Today’s reader question comes from Braxton in Horry County, North Carolina:

Question: I’ve noticed that many of the country’s top ranked colleges are in the northeast or on the west coast. Does Texas have any good colleges, and if so, what would you say are the best ten? I’d prefer to end up in Texas after high school.

Answer: Texas has many excellent colleges and universities; yet, the choice of which one is best for you will depend on your individual preferences and needs. For more personalized advice, I suggest meeting with a college admissions consultant or with your high school counselor, which will help you focus in on the best schools that align with your distinct goals. With that said, here are what I consider to be the best colleges in Texas and important details about each of these colleges that make the Lone Star State a wonderful destination to pursue your undergraduate degree.

1. Rice University

Rice University is a highly respected private research university located in Houston, Texas. Here are some aspects that make Rice impressive from the perspective of an undergraduate student:

Small class sizes and individual attention: Rice has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, which means that students receive individual attention and are able to build close relationships with their professors. The small class sizes also foster a sense of community and allow for more personalized learning.

Residential college system: Each student is assigned to one of 11 residential colleges, which serve as a student’s home base and provide a strong sense of community and identity. Each college has its own traditions, culture, and leadership structure, creating a tight-knit community that lasts beyond the undergraduate years.

Interdisciplinary approach: Rice encourages students to explore multiple academic fields and to connect ideas across disciplines. The university has a flexible curriculum that allows students to design their own majors, and there are many opportunities for research and creative projects.

Strong research opportunities: As a research university, Rice offers many opportunities for undergraduate research and collaboration with faculty. Students have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and can work on projects in a variety of fields.

Houston location: Rice is located in the heart of Houston, which is the fourth largest city in the United States and a major hub for business, culture, and innovation. The university has close ties to many industries and institutions in Houston, providing students with many internship and career opportunities.

Why I particularly like Rice’s campus:

Collegiate Gothic Architecture: Rice’s campus is designed in a style known as Collegiate Gothic, which is modeled after the architecture of medieval European universities. The buildings are made of a distinctive pinkish-beige brick that gives the campus a cohesive and distinctive look.

Art and Architecture: The Rice campus is home to several works of public art, including the “Twilight Epiphany” Skyspace by James Turrell, which features a light show at sunrise and sunset, and the “Perceptual Cell” by Olafur Eliasson, an immersive light and sound experience. In addition, Rice is home to some of Houston’s most striking modern architecture, including the Glasscock School of Continuing Studies and the Brockman Hall for Physics.

Green Spaces: The campus is home to 300 live oak trees and over 4,000 other trees, making it a designated arboretum. The main quad, called the Academic Quadrangle, is a green space featuring large oak trees and open lawns for students to gather.

2. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) is a large public research university located in the capital city of Texas. Here are some aspects that make UT Austin impressive from the perspective of an undergraduate student:

Size and diversity: With over 51,000 undergraduate students, UT Austin is one of the largest universities in the United States. This means that there are many opportunities to meet people from diverse backgrounds and participate in a wide variety of activities and organizations on campus.

Strong academic programs: UT Austin is home to many top-ranked academic programs, including the McCombs School of Business, the Cockrell School of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, and the College of Liberal Arts. The university offers over 170 undergraduate degree programs, allowing students to find their niche and pursue their passions.

Research opportunities: As a leading research university, UT Austin provides many opportunities for undergraduate students to get involved in research projects across a wide range of fields. Students can work alongside faculty members in laboratories, participate in independent research projects, or take advantage of the university’s numerous research centers and institutes.

Location: UT Austin is located in the vibrant and rapidly growing city of Austin, which has a reputation for being a hub of innovation, technology, and creativity. The city is home to many tech startups, music festivals, and outdoor activities, providing students with many opportunities to explore and engage with the local community.

Spirit and tradition: UT Austin has a strong sense of school spirit and a long history of traditions that are cherished by students and alumni. From the iconic Tower on campus to the famous Texas Longhorn football team, UT Austin has a rich culture that fosters a strong sense of community and pride.

