2021 Top Public Universities in Texas

Best Colleges

63 results

University of Texas - Austin
4 Year
Austin, TX
6,209 reviews
#1 Top Public Universities in Texas
Sophomore: I love the city of Austin. Overall the professors I have had thus far in my academic career have been great! As a commuter, my only issue with the university is the limited parking spots on campus. There has been the construction of new buildings on campus that have limited parking spots. Austin, as a city is constantly under construction, as it is growing rapidly. Adding the construction on campus makes everything all a little bit more difficult as someone who has to live from home away from campus and drive to school. I understand that adding new buildings to the university allows the school as a whole to advance, but I also believe it is important to factor in where the placement of these new buildings are happening and if they are taking over parking spots that once were.
Read 6,209 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
39% Acceptance Rate
$15,502 Net Price
1230-1480 SAT Range
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Texas A&M University
4 Year
College Station, TX
7,093 reviews
#2 Top Public Universities in Texas
Junior: Texas A&M was my dream school before I applied and now that I'm going to be a senior, I can honestly say it has exceeded my expectations. I feel extremely prepared for my career, I enjoy going to class, and I have experienced firsthand just how helpful and encouraging the Aggie network is. Your experience here is what you make it. It's a large school but you are given plenty of opportunities to make it seem smaller by meeting people, volunteering, going to events, and gathering on campus. They are even making an effort to bring more green space to the campus, encourage less pollution and more recycling, and embrace diversity. I appreciate my school in so many ways and will be leaving next year being greatly impacted for the better. Thanks and Gig 'em!
Read 7,093 Reviews
A+
Overall Niche Grade
68% Acceptance Rate
$19,237 Net Price
1160-1390 SAT Range
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Texas Tech University
4 Year
Lubbock, TX
4,857 reviews
#3 Top Public Universities in Texas
Senior: Arriving at Texas Tech was intimidating at first but the campus was absolutely beautiful. After attending just my first semester, I knew I picked the right school. The classes and professors were great, and there are so many resources available to every single student. The library was my favorite place to study in as they had tons of private rooms you could reserve. Not only that, but attending all the sport events was my favorite! It was all such a great college experience and I know if you step foot on campus you’ll immediately see what it’s all about.
Read 4,857 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
71% Acceptance Rate
$16,463 Net Price
1070-1260 SAT Range
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University of Texas at Dallas
4 Year
Richardson, TX
2,298 reviews
#4 Top Public Universities in Texas
Freshman: Good school for academics, especially for technology-based majors. Lots of academic clubs, and also several for card, board, and role-playing games. There's even an orchestra that only plays music from video games and anime! Additionally, this school has one of the best esports teams in the nation. It's a great environment for those who are happy to be a little bit geeky. What's great to me is that it doesn't matter what religion you practice, what race you are, your gender or orientation, your political views, or your major; generally speaking, people are pretty inviting and will readily form small groups to play games together, study, or just hang out. It's easy to find a home here even if you aren't normally the social type because there are so many interests represented.
Read 2,298 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
69% Acceptance Rate
$10,455 Net Price
1240-1460 SAT Range
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University of Houston
4 Year
Houston, TX
6,173 reviews
#5 Top Public Universities in Texas
Junior: My overall experience at the University of Houston is pretty amazing! The staff, professors, and volunteers are so welcoming. Being at this school feels like a second home to me. Whenever I am lost or confused with anything, there's always someone willing to help me. I learned so much while attending this school and I am continuing to gain so much knowledge as I progress in my academic career.
One thing I would like for the University of Houston to work on is taking teacher evaluations seriously. Throughout my past three semesters at this school, I have had a handful of professors that, in my opinion, were not the best. At the end of each semester, students are asked to complete a teacher evaluation which rates the overall effectiveness of the teacher. I feel as though our evaluations are not being considered considering the fact that some professors teaching abilities and behavior has not improved.
Read 6,173 Reviews
A-
Overall Niche Grade
62% Acceptance Rate
$13,212 Net Price
1140-1310 SAT Range
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Texas State University
4 Year
San Marcos, TX
6,063 reviews
#6 Top Public Universities in Texas
