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Considering a psychology career in Texas? Find the best graduate psychology programs in Texas with this guide to psychology schools and licensing requirements.
Psychology.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
The best colleges for psychology in Texas share features common to both undergraduate and graduate programs. These include a rigorous and challenging curriculum, accessible formats, accomplished faculty, and reputable accreditation.
This degree guide explores these and other characteristics of high-quality psychology programs and schools. Use it to help guide your search for the ideal learning opportunity in the Lone Star State.
Popular Online Bachelor's in Psychology Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Psychology Programs in Texas
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
Psychology.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Psychology Programs in Texas in 2024
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Texas at Austin offers two undergraduate degrees in psychology: a bachelor of science (B.S.) and a bachelor of arts (B.A.). B.S. students prepare for medical school or other health roles, such as occupational therapist, physical therapist, and physician's assistant. The program is best suited for students with a strong math background and an interest in science.
The B.A. curriculum is for students planning to become psychologists or pursue graduate study in psychology, law, business administration, or other social science fields.
Both tracks require courses that include an introduction to psychology, an introduction to statistics for behavioral sciences, and psychological methods and research.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,576
Out-of-state
$46,498
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,036
Out-of-state
$22,952
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
52,331
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Psychology Programs in Texas in 2024
Rice University
Houston, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Rice University's bachelor of arts with a major in psychology develops a broad knowledge base in psychology and an understanding of its applications. Students also gain an understanding of research methods and how to apply them to address psychological questions.
Course topics cover psychology's major areas, the origin and treatment of abnormal behavior, and psychology-based interventions. Core requirements include an introduction to cognitive psychology, an introduction to social psychology, and quantitative analysis for the social sciences.
The department offers an honors program for qualified students during their senior year. Interested candidates submit a written project proposal and must hold a 3.7 GPA in psychology courses and an overall 3.5 GPA.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,070
Out-of-state
$52,070
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$49,279
Out-of-state
$49,279
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
8,688
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Electives cover topics in advanced social psychology, child psychology, language development, media and behavior, and the psychology of aging.
Degree-seekers complete 120 credits, including university core requirements, a life and physical science lab, foreign language credits, and minor credits. Within the major, students take 20 core credits, 15 advanced general electives credits, and nine credits of restricted psychology electives.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,818
Out-of-state
$13,610
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,350
Out-of-state
$10,694
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
8,455
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Psychology Programs in Texas in 2024
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Students can earn their bachelor of arts (B.A.) or bachelor of science (B.S.) in psychology at Texas A&M University. Core psychology course requirements are the same for both degrees and emphasize analysis and integration of information about groups and individuals. Graduation requires completion of cultural discourse and international and cultural diversity courses.
The B.S. takes a science-based approach to human behavior and prepares learners for applicable graduate programs, medical school, or health-related professional programs, along with entry-level applied psychology or business positions. The B.A. requires additional courses in foreign languages and humanities.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$36,117
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,885
Out-of-state
$19,593
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
74,311
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The bachelor of arts in psychology is geared toward students with a general interest in psychology but who do not plan to become psychologists or pursue psychology-related careers. The bachelor of science prepares learners for graduate study and careers in psychology.
Both degree options require a minor or second major and courses, such as introduction to psychology, principles of behavior, research methods in psychology, and a senior seminar.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$51,570
Out-of-state
$51,570
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$32,220
Out-of-state
$32,220
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
12,298
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
3%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Psychology Programs in Texas in 2024
The University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
At the University of Texas at Dallas, bachelor of science in psychology students learn to ask questions about human behavior and thinking from a scientific standpoint. The curriculum emphasizes theories, methods, and research findings and offers experiential learning through campus research labs, internship placements, and individual study with faculty members.
Qualified students who intend to enter master's programs in applied cognition and neuroscience; human development and early childhood disorder; or speech-language pathology can apply for the fast track program. Those accepted can apply up to 15 semester credits earned in their psychology undergraduate classes toward a master's degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,412
Out-of-state
$44,812
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,088
Out-of-state
$29,252
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
31,716
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Psychology Programs in Texas in 2024
University of Dallas
Irving, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Dallas offers a bachelor of arts in psychology grounded in Catholic intellectual tradition. The curriculum consists of general education courses in arts, humanities, mathematics, and sciences and offers a deep understanding of psychology as a liberal art and rigorous science. Degree-seekers engage in active research and writing and work with faculty during junior and senior research seminars.
Students complete 12 credits of advanced psychology electives and write a thesis in their senior year. Psychology majors who continue on to a master's in psychology at the University of Dallas can complete their master's with an additional year of coursework.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$43,326
Out-of-state
$43,326
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$33,750
Out-of-state
$33,750
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
2,338
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Psychology Programs in Texas in 2024
University of Houston
Houston, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Psychology majors at the University of Houston can earn a bachelor of arts (B.A.) or a bachelor of science (B.S.). The process starts with a declaration of major, which requires a UH 2.0 GPA, enrollment in a psychology course, and choice of degree.
