Best Psychology Programs in Texas in 2025
Explore a ranked list of the best psychology programs in Texas and learn about possible career paths with this state-specific guide.
At this site we believe in providing trustworthy and actionable information about degree programs, careers, professional issues, and regional laws concerning the psychology, counseling, and social work professions. Our writers and editors leverage the latest data from primary sources across the site.
We also rely on our freelance Integrity Network, which is comprised of experienced professionals who pull from their first-hand industry experience and expertise to review content for accuracy and completeness. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.
Why Psycholology.org?
The Psychology.org team includes writers, editors, and contributing psychology students and professionals dedicated to helping you navigate the field. We follow a strict editorial and review process to ensure our content is up-to-date, factual, and relevant. Learn more aboutour editorial process.
Key Takeaways
- The top psychology programs in Texas include The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, East Texas A&M University, and Prairie View A&M University.
- Licensing requirements in Texas include earning a doctorate, passing the EPPP and jurisprudence exams, and completing supervised internship and postdoctoral experience.
More than 100 schools offer psychology programs in Texas. Choosing the right one requires careful research and an understanding of your long-term academic and career goals. Find out how to evaluate program options and review a ranked list of the best psychology programs in Texas. Use it to help guide your search for the right degree program for you.
Best Psychology Programs in Texas
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Topping the list as one of the best psychology programs in Texas, the UTRGV online bachelor of science in psychology equips you with the skills to help people improve their mental health. This versatile training program can open the door to jobs in the public and private sectors.
The UTRGV psychology program features foundational psychology courses and social and behavioral science courses, which make up 42 of the 120 credits. Learners may also choose from elective courses in cognitive and biological foundations, developmental/social/cultural foundations, theoretical/methodological foundations, and applications.
We like that UTRGV offers psychology students the opportunity to gain valuable experience assisting with faculty research projects.
Highlights:
- Lowest net cost on this list
- Tuition covered for students from families with gross income less than $125,000
- Internships possible
Considerations:
- Online classes may not be available
- 53% graduation rate
68%
Yes
87%
N/A
$7,857
$20,097
76%
31,559
Public
East Texas A & M University
- Commerce, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
East Texas A&M University's psychology program emphasizes the human mind and behavior. Students also learn research and statistical analysis skills that can help them in many professional and educational pursuits.
The 42-credit core program features courses in psychology fundamentals, human development, and applied psychology. Depending on your course choices, you may also participate in independent research or an internship or practicum.
We like that the program accommodates all students by offering full-time on-campus schedules and flexible online courses for distance and working students.
Highlights:
- Available at two campuses and in a hybrid mode with online classes
- Generous transfer credit policy
- Student organizations
Considerations:
- $50 per credit online course fee
- Out-of-state tuition rates are more than double in-state rates
75%
Yes
78%
N/A
$4,790
$17,060
64%
11,500
Public
Prairie View A & M University
- Prairie View, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
PVAMU's BS in psychology program takes an interdisciplinary approach to the expansive world of psychology through diverse specializations. The curriculum helps you develop the analytical and research skills necessary for psychology careers or graduate program admission.
In addition to courses like psychology and law, social cognition, and research methods, the program features a hands-on component that includes laboratory experiences and practicum and internship opportunities.
We like that PVAMU's psychology program exposes students to several of the major psychology subfields, including clinical development, industrial/organizational, and social psychology.
Highlights:
- Interdisciplinary learning approach covers a wide range of specializations and subfields
- Three psychology student organizations available
- Workshops and consulting available at the Center for Applied Statistics and Research
Considerations:
- Online classes not available
- May need SAT or ACT scores for admission
55%
Yes
74%
N/A
$7,387
$22,590
74%
9,248
Public
Texas Southern University
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
TSU's bachelor of arts in psychology empowers grads with abundant critical-thinking skills. Combined with the principles of psychology, this program prepares you for graduate studies or an eventual clinical career, where critical thinking is crucial.
This 39-credit major includes courses in statistics, African American psychology, and psychology of personality. It also includes a psychology capstone and an independent study option.