Sophomore: I fell in love with this college the moment I stepped on campus. If you hate the city style most colleges have adapted, this school is for you. The campus is compact and filled with trees and is walking distance from a park with a spring-fed river. The professors are committed and helpful. I am in the Honors college which allows smaller class sizes for certain classes and even options to take interesting forms of basic, required courses. There is plenty of research and job opportunity available and the college encourages it through financial aid and events. There is always a club to join and the list of intramural sports seems endless, you will find your people! Overall, I love attending this university and would never regret my decision to attend.
Read 6,063 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
46% Acceptance Rate
$13,178 Net Price
1010-1180 SAT Range
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University of North Texas
4 Year
Denton, TX
5,616 reviews
#7 Top Public Universities in Texas
Alum: I loved every minute of my undergrad at UNT in Denton! From the moment I toured the campus to my graduation day, I knew it was the right decision. Class sizes were great and faculty and staff were extremely supportive of students. I made great relationships with my academic advisors and am still in touch with a few of my professors 7 years later. UNT is a beautiful campus with lots of character and so many fun activities in a vibrant and growing city. Even if you aren't attending for the music school, you can certainly enjoy the many wonderful performances on and off campus. I loved my college experience here and wouldn't hesitate to recommend the school for the value of education.
Read 5,616 Reviews
B+
Overall Niche Grade
71% Acceptance Rate
$14,020 Net Price
1060-1250 SAT Range
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University of Texas - Arlington
4 Year
Arlington, TX
4,120 reviews
#8 Top Public Universities in Texas
Alum: UTA is predominately a commuter so there aren't usually a whole lot of activities occurring on campus. However, if you try and get involved there are a lot of clubs that have activities and fundraiser a few times a semester. The campus is beautiful, I always preferred to study outside. Most of my professors were great and I was able to develop lasting relationships with several of them. Most of the buildings are on the older side with most of the funding going to the engineering and nursing programs but the biology program wasn't too shabby. The Mac, the gym on campus, gave you the opportunity to play just about any sport you wanted to. And even if you don't like the fast food food on campus, there are lots of other places to eat fairly close by. There is a hub for Vietnamese food only a few streets down which is delicious!
Read 4,120 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
80% Acceptance Rate
$14,445 Net Price
1040-1250 SAT Range
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Texas A&M International University
4 Year
Laredo, TX
1,303 reviews
#9 Top Public Universities in Texas
Sophomore: I love my school, it has a lot of good people there. It has international people and I love having friends from all around the world. My classmates are helpful. Also the professors are amazing. The installations are amazing! I love how welcome you feel every time you get into a classroom, the cafeteria, the professors office, and even the restroom! I love my school, I love the pride.
Read 1,303 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
52% Acceptance Rate
$3,323 Net Price
910-1100 SAT Range
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West Texas A&M University
4 Year
Canyon, TX
1,198 reviews
#10 Top Public Universities in Texas
Sophomore: West Texas A&M has a beautiful campus with lots to do. There seems to be a new activity/event everyday. The campus always remains clean and surrounded with kind people. WT offers lots of help if your struggling with your academics, social life, or even money. The tailgates are always fun with lots of food and activities such as corn hole. From my experience living on campus you get to meet so many people from so many places that you become friends with. I highly recommend to be active with all the school activities college can be lonely, go out and meet people!
Read 1,198 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
65% Acceptance Rate
$12,982 Net Price
940-1140 SAT Range
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Sam Houston State University
4 Year
Huntsville, TX
3,582 reviews
#11 Top Public Universities in Texas
Freshman: So far my experience at Sam Houston State University has been truly eventful, eye-opening, and life-changing. This is my first year at SHSU, and as of recently, I have just completed my first semester. Beginning college was a brand new chapter for my life, and I had a lot of new responsibilities. SHSU gave me many tools and resources to adjust to campus life and taking that next step. There were various organizations specifically for freshmen, so we as a class can feel more comfortable with each other. Depending on the workload, at times classes can be stressful. Being a first-year student, I did not know what to expect coming into college and wasn't aware of many important things. During the first two weeks of classes, students were notified to purchase textbooks and other materials needed for all our classes. Who knew that books were so expensive?! But, thanks to SHSU and Barnes & Noble, they were able to come up with a bundle of textbooks for students at the lowest rate possible.
