2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in Texas

• Austin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  6,676 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 6,676 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $16,589

• SAT range 1230-1500

• 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  1,708 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 1,708 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $42,574

• SAT range 1130-1350

• 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

• 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

• Waco, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  4,485 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 4,485 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $46,039

• SAT range 1160-1350

• Abilene, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,412 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 1,412 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $29,734

• SAT range 1050-1270

• Georgetown, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  584 reviews

Alum: I absolutely loved my experience at Southwestern University. As an out-of-state student, I could tell that the staff and professors truly cared about me and wanted me to feel at home. The local community was also very kind and supportive, even offering free lunch to Southwestern students every Monday (#chunch)! Georgetown is a cute and fun town with plenty of amazing restaurants and things to do!... Read 584 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $28,496

• SAT range 1150-1330

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  6,615 reviews

Senior: Overall, my experience with the University of Houston has been vey wonderful. The staff at the student center are very helpful. One time one of the staff members walked me all the way to the building where my class is being held at. The professors at the University of Houston are very helpful as well, considering that they have 50-100 students in their class. The University of Houston made me feel right at home the first time I showed up for orientation. One thing I would change about the University of Houston would be their parking permit. I believe the parking permits are a bit overpriced, considering that we pay a lot for tuition already, but other than that their are no complaints!... Read 6,615 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $14,339

• SAT range 1140-1330

• Lubbock, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  5,313 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 5,313 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $17,057

• SAT range 1110-1280

• Seguin, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  530 reviews

Alum: I attended TLU from 2015-2019. I majored in Kinesiology (Teaching/Coaching specialization) and ran on the cross country and track teams. I loved the small class size setting, as it allowed for more personal instruction. I felt like the professors viewed me as a person, and not a number. My professors were kind and caring and let me know they were there for me if I needed any help academically. Although I grew up almost 6 hours away from TLU and didn’t know anyone coming in as a freshman, I instantly connected with other people on the cross country/track teams. Friendships were formed immediately that still continue to this day! My teammates became my second family. Overall I’d rate my experience at TLU as a 10/10!... Read 530 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 63%

• Net price $19,829

• SAT range 1020-1170

• 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

• Denton, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  6,079 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 6,079 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $11,915

• SAT range 1010-1240

• Denton, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  2,250 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 2,250 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $11,627

• SAT range 950-1160

• Nacogdoches, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  2,733 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 2,733 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $16,819

• SAT range 980-1160

• 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

• Marshall, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  466 reviews

Freshman: My experience here at East Texas Baptist University has been distinguished compared to my high school experience. What I like about this university is that everyone here is so friendly and open-minded. Every interaction I have had with my fellow students and teachers has been pleasant and productive. I enjoy the chapel services that are help every Monday and Wednesday as it is just such a joyful and uplifting experience. Not only do they provide a great chapel service, but they also provide endless amounts of volunteering opportunities to help us gain experience and service hours. Serving the community in Marshall has been nothing more than a outstanding experience. I am a teachers assistant every Monday and I also contribute voluntary work in my schools Honors program. The only thing is that it is a little on the expensive side, but I think the academic and Christian scholarships provide a good amount of support for every student.... Read 466 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $23,885

• SAT range 920-1120

• Canyon, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,291 reviews

Freshman: This campus feels like a home away from home. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming, always making sure you are having fun and exploring new and exciting places in Canyon. Most of the professors I have encountered are really charismatic and humorous; they make classes exciting and enjoyable even when you have one at 8:00 am. The campus itself is beautiful with lots of places for relaxation and hang outs. It is currently undergoing some new developments which will make student living a lot more reliable and dependable. If you do not have a car, it is a little difficult to venture out and explore what Canyon has to offer, as well as the food on campus can sometimes get a little repetitive with the most common foods being pizza and burgers. Overall, it is a wonderful and fairly safe campus full of joyful and funny students!... Read 1,291 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $13,802

• SAT range 980-1170

• Houston, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  696 reviews

Freshman: It is a catholic school, but they won’t force you to partake in any of the catholic traditions of you’re not comfortable. The school is guarded very well and very safe you have to have your id to enter the building and the dorms so it’s not welcome to strangers and it is surrounded by a gate. The food is delicious and they provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Lastly, the people here are very nice and welcoming makes you feel like you belong. Highly overall I recommend coming here!... Read 696 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $20,130

• SAT range 1040-1220

• Edinburg, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  2,810 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 2,810 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $6,244

• SAT range 900-1120

• 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

• San Antonio, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,849 reviews

Freshman: Attending the University of the Incarnate Word has been such an amazing experience! My Professors have been extremely accommodating to my academic and non-academic obligations. On a few occasions, I've had to miss class or show up late, due to my work schedule conflicts. My Professors showed compassion and understanding. The staff at UIW have been helpful, as well. Whenever I need something, they go above and beyond to make things easier for me. The Academic Advisors are so compassionate and understanding and my classmates are such good people. UIW is dedicated to their students and staff in more areas than one. I couldn't have chosen a better school to attend!... Read 1,849 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $21,161

• SAT range 920-1160

• Huntsville, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  3,871 reviews

Alum: Sam Houston State University is a very warm environment with professors who really care about providing an excellent educational experience. I especially appreciated how quickly my professors responded to my emails, and there was never a moment where I felt that I was taking this college journey alone. There are also various student organizations that not only help students get connected with others on campus, but there are also lots of volunteer opportunities to help students get involved with the community of Huntsville. If I could change anything about my experience, I definitely would have stayed on campus instead of commuting. The parking spaces are few and far between, and with a dorm on campus it is much easier to access classes and student activities. There is usually always some kind of construction happening on the roads, so being able to avoid this by staying on campus is also a plus. Overall, Sam Houston State University is a great place to attend, and I recommend going!... Read 3,871 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $14,287

• SAT range 950-1120

• 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

• Abilene, TX•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  404 reviews

Alum: Hardin-Simmons University is one of the best-kept secrets in Texas - but it shouldn't be! Everyone should know about Hardin-Simmons. The high-quality education is everywhere, and I was provided many hands-on experiences that were integral to my development as a professional in my field. It would have been nearly impossible to get those same opportunities at a larger, more "prestigious" school. But to top it all off, my experience was truly made by the wonderful people at HSU, in and outside the classroom. The personal relationships I developed with my classmates and professors kept me going throughout my time there. Knowing that there were so many people supporting me through a faith-filled foundation made my experience at HSU worth it ten-times over. If you're looking for a place to get the education you need while also being known and loved for who you are, then Hardin-Simmons University is the school for you.... Read 404 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $23,337

• SAT range 970-1170