Students can opt to complete their upper-division psychology courses online, along with some lower-division classes. Distance learning space is limited. Those pursuing a B.A. in psychology must finish their six hours of sophomore-year foreign language requirements before transitioning to online learning.
UH's psychology department offers numerous resources for entering the workforce or graduate psychology after finishing the bachelor's program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,856
Out-of-state
$26,096
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,713
Out-of-state
$17,857
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
46,707
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Psychology Programs in Texas in 2024
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's bachelor of science in psychology prepares learners to work in mental health or in other fields, such as business and politics. The curriculum includes foundational psychology courses, along with courses in social and behavioral science, cognitive/biological foundations, development/social/cultural/foundations, and theoretical/methodological foundations.
Applied elective offerings include applied behavior analysis, psychology and law, psychopathology of childhood, and stress management. Students can select life and physical science courses in areas like astronomy, biology, chemistry, geology, and physics.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,857
Out-of-state
$20,097
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,002
Out-of-state
$14,562
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
31,387
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Psychology Programs in Texas in 2024
University of North Texas
Denton, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The bachelor of arts in psychology at the University of North Texas offers a varied curriculum that includes general college requirements, psychology core courses, and additional psychology options in six categories: brain, behavior, and cognition; applied psychology; diversity and inclusivity; health and development; psychopathology and personality; and relationships. Degree-seekers can opt to add a minor.
Graduation requires 18 hours of psychology courses taken at UNT; 12 of those hours must cover advanced topics. In addition, learners must maintain a 2.0 overall GPA and a 2.5 GPA in psychology major courses with a C or higher in each.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,295
Out-of-state
$18,111
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,350
Out-of-state
$13,694
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
42,441
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
What to Look for in a Texas College for Psychology
Psychology programs often appear similar at first glance. However, important differences reveal themselves upon closer analysis of factors that include:
Curricula: Consider the program's relevance to your academic interests and career plans. Some schools offer specialized or concentrated programs in areas of developmental, forensic, health, and organizational psychology. Seek concentrations that align with your long-term objectives.
Delivery Formats: Major delivery formats include face-to-face, fully online, and hybrid programs that blend campus-based and e-learning. Consider how well a program's format fits your scheduling needs.
Admission Standards and Application Requirements: Many students consider selective admission standards and complex application requirements indicators of higher program quality. This is not always true. For instance, quality programs based at larger schools often have more slots available for new students. They may therefore maintain inclusive rather than selective admission standards.
Accreditation: Only consider programs hosted at properly accredited institutions. Specialized accreditations typically apply only to advanced psychology programs at the master's and doctoral levels. Examples of specialized psychology accreditors include the American Psychological Association, the National Association of School Psychologists, and the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System.
Costs and Financial Aid Availability: Lower-cost institutions and schools that offer generous financial aid packages are more accessible.
Differences among these factors exist at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Research their impacts no matter what type of degree you seek.
Salary and Career Outlook for Psychology Graduates in Texas
While you must have a doctorate to practice as a clinical psychologist, you can use a psychology degree for many other careers. An associate degree can prepare you for a job working in psychology, human services, or in law enforcement.
With a psychology bachelor's degree, you can work in a variety of fields, including marketing, media and publishing, human resources, government, or administration and management. Many students with a bachelor's in psychology continue to graduate school in another field, such as business administration, law, or medicine.
Depending on state regulations, you can qualify for a career as a counselor, therapist, or school psychologist with a master's degree. Be sure to check your state for specifics. Finally, you can become a licensed psychologist once you have your doctoral degree, or you can teach psychology.
Salary and Career Outlook for Psychology Graduates 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 an American Psychological Association (APA)- or a Canadian Psychological Association (CPA)-accredited program, 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 the Best Colleges for Psychology in Texas
Does Texas have good psychology programs?
Yes. Many Texas colleges host highly regarded, nationally ranked psychology programs. Texas has the third-largest higher education network in the U.S., as measured by the number of accredited degree-granting institutions within its borders. Learn more about the best colleges for psychology in Texas.
What Texas college has the best psychology programs?
Texas schools noted for the quality of their psychology programs include the University of Texas and Texas A&M systems, Rice University, and the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Others include Baylor University, the University of Dallas, and Texas Christian University.
How many years does it take to study psychology in Texas?
Completing a bachelor's degree in psychology usually takes about four years of full-time study. Master's programs typically span 2-3 years, while doctoral degrees usually require about 3-5 years.
You may reduce these timelines by pursuing accelerated programs or transferring in qualified coursework from accredited colleges you have already attended.
Page last reviewed March 25, 2024. This page's information — not including school descriptions — was reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Psychology.org.