We Did the Homework for You And Found 14 Top Colleges in Houston That Actually Make the Grade
- Rice University
- Houston Community College System
- Lone Star College
- San Jacinto College
- Texas Southern University
- University of Houston
- University of Houston - Clear Lake
- University of St. Thomas
- Houston Christian University
- Strayer University
- North American University
- American InterContinental University - Houston
- Prairie View A&M University
- University of Houston - Victoria
When I first moved to Houston, I was amazed at how many great colleges and universities were right here in the city. From big, well-known schools to smaller, more affordable options, there was a place for everyone.
I remember visiting Rice University’s beautiful campus for the first time, and I couldn’t help but imagine what it would be like to study there, surrounded by such a lively community of students.
If you’re in the same boat and trying to figure out which college in Houston is the best fit for you, you’re in luck! This guide will take you through some of the top schools in the area.
Whether you’re looking for a prestigious research university, an affordable community college, or something that offers flexibility for working students, there’s a school for you!
Rice University
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Website: https://www.rice.edu/
Address: 6100 Main St, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (713) 348-0000
Rice University, founded in 1912, is a top private research university on a beautiful 300-acre campus. Known for its challenging academics, Rice is ranked among the top 20 universities in the U.S.
With over 50 majors and a focus on hands-on learning, students can start doing research early, no matter their field. Popular programs include Computer Science, Biology, Engineering, and Economics.
One unique feature of Rice is its residential college system, where students live and connect with the same group throughout their time at the university, creating a strong, supportive community.
Plus, Rice is right next to the Texas Medical Center and the Museum District, so there’s always something exciting to explore!
| Pro Tips: The residential colleges are a big part of life at Rice. Engage in college traditions and community events right from the start to build strong connections! Rice has a low acceptance rate (9%) and high academic standards. Start your application early to showcase your strengths in academics and research! |
Houston Community College System
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Website: https://www.hccs.edu/
Address: 3100 Main Street, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (713) 718-2000
Houston Community College (HCC) provides affordable, high-quality education in the Houston area. With both academic programs and workforce training, HCC helps students prepare for many different careers and educational paths.
They offer a variety of programs, including Business, Engineering, and Nursing, as well as specialized fields like Cybersecurity, Emergency Medical Services, and Culinary Arts.
One of the best things about HCC is how affordable it is. In-district students pay just $33 per credit hour, making it one of the most budget-friendly options around.
| Pro Tips: If you’re juggling work and school, HCC has online courses that are flexible and easy on your wallet. With low tuition, you can also save more through financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans. |
Lone Star College
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Website: https://www.lonestar.edu/HoustonNorth
Address: 4141 Victory Dr, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (281) 260-3500
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday – 8 AM to 6 PM; Friday to Saturday – 9 AM to 2 PM; Sunday – Closed
Lone Star College-Houston North (LSC-Houston North) is a great choice for students in the northern Houston area. With over 200 degree and certificate programs, you can study fields like biotechnology, cybersecurity, healthcare, business, and the arts.
The college offers in-person, online, and hybrid classes, giving students the flexibility to balance school, work, and other commitments.
LSC-Houston North is also affordable. Tuition is competitive, and many students can get financial aid to help lower the cost of their education.
| Pro Tip: Take advantage of academic advising to help plan your degree, especially if you’re thinking about transferring to a four-year university! LSC-Houston North has four campuses: Fairbanks, Fallbrook, Greenspoint, and Victory. It’s a good idea to visit them and see which one feels like the best fit for you. |
San Jacinto College
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Website: https://www.sanjac.edu/
Address: 8060 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, TX
Contact Details: (281) 476-1501
San Jacinto College has been an important part of Texas education since 1961. With campuses in Pasadena and Houston, it’s dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality education to help students succeed academically and personally.
They have an extensive range of academic programs! Whether you are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, business, STEM fields, or the arts, you can choose from over 100 degree and certificate programs across various disciplines.
For those who need more flexibility, this college also has a great selection of online programs! You can earn 26 associate degrees and 34 certificates completely online, giving you the freedom to study at your own pace from anywhere in Texas.
