Top 15 Architecture Schools In Texas And Fees (2025)

Texas, known for its iconic skylines, booming cities, and blend of modern and traditional designs, is one of the best places in the U.S. to study architecture. The state is home to top-ranked universities offering accredited architecture programs that combine creativity, technical expertise, and sustainability.

In this post, we’ll explore the top 15 architecture schools in Texas, their programs, and estimated tuition fees to help you choose the best fit for your design ambitions.

Top 15 Architecture Schools In Texas And Fees

1. University of Texas at Austin – School of Architecture

Location: Austin, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $11,000 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $40,000 per year

The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) is widely recognized as one of the best architecture schools in the nation. Its School of Architecture (UTSOA) offers degrees at both undergraduate and graduate levels, including Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) and Master of Architecture (M.Arch).

The program emphasizes sustainable design, urban planning, and digital technology in architecture. Students benefit from the school’s innovative design studios and state-of-the-art fabrication labs. With Austin’s dynamic urban growth, students gain hands-on experience through internships and community-based design projects.

2. Texas A&M University – College of Architecture

Location: College Station, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: About $13,000 per year
• Out-of-state: About $40,000 per year

Texas A&M University’s College of Architecture is one of the largest architecture schools in the United States. It offers programs in architecture, landscape architecture, and construction science. The B.Arch and M.Arch degrees at Texas A&M are NAAB-accredited, preparing students for professional licensure.

The university emphasizes research and practical training, giving students opportunities to work on real-world design problems. Its interdisciplinary learning environment encourages collaboration with engineering and design departments, providing a well-rounded architectural education.

3. University of Houston – Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design

Location: Houston, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $11,000 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $27,000 per year

Located in the heart of Houston, the Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design provides an urban and industry-connected environment. The school offers Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture, and Master of Science in Architecture programs.

Students are encouraged to explore innovation, sustainable practices, and design technology. The school’s proximity to Houston’s architectural firms provides excellent internship and job placement opportunities.

4. Texas Tech University – College of Architecture

Location: Lubbock, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $12,000 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $24,000 per year

Texas Tech University’s College of Architecture offers an integrated five-year Bachelor of Architecture program accredited by NAAB. The curriculum balances creative design with technical and structural education.

Students have access to global study programs and design-build studios that provide real-world design experience. The college also emphasizes sustainability and digital design technologies to prepare graduates for future trends in architecture.

5. University of Texas at Arlington – College of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs

Location: Arlington, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $11,500 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $28,000 per year

UT Arlington’s College of Architecture offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a Master of Architecture degree. The school’s approach combines design innovation, urban planning, and sustainable architecture.

Students benefit from strong industry partnerships in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, gaining access to internships, field projects, and professional mentorships.

6. Prairie View A&M University – School of Architecture

Location: Prairie View, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: About $10,000 per year
• Out-of-state: About $25,000 per year

Prairie View A&M University offers a Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Community Development. The School of Architecture emphasizes the importance of social responsibility, sustainability, and community design.

Its small class sizes provide a personalized learning experience, while the curriculum integrates design theory, computer modeling, and practical fieldwork. The school is also known for promoting diversity in the architecture profession.

7. University of Texas at San Antonio – College of Architecture, Construction and Planning

Location: San Antonio, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $10,500 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $26,000 per year

The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) offers a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a Master of Architecture program. The curriculum focuses on the intersection of culture, technology, and design innovation.

UTSA’s urban location allows students to participate in design-build projects that contribute to the local community. The program integrates sustainability, architectural history, and environmental systems into its design training.

8. Rice University – School of Architecture

Location: Houston, TX
Tuition:

• Around $57,000 per year

Rice University’s School of Architecture is one of the most prestigious programs in the U.S., known for its small class sizes and individualized mentorship. The B.Arch program combines design education with liberal arts courses, creating well-rounded graduates.

The school emphasizes research-based design, sustainability, and global perspectives. Rice students often secure high-profile internships in leading architecture firms across the country and internationally.

