition rates compared to national averages. In-state students pay an average of $8,432 annually, while out-of-state students pay around $18,548. Per-credit-hour costs average $244 for in-state and $779 for out-of-state students.
Tuition varies significantly by institution. For example, UT Austin charges approximately $28,950 (in-state) and $57,720 (out-of-state) for graduate programs, while more affordable options like College of the Mainland offer in-state tuition as low as $3,000–$4,620 for associate’s degree programs. The highest listed cost is The University of Texas at Tyler at $164,760 (out-of-state).
Many universities apply differential tuition for specialized programs. For instance, UT Austin adds up to $1,100 per semester for business and engineering majors, while Texas A&M charges $40–$550 per credit hour for distance and professional programs. Texas Tech uses a course-based model, applying fees based on the course rather than major.
Students should also expect mandatory fees that support campus services:
- Student services (e.g., $13.41/credit hour at UNT)
- Medical/health fees (e.g., $35–$39/semester at UT San Antonio and TAMU–Central Texas)
- Activity fees (e.g., $150/semester at Texas College)
Community Colleges & Technical Colleges
Texas community and technical colleges charge tuition based on residency: in-district, out-of-district, and out-of-state. In-district students pay the lowest rates, while others pay more.
For example, per-credit-hour costs range from $85 to $302 in-district, $115 to $327 out-of-district, and up to $567 out-of-state, depending on the college.
Additional fees may apply, and residency is based on where you live and how long you’ve lived there. Some students may qualify for waivers to reduce costs.
Associate degree programs in Texas
College of the Mainland
Texas City, Texas
Tuition: $4,620 - $8,280
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $77 - $115
Total tuition (In-district): $4,620
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $6,900
Total tuition (out-of-state): $8,280
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 4
Learn more: Program detailsLamar Institute of Technology
Beaumont, TexasTuition: $4,800 - $30,000
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $80 - $500
Total tuition (in-state): $4,800
Total tuition (out-of-state): $30,000
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 12
Learn more: Program detailsSan Jacinto College
Pasadena, TexasTuition: $4,980 - $13,380
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $83 - $144
Total tuition (In-district): $4,980
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $8,640
Total tuition (out-of-state): $13,380
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 26
Learn more: Program detailsAustin Community College District
Austin, TexasTuition: $5,100 - $21,180
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $85 - $286
Total tuition (In-district): $5,100
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $17,160
Total tuition (out-of-state): $21,180
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 21
Learn more: Program detailsDallas College
Dallas, TexasTuition: $5,940 - $15,000
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $99 - $169
Total tuition (In-district): $5,940
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $10,140
Total tuition (out-of-state): $15,000
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 20
Learn more: Program detailsHouston Community College
Houston, TexasTuition: $6,480 - $19,320
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $108 - $204
Total tuition (In-district): $6,480
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $12,240
Total tuition (out-of-state): $19,320
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 36
Learn more: Program detailsAlamo Colleges
San Antonio, TexasTuition: $6,540 - $10,800
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $109 - $180
Total tuition (in-state): $6,540
Total tuition (out-of-state): $10,800
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 37
Learn more: Program detailsLone Star College
The Woodlands, TexasTuition: $6,660 - $18,780
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $111 - $249
Total tuition (In-district): $6,660
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $14,940
Total tuition (out-of-state): $18,780
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 22
Learn more: Program detailsCentral Texas College
Killeen, TexasTuition: $7,500 - $15,000
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $125 - $163
Total tuition (In-district): $7,500
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $9,780
Total tuition (out-of-state): $15,000
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 33
Learn more: Program detailsDel Mar College
Corpus Christi, TexasTuition: $8,340 - $13,560
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $139 - $189
Total tuition (In-district): $8,340
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $11,340
Total tuition (out-of-state): $13,560
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program detailsTyler Junior College
Tyler, TexasTuition: $8,340 - $13,620
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $139 - $202
Total tuition (In-district): $8,340
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $12,120
Total tuition (out-of-state): $13,620
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 20
Learn more: Program detailsBlinn College
Brenham, TexasTuition: $8,640 - $21,540
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $144 - $203
Total tuition (In-district): $8,640
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $12,180
Total tuition (out-of-state): $21,540
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 26
Learn more: Program detailsSouth Texas College
McAllen, TexasTuition: $9,840 - $15,240
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $164 - $174
Total tuition (In-district): $9,840
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $10,440
Total tuition (out-of-state): $15,240
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 22
Learn more: Program detailsTarleton State University
Stephenville, TexasTuition: $11,040 - $35,640
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $184 - $594
Total tuition (in-state): $11,040
Total tuition (out-of-state): $35,640
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 2
Learn more: Program detailsMcLennan Community College
Waco, TexasTuition: $12,720 - $23,100
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $212 - $248
Total tuition (In-district): $12,720
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $14,880
Total tuition (out-of-state): $23,100
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 25
Learn more: Program detailsTexas Southmost College
Brownsville, TexasTuition: $18,120 - $22,620
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $302 - $327
Total tuition (In-district): $18,120
Total tuition (Out-of-district): $19,620
Total tuition (out-of-state): $22,620
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 7
Learn more: Program detailsRemington College Online
Dallas, TexasTuition: $34,020
Delivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $567
Credits: 60
Number of degree programs: 4
Learn more: Program details
Cost Comparisons and Trends (Associate)
| Institution Type | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition & Fees |
| Public (In-State) | $235 | $14,100 |
| Public (Out-of-State) | $325 | $19,475 |
Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.