We like that TSU requires psychology students to choose a minor in a field outside of psychology, ensuring they develop interdisciplinary skills and perspectives.
Highlights:
- One of the lowest tuition rates on this list
- Offers fixed-rate tuition options
- Minimum GPA of 2.0 required for admission and to remain in the program
Considerations:
- No online courses available
- Exit examination and pre-exam workshops required
- Placement test required
69%
Yes
97%
N/A
$6,941
$19,677
55%
8,632
Public
Stephen F Austin State University
- Nacogdoches, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Students have a choice between a BA or BS in psychology at SFA, but both prepare graduates for careers in research or counseling.
The two programs differ slightly in their requirements: the 124-credit BA features a language and humanities component, while the 120-credit BS includes a sciences section. Both programs offer an optional internship that eligible students can use as an elective.
We like that SFA offers a research-intensive curriculum and opportunities for students to join faculty research projects. The school boasts that more than 2,000 students volunteered for the department's research projects in 2023.
Highlights:
- Choose between a BA or BS program
- Flat-rate and guaranteed tuition options
- Online classes may be available
Considerations:
- Large number of electives
- ACT or SAT scores may be required
77%
Yes
88%
N/A
$8,496
$18,336
71%
10,888
Public
Tarleton State University
- Stephenville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Students pursuing a BS in Tarleton State's psychology program can pick among specializations in general psychology, pre-clinical psychology, and educational psychology.
The 120-credit program features core courses in the psychology of learning, writing in psychology, and statistical methods in psychology, along with a senior capstone course. You then finish your program with a 21-credit specialization.
We like the choices Tarleton State offers its students, including flexible scheduling options, internship electives, taking part in faculty research projects, and focused concentration pathways.
Highlights:
- Hands-on experience through internships and research opportunities
- Online and hybrid study options available
- Classes held at three campus locations
Considerations:
- Attending some locations may require transfer credit
- Out-of-state tuition rates nearly double in-state rates
- Many hands-on opportunities require campus attendance
68%
Yes
57%
N/A
$4,798
$14,201
72%
14,092
Public
St. Mary's University
- San Antonio, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Based in San Antonio, the St. Mary's University psychology BA program instills critical thinking and ethics expertise across its curriculum.
The 120-credit program includes core courses in abnormal psychology and physiological psychology, along with research labs, a sophomore retreat, and a final examination. You can also opt for a field placement at one of the local healthcare or community service sites.
We like that the St. Mary's psychology program requires students to design and present a research project at various conferences, which can help prepare them for their postgraduate careers or graduate programs.
Highlights:
- Multiple student organizations available
- Small classes
- Access to a psychology Living Learning Community
Considerations:
- One of the highest tuition rates on this list
- Required participation in sophomore retreat
- Clinical placements are in the San Antonio area
32%
Yes
89%
N/A
$34,154
$34,154
68%
3,180
Private
University of Houston-Clear Lake
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
With a curriculum shaped by the American Psychological Association, UHCL's BS in psychology program prepares students for work after graduation, particularly in research and statistics.
UHCL's 39-credit psychology major features courses in psychology research, psychology of development and identity, psychology of behavior and cognition, and psychology of individuals in social groups.
We like that UHCL supports first-year students with new student programs and orientations to help them feel more at home on their new campus. The school also hosts more than 100 student organizations, including several psychology-focused groups.
Highlights:
- Two out of every three students receive financial aid
- Start dates in fall, spring, and summer semesters
- Flexible admission requirements
Considerations:
- No online courses available
- Standardized scores may be required
- No internships built into program
50%
Yes
83%
N/A
$7,380
$24,360
75%
8,876
Public
Angelo State University
- San Angelo, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
As a student in ASU's BS in psychology, you can develop the skills and expertise needed for one of many psychology-related careers.
The 120-credit BS in psychology features a 43-credit major with only 13 prescribed credits, giving you plenty of flexibility and control over your educational path. The school also offers a BA in psychology with a foreign language component and less of a science focus.