Read 3,582 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
79% Acceptance Rate
$13,055 Net Price
990-1140 SAT Range
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University of Texas - Tyler
4 Year
Tyler, TX
1,120 reviews
#12 Top Public Universities in Texas
Junior: This university has an amazing range of professors who care and make your learning experience fun. They genuinely want to see you succeed in the future. The campus is beautiful and recently a mini park was added to the front of campus to give as much relaxation space as possible to students, not to mention an awesome scenery. The campus has many engaging activities for the students to connect with future bosses and gives insight into how the job and everything will work when you graduate. Overall my experience here has been unforgettable!
Read 1,120 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
78% Acceptance Rate
$7,389 Net Price
1070-1240 SAT Range
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University of Texas - San Antonio
4 Year
San Antonio, TX
4,403 reviews
#13 Top Public Universities in Texas
Junior: The teachers and advisors all are engaged and care about your future and goals. You will surely feel supported and challenged at UTSA. The environment and campus, for the most part, are clean and lively. There are a lot of organizations and clubs to keep you busy on campus and in the community. The campus is also conveniently located across from a nice mall/outlet stocked with everything you need and could want. The area is safe and student-friendly. This is only the main campus. There is are also two other campuses that are also located in areas that would be beneficial to an immersive learning environment. Obviously, you may run into problems with faculty and perhaps other students or maybe how the campus is run but I personally haven't run into many problems that have truly inconvenienced me or made me regret my decision in going to UTSA. I think UTSA gives a lot of opportunities and potential to create many beloved college memories. Overall, I love UTSA and being a roadrunner!
Read 4,403 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
79% Acceptance Rate
$13,168 Net Price
1030-1220 SAT Range
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University of Houston-Downtown
4 Year
Houston, TX
1,326 reviews
#14 Top Public Universities in Texas
Junior: I have been attending UH-D for less than a year, however they had made everything in my college life easy as can be. During this pandemic everything has had me on edge especially contracting the virus made me even more traumatized. However thanks to the advisors and counselors the university has to offer they had made my first semester a breezy one. Although I am doing an online program all the professors are professional and really do their best to help out in anyway they can. They really want you to succeed and I am very lucky and happy with my decision on attending this marvelous and great university!
Read 1,326 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
83% Acceptance Rate
$7,159 Net Price
920-1080 SAT Range
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Texas Woman's University
4 Year
Denton, TX
2,075 reviews
#15 Top Public Universities in Texas
Sophomore: There are endless things to do and see in and around Texas Woman's University: from the beauty of the campus to the endless exciting activities you can find both on campus and around town. The daily life here is wonderful. Whether you live on-campus or commute you will find your experience to be streamlined and overall quite positive. The campus itself is quite small, however, the potential for enjoyable activities is huge. There are plenty of great spots to visit on and off-campus. These spots range from popular and delicious food joints such as ‘J&J’s Pizza’ to interesting and fun-to-visit oddities, such as the ‘Minifigs, Bricks, & More’ lego store! There aren’t many guarantees in life, but I can assure you that your time at Texas Woman’s University will be accompanied by countless positive experiences and will leave you with many wonderful memories.
Read 2,075 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
87% Acceptance Rate
$9,830 Net Price
930-1150 SAT Range
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The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
4 Year
Edinburg, TX
2,497 reviews
#16 Top Public Universities in Texas
Sophomore: The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is known mostly known for getting a bad-wrap due to it being in one of the not-so-wealthiest cities of Texas, Brownsville. But I have to say that UTRGV is one of the greatest and most affordable schools in Texas. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is not a bad university by any means, no matter what people say about it. Is it the greatest? No. Is it the worst? No. But if you are looking for a great education, on a pretty good campus, at an affordable cost, then UTRGV is the school for you! The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley really is one of the best universities in Texas, not to mention that is has been ranked the 4th best university in Texas by “BestColleges.com”, and for many reasons. Great memories will be made here, amazing knowledge will be obtained here, and goals will be accomplished here, I can guarantee you that!
