Best Private Universities in Texas
Private Universities in Texas offer high-quality education and more personalized instruction. Students can take advantage of the state's low cost of living. These schools are an excellent option for those who want to go to a school that offers a smaller class size and more one-on-one time with professors. These schools also provide a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Texas has many well-known private universities, such as Southern Methodist University, Baylor University, and Texas Christian University. The top-ranked public universities in the state are the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University.
Private colleges have higher admission standards than public colleges, resulting in better-prepared students with more diverse backgrounds. These schools often have smaller class sizes with an average of about 20 students per class. They also often have smaller student bodies than public schools.
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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Methodology
These rankings are based on average net prices for private universities in Texas. The rankings below represent the top private universities in Texas.
Data was gathered from the National Center for Education Statistics website, College Scorecard, Payscale, and school websites.
66 Top Private Universities in Texas for 2022
1. College of Biblical Studies-Houston
Average Net Price: $5,657
The College of Biblical Studies exists to educate, equip, and encourage people of different ethnicities and backgrounds to go out in the world and impact it to glorify the name of Jesus Christ. The doctrinal position of the College of Biblical Studies is one of conservative Christianity. Assisting underserved communities is a significant focus of the work encouraged by this university. Traditionally, CBS graduates stand for Christian truths. The College desires to continue providing Christain graduates to the world who will serve their families and communities positively.
2. Southwestern Christian College
Average Net Price: $7,928
SWCC, a faith-based accredited four-year college run by the Church of Christ, has a two-year associate or four-year bachelor's program in biblical and religious education. The college aims to offer a holistic educational program that will motivate students to value and achieve academic excellence. All the courses and programs aim to help students increase their commitment to moral and spiritual values.
3. Baptist University of the Americas
Average Net Price: $7,947
BUA is a Christian university in San Antonio, TX, with the goal of developing leaders to help change our world. They provide affordable quality education to people who plan to work in social service agencies, the marketplace, or ministry. The school takes pride in spreading the Gospel to break down barriers and bring people together. Three out of every four Hispanic Baptist pastors in Texas attended the Baptist University of the Americas. BUA also has extension centers in three countries, with plans for further expansion.
4. Hallmark University
Average Net Price: $11,213
Hallmark University offers several distinguished Degrees that lead to success in aeronautics, nursing, information technology, and business. The courses are all offered in an accelerated format so that students can complete their degrees in almost half the time of other universities. The master’s, bachelor’s, and associate’s degrees all include hands-on training that trains students with skills that give our graduates the best opportunity for success in today’s demanding world.
5. North American University
Average Net Price: $11,565
As one of the youngest, most dynamic, non-profit universities in Houston, Texas, NAU’s mission is to make sure students are educated at a high level. Individual attention and an open-door policy with faculty are essential factors in North American University's education. NAU is located in the southern area of Houston, a metropolitan city full of opportunities. The university opens opportunities for students in the local and global job market. This even begins while in school through NAU’s community engagement programs that encourage students to be involved locally while earning their degrees.
6. University of Phoenix-Texas
Average Net Price: $12,237
The University of Phoenix-Texas is a fully online university experience tailored to working adults. Credits can be counted from previous work, life, and school experiences. This saves students money and time in earning their degrees. Eighteen start dates and online programs that the University of Phoenix offers encourage the flexibility that most adult students are looking for. It’s a school experience that can fit into the busy lives of people trying to juggle other responsibilities.
7. Western Technical College-Diana Campus
Average Net Price: $13,249
Western Technical College offers many different options for students, including hands-on training, flexible schedules, online courses and education programs, and real-world experience. The college is full of roomy, modern facilities where students will find the latest technology and state-of-the-art equipment. Families play a vital role in students' decisions to attend Western Tech and the success they achieve while in school. This is why the school welcomes parents and other family members to be involved in the post-secondary education experience.
8. Paul Quinn College
Average Net Price: $13,951
Paul Quinn College has one mission: to provide faith-based education and train students to be leaders in their sectors. We do this through our quality academic program, social opportunities, and addressing Christian needs. The college has a foundation it calls the Four L's of Quinnite Servant Leadership— 1. LEAVE places better than you found them, 2. LEAD from wherever you are, 3. LIVE a life that matters, and 4. LOVE something greater than yourself.