This college also prides itself on student success, providing services such as academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, and mental health resources to ensure students have the support they need to thrive.
| Pro Tips: Take advantage of resources like the Student Success Center, mental health support, and career services to help you succeed academically and professionally. 41% of students receive financial aid, so be sure to explore scholarship and grant options to make your education more affordable. |
Texas Southern University
Media Credit: /texassouthern
Website: https://www.tsu.edu/
Address: 3100 Cleburne St, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (713) 313-7011
Texas Southern University (TSU) is one of Houston’s most proud academic institutions! Founded in 1927, it’s a public historically black university (HBCU) that has grown to become one of the largest and most diverse universities in the state.
TSU’s 150-acre campus offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, including well-respected degrees in law, business, and public affairs.
But the university isn’t just about academics—it’s also about community. With over 80 student organizations, there are tons of ways to get involved, whether through cultural clubs, student government, or service groups.
| Pro Tips: Take a tour! The 150-acre campus is home to a blend of historic and modern buildings, including the Thurgood Marshall School of Law and the Jesse H. Jones School of Business. Join the campus events! TSU hosts more than 4,000 events annually, including career fairs, academic workshops, and cultural celebrations. |
University of Houston
Media Credit: universityofhouston
Website: https://uh.edu/
Address: 4302 University Dr, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (713) 743-2255
The University of Houston (UH) is a large public university located in the heart of Houston. With over 46,000 students, it’s one of the biggest universities in Texas, offering great opportunities for both education and career growth.
Being downtown, UH gives students easy access to internships and job opportunities in a city with booming industries. Whether you’re into technology, healthcare, or the arts, you’ll find plenty of ways to connect with future careers.
Sports are a big part of UH too. The Cougars compete in NCAA Division I, with football and basketball being major highlights, making it a great choice for athletes and sports fans!
| Pro Tips: Freshmen aren’t required to live on campus, but consider living in campus housing if you want to be close to everything. In-state tuition is affordable compared to many other universities, and financial aid options are available. Embrace the diverse and multicultural environment! |
University of Houston – Clear Lake
Media Credit: universityofhouston
Website: https://www.uhcl.edu/
Address: 2700 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (281) 83-7600
The University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) is a growing public university located in southeastern Houston. It serves over 9,000 students at its main campus in Clear Lake, as well as branch campuses in Pearland and the Texas Medical Center.
UHCL offers a wide range of academic programs, with strong options in health sciences, business, and environmental studies. The university also has plenty of extracurricular activities, including student clubs, career fairs, and academic conferences.
One of the best things about this university is its location near the Texas Medical Center, one of the largest medical complexes in the world. It’s a great choice for students planning to pursue careers in healthcare!
| Pro Tip: The overall graduation rate is around 54%. While the campus offers great opportunities, make sure to stay focused and seek academic support if needed. The campus is located in a prime area of Houston, so make time to visit local museums, parks, and restaurants. |
University of St. Thomas
Media Credit: stThomasHouston
Website: http://www.stthom.edu/
Address: 3800 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (713) 522-7911
Founded in 1947, the University of St. Thomas combines strong academics with a focus on Catholic values. The 33-acre campus is home to over 3,000 undergraduate students.
The university offers a wide range of programs, especially in health professions, business, psychology, and social sciences. It’s a great choice for students who want a well-rounded liberal arts education with an emphasis on serving others.
St. Thomas has a diverse student body, with 77% of students identifying as minorities. Plus, its urban location gives students easy access to career opportunities, cultural experiences, and all that the city has to offer.
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a campus tour to get a sense of the university’s close-knit community and modern facilities. Be sure to check out scholarships and financial aid packages, as the university offers competitive need-based assistance. |
Houston Christian University
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Website: https://hc.edu/
Address: 7502 Fondren Rd, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (281) 649-3000
Houston Christian University (HCU) is a private, Christian-based school located in the heart of Houston. Since 1960, it’s grown to offer over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields.
This school is committed to giving students a top-notch education that prepares them for both successful careers and meaningful lives. With a small student-to-faculty ratio, students get plenty of personal attention and build close relationships with their professors.