Why I particularly like UT Austin’s campus:

Tower: The most iconic feature of the UT Austin campus is the Tower, which stands at 307 feet tall and is lit up in orange at night. The Tower is the centerpiece of the campus, and offers a stunning view of the city from its observation deck.

Bevo: Bevo, the university’s beloved mascot, is a live Texas Longhorn steer that makes appearances at football games and other events. Bevo is a symbol of the university’s Texas pride and tradition.

Big campus: The UT Austin campus is one of the largest in the United States, covering more than 430 acres. It is home to dozens of academic buildings, museums, and sports facilities, as well as more than a dozen residence halls.

The Drag: Guadalupe Street, known as “The Drag,” is the commercial hub of the UT Austin campus. It is lined with shops, restaurants, and coffee houses, and is a popular gathering spot for students.

Music scene: Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” and the UT Austin campus is a major contributor to that reputation. The university is home to the Butler School of Music, which hosts concerts and recitals throughout the year, as well as the Texas Union and Cactus Cafe, which feature live music and entertainment.

Blanton Museum of Art: The Blanton Museum of Art is located on the UT Austin campus and is one of the largest university art museums in the country. It features a wide range of art from around the world, including works by Renaissance masters, contemporary art, and Latin American art.

3. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University is a large public research university located in College Station, Texas. Here are some aspects that make Texas A&M University impressive from the perspective of an undergraduate student:

Military heritage: Texas A&M was founded as a military academy and has a long-standing tradition of military service and discipline. The Corps of Cadets is a military-style organization that offers students the opportunity to develop leadership skills and to participate in military training and activities.

Large and diverse student body: With over 68,000 students, Texas A&M is one of the largest universities in the United States. The university attracts students from all over the world and from a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives.

Strong academic programs: Texas A&M is home to many top-ranked academic programs, particularly in engineering, agriculture, and business. The university offers over 150 undergraduate degree programs, allowing students to pursue their passions and interests.

Traditions and spirit: Texas A&M has a rich culture of traditions and school spirit that is cherished by students and alumni. These traditions include the “Aggie Ring” – a ring that symbolizes a student’s connection to the university and its values – and the “12th Man” – a tradition that embodies the spirit of selflessness and readiness to serve.

Research opportunities: Texas A&M is a leading research university with many opportunities for undergraduate students to get involved in research projects across a wide range of fields. The university has numerous research centers and institutes and collaborates with many industries and institutions in Texas and beyond.

Why I particularly like Texas A&M’s campus:

Bonfire Memorial: The Bonfire Memorial on the Texas A&M campus is a tribute to the students who lost their lives in the tragic collapse of the Bonfire in 1999. The memorial features a plaza, reflecting pool, and 12 portals that represent the 12 students who lost their lives.

Gig ’em: “Gig ’em” is the official hand signal of Texas A&M, and is used to signify support for the university’s sports teams. The hand gesture is made by curling the index finger and thumb into a “G,” while extending the other three fingers.

Kyle Field: Kyle Field is the home stadium for the Texas A&M football team, and is one of the largest stadiums in the country. The stadium can hold more than 102,000 fans, and is known for its raucous atmosphere and traditions such as the Aggie War Hymn and the 12th Man.

4. Trinity University

Trinity University is a private liberal arts university located in San Antonio, Texas. Here are some aspects that make Trinity University impressive from the perspective of an undergraduate student:

Small class sizes and personalized attention: Trinity has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, which means that students receive individual attention and are able to build close relationships with their professors. The small class sizes also foster a sense of community and allow for more personalized learning.

Emphasis on liberal arts: Trinity offers a strong liberal arts curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, writing, and problem-solving skills. The university offers over 50 majors and minors across a wide range of disciplines, allowing students to explore different fields and develop a well-rounded education.

Research opportunities: Trinity is a leading undergraduate research institution with many opportunities for students to engage in research projects across a wide range of fields. The university has numerous research centers and institutes and collaborates with many industries and institutions in Texas and beyond.