9. Texas College
Average Net Price: $14,088
A group of CME ministers founded Texas College in 1894. It is a Historically Black College. The goals at Texas College embody the principles of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. The College prepares students with critical and creative thinking skills that inspire spiritual, ethical, intellectual, social, and moral development. The courses here empower graduates to engage in life-long leadership, learning, and service. The values at Texas College include academic excellence, integrity, perseverance, social responsibility, tolerance, and community service.
10. Criswell College
Average Net Price: $14,137
Criswell equips graduates with a knowledge and love of Scripture, which prepares them to cultivate change, solve problems, make peace, and move society in positive directions. Criswell's goals for students include helping them to become ambassadors who communicate well, cultivators who understand humanity and their relationships, peacemakers who show mercy and promote reconciliation, professionals who excel in their fields, and problem-solvers in all areas of life.
11. Jarvis Christian College
Average Net Price: $14,152
Jarvis Christian College is a historically Black liberal arts school. It is affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and offers programs that fit into the busy adult’s life. Continuing education for adults is the main focus of this college, so JCC offers several 100% online programs. The classes begin every eight weeks, and students are encouraged to participate in weekly live chapel services to continue their religious education alongside their secular education.
12. American InterContinental University-Houston
Average Net Price: $14,822
AIU in Houston offers 40 in-person and online degrees. Helping students pursue their degrees with speed and low cost is a prime concern at American Intercontinental University. The school heavily supports members of the U.S. Armed Services with several grants and scholarship opportunities. They allow qualifying military experience to count as credits towards graduation. Graduate and undergraduate military students also have access to reduced tuition and comprehensive support services from AIU.
13. Huston-Tillotson University
Average Net Price: $16,775
Huston-Tillotson University provides avenues to degrees through multiple channels for entering High School students, transfer students, and adults who wish to return to school. Courses are delivered in an accomodating format for working professional adults, providing programs that help them finish their degrees quickly as they balance their personal and professional lives. Classes for working adults are offered once a week, plus one study team meeting a week. Courses in Business, Criminal Justice, Education, Psychology, or Liberal Arts are held in a format where students can take them one course at a time, one night a week.
14. Rice University
Average Net Price: $16,999
Rice University provides a comprehensive interdisciplinary research university experience. RU offers 50 undergraduate majors across six areas of study, including architecture, engineering, music, humanities, and more. Students can enter fresh out of high school or return as adults to hone their knowledge and gain desirable skills in the workplace. Prestigious faculty head up research-oriented programs and work hard to stretch many of the most creative minds in the world.
15. Messenger College
Average Net Price: $17,349
Messenger College is committed to helping students shape their future and find peace and fulfillment through their Christain faith. Their faculty and staff provide a safe, supportive environment for each student. The students there share a passion for God and want to become men and women shaped by Him. They're preparing to impact the world. The courses and programs are affordable, mission-driven, and Christ-centered. This is why the two degrees available are Counseling and Christain Ministry.
16. Wade College
Average Net Price: $17,438
Wade College is the leading institution in Dallas, TX for studying merchandising and design. It is one of the few colleges where tuition is fixed. The tuition even covers books and supplies in its all-inclusive tuition rate. There are several experienced teachers with industry experience. These professors also participate in the three-year accelerated degrees at WC, which lead to high graduation rates and successful career outcomes. The college boasts of being the largest data center in Texas and is next door to the world’s biggest wholesale trade center.
17. Our Lady of the Lake University
Average Net Price: $17,537
Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) provides graduates with a foundation of faith, wisdom, and trust in Providence to help them transform their communities, families, and careers. OLLU was founded in 1895 by the Congregation of Divine Providence. Its main residential campus is in San Antonio, and other programs are offered to students in San Antonio, Houston, the Rio Grande Valley, and online. Over 60 undergraduate majors and minors, more than 14 master’s programs, and 3 doctoral programs make OLLU a college worth attending.
18. Wiley College
Average Net Price: $17,666
Wiley College was founded in 1873 as a Historically Black College. Since then, it has become a premier liberal arts institution focused on leadership and community service. The Freedman’s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church started Wiley college a few years after the Civil War in America ended. The Society wanted to provide black youth with the opportunity to pursue higher learning through a college education. Today, the college is privately supported and is helping give students the tools they need to succeed through the knowledge gained while there.
19. Southwest University at El Paso
Average Net Price: $17,814
Before it grew into the size of a university, the original name of the university was Quik Study Learning Center. It only had one building where classes were held for English as a second language, and GED programs were provided for at-risk students. Southwest University at El Paso now boasts several buildings and 20 programs in its seven colleges for undergraduate students. Courses are taught in the medical trade, automotive technology, technical trades, and business.