Read 2,497 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
81% Acceptance Rate
$4,654 Net Price
950-1130 SAT Range
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Texas A&M University - Commerce
4 Year
Commerce, TX
1,127 reviews
#17 Top Public Universities in Texas
Senior: The campus is beautiful and offers various places if one wanted to sit outside. Compared to some of the other universities around TAMUC is by far the most affordable university I have come by. Professors and staff are always there if you have any inquires and will work with you if you are having difficulties in class or outside of the classroom. The university offers various clubs and resources available to students, so there is something for everyone. Have had a wonderful experience at this school and recommend it to all!
Read 1,127 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
34% Acceptance Rate
$12,477 Net Price
950-1150 SAT Range
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Stephen F Austin State University
4 Year
Nacogdoches, TX
2,612 reviews
#18 Top Public Universities in Texas
Alum: I went to SFASU and graduated in 1999. After 6 years I was making over 150k in finance and went up from there.
I found this to be an excellent university, great campus, great teachers, and great fellow students. The cost for me was very low and I had help with financial aid. When I graduated I had maybe 12k in loans to pay back.
I was in a fraternity and lived off campus for 150$ per month. I wasn’t living large in college. Excuse I wanted to just compete school and move onto a career. I found many of my business students very smart and focused.
I would highly encourage anyone to go to this university. I have now worked for some of the most prominent financial firms in the world. Thanks SFASU!
Read 2,612 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
100% Acceptance Rate
$12,866 Net Price
990-1180 SAT Range
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Midwestern State University
4 Year
Wichita Falls, TX
1,059 reviews
#19 Top Public Universities in Texas
Sophomore: Everyone at the school is very nice - students, faculty, ad staff. The professors are very willing to help you succeed, and the small class sizes afford them this opportunity. Even though the school is rather small, they still have many wonderful teachers that even have national awards and recognitions. It is easy to get involved on campus in many organizations. There is something for everyone. The campus itself is great! The dorms are modern and accommodating. The academic buildings have a beautiful antique facade, and the campus is small enough to be trekked in less than ten minutes! The school could be improved just by continuing to add more educational programs.
Read 1,059 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
71% Acceptance Rate
$9,799 Net Price
930-1120 SAT Range
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Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
4 Year
Corpus Christi, TX
1,984 reviews
#20 Top Public Universities in Texas
Junior: A college fair was hosted in my highschool, and the university that called my attention was Texas A&M. My friend attends this school, and talks so much about it. I can see the passion she has and the love she has with the school. At times she doesn't even want to come home from her dorm. She loved the way things were there and the campus overall. It has me interested to join, and I asked the man numerous questions about this university, which made me love it even more. I hope that one day I will get to see it in person. My plan was to see it this summer, but due to this pandemic having a toll on my family and everyone around us. We knew that we couldn't go and see the campus. One day I hope to see it and get to explore more about it. I thank the person who is reading this, and hope they have a wonderful day!
Read 1,984 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
87% Acceptance Rate
$12,916 Net Price
1010-1200 SAT Range
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University of Houston - Victoria
4 Year
Victoria, TX
493 reviews
Sophomore: When I came to UHV in August of 2019, I honestly didn't know if I would like my first semester. On my first day, I really enjoyed it. The staff is very helpful and supportive for their students. They provide lots of resources for students to anything from mental health, education, and physical health. I love being at UHV it feels like I'm home and comfortable. It made college a lot of fun.
Read 493 Reviews
B-
Overall Niche Grade
54% Acceptance Rate
$10,063 Net Price
930-1090 SAT Range
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University of North Texas at Dallas
4 Year
Dallas, TX
30 reviews
Junior: My experience with the University of North Texas at Dallas has overall been really pleasant. One of the things I find most convenient and very compelling about the school is the class sizing. The classrooms are never too full which gives you a better chance of being able to interact with the professors. Being able to communicate with the professors easily is a very convenient thing which I like to have. Also, the professors are very friendly and very enthusiastic when you ask for help, they never shy away from helping their students. Another compelling attribute of the campus is the many helping centers they provide, it being help with math or even helping you revise a paper. The layout of the campus is one of my favorite parts as well. There are many studying quarters which anyone can access. You can have an individual area for yourself or even go to a larger area with a group to help study for a test or work on a project.