Location: Trinity is located in San Antonio, a vibrant and culturally rich city that is home to many museums, music festivals, and outdoor activities. San Antonio is also within driving distance of many other major cities in Texas, providing students with easy access to many different experiences and opportunities.

Community and diversity: Trinity has a strong sense of community and a diverse student body that includes students from all 50 states and over 70 countries. The university offers many opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities and to engage with the local community.

Why I particularly like Trinity’s campus:

Architecture: The campus features a mix of traditional and modern architecture, with buildings that range in style from Gothic to post-modern. The central part of campus features limestone buildings that were built in the early 1900s, while newer buildings such as the Center for Sciences and Innovation have a more modern aesthetic.

Coates Library: The Coates Library is a modern and innovative space that features a collection of more than 1 million volumes and state-of-the-art technology. The library also has several study spaces, including the 24-hour PCL Commons and the One Button Studio.

Laurie Auditorium: The Laurie Auditorium is a 2,700-seat venue that hosts a wide range of cultural and academic events, including concerts, lectures, and theatrical performances. The auditorium features a large stage, a state-of-the-art sound system, and acoustics that are widely praised by performers and audiences alike.

Skyline Park: Trinity’s campus is situated on a hill that offers panoramic views of San Antonio and the surrounding area. Skyline Park, located at the highest point on campus, is a popular gathering spot for students and offers stunning views of the city.

Residential Living: Trinity offers a variety of on-campus housing options, including traditional dormitories, apartment-style living, and themed living communities. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability, and has several LEED-certified buildings on campus, including Miller Residence Hall and the Center for Sciences and Innovation.

5. Baylor University

Baylor University is a private Christian university located in Waco, Texas. Here are some aspects that make Baylor University impressive from the perspective of an undergraduate student:

Christian identity: As a Christian university, Baylor emphasizes the integration of faith and learning, and seeks to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for students to grow in their faith. The university has a strong commitment to service and encourages students to engage in service projects and mission trips.

Small class sizes and personalized attention: Baylor has a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, which means that students receive individual attention and are able to build close relationships with their professors. The small class sizes also foster a sense of community and allow for more personalized learning.

Honors College: Baylor has an Honors College that offers a rigorous and challenging curriculum for high-achieving students. The Honors College emphasizes critical thinking and intellectual curiosity and provides many opportunities for undergraduate research and creative projects.

Strong academic programs: Baylor is home to many top-ranked academic programs, including the Hankamer School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Music. The university offers over 140 undergraduate degree programs, allowing students to pursue their passions and interests.

Location: Baylor is located in Waco, a vibrant city that is home to many cultural and recreational opportunities. Waco is also within driving distance of many other major cities in Texas, providing students with easy access to many different experiences and opportunities.

Why I particularly like Baylor’s campus:

Old Main: The iconic centerpiece of the campus is Old Main, a historic building that was completed in 1887. The building features a distinctive red brick facade and a bell tower, and houses administrative offices and classrooms.

Armstrong Browning Library: The Armstrong Browning Library is one of the most unique and impressive libraries in the country, and is dedicated to the works of the poets Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning. The library features a stunning marble rotunda, stained glass windows, and a collection of rare books and manuscripts.

McLane Stadium: McLane Stadium is the home of Baylor football, and is a state-of-the-art facility that seats over 45,000 fans. The stadium features a unique design that incorporates elements of the surrounding landscape, and offers stunning views of the Brazos River.

Mayborn Museum Complex: The Mayborn Museum Complex is a 143,000 square foot museum that features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities related to science, history, and culture. The museum is housed in a former historic warehouse, and is a popular destination for families and school groups.

Judge Baylor Statue: The Judge Baylor statue is a beloved symbol of the university, and features a bronze statue of the university’s namesake, Judge R.E.B. Baylor. The statue is located in Burleson Quadrangle, which is a central gathering place for students and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.

Fountain Mall: The Fountain Mall is a beautifully landscaped pedestrian mall that runs through the heart of the campus. The mall features several fountains, benches, and outdoor spaces that are ideal for studying, socializing, and enjoying the beautiful Texas weather.

6. Southern Methodist University

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a private research university located in Dallas, Texas. Here are some aspects that make SMU impressive from the perspective of an undergraduate student:

Location: SMU is located in Dallas, a dynamic and cosmopolitan city that offers many cultural and recreational opportunities. Dallas is home to many museums, theaters, music venues, and professional sports teams, as well as a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene.

Undergraduate research: SMU offers many opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in research projects across a wide range of fields. The university has numerous research centers and institutes and collaborates with many industries and institutions in Dallas and beyond.

Engaged learning: SMU emphasizes engaged learning and provides many opportunities for students to apply what they are learning in real-world contexts. The university has a strong commitment to service and encourages students to engage in service projects and internships.

World-class faculty: SMU has a distinguished faculty that includes many experts and scholars in their fields. The faculty is dedicated to teaching and mentoring undergraduate students and provides many opportunities for students to work closely with them on research projects and other initiatives.

Professional preparation: SMU has a strong focus on preparing students for success in their careers and offers many resources and programs to help students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the job market. The university has a well-established network of alumni who are leaders in many different industries, providing students with many opportunities for mentorship and networking.

Why I particularly like SMU’s campus:

Collegiate Georgian Architecture: The campus features beautiful Georgian-style architecture, with buildings that are made of brick and white columns. These architectural features give the campus a stately and elegant feel.

The Boulevard: SMU’s main thoroughfare, The Boulevard, runs through the heart of the campus and is lined with beautiful trees and fountains. The Boulevard is a popular gathering place for students, and is the site of many of the university’s traditions and events.

Meadows Museum: The Meadows Museum is a world-class art museum that features one of the largest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain. The museum is housed in a beautiful building that was designed by renowned architect, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill.

The Law Quad: The Dedman School of Law features a unique quad that is designed to resemble the Inns of Court in London. The quad features a central courtyard, and is surrounded by four buildings that house the law school’s classrooms, offices, and library.

Perkins Chapel: Perkins Chapel is a beautiful Gothic-style chapel that is a popular wedding venue and is also used for religious services and university events.

Outdoor Spaces: SMU’s campus features several beautiful outdoor spaces, including the Dallas Hall Lawn, the Martha Proctor Mack Grand Ballroom Terrace, and the Fondren Library Plaza. These outdoor spaces offer students and visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful Texas weather.

7. Southwestern University

Southwestern University is a private liberal arts university located in Georgetown, Texas. Here are some aspects that make Southwestern University impressive from the perspective of an undergraduate student:

Paideia curriculum: Southwestern has a distinctive Paideia curriculum that emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. The curriculum is designed to help students make connections across different fields of knowledge and to develop the skills they need to be engaged citizens and leaders in their communities.

Undergraduate research: Southwestern is a leading undergraduate research institution with many opportunities for students to engage in research projects across a wide range of fields. The university has numerous research centers and institutes and collaborates with many industries and institutions in Texas and beyond.

Experiential learning: Southwestern emphasizes experiential learning and provides many opportunities for students to apply what they are learning in real-world contexts. The university has a strong commitment to service and encourages students to engage in service projects and internships.

Collaborative community: Southwestern has a strong sense of community and a collaborative culture that fosters intellectual curiosity and mutual respect. The university is committed to diversity and inclusivity and provides many opportunities for students to engage with people from different backgrounds and perspectives.

Location: Southwestern is located in Georgetown, a historic town that is home to many cultural and recreational opportunities. Georgetown is also within driving distance of Austin, the state capital of Texas, providing students with easy access to many different experiences and opportunities.

Personal attention: Southwestern has a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, which means that students receive individual attention and are able to build close relationships with their professors. The small class sizes also foster a sense of community and allow for more personalized learning.

Why I particularly like Southwestern’s campus:

The Cullen Building: The Cullen Building is the central administrative building on campus, and is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture. The building features a large clock tower, stained glass windows, and a bell tower that chimes every hour.

Academic Mall: The Academic Mall is a beautiful green space that runs through the heart of the campus, and is lined with red-brick buildings on either side. This space serves as a popular gathering place for students, and is often used for outdoor events and performances.

The Sarofim School of Fine Arts: The Sarofim School of Fine Arts is a state-of-the-art facility that includes a theater, an art gallery, and a music building. The facility is known for its excellent performance spaces and its commitment to showcasing the arts on campus.

The Mundy Hall Observatory: The Mundy Hall Observatory is a unique feature of the campus, and houses several telescopes and other astronomical instruments. The observatory is open to the public on select nights, and offers visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the universe.

The Permaculture Garden: Southwestern University has a commitment to sustainability, and has several initiatives on campus that promote environmental stewardship. The Permaculture Garden is a student-led project that teaches sustainable gardening practices, and provides fresh produce for the campus community.

8. Austin College

Austin College is a private liberal arts college located in Sherman, Texas. Here are some aspects that make Austin College impressive from the perspective of an undergraduate student:

JanTerm: Austin College offers a unique January term, or JanTerm, during which students take a single course for three weeks. This allows students to focus intensively on a single topic, explore new areas of interest, and engage in experiential learning opportunities.

Experiential learning: Austin College emphasizes experiential learning and provides many opportunities for students to apply what they are learning in real-world contexts. The college has a strong commitment to service and encourages students to engage in service projects and internships.

International and cultural experiences: Austin College has a strong focus on international and cultural experiences and provides many opportunities for students to study abroad, engage in cultural immersion experiences, and learn about different cultures and perspectives.

Collaboration and research: Austin College has a collaborative culture that fosters intellectual curiosity and mutual respect. The college emphasizes undergraduate research and provides many opportunities for students to engage in research projects across a wide range of fields.

Personal attention: Austin College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, which means that students receive individual attention and are able to build close relationships with their professors. The small class sizes also foster a sense of community and allow for more personalized learning.

Community engagement: Austin College has a strong sense of community and a commitment to civic engagement. The college provides many opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, service projects, and other initiatives that contribute to the local community.

Why I particularly like Austin College’s campus:

Johnson Center: The Johnson Center is a state-of-the-art facility that houses the college’s dining hall, campus store, and a variety of other amenities. The building features a green roof that helps to regulate the temperature inside the building, and is a model of sustainable design.

IDEA Center: The IDEA Center is a unique facility that is dedicated to innovation, design, entrepreneurship, and the arts. The center includes a makerspace, a digital media lab, and a variety of other resources that are available to students and faculty.

Dean’s Cottage: The Dean’s Cottage is a beautiful historic building that serves as the office for the Dean of Students. The cottage features a wraparound porch, a large fireplace, and a beautiful garden.

The IDEA District: The IDEA District is a collection of buildings and spaces on campus that are dedicated to innovation and entrepreneurship. The district includes the IDEA Center, the Sherman Entrepreneurship Program, and the Austin College Innovation Station.

Outdoor Spaces: Austin College’s campus features several beautiful outdoor spaces, including the Johnson Pond, the Idea Garden, and the Wright Campus Center Courtyard. These spaces offer students and visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful Texas weather.

9. University of Dallas

The University of Dallas is a private Catholic liberal arts university located in Irving, Texas. Here are some aspects that make the University of Dallas impressive from the perspective of an undergraduate student:

Core curriculum: The University of Dallas has a unique core curriculum that emphasizes the great books, classic works of literature, philosophy, and theology. The core curriculum is designed to help students develop a broad foundation of knowledge and critical thinking skills that will serve them well in any field.

Rome program: The University of Dallas has a campus in Rome, Italy, and offers a unique study abroad program that allows students to spend a semester in Rome studying the classics, theology, and art history. The Rome program is a popular and transformative experience for many University of Dallas students.

Personal attention: The University of Dallas has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, which means that students receive individual attention and are able to build close relationships with their professors. The small class sizes also foster a sense of community and allow for more personalized learning.

Catholic identity: The University of Dallas has a strong Catholic identity and is committed to providing a liberal arts education rooted in Catholic tradition. The university offers many opportunities for students to engage with their faith and to deepen their understanding of Catholic theology and philosophy.

Intellectual community: The University of Dallas has a strong sense of intellectual community and a collaborative culture that fosters curiosity and critical thinking. The university emphasizes undergraduate research and provides many opportunities for students to engage in research projects across a wide range of fields.

Service opportunities: The University of Dallas has a strong commitment to service and encourages students to engage in service projects and internships. The university provides many opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities and service initiatives that contribute to the local community.

Why I particularly like University of Dallas’ campus:

The Braniff Memorial Tower: The Braniff Memorial Tower is a distinctive landmark on the University of Dallas campus. The tower is modeled after the Tower of the Winds in Athens, Greece, and features a large clock and bells that ring on the hour.

The Cistercian Abbey: The University of Dallas shares a campus with the Cistercian Abbey of Our Lady of Dallas, a community of monks who have lived on the land for more than 50 years. The abbey features beautiful Gothic-style architecture, and is a peaceful and serene place to visit.

The Church of the Incarnation: The Church of the Incarnation is a beautiful Romanesque-style church that serves as the spiritual heart of the University of Dallas community. The church features stained glass windows, beautiful mosaics, and a stunning altarpiece.

Outdoor Spaces: The University of Dallas campus features several beautiful outdoor spaces, including the Mall, the Constantin Garden, and the Gorman Lecture Center Courtyard. These spaces offer students and visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful Texas weather.

The Capp Bar: The Capp Bar is a popular gathering place for students and alumni, and is located in the Haggar University Center. The bar features a cozy atmosphere, a fireplace, and a variety of food and drink options.

10. St. Edward’s University

St. Edward’s University is a private Catholic liberal arts university located in Austin, Texas. Here are some aspects that make St. Edward’s University impressive from the perspective of an undergraduate student:

Community engagement: St. Edward’s University has a strong commitment to community engagement and social justice. The university encourages students to get involved in service projects and internships that contribute to the local community and promote positive change.

Personal attention: St. Edward’s University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, which means that students receive individual attention and are able to build close relationships with their professors. The small class sizes also foster a sense of community and allow for more personalized learning.

Career preparation: St. Edward’s University has a strong focus on career preparation and provides many opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships, research projects, and other initiatives. The university has a robust career center that provides support and resources for students as they prepare to enter the workforce.

Global perspective: St. Edward’s University has a strong focus on global perspective and provides many opportunities for students to study abroad, engage in cultural immersion experiences, and learn about different cultures and perspectives.

Catholic identity: St. Edward’s University is rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition and provides a liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking, social responsibility, and ethical leadership.

Diverse student body: St. Edward’s University has a diverse student body and is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. The university provides many opportunities for students to engage with and learn from people from different backgrounds and perspectives.

Why I particularly like the St. Edward’s campus:

Hilltop Setting: The campus is situated on a hilltop overlooking downtown Austin, providing stunning views of the city and the surrounding area.

Holy Cross Plaza: Holy Cross Plaza is a central gathering space on campus, featuring a beautiful fountain and plenty of seating for students to relax and socialize.

Munday Library: The Munday Library is a state-of-the-art facility that provides students with access to a wide range of print and digital resources. The building also features a coffee shop and plenty of comfortable seating.

St. Joseph Hall: St. Joseph Hall is a beautiful building on campus that serves as the main administrative building. The building features a bell tower, a chapel, and stunning stained glass windows.

The Mary Moody Northen Theatre: The Mary Moody Northen Theatre is a beautiful performance space that hosts a wide range of plays, musicals, and other theatrical productions. The theatre features a 400-seat auditorium and state-of-the-art sound and lighting equipment.

Chapel of Our Lady Queen of Peace: The Chapel of Our Lady Queen of Peace is a beautiful space for worship and reflection on campus. The chapel features stunning stained glass windows and a serene atmosphere.

Outdoor Spaces: St. Edward’s University features several beautiful outdoor spaces, including the Main Building Lawn, the East Lawn, and the Ragsdale Center Patio. These spaces offer students and visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful Texas weather.