20 Best Affordable Colleges in Texas for Bachelor’s Degree 2020

If you are looking for the best affordable colleges in Texas for bachelor’s degrees, you have come to the right place. Enrollment in Texas private and public colleges and universities totaled 1.5 million students as of the fall semester in 2017, according to the Texas Almanac. Many of the top-ranked institutions of higher learning in Texas boast legacies that stretch back for centuries and are expected to grow between 2016 and 2026. As the home of some of the most ethnically diverse cities in the nation, including Dallas and Houston, students pursuing an affordable degree in Texas have plenty of opportunities to become global citizens. Some of the state’s top majors for undergraduates include history, the social sciences, business, health, and agriculture. Even if you are not sure of the major you intend to pursue, chances are there are several affordable colleges in Texas that will meet your academic needs and professional goals.

Methodology

The following methodology was developed around affordability, class size, and student success, all important aspects of a best college. We strived to capture the balance between these three features of each school and awarded points as outlined below. To get our initial list of schools, we used the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) website and conducted a search using the College Navigator tool for the colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees in Texas. We then used each school profile on the College Navigator website to find the information needs for our three ranking categories. In the instance of a point-based tie, the school with the lowest tuition was placed on top.

Average Cost of Attendance

We get it. You are looking for a cheap and affordable college in Texas. However, as tempting as it may be, try to avoid choosing the most inexpensive school just for the sake of going easy on your wallet. Instead, base your decision on the quality of the school and what it has to offer. For this article, we ranked tuition according to how much an in-state student would pay for one year of tuition if he or she were to take 15 hours of courses per semester, according the NCES. Out-of-state tuition rates are also provided for your reference.

Points:
Under $7,500: 3 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 2 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

A school’s student-to-faculty ratio provides insight into its educational setting as well as the size of its classes. While this number does not always necessarily represent how many students are in each class, it does tell a great deal about the quality of academic support and whether students will have the opportunity to develop close relationships with their professors and peers. Although there are benefits and drawbacks to both large state universities and small private colleges, for the purpose of this ranking, we determined that schools with the lowest student-to-faculty ratios and, therefore, the smallest classes would receive the highest number of points as indicated below, according to the information provided from NCES.

Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point

Graduation Rate

The third and final metric on which we based points was each institution’s graduation rate. We used this number, provided from the NCES website, to measure student success and, inadvertently, student satisfaction. In other words, students who remained at the school in which they were enrolled, completed their program requirements and earned their degree were most likely satisfied with the school’s tuition rates, quality of faculty, and availability of academic support. On the other hand, students who left before finishing their coursework or earning their degree may have done so due to dissatisfaction with the program or school. Although low graduation rates can happen for any number of reasons, it is important to keep these figures in mind as you evaluate the quality of a program and school.

Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point

Ranking 20 Best Affordable Colleges in Texas

20. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Brownsville, Texas

Points: 5
School Website

Located in Brownsville, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is a public research university and a member of the University of Texas System. One of the cheapest colleges in Texas, UTRGV is also one of the largest institutions of higher learning in the nation to enroll mostly Hispanic students. Offering more than 120 affordable programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, UTRGV delivers a biliterate, bicultural, and bilingual learning experience. UTRGV boasts a 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio, personalized mentorship from world-renowned faculty, cutting-edge technology and facilities, and opportunities for research as well as a campus in the Rio Grande Valley that provides unparalleled outlets for everything from marine biology to cultural border studies to international business to aerospace.

In-State Tuition: $7,813
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,773
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent

19. Texas Woman’s University

Denton, Texas

Points: 5
School Website

Texas Woman’s University is a coeducational university located in Denton. Established in 1901, this cheap university in Texas has been coeducational since 1994, yet it is the largest state-supported institution of higher learning in the U.S. that is primarily geared toward women. Students seeking an affordable degree in Texas can choose from more than 75 different programs, including 91 undergraduate and graduate degrees. TWU is known for its leadership and contributions in the fields of business, the arts and sciences, nutrition, the healthcare professions, education, and nursing. Although many of TWU’s extracurriculars focus on women’s interests, it has expanded its offerings to be more inclusive to all students. TWU athletes compete in five sports, including volleyball, soccer, softball, gymnastics, and basketball. Students at this inexpensive university in Texas also participate in clubs and organizations as well as community service and leadership opportunities.