Read 30 Reviews
B-
Overall Niche Grade
83% Acceptance Rate
$9,062 Net Price
740-940 SAT Range
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Texas A&M University - Texarkana
4 Year
Texarkana, TX
206 reviews
Junior: Texas A & M University at Texarkana is a wonderful institution that truly cares about the students that attend and are looking to attend. I personally have had professors that are very communicative and clear with their instruction. The atmosphere that is created at the university is warm and inviting. It is a beautiful campus with a well-rounded faculty. The professors and advisers respond fast to email and are always willing to help with any questions that you may have. I transferred there my junior year in college, and it was the best decision I have made for my education! I highly recommend this college.
Read 206 Reviews
B-
Overall Niche Grade
51% Acceptance Rate
$10,412 Net Price
970-1150 SAT Range
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Collin College
4 Year
McKinney, TX
1,902 reviews
Sophomore: I began my tenure at Collin Community College in 2019, and I am transferring to a University for Fall of 2021. My time at Collin has been great so far! Although I haven't ventured in student life, the College itself contains various clubs and other activities. The academics they offer are amazing, but it also depends solely on the professor received. Collin Community College is a great option if you require additional courses for cheap, plan on transferring, desire a certificate, or plan on staying close to home for your first few semesters of college.
Read 1,902 Reviews
B-
Overall Niche Grade
100% Acceptance Rate
$5,454 Net Price
— SAT Range
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Galveston College
4 Year
Galveston, TX
170 reviews
Junior: Galveston College is a great school to attend. There are many degree plans that they offer. They also offer continuing education classes that help you getting a career in that specific field. Also the tuition is a lot cheaper than going to a university. The classes are very educational and the professors are terrific. There is a lot of support from professors, counseling and the IT department. I would recommend everyone to attend Galveston College to continue their education.
Read 170 Reviews
B-
Overall Niche Grade
100% Acceptance Rate
$4,262 Net Price
— SAT Range
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University of the Incarnate Word
4 Year
San Antonio, TX
1,709 reviews
Senior: The University of the Incarnate Word is a wonderful accredited school with students from all different backgrounds and experiences that blend together to become a family. Not only can students walk around the gorgeous campus grounds but the academics and athletics are incredible. At this school, the courses are detailed and thorough. Not only do students really enjoy and learn from their studies, but we are a small community in itself where everyone on campus feels welcome and wants to be a Cardinal. GO CARDS!
Read 1,709 Reviews
B
Overall Niche Grade
88% Acceptance Rate
$24,481 Net Price
950-1160 SAT Range
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Tulsa Welding School & Technology Center
2 Year
Houston, TX
2 reviews
Junior: Everything is basically provided for you. The staff is EXTREMELY helpful. You’re allowed to come in before and after your class. Saturday’s are also available to come in and practice. They give you every tool and opportunity to be a great welder. The are TONS of student resources. They help with job placement while in school and after school. They help you with achieving your goals and certification tests. I’d highly recommend this school.
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100% Acceptance Rate
$26,573 Net Price
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ECPI Universities
4 reviews
Freshman: ECPI University has an excellent practical nursing program. Although a bit pricey, ECPI University is definitely worth attending.
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2021 Top Public Universities in TexasAbout this List

Best Programs

Students

Social Scene

Campus

Athletics

University of Texas - Austin

Texas A&M University

Texas Tech University

University of Texas at Dallas

University of Houston

Texas State University

University of North Texas

University of Texas - Arlington

Texas A&M International University

West Texas A&M University

Sam Houston State University

University of Texas - Tyler

University of Texas - San Antonio

University of Houston-Downtown

Texas Woman's University

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Texas A&M University - Commerce

Stephen F Austin State University

Midwestern State University

Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

University of Houston - Victoria

University of North Texas at Dallas

Texas A&M University - Texarkana

Collin College

Galveston College

University of the Incarnate Word

Tulsa Welding School & Technology Center

ECPI Universities