2026 College Rankings

Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX)

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Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX)

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First-year retention rates measure the percentage of first-year students who come back to campus for a second year. This is an indicator of how happy students are generally with their decision to attend that institution as less students decide to drop out or transfer to another school.

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Rank	Institution	First Year Retention Rate	Acceptance Rate	SAT Score	Your Est. Net Price Avg. Net Price	Median