In-State Tuition: $7,796
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,756
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent

18. University of Houston-Clear Lake

Houston, Texas

Points: 5
School Website

The University of Houston-Clear Lake is a member of the four-campus University of Houston System. Founded in 1971, UHCL enrolls nearly 9,000 students across four academic colleges, offering a range of cheap undergraduate majors in public service leadership, interdisciplinary studies, fitness and human performance, computer engineering, geography, and healthcare administration. UHCL is also one of the most affordable colleges in Texas for space-related studies, and it has reportedly produced more than 12 astronauts. UHCL encourages student involvement and engagement, offering more than 90 student organizations as well as student government, leadership retreats, and other activities. This best-value school promotes personal growth and cultural diversity by celebrating and advocating for the concerns and needs of LGBTQ, international students, and women through cross-cultural collaborative events, training, and educational programs.

In-State Tuition: $7,002
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,954
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: N/A

17. University of Houston-Downtown

Houston, Texas

Points: 5
School Website

The University of Houston-Downtown is one of four institutions that make up the University of Houston System. Founded in 1974 and enrolling more than 14,200 students from 74 countries, UHD is the second-largest institution of higher learning in Houston. UHD is comprised of the University College and four other colleges: Business, Sciences and Technology, Public Service, and Humanities and Social Sciences. Students seeking some of the cheapest degrees in Texas can choose from 44 undergraduate degrees, while eight master’s degrees are also available. This low-cost university reports that its top five most popular undergraduate degrees include interdisciplinary studies as a general degree and interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in education as well as accounting, criminal justice, and psychology. The school’s 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows faculty members to get to know their students by name. As one of the most affordable colleges in Texas, approximately 80 percent of students receive an average of $10,000 per year in loans, grants, and/or scholarships.

In-State Tuition: $6,500
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,460
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 20 percent

16. University of Houston-Victoria

Victoria, Texas

Points: 5
School Website

The University of Houston-Victoria is one of the best-value colleges in Texas. Established in 1973, UHV enrolls more than 4,300 undergraduate and graduate students each year. UHV confers 70 affordable bachelor’s degrees, master’s programs, and concentrations in the fields of business administration, the arts and sciences, and human development, health professions, and education. Students of this cheap Texas college who have taken fewer than 45 hours of coursework or who are undecided in their major are housed in the University College where they receive help settling into college life, choosing a major, and transitioning into upper-division classes. Regardless of a student’s interest, there is no shortage of ways to get involved. UHV offers an endless array of outdoor adventures, recreational sports, leadership training, cultural events, and fun activities.

In-State Tuition: $6,491
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,451
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 19 percent

15. Midland College

Midland, Texas

Points: 5
School Website

With the lowest tuition on our list, Midland College is among the cheapest colleges in Texas.  Midland College is a public institution that started out in 1972 as an independent junior college. Today, this low-cost college enrolls more than 7,400 students, offering rigorous affordable academic programs in areas such as computer information technology, business, social and behavioral sciences, public service and education, health and wellness, and energy, transportation and industry as well as STEM fields and arts, humanities, and communications. Campus life is comprised of intramural sports and a number of student clubs and groups that revolve around hobbies, interests, academics, and honors. Off-campus facilities include the Williams Regional Technical Training Center, the Petroleum Professional Development Center, and the Aviation Maintenance Technology Facility.

In-State Tuition: $4,290
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,550
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 22 percent

14. The King’s University

Southlake, Texas

Points: 6
School Website

The King’s University, located in Southlake, is an affordable evangelical university in Texas that was established in 1997 as The King’s College and Seminary. Affiliated with the Gateway Church, this best-value university offers 16 academic programs, including low-cost bachelor’s degrees in biblical and theological studies, biblical counseling, Christian ministries, intercultural studies, general Christian studies, media arts, and worship leadership. Students may create a portfolio for academic credit that demonstrates experience such as community service, military service, or work training. Outside of the classroom, TKU strives to create an environment in which students worship, serve, work, and live together as an educational community focused on developing a passionate relationship with God. Mission trips, chapel services, and community service are also an integral part of the TKU experience.