20. University of St. Thomas
Average Net Price: $18,476
The University of St. Thomas - Texas is located in Houston, Texas. It has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Colleges (SACSCOC). UST has a private Catholic intellectual tradition of educating morally responsible leaders who think critically and act wisely. UST began in 1947 and now has just under 3000 enrolled undergraduate students. It utilizes a semester-based academic calendar.
21. Arlington Baptist University
Average Net Price: $18,531
Arlington Baptist University is a small, private, Christian university located in Arlington, Texas. ABU has an undergraduate enrollment of 220 students. They have a 100% acceptance rate, which means anyone who applies will be accepted. Arlington Baptist University produces graduates with several majors in the liberal arts, humanities, pastoral counseling, specialized ministries, and education areas.
22. Remington College-North Houston
Average Net Price: $18,941
Remington College - Greenspoint/North Houston is a small private college in Houston. They have just under 500 undergraduate students. Remington College - Greenspoint/North Houston is a college where 100% of students are accepted. Some of the most popular programs are Medical Assistant, Dental Assisting, Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, and Cosmetology. Remington College offers associate degrees. It typically takes two years to complete an associate degree through Remington.
23. Texas Lutheran University
Average Net Price: $19,223
Texas Lutheran is a private, Christian university founded in 1891 and located in the San Antonio area. It has around 1500 undergraduate students and accepts 56% of its applicants. Many students choose to study majors like Business, Kinesiology, and Nursing at Texas Lutheran. The median starting salary of these alumni is $36,300. The college utilizes a semester-based academic calendar.
24. St. Mary's University
Average Net Price: $19,276
St. Mary's University of San Antonio is a private institution founded in 1852. It has an undergraduate enrollment of just over 2,000 students, and the campus is 135 acres. This school has a traditional, semester-based academic calendar. As a Catholic and Marianist university, the faculty and staff strive to create opportunities for students to engage in their academics and faith. Students will be joining a team committed to excellence, aiming for the truth, and doing good in the world.
25. Hardin-Simmons University
Average Net Price: $19,509
Hardin-Simmons University is a Baptist University in Abilene, Texas. The university believes it's important to explore faith within campus life and enjoy the beautiful surrounding city, making HSU feel like home. HSU strives to make every student feel like they belong and can succeed. They do that by instilling knowledge and boosting confidence so that every member of the school's family feels valued. Students always get personal attention with each class being taught by a professor. Hardin-Simmons University is a private university with just under 2,000 undergraduate students. They offer three graduate programs and 13 undergraduate programs.
26. Houston Baptist University
Average Net Price: $19,962
Houston Baptist University is a private Christian institution founded in 1960. At HBU, students will enter a diverse community of students with similar values while taking on a core curriculum that helps them think critically, creatively, and ethically. Students can creatively connect with classmates and friends through clubs, organizations, or the residence halls they live in. They’ll make long-lasting connections that last well after graduation. HBU has created a personal and intimate environment for over 2,300 undergraduate students. Those who attend our small classes with committed faculty will be sure to thrive.
27. Remington College-Dallas
Average Net Price: $20,082
Remington College - Dallas is a private, not-for-profit college located in Garland, Texas. Just over 600 undergraduate students attend the small institution. It has a 100% acceptance rate. Popular majors include Medical Assistant, HVAC and Refrigeration Engineering Technician, and Medical Insurance Coding. Remington College's Dallas campus is a two-year school and offers associate degrees. The student-faculty ratio and the open admissions policy provide excellent opportunities for students. Graduates of Remington - Dallas typically earn a starting salary of $21,900.
28. Southwest Adventist University
Average Net Price: $20,329
Nestled in Keene, Texas, Southwestern Adventist University offers an exceptional opportunity to those looking for a more personal experience. SAU is a 2-year private institution that opened in 1893. There are just under 700 undergraduates at the school, which has a rural setting and occupies about 150 acres. Established in 1893, SWSC is one of the oldest schools around and is accredited by the SACS. It offers many degree options and corresponding financial aid packages to help students stay on their tuition plans.