State vs Private (Bachelors and Masters)
On average, total tuition at private institutions in Texas ranges from $26,306 to $83,961. Tuition at private universities in Texas, such as Southern Methodist University (SMU) and Baylor University, is typically higher than at public institutions.
For example, SMU’s annual tuition is approximately $64,000, while Baylor’s is around $54,000. These figures exclude additional costs like fees, housing, and books, which can further increase the total cost of attendance.
Private university tuition in Texas often exceeds $50,000 per year, but actual costs vary by school, program, and enrollment status.
Most students receive financial aid, scholarships, or grants that significantly lower their out-of-pocket expenses. Final tuition depends largely on individual financial need and eligibility.
Bachelor’s degree programs in Texas
Texas Southern University
Houston, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $198 in-state | $239 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $23,760 - $28,680
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 3
Learn more: Program detailsSouth Texas College
McAllen, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $174 - $254
Total tuition per credit: $19,680 - $30,480
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 5
Learn more: Program detailsLamar University
Beaumont, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $314
Total tuition per credit: $37,680
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 18
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of North Texas at Dallas
Dallas, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $318
Total tuition per credit: $38,160
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 1
Learn more: Program detailsWest Texas A&M University
Canyon, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $322 in-state $379 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $38,640 - $45,480
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 14
Learn more: Program detailsAbilene Christian University
Abilene, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $395
Total tuition per credit: $50,560
Credits: 128
Number of degree programs: 15
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Houston
Houston, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $385 in-state | $409 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $46,200 - $49,080
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 8
Learn more: Program detailsTexas Tech University
Lubbock, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $415-$500
Total tuition per credit: $49,800- $60,000
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 25
Learn more: Program detailsHouston Christian University
Houston, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $445
Total tuition per credit: $53,845
Credits: 121
Number of degree programs: 12
Learn more: Program detailsWayland Baptist University
Plainview, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $451
Total tuition per credit: $55,924
Credits: 124
Number of degree programs: 16
Learn more: Program detailsThe University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $486 - $525
Total tuition per credit: $58,320 - $63,000
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 4
Learn more: Program detailsConcordia University Texas
Austin, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $495
Total tuition per credit: $59,400
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 7
Learn more: Program detailsDallas Baptist University
Dallas, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $495
Total tuition per credit: $59,400
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 8
Learn more: Program detailsThe University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $219
Total tuition per credit: $26,280
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 17
Learn more: Program detailsThe University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $366 - $540
Total tuition per credit: $40,320 - $64,800
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 10
Learn more: Program detailsTarleton State University
Stephenville, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $184 in-state | $594 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $22,080 - $71,280
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 2
Learn more: Program detailsTexas Woman's University
Denton, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $238 in-state | $648 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $28,560 - $77,760
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 13
Learn more: Program detailsTexas State University
San Marcos, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $665
Total tuition per credit: $79,800
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 15
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Houston-Downtown
Houston, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $246 in-state | $667 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $29,520 - $80,040
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 17
Learn more: Program detailsTexas A&M University - Central Texas
Killeen, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $260 in-state | $668 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $31,200 - $80,160
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 19
Learn more: Program detailsSam Houston State University
Huntsville, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $761
Total tuition per credit: $91,320
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 22
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of North Texas
Denton, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $950
Total tuition per credit: $114,000
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 9
Learn more: Program detailsStephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $479 in-state | $1,003 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $57,480 - $120,360
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 11
Learn more: Program detailsRemington College Online
Dallas, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,020
Total tuition per credit: $122,400
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 2
Learn more: Program detailsTexas A&M University–Texarkana
Texarkana, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,080
Total tuition per credit: $129,600
Credits: 120
Number of degree programs: 3
Learn more: Program details
Cost Comparisons and Trends (Bachelor’s)
| Institution Type | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition & Fees |
| Public (In-State) | $435 | $52,218 |
| Public (Out-of-State) | $763 | $93,664 |
| Private (All Students) | $697 | $83,961 |
Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.
