2024 Best Colleges for Public Policy in Texas

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  1,107 reviews

Junior: I came into Rice as a transfer student this past semester. I'm happy to say I've found a place where I feel completely welcomed and appreciated. This is where I was meant to be. I am academically challenged and my curiosity is constantly mirrored in my classmates/friends. The conversations are fun and the people are genuine. Don't think that you can't apply because of how competitive it looks. They really practice the holistic approach and if you bring your unique story, passion, and perspective you have a shot. I didn't have perfect test scores, but I had a great work ethic and passion for what I do. If you want a home away from home- highly recommend!... Read 1,107 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 9%

• Net price $18,521

• SAT range 1490-1570

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  6,677 reviews

Senior: I've had an amazing experience at UT. Pursuing a career in journalism, it's an honor to be studying at one of the best journalism programs in the world! I've learned so much from such amazing and accomplished journalists, and I've been able to grow my knowledge and journalistic writing and center in on exactly what path I want to go down in journalism. Along with that, I've been able to pursue other academic interests of mine through pursuing an additional degree in sociology and a certificate in human rights and social justice. I've been able to broaden my knowledge on the issues that plague marginalized communities around the world and through this I've been able to strengthen my reporting and story telling as a journalist. I've also completed four internships throughout my time at the university, and will be studying abroad in the fall! I've grown and gained so much during my time here, and I can't wait to see how much I'll learn and grow during my last year.... Read 6,677 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $16,589

• SAT range 1230-1500

• San Antonio, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  741 reviews

Alum: The professors seemed to care deeply about their students' individual success; this is why I believe the very small average class size is so appealing. The campus is gorgeous and fosters creativity, tranquility, and a strong urge to cultivate one's higher will and gain a deeper understanding of the beautiful spot in time and space that we find ourselves. The coaches are all tremendous motivators, so they really arouse the desire to strive for balance and to be well-rounded in the physical in addition to the obvious mental that comes along with attending the prestigious Trinity University! My mindset was transformed at Trinity, and I learned from the genius professors, outstanding coaches, and my based colleagues that peace, purpose, and fulfillment does not involve hedonism nor a self-serving agenda. I think choosing to attend Trinity was one of the two best choices I have ever made. It is very difficult to imagine a better university filled with people half as awesome as Trinity peeps... Read 741 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 34%

• Net price $27,356

• SAT range 1280-1440

• Dallas, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  1,557 reviews

Alum: I loved my professors and program at SMU! The campus is absolutely gorgeous and it's a really good size without being too small or overwhelmingly large. The school is in the perfect location for local restaurants and shops while being 10 minutes away from the nightlife of downtown and the entertainment of the districts. Overall, it was a god experience. The people weren't my favorite, but I was still able to find my own group of people that didn't give in to the "rich-kid" stereotype the school has. I think it good work on its diversity and aid, especially in the art school.... Read 1,557 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $41,986

• SAT range 1340-1510

• Fort Worth, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  1,709 reviews

Senior: TCU has an incredibly inclusive and supportive community. The professors genuinely care about their students and want their students to succeed. Many have their PhD, with years of real-world industry experience. They are great resources as mentors both in an outside the classroom. The school spirit of TCU is unlike any other school. Students are incredibly proud to be horned frogs and hold lots of school pride. This year, students have been calling TCU an "everything school" because of our success in academics and across all sports. TCU has a great campus, with state-of-the-art buildings and facilities. The dorms are well-equipped and updated, and the recreation center is a great facility. The dining hall food in the BLUU isn't great, but there's plenty of dining options on campus (a healthy smoothie bar, chick-fil-a, Peet's, flatbreads, etc.) and others on University Avenue. Fort Worth is full of culture and has great restaurants/places to explore. Overall great people, great place!... Read 1,709 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $42,574