In-State Tuition: $15,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,000
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 33 percent

13. Arlington Baptist University

Arlington, Texas

Points: 6
School Website

Arlington Baptist University is a Christian college in Texas and the official school of the World Baptist Fellowship. Established as Fundamental Baptist Bible Institute in 1939, ABU is now one of the most affordable colleges in Texas. ABU aims to prepare students in the Bible by providing training for church-related ministries and professional development programs. ABU is comprised of four schools: the School of Ministry, School of Education, School of Business, and School of Interdisciplinary Programs. Each top-value program at ABU is built around a major in Bible, and areas of study include student, pastoral, and children’s ministry as well as music and worship, intercultural studies, interdisciplinary studies, education, business studies, and biblical counseling. The school’s location provides the perfect balance of isolation and proximity to the opportunities and conveniences of the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

In-State Tuition: $13,690
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,690
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Graduation Rate: 19 percent

12. University of North Texas

Denton, Texas

Points: 6
School Website

The University of North Texas is one of the most inexpensive colleges in Texas. Founded in 1890 as Texas Normal College and Teacher Training Institute, UNT enrolls nearly 38,000 students and offers 105 affordable bachelor’s, 88 master’s, and 37 doctoral degree programs through its 14 colleges and schools. The schools newest programs as of the fall semester of 2019 include four low-cost bachelor’s degrees: data science, general business, urban policy and planning, and Latino culture, economy, and policy. Students of this cheap university in Texas have many opportunities to unwind and stay in shape, including playing a pick-up game, cheering on the Mean Green, or taking a turn on the climbing wall at the Pohl Rec Center. UNT also hosts more than 1,000 theater productions, art exhibitions, and concerts each year.

In-State Tuition: $10,852
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,812
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent

11. Criswell College

Dallas, Texas

Points: 6
School Website

Established in 1970, Criswell College in Dallas is a Christian divinity school and liberal arts college that provides professional and ministerial higher education to students looking to serve as Christian leaders. This affordable college in Texas stands out with faculty members that are nationally renowned experts in their fields who often become lifelong friends and mentors to students. Students considering Criswell College can choose from multiple low-cost bachelor’s programs with majors including psychology, Christian ministry, biblical studies, education, and philosophy, politics, and economics. All undergraduate students are required to complete 42 hours of coursework in ministry, theology, and the Bible. Located in the heart of historic Old East Dallas, there are plenty of local area attractions, including White Rock Lake, the Museum District, the Bishop Arts District, and Deep Ellum.

In-State Tuition: $10,710
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,710
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Graduation Rate: 15 percent

10. Texas Tech University

Lubbock, Texas

Points: 6
School Website

Texas Tech University is one of the most affordable colleges in Texas. Established as Texas Technological College in 1923, the school is the flagship institution of the four-campus Texas Tech University System. The school enrolls more than 38,200 students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries, making it the seventh-largest institution of higher learning by enrollment in the state. Students can choose from more than 150 inexpensive areas of study through Texas Tech’s 12 colleges and schools, including programs in engineering, agricultural science, business, the arts and sciences, and architecture. This best-value school in Texas is home to 60 research institutes and centers, conducting research projects predominantly in the areas of wind energy, atmospheric sciences, nanophotonics, grid computing, pulsed power, and epidemiology. From football games in the fall and the Carol of Lights in December to Arbor Day’s spring flowers and the commencement in May, there is always something to experience, see, or do for Red Raiders.

In-State Tuition: $9,080
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,040
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent

9. University of Houston

Houston, Texas

Points: 6
School Website

The University of Houston is one of the high-value colleges in Texas and the flagship campus of the University of Houston System. Established in 1927, UH is the third-largest university in the state, enrolling more than 36,000 undergraduates and graduate students each year. Global experiences, leadership positions, hands-on opportunities, and rigorous coursework prepare students for the world, and inexpensive programs of study include bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, continuing education, and online programs. UH offers its low-cost undergraduate majors through 15 academic colleges and an interdisciplinary Honors College, and popular areas of study include management information systems, industrial design, entrepreneurship, and biotechnology. With state-of-the-art facilities, world-class libraries, cutting-edge research centers, and nationally ranked programs, UH Cougars have the academic resources they need to succeed inside and outside of the classroom.

In-State Tuition: $8,913
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,273
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent