List of colleges and universities in Texas
Overview
Texas, the second-largest state in the United States by both area and population, is home to a diverse array of higher education institutions. These range from large public research universities to small private colleges, each offering unique programs and opportunities. The state's higher education system is governed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, which oversees public institutions and ensures they meet state educational standards. Texas is known for its significant contributions to research, technology, and innovation, largely driven by its universities.
Public Universities
University of Texas System
The University of Texas System is one of the largest public university systems in the United States, comprising multiple institutions across the state. The flagship campus, University of Texas at Austin, is renowned for its research programs and is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. Other notable campuses include the University of Texas at Dallas, known for its strong programs in engineering and business, and the University of Texas at San Antonio, which focuses on cybersecurity and health sciences.
Texas A&M University System
The Texas A&M University System is another major public university system, with its flagship campus located in College Station. Texas A&M University is recognized for its contributions to agriculture, engineering, and military science. The system also includes Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, which offers programs in marine biology and environmental science, and Texas A&M University–Kingsville, known for its wildlife and ranch management programs.
Texas State University System
The Texas State University System is the oldest university system in Texas, with its flagship institution, Texas State University, located in San Marcos. Texas State University is known for its programs in education, business, and the arts. The system also includes Sam Houston State University, which offers strong programs in criminal justice and forensic science, and Lamar University, known for its engineering and business programs.
University of Houston System
The University of Houston System is a significant public university system with its main campus, the University of Houston, located in the state's largest city. The University of Houston is a major research institution with strong programs in law, business, and engineering. The system also includes University of Houston–Clear Lake, which offers programs in education and psychology, and University of Houston–Downtown, known for its business and public service programs.
Private Universities
Rice University
Rice University, located in Houston, is a private research university known for its small student body and strong emphasis on undergraduate education. It is highly regarded for its programs in science, engineering, and business. Rice's Baker Institute for Public Policy is a leading think tank in the United States.
Southern Methodist University
Southern Methodist University (SMU), located in Dallas, is a private university known for its programs in business, law, and the humanities. SMU's Cox School of Business is particularly well-regarded, and the university hosts the George W. Bush Presidential Center.
Baylor University
Baylor University, located in Waco, is a private Christian university affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. It offers a wide range of programs, with strong emphasis on health sciences, law, and theology. Baylor is home to the Baylor College of Medicine, one of the leading medical schools in the country.
Texas Christian University
Texas Christian University (TCU), located in Fort Worth, is a private university known for its programs in business, education, and the arts. TCU's Neeley School of Business is highly regarded, and the university has a strong emphasis on leadership and community service.
Community Colleges
Texas is home to a robust network of community colleges, which provide affordable and accessible education to students across the state. These institutions offer associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs to four-year universities. Notable community colleges include Austin Community College, which serves the Austin metropolitan area, and Houston Community College, one of the largest community colleges in the United States.
Specialized Institutions
Texas Tech University System
The Texas Tech University System includes Texas Tech University, located in Lubbock, which is known for its programs in agriculture, engineering, and law. The system also includes the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, which offers programs in medicine, nursing, and pharmacy.
Health Science Centers
Texas is home to several health science centers that focus on medical education and research. These include the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, known for its biomedical research, and the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, which offers programs in medicine, dentistry, and public health.