Public universities in Texas are generally more affordable, particularly for in-state residents, with annual undergraduate tuition ranging from approximately $8,000 to $12,000. While out-of-state tuition at public institutions is higher ($25,000 to over $40,000), it typically remains less than private university costs.
Like private schools, public universities offer various financial aid options, including federal and state grants, loans, work-study programs, and institutional scholarships, all contributing to making higher education more accessible.
Master’s degree programs in Texas
The University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $275
Total tuition per credit: $8,250
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 23
Learn more: Program detailsLamar University
Beaumont, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $314
Total tuition per credit: $11,304
Credits: 36
Number of degree programs: 39
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of North Texas at Dallas
Dallas, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $346
Total tuition per credit: $12,456
Credits: 36
Number of degree programs: 3
Learn more: Program detailsTexas Wesleyan University
Fort Worth, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $415-$1,090
Total tuition per credit: $14,940 - $39,240
Credits: 36
Number of degree programs: 5
Learn more: Program detailsTexas Tech University
Lubbock, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $450-$800
Total tuition per credit: $13,500 - $24,000
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 49
Learn more: Program detailsTexas State University
San Marcos, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $499
Total tuition per credit: $14,970
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 25
Learn more: Program detailsWayland Baptist University
Plainview, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $538
Total tuition per credit: $16,140
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 15
Learn more: Program detailsDallas Baptist University
Dallas, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $550
Total tuition per credit: $19,800
Credits: 36
Number of degree programs: 10
Learn more: Program detailsThe University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $550-$825
Total tuition per credit: $16,500 - $24,750
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 2
Learn more: Program detailsThe University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, TexasDelivery method: Online
Total tuition per credit: $14,430 - $23,460
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 20
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Houston
Houston, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $600 - $866
Total tuition per credit: $19,800 - $28,578
Credits: 33
Number of degree programs: 45
Learn more: Program detailsHouston Christian University
Houston, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $620
Total tuition per credit: $22,320
Credits: 36
Number of degree programs: 27
Learn more: Program detailsConcordia University Texas
Austin, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $640-$785
Total tuition per credit: $19,200 - $23,550
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 2
Learn more: Program detailsAbilene Christian University
Abilene, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $650-$799
Total tuition per credit: $23,400 - $28,764
Credits: 36
Number of degree programs: 17
Learn more: Program detailsTarleton State University
Stephenville, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $242 in-state | $652 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $7,260 -$19,560
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 25
Learn more: Program detailsRemington College Online
Dallas, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $694
Total tuition per credit: $24,984
Credits: 36
Number of degree programs: 2
Learn more: Program detailsTexas Southern University
Houston, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $694-$1,000
Total tuition per credit: $20,820 - $30,000
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 4
Learn more: Program detailsTexas A&M University - Central Texas
Killeen, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $297 in-state | $705 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $8,910 - $21,150
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 9
Learn more: Program detailsWest Texas A&M University
Canyon, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $673 in-state | $721 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $24,228 - $25,956
Credits: 36
Number of degree programs: 26
Learn more: Program detailsTexas Woman's University
Denton, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $323 in-state | $733 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $9,690 - $21,990
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 34
Learn more: Program detailsBaylor University
Waco, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $750-$2,000
Total tuition per credit: $22,500 - $60,000
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 10
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Houston-Downtown
Houston, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $441 in-state | $807 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $13,230 - $24,210
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 5
Learn more: Program detailsSouthern Methodist University
Dallas, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $852
Total tuition per credit: $25,560
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 13
Learn more: Program detailsStephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $589 in-state | $999 out-of-state
Total tuition per credit: $21,204 -$35,964
Credits: 36
Number of degree programs: 21
Learn more: Program detailsTexas A&M University–Texarkana
Texarkana, TexasDelivery method: Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,091
Total tuition per credit: $32,730
Credits: 30
Number of degree programs: 5
Learn more: Program details
Cost Comparisons and Trends (Master’s)
| Institution Type | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition & Fees |
| Public (In-State) | $659 | $20,670 |
| Public (Out-of-State) | $1,090 | $34,014 |
| Private (All Students) | $691 | $23,533 |
Tuition and cost data in this table, researched in July 2025 from university websites, are statewide averages and exclude additional costs like housing, meals, books, and fees. Rates are subject to change; verify current information directly with institutions.
Cost of Attendance Beyond Tuition in Texas
Students in Texas face significant expenses beyond tuition, which vary by location and institution. Key additional costs include:
- Room & Board: Typically ranges from $8,000 to $12,000 annually for on-campus housing and meal plans.
- Books & Supplies: Students generally spend $1,200 to $1,500 per year, depending on their program.
- Transportation: Annual costs can range from $1,000 to $1,800, covering in-state travel, vehicle maintenance, or public transit, and are a factor for Pell Grant eligibility.
Living costs are notably higher in urban areas like Dallas, Houston, and Austin due to competitive rental markets and traffic.
Conversely, rural campuses offer a lower overall cost of living with more affordable housing, though they may have fewer job opportunities and amenities.
These variations are crucial for students to consider when planning their total college expenses across the state.
Financial Aid & Sponsorship in Texas
Students must complete either the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the TASFA (Texas Application for State Financial Aid) to qualify for financial aid, depending on eligibility.
U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens should file the FAFSA, while certain Texas residents who are ineligible for federal aid should complete the TASFA. High school seniors in Texas are also required to submit one of these applications to meet graduation requirements unless they opt out.
For more detailed guidance on completing the FAFSA, visit the FAFSA resource. Additionally, to explore scholarship opportunities in Texas, refer to this guide: Finding Scholarships.
Employment & Career Outlook in Texas
For those seeking career opportunities, Texas presents a highly favorable environment in Q2 2025, boasting a solid 4.0% unemployment rate and having generated nearly 200,000 new jobs over the past year.
The state’s economic resilience is powered by three flourishing sectors:
- Energy: Offering diverse roles in traditional oil and gas, alongside rapidly expanding opportunities in renewable energy, as evidenced by significant projects like a $900M solar farm.
- Technology: A hotbed for innovation, with major tech companies expanding in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Houston. This creates demand for talent across AI, hardware, and various tech specializations.
- Healthcare: A continuously growing sector, anchored by world-class facilities like the Texas Medical Center, offering abundant job prospects driven by ongoing investment in services, medical technology, and biopharma research.
Strong performance in professional services and logistics further enhances Texas’s appeal for job seekers.
Collaboration and Early Readiness
Texas also emphasizes collaboration and preparing students for careers early on:
- Public-Private Partnerships:
- The Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP), a collaboration of energy companies and educational institutions, invests in community and workforce development in West Texas.
- The Texas Workforce Partnership Initiative brings together community colleges and business leaders to develop effective workforce strategies and promote diversity statewide.
- Early College and Career Readiness: Texas has expanded early college high schools and dual-credit programs, allowing high school students to earn associate degrees or industry certifications. This has led to a significant increase in students graduating with industry-based certifications, from 10.7% in 2019 to 33.4% in 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
Public universities in Texas offer competitive tuition rates that vary significantly based on residency. For the 2024–2025 academic year, the average annual tuition and fees are approximately $8,432 for in-state students and $18,548 for out-of-state students, making Texas an affordable choice compared to national averages.
Yes, Texas offers several residency waivers that allow eligible nonresident students to pay in-state tuition rates. Common options include the Competitive Scholarship Waiver for students awarded at least $1,000 in competitive scholarships, and waivers for graduate assistants employed in teaching or research roles. Additional waivers may apply to students whose families relocate to Texas for economic development reasons.
Texas residents can apply for state-specific aid like the TEXAS Grant for low-income students, the Top 10% Scholarship for high-achievers, and the Texas Armed Services Scholarship for future military officers.
High-demand majors in Texas include nursing, computer science, business, engineering, and education. These fields match the state’s key industries like healthcare, tech, energy, and education. Graduates in these areas typically enjoy strong job opportunities and competitive salaries.
Texas’s cost of living is about 5%–8% lower than the national average, with housing roughly 16% cheaper, groceries 3% lower, and transportation 6% less expensive. Utilities are slightly higher, averaging 1% above the national rate.