9. University of Texas at El Paso – Department of Art and Architecture

Location: El Paso, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $9,500 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $24,000 per year

UTEP offers a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, which provides foundational knowledge in design, building systems, and environmental sustainability.

The program integrates bilingual and multicultural perspectives, reflecting the unique border culture of El Paso. Students gain practical experience through regional projects that address desert urbanism and sustainability.

10. University of North Texas – College of Visual Arts and Design

Location: Denton, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $11,000 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $22,000 per year

While not offering a professional B.Arch degree, UNT’s architecture-related programs in design and interior architecture are ideal for students pursuing design-oriented careers. The program encourages creativity, spatial awareness, and modern design principles.

Students benefit from access to digital fabrication labs and interdisciplinary collaboration with art and technology departments.

11. Texas Southern University – Department of Urban Planning and Environmental Policy

Location: Houston, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $9,000 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $20,000 per year

Though primarily focused on urban planning and environmental design, Texas Southern University offers a unique architectural education emphasizing sustainable and equitable development.

Students learn design principles, urban analysis, and environmental policy, preparing them for roles in community development, city planning, and sustainable architecture.

12. Abilene Christian University – Department of Engineering and Physics

Location: Abilene, TX
Tuition:

• Around $40,000 per year

Abilene Christian University offers pre-architecture and design-related programs that serve as a foundation for graduate studies in architecture. Students develop skills in design thinking, spatial awareness, and 3D modeling.

The program integrates faith-based learning with creative exploration, fostering ethical and community-focused designers.

13. Texas State University – School of Architecture and Design

Location: San Marcos, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $11,000 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $23,000 per year

Texas State University offers programs in interior design and construction management, ideal for students interested in architectural technology and design processes.

The school emphasizes environmental responsibility, modern construction practices, and sustainable design principles. Students also gain real-world experience through internships and collaborative projects.

14. University of Texas at Tyler – School of Architecture and Design

Location: Tyler, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $10,000 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $25,000 per year

The University of Texas at Tyler offers a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and related design programs that prepare students for architecture and urban planning careers.

The curriculum integrates hands-on training with digital design tools, ensuring students graduate with strong technical and creative skills.

15. Sam Houston State University – Department of Art

Location: Huntsville, TX
Tuition:

• In-state: Around $9,500 per year
• Out-of-state: Around $23,000 per year

Sam Houston State University offers design-related programs that provide a pathway to architecture and environmental design careers. Students explore architectural graphics, 3D modeling, and sustainable concepts.

With a focus on creative design and technology integration, the school offers an affordable route to professional architectural training.

How to Choose the Best Architecture School in Texas

When selecting the right architecture program in Texas, consider the following factors:

• Accreditation: Look for NAAB-accredited programs to ensure eligibility for professional licensure.
• Location: Choose a city that aligns with your design interests—urban design in Houston or sustainable projects in Austin, for example.
• Tuition & Financial Aid: Compare tuition fees and available scholarships or assistantships.
• Facilities & Labs: Opt for schools with advanced fabrication labs, 3D printers, and research centers.
• Internship Opportunities: Programs with strong ties to architectural firms provide better job placement.

Career Opportunities for Architecture Graduates in Texas

Texas’s booming construction and urban development industry offers vast opportunities for architecture graduates. Career paths include:

• Licensed Architect
• Urban Designer
• Landscape Architect
• Construction Manager
• Sustainability Consultant
• Interior Architect

Major Texas cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston are among the top locations for architectural jobs, with growing demand for eco-friendly and smart building designs.

Conclusion

Choosing an architecture school in Texas means joining a legacy of design innovation, sustainable construction, and cultural diversity. Whether you’re drawn to the prestige of Rice University, the research environment at Texas A&M, or the creative studios at UT Austin, there’s a program for every aspiring architect.

With affordable tuition options and strong job prospects, Texas stands out as one of the best states in America for architectural education and career growth.