29. Remington College-Fort Worth
Average Net Price: $21,204
Remington College-Fort Worth is a small college with an undergraduate student body of around 500. Students can earn degrees & certificates in 5 different fields. Popular majors include Medical Assistant, HVAC and Refrigeration Engineering Technician, and Medical Insurance Coding. Remington College-Fort Worth Campus offers associate degree programs, so it's a place where students complete their degrees and then get a bachelor's degree. The open admissions policy means anyone interested in this school can enroll.
30. Austin College
Average Net Price: $21,357
Austin College's staff's deep expertise ensures that the professors constantly provide students with access to some of the most cutting-edge research in the country. The professors strive to work and communicate within the university confines and outside them by presenting their findings during national academic conferences. The commitment to the students' lives after college can be seen in the college's connections with Fortune 500 companies. The college is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church and creates an understanding atmosphere that supports students' faith journeys regardless of religious tradition.
31. McMurry University
Average Net Price: $21,450
McMurry University might be the right choice for students interested in small classes, professors who care, diverse society of engaged students, and a Christain atmosphere. With over 1,000 students and an 11:1 student to faculty ratio, this university feels like a community. The students are very active. In total, they compete in 21 different sports each year, lead over 40 clubs and organizations, and help out their community with over 24,000 service hours.
32. University of Dallas
Average Net Price: $21,655
The University of Dallas is a small Catholic institution in Irving, Texas. The university offers more than 50 majors for undergraduate and graduate students. The options include programs for business, liberal arts, and ministry. It's easy to get involved on campus with 50 student organizations. You can join student government, a campus ministry, or any number of other opportunities. The Student Activities and Leadership Center organizes Charity Week, a series of events involving the student body, which raises money for various local and national charities.
33. Howard Payne University
Average Net Price: $22,178
Howard Payne University is a university with a diverse range of programs in 7 arts and sciences schools, including Business, Christian Studies, Education, Humanities, and more. Students can choose from about 100 majors & minors. The Guy D. Newman Honors Academy provides a challenging curriculum & exciting travel opportunities to multidisciplinary students. These include a Model UN, Moot Court, Student Speaker Bureau, and more than 25 student organizations.
34. Parker University
Average Net Price: $22,244
Parker University is a small university with an enrollment of about 900 students. The Parker acceptance rate is 100%. Popular majors include Massage Therapy, Anatomy, and Foods Nutrition & Wellness Studies. The well-respected faculty serve as the university's backbone. Attending classes with them will give students the knowledge and skills they need to take on today's challenges. Parker University is a not-for-profit, regionally accredited university. It is driven by the university's passion for helping students reach their goals and sharing their desire to improve their health.
35. Schreiner University
Average Net Price: $22,370
Schreiner University of Kerrville, TX, is a university where one can do more with higher education. It was established in 1923 and has a total undergraduate enrollment of just over 1,000 people. It operates on a semester-based academic calendar. The tuition is fixed for four years, and the school offers scholarships that are not just based on GPAs and test scores. Recipients are chosen by assessing creativity, responsibility, and a sense of community.
36. School Closed
Average Net Price: $22,421
At School Closed, faculty and staff are committed to providing students with an academically challenging, collaborative environment to prepare them for the working world. The institute awards bachelor’s and associate’s degrees. The programs include interior design, marketing, gaming, culinary arts, and more. All courses incorporate traditional liberal arts, professional education, and management-level competencies with hands-on instruction. This hands-on teaching and learning approach gives students the ability to find entry-level positions where they can continue learning for a lifetime.
37. East Texas Baptist University
Average Net Price: $22,515
Eastern Texas Baptist University's student experience is based on building faith by integrating it with their coursework. They develop both their mind, body, and soul in the process. Graduates can then serve as Christian servant leaders in their respective careers. Students apply course content outside of the classroom through several initiatives, such as campus ministries, Bible studies, mission opportunities, chapel & academic honor societies. The intellectual experience is complemented by participation in the abundant choices of intramurals, sports, and clubs.
38. School Closed
Average Net Price: $22,844
The School Closed offers master's and bachelor's degrees in creative arts fields in two-year associate and certificate programs. School Closed encourages students to explore the campus and the city and get involved in organizations, clubs, and on and off-campus activities. It is a for-profit college located in Houston, Texas. The institute is a small institution with just over 400 undergraduate students. A few popular majors at School Closed include Culinary Arts and Food Service, Multimedia, and Baking and Pastry Arts. The acceptance rate is 100%.