There are also more than 50 clubs and organizations to join, so you can have a well-rounded college experience. Plus, if you love sports, HCU’s NCAA Division I athletics program offers top-level opportunities for student-athletes.
| Pro Tips: Whether it’s coed dorms or apartment-style living, HCU offers a range of housing options that suit different student needs. Students from diverse backgrounds find a supportive community here. |
Strayer University
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Website: https://www.strayer.edu/campus-locations/texas/northwest-houston/
Address: 10343 Sam Houston Park Dr Suite 110, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (281) 949-1800
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 6 PM; Saturday-Sunday – Closed
Strayer University’s Northwest Houston campus is perfect for students who want to continue their education while juggling work and other commitments. They offer both online and in-person classes, with a strong focus on supporting busy students.
If you prefer learning in person, the campus has some face-to-face courses, plus plenty of on-campus support like Wi-Fi and a comfortable student lounge for studying.
After the first quarter, students get paired with a student services coach who helps them stay motivated and on track for graduation. Strayer also offers career support, including resume help and interview coaching.
| Pro Tips: Make sure to schedule an appointment to meet with an admissions officer and learn about specific courses. Advisors can assist with finding ways to make your education more affordable, and you may be eligible for special programs that save on tuition. |
North American University
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Website: https://www.na.edu/
Address: 11929 W Airport Blvd, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (832) 230-5555
North American University (NAU) is a small, private university in Stafford, just outside Houston. It offers a personalized, student-focused learning experience.
The university has great programs in fields like Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Computer Science, and Education. They also offer unique programs, like Interdisciplinary Studies in Education, to encourage learning across different areas.
Outside of classes, students can join clubs, attend events, and take part in community service projects. NAU also provides helpful support services, including career counseling, academic advising, mental health resources, and assistance for students with disabilities.
| Pro Tips: If you’re considering applying, explore the virtual tour for an inside look at the campus. Take advantage of the student-centered approach to education—faculty are available to guide students one-on-one. |
American InterContinental University – Houston
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Website: https://www.aiuniv.edu/campus-locations/houston
Address: 9999 Richmond Ave., Houston, TX
Contact Details: (832) 201-3600
American InterContinental University (AIU) in Houston gives students a flexible and personalized learning experience. Whether you prefer traditional classes or online learning, AIU has options that work for busy students.
AIU offers a range of degree programs, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Associate degrees in areas like Business Administration, Criminal Justice, IT, and Healthcare Management.
You can also specialize in areas like Cybersecurity, Finance, Marketing, and more!
The campus has great student-friendly spaces like collaborative areas and computer labs, while online students enjoy easy access to all their courses and resources through AIU’s digital platform, anytime, anywhere.
| Pro Tips: Consider the One-Year MBA for those seeking a fast-track business degree with flexible scheduling. Look into transfer credits from previous education or work experience—up to 75% of qualifying credits can be transferred. |
Prairie View A&M University
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Website: https://www.pvamu.edu/
Address: 100 University Dr, Prairie View, TX
Contact Details: (936) 261-3311
Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) is located just outside of Houston in Prairie View, Texas. It’s a well-respected public university with a long history and a strong focus on academic excellence
This university offers over 70 degree programs in areas like agriculture, engineering, business, natural sciences, and nursing. The university also has study-abroad programs to help students gain global experience.
On top of academics, they have a friendly, close-knit campus where students can get involved in many activities. Whether through student clubs, sports, or cultural events, there are plenty of ways to connect with others and create lasting memories.
| Pro Tips: PVAMU’s homecoming celebrations are a key part of its tradition and a great way to connect with alumni and current students. They offer academic support services like tutoring, writing assistance, and workshops. Make use of these resources to succeed in your studies. |
University of Houston – Victoria
Media Credit: universityofhoustonvictoria
Website: https://www.uhv.edu/
Address: 3007 N Ben Wilson St, Victoria, TX
Contact Details: (361) 570-4848
The University of Houston-Victoria (UHV) is a small college that offers a wide range of opportunities for students. UHV stands out for its flexible approach to higher education, offering both in-person and online courses.
The university is organized into four main colleges: Business, Education and Health Professions, Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, and Natural & Applied Science. Each college offers programs that are not only challenging but also prepare students for today’s job market.
UHV’s flexibility is one of its best features. Students can take classes in Victoria, at the Katy campus (which is more convenient for those living near Houston), or fully online, making it a great choice for students who need to juggle school with work or other responsibilities.
| Pro Tips: If you’re undecided about your major, meet with academic advisors early to explore all your options. From career counseling to tutoring, take advantage of the support services to help you succeed. |