We like that ASU allows students to pursue internships and research projects as part of the substantial elective requirements. This enables learners to gain valuable experience in the areas that interest them most.
Highlights:
- May qualify for free tuition under the university's Blue and Gold Guarantee
- Online study options available
- Practical experience in one of three campus labs available
Considerations:
- Large number of electives
- Mandatory minor
44%
Yes
79%
N/A
$5,619
$18,219
72%
11,250
Public
The University of Texas at San Antonio
- San Antonio, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Why We Chose This School:
Whether you plan to begin your psychology career and obtain licensure or pursue graduate education, UTSA's BA in psychology can help set you on that path.
The 120-credit program features core courses in experimental psychology, developmental psychology, and statistics. You can also build an internship, independent study project, or honors thesis into your program.
We like that UTSA places a significant focus on hands-on learning, encouraging students to participate in research studies, field experiences, and internships throughout the program.
Highlights:
- Access to an involved student success center
- May qualify for free tuition through UTSA's Bold Promise
Considerations:
- Highly competitive
- Two mandatory psychology gateway courses
74%
Yes
88%
N/A
$7,439
$23,657
79%
34,864
Public
What to Look For in a Psychology Program
Multiple key features differentiate Texas psychology programs from each other. As you compare your options, pay attention to these important features:
- Degree Designation: Psychology degrees typically lead to either an arts or a science degree. Arts programs generally emphasize theory, while science programs focus more on research and quantitative analysis.
- Program Structures and Delivery Formats: Consider whether you would prefer face-to-face, online, or hybrid learning. Also, confirm the program’s enrollment options (part time vs. full time) if you have particular preferences or needs.
- Student Satisfaction and Success Metrics: Indicators like retention rates, graduation rates, and post-graduation placement rates can tell you a lot about how students feel about a program or school.
Research a program’s admission requirements to determine if you meet the requirements. Tuition costs are another essential consideration, especially if you need financial aid.
Finally, confirm the institution’s accreditation status and avoid schools that lack proper credentials. Graduate students should also review the specialized accreditations that some advanced psychology programs hold, since these may directly impact your career plans.
What Can I Do With a Psychology Degree in Texas?
Texas psychology degrees can prepare you for various career paths. If you plan to pursue advanced education and licensure as a therapist, counselor, or psychologist, you should understand how particular programs, degree designations, and accreditations may affect your plans and goals.
An undergraduate can help you enter supporting roles in social services, human services, counseling, and therapy. Texas psychology programs can also lead to alternative career paths in areas like education, human resources, and business administration. Additional education at the master’s or doctorate level can increase your career options, helping you to pursue a career as a school psychologist or licensed psychologist.
The following table profiles some of the many career paths you could pursue after completing a psychology program in Texas:
| Career | Average Annual Salary (May 2023, Texas) | Projected Growth (2022-2032, Texas) | Required Education |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social and Human Service Assistants | $42,530 | +16% | Some college preferred |
| Substance Use Counselors | $55,780 | +27.2% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Human Resources Specialist | $70,200 | +22.5% | Bachelor’s degree |
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $82,420 | +19.6% | Doctoral degree |
| School Psychologists | $80,610 | +14.1% | Master’s degree |
Licensing Requirements in Texas
To become a licensed psychologist in Texas, you must earn a doctorate, pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), and pass the jurisprudence examination on legal factors in practicing psychology. You also need at least 1,750 hours of supervised internship experience during your doctoral program and at least 1,750 hours of supervised post-doctoral experience.
If you graduated from a program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), you may be able to apply some of your graduate experience to the post-doctoral hour requirements.
If you have an active Certificate of Professional Qualification in Psychology (CPQ), you only need to pass the jurisprudence examination. Similarly, if you have an active specialist certification with the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), you only need to take the EPPP and the jurisprudence examination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Psychology Programs
Schools such as the University of Texas, Rice University, and Texas A&M University offer some of the top-ranked psychology programs in Texas. However, many other schools also offer high-quality psychology degrees in Texas, including some not ranked or profiled here. Always prioritize your personal learning needs above third-party rankings when comparing programs.