39. LeTourneau University
Average Net Price: $23,196
LeTourneau University is a private institution that was founded in 1946. Its undergraduate enrollment is around 3,000 students. LeTourneau is a non-denominational Christian university located in Longview, Texas. The acceptance rate is 45%. Majors range from Business and Mechanical Engineering to Technology and Theology. Over 120 online, on-campus and hybrid courses are offered at this Christian Polytechnic University. The faculty and staff promote a Christ-centered environment and employ a learn-by-doing approach.
40. Concordia University-Texas
Average Net Price: $23,444
Concordia University Texas is a private Christian university located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Concordia offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificate programs in a variety of fields, including business, education, nursing, and theology. Concordia's faculty are highly qualified and dedicated to providing students with a quality education. The campus is beautiful and provides students with plenty of opportunities to get involved on campus. Concordia University Texas is an excellent choice for students who want quality education in a Christ-centered environment.
Full List of 66 Best Private Universities in Texas
| Rank | School | Average Net Price |
| 1 | College of Biblical Studies-Houston | $5,657 |
| 2 | Southwestern Christian College | $7,928 |
| 3 | Baptist University of the Americas | $7,947 |
| 4 | Hallmark University | $11,213 |
| 5 | North American University | $11,565 |
| 6 | University of Phoenix-Texas | $12,237 |
| 7 | Western Technical College-Diana Campus | $13,249 |
| 8 | Paul Quin College | $13,951 |
| 9 | Texas College | $14,088 |
| 10 | Criswell College | $14,137 |
| 11 | Jarvis Christian College | $14,152 |
| 12 | American InterContinental University-Houston | $14,822 |
| 13 | Huston-Tillotson University | $16,775 |
| 14 | Rice University | $16,999 |
| 15 | Messenger College | $17,349 |
| 16 | Wade College | $17,438 |
| 17 | Our Lady of the Lake University | $17,537 |
| 18 | Wiley College | $17,666 |
| 19 | Southwest University at El Paso | $17,814 |
| 20 | University of St. Thomas | $18,476 |
| 21 | Arlington Baptist University | $18,531 |
| 22 | Remington College-North Houston | $18,941 |
| 23 | Texas Lutheran University | $19,223 |
| 24 | St. Mary's University | $19,276 |
| 25 | Hardin-Simmons University | $19,509 |
| 26 | Houston Baptist University | $19,962 |
| 27 | Remington College-Dallas | $20,082 |
| 28 | Southwest Adventist University | $20,329 |
| 29 | Remington College-Fort Worth | $21,204 |
| 30 | Austin College | $21,357 |
| 31 | McMurry University | $21,450 |
| 32 | University of Dallas | $21,655 |
| 33 | Howard Payne University | $22,178 |
| 34 | Parker University | $22,244 |
| 35 | Schreiner University | $22,370 |
| 36 | School Closed | $22,421 |
| 37 | East Texas Baptist University | $22,515 |
| 38 | School Closed | $22,844 |
| 39 | LeTourneau University | $23,196 |
| 40 | Concordia University-Texas | $23,444 |
| 41 | Closed School | $23,470 |
| 42 | Texas Wesleyan University | $23,473 |
| 43 | Vista College-Online | $23,572 |
| 44 | Lubbock Christian University | $24,128 |
| 45 | School Closed | $24,156 |
| 46 | The King's University-California | $24,344 |
| 47 | Trinity University- main campus San Antonio | $24,669 |
| 48 | University of the Incarnate Word | $24,784 |
| 49 | St. Edward's University | $24,833 |
| 50 | Southwestern Assemblies of God University | $24,982 |
| 51 | Wayland Baptist University | $25,152 |
| 52 | Southwestern University | $25,470 |
| 53 | Strayer University-Texas | $25,902 |
| 54 | Western Technical College-El Paso campus | $26,035 |
| 55 | Dallas Baptist University | $26,387 |
| 56 | Abilene Christian University | $26,809 |
| 57 | University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | $27,099 |
| 58 | West Coast University-Dallas | $27,473 |
| 59 | Dallas Christian College | $28,261 |
| 60 | College of Healthcare Professions-Houston Northwest | $28,401 |
| 61 | Chamberlain University-Houston | $28,938 |
| 62 | DeVry University-Texas | $30,282 |
| 63 | Baylor University | $36,039 |
| 64 | Southern Methodist University | $36,222 |
| 65 | Gemini School of Visual Arts | $36,402 |
| 66 | Texas Christian University | $36,811 |