• SAT range 1130-1350

• Waco, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  4,487 reviews

Sophomore: I have absolutely loved my experience here at Baylor because of the academic opportunities, the environment, the campus, and the people. I love the religious aspect and how it is integrated into our studies. Meaning, that the professors have the free will to speak on that if they choose. Also, the campus is so pretty and very easy to navigate! The people are overall so nice and friendly, offering a safe and loving environment.... Read 4,487 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $46,039

• SAT range 1160-1350

• College Station, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  7,678 reviews

Alum: Texas A&M is a great place to get an education and make friends and professional connections. The opportunities to get involved in research, service, teaching, and internships are vast! The culture is unique and friendly overall, and it is easy to find your niche and family here. People come from all over Texas and the world and enrich the campus discussions. The professors are usually organized, excellent communicators, and very willing to help students. Classes can be pretty big, so it's important to stay engaged. The dorms and apartments I have lived in (Lechner, Davis-Gary, and the Gardens) have all been spacious, well-maintained, quiet, and safe. There are several good places to dine on campus; however, it can get expensive. Parking and riding the bus can be hectic although it gets easier after the first few weeks of the semester. Sometimes the off-campus activities are limited, but there is normally something happening on campus.... Read 7,678 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $22,253

• SAT range 1140-1380

• San Marcos, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  6,503 reviews

Junior: Texas State University is a wonderful school with a beautiful campus and countless resources dedicated to help students of all sorts to succeed. With every decision I made for my education, I felt confident that it was the best one thanks to the staff and faculty who so eagerly assisted me in advising and analyzing each choice and opportunity. As for the community as a whole, it was diverse and colorful in every sense, and contained a spot for everyone, including me. I feel grateful every day that I chose to attend Texas State, that I met those I know now, and that I will be going back soon!... Read 6,503 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $16,385

• SAT range 990-1180

• Abilene, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,413 reviews

Sophomore: I adore this place! My family was Catholic, so our upbringing was different. I have always enjoyed both hearing the biblical tales and learning about their background. I will undoubtedly continue my nursing career here at this university. I adore how each lesson includes references to God. It is very dissimilar from the previous universities I have attended.... Read 1,413 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $29,734

• SAT range 1050-1270

• Lubbock, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  5,316 reviews

Junior: What I love most about going to Texas Tech are the people I've met there. I've become close friends with cancer survivors, people from halfway around the world, and people who've led protests! Almost everyone there is kind and willing to give you the time of day to just talk if you want. Classes at Tech are also excellent. The professors and instructors do an excellent job of covering material and are usually very patient with the student body. Speaking of which, Texas Tech has helped me to discover my passion for mathematics. Prior to coming here, I used to struggle and fear the topic, but after taking Calculus I've learned that It can beautiful and sometimes wonderfully simple. There's plenty to do outside of academics at Tech. A myriad of clubs and organizations are always looking for new members to join. Several facilities such as the Rec Center, the Library, and Urbanovsky park allow anyone to get out and explore campus.... Read 5,316 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $17,057

• SAT range 1110-1280

• Stephenville, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  1,905 reviews

Alum: I transferred to Tarleton from a bigger university and the process was great! As soon as I took a campus tour, I knew Tarleton was the place for me. I instantly felt a welcoming atmosphere and had several people ready to help me transfer. While being a student, I had endless amounts of support from my professors, classmates, and various other support offices on campus. I felt prepared to graduate with many career-like assignments and experiences. There is also so much spirit and tradition here at Tarleton that makes it the best kept secret! Bleed Purple!... Read 1,905 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $13,752

• SAT range 960-1140

• Edinburg, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  2,811 reviews

Freshman: University with adverse culture and programs that are for every single interest a student may want to pursue. Quiet campus for those who love studying, new programs are offered for all students as innovation increases and various clubs for those with different interests while pursuing a Undergraduate/graduate degree. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers growth and advancement opportunities while creating lifelong moments in ones' educational cycle of life! P.S., They offer programs to not pay much in tuition all by passing and apply as much help as possible for you to learn!... Read 2,811 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $6,244

• SAT range 900-1120

• Arlington, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  4,503 reviews

Junior: Transferring to UTA from a community college, I was nervous to meet new students and about the load of the coursework. After my first week of attending classes, I made friends that I still keep in contact with today! My overall experience has impacted my daily life and attitude. UTA has contributed to the woman I am today and I am grateful for every experience! What I enjoyed most about UTA was the professor-to-student ratio. Having personal relationships inside and outside of the classroom is beneficial for both parties. What I would like to see change is the availability of tutors or SI sessions. I had some sessions that fell through due to the cancellation of staffing. Otherwise, UTA has been great for me!... Read 4,503 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $15,301

• SAT range 1000-1220

• Longview, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  699 reviews

Senior: Letourneau University boasts an exceptional aviation and engineering program in the United States, offering an especially conducive atmosphere for those focused on the aviation field. Recognized for its strong affiliations with esteemed partner companies, the program's reputation shines brightly. The university's commitment to practical, hands-on education is evident through these industry connections. With a blend of academic excellence and real-world exposure, Letourneau University provides a dynamic learning environment. For those aspiring to excel in aviation and engineering, this program offers an outstanding opportunity to thrive. The valuable skills and industry networks gained here pave the way for a successful future in these dynamic fields.... Read 699 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $25,932

• SAT range 1130-1370

• San Angelo, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  1,353 reviews

Junior: Angelo State University has been very helpful to me and my future. The time I have spent here at this school has been useful. I have got an internship at an insurance company to start accounting, none of this would be possible without this university. I have had so many accounting classes that has extended my knowledge to bring me to this point. The staff has also been amazing! I may be taking online classes, but the staff is there for me at any point I need. Angelo State University is amazing and I'm glad I chose this school!... Read 1,353 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $12,835

• SAT range 950-1160

• Odessa, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  711 reviews

Other: It's an okay institution, with some great professors. If you have the opportunity to transfer to another UT system school in a bigger city take it!... Read 711 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $9,447

• SAT range 920-1140

• Lubbock, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  513 reviews

Junior: I absolutely fell in love with how much of a community Lubbock Christian University is. It doesn't feel like you are just going to class to learn then leave. Lubbock Christian University is more family oriented. Everyone knows everyone, the professors know you by name, friends are easily made!... Read 513 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $24,079

• SAT range 940-1160

• Commerce, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,234 reviews

Freshman: I’m fortunate that my hometown is also a college town, making it easier to apply to college. My teachers have helped me get to the point where i’m registering for classes for my freshman year. I’m excited to embrace in my new journey here, and I’m going to summer camps for the university as well! So far it’s been stressful trying to turn in all the required information, but it’s all finally sorted out where it feels refreshing to know what i’ll be doing once the the fall semester begins.... Read 1,234 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $13,639

• SAT range 930-1150

• Nacogdoches, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  2,734 reviews

Other: One of SFA's qualities is its faculty, which is committed to instructing and giving each student their undivided attention. SFA enables individualized training and coaching. The community on campus, where students can join a variety of clubs and groups, is renowned for being warm and accepting. SFA provides a broad range of academic programs in its six colleges, including those in liberal and applied arts, business, education, fine arts, forestry and agriculture, and science and mathematics. The university also provides a variety of artistic and physical pursuits, musical performances, and much more! Overall, Stephen F. Austin State University is a renowned university with an excellent academic standing and a welcoming neighborhood. SFA is a great option for those looking for a well-rounded educational experience in a stunning location.... Read 2,734 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $16,819

• SAT range 980-1160

• Denton, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  2,251 reviews

Junior: Texas Woman's University is an amazing school. I am a nursing student at the Houston campus. I have learned so much in my short time attending. I have only spent a semester at TWU and I absolutely love it. The professors are very knowledgeable and they are really good at teaching and making lectures engaging. The professors have been nice, understanding, and very professional. Although the content they teach can be difficult, they deliver it in a way that is easy to understand. They really let you know their expectations from the beginning and it sets you up for success in their classes. Even after our first exam, some of the students that struggled with the first exam had one on one meetings with our professors to see what areas the student needed help with. Which I think is very helpful! The student life center at TWU Houston is absolutely my favorite. They really do care about the students. They set out snacks every day for students to come by and get incase we get hungry.... Read 2,251 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $11,627

• SAT range 950-1160

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  743 reviews

Freshman: As a newly admitted student to the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL), I am thrilled and eager to embark on this exciting academic journey. From the moment I received my acceptance letter, I could sense that UHCL is a university that truly cares about its students' success and overall well-being. As I prepare to start my journey at UHCL, I am filled with anticipation and confidence that this university will provide me with the tools and support necessary to thrive academically and personally. I can't wait to embrace all the opportunities that await me at UHCL!... Read 743 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $16,737

• SAT range 990-1170

• Prairie View, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  2,485 reviews

Freshman: I love that everyone here was so helpful from day 1. They all made the process really easy and smooth. Whenever I called in or came in person for help getting enrolled, I was guided. I’m an on campus student so I was really pleased that they had a program to match you with a roommate that you actually had something in common with. I love that the campus always has something fun going on for the students and also important things to help us improve such as job fairs on site. The school itself is a little expensive and have lots of fees which require you to get loans/scholarships to be able to pay for everything. That’s the one thing I think the school can look at changing. Make it affordable without students having to go into debt. But overall, I rate it a 9 out of 10! I’m very happy here.... Read 2,485 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $14,927

• SAT range 840-1050

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,276 reviews

Junior: Never would I imagine that I would make it to a University and get the best experience. And yet here I am, my experience of being a student at St. Edward's University have been fantastic! My first time entering the building so much anxiety built up in my body, but also excitement that my voice is screaming inside "I'm really actually here!" not to mention a lot of emotional feelings flooding in and out when I had to say goodbye to my family. Now being in College doesn't go without struggles and its been like a rollercoaster for me, but with the help and support of St. Edward's and my family I made it through my first year. There are a lot of things that I like about the University, for one it does really good on notifying its students on any up comings announcements, alerts, and even inspiring messages for every struggling student. In honesty, I would like the dorm sizes change, still great stay. Awesome to be a Hilltopper, can't wait to finish my years with constant encouragement!... Read 1,276 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $24,668

• SAT range 1060-1240

• Waxahachie, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  832 reviews

Sophomore: SAGU is an incredible college for ministry! Some of the general education teachers are difficult to follow, but the professors that teach classes for ministry majors are fantastic. I have learned how to practically apply my studies to daily life. For example, I feel equipped to study the Bible based on its historical-cultural context. Most professors are very willing to help when you reach out. Some of my professors have even given me points back just because I asked for help. Their online program is fantastic. Academic advisors work well with you to complete your schedule & pick classes that suit you best. They are also very open to feedback on how to improve. Lastly, I love the focus every professor has on the power of a relationship with God. Yes, they teach students about the logistics of ministry. However, they don't focus so much on the logistics that they forget why we do what we do. My relationship with God has grown because of SAGU!... Read 832 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $22,245

• SAT range 900-1080

• Denton, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  6,080 reviews

Alum: When I applied to UNT as a graduate student (my second graduate degree), I was a bit worried about the rigor of the program because my previous two universities were much higher ranked. I was so surprised! I absolutely loved my time at UNT; beautiful and safe campus, knowledgeable and friendly professors, and the rigor of my coursework was actually better than my previous degrees. When I mentioned that I was enrolled at UNT, I would often hear how people who had done their undergraduate degrees at UT Austin or A & M College Station had gone on to complete masters degrees at UNT and “loved it!” I couldn’t agree more. Also, this school gives fantastic merit scholarships! I was shocked that I ended up paying half the expected tuition each semester. I loved UNT and am excited for my two children to tour when deciding on their undergraduate programs.... Read 6,080 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $11,915

• SAT range 1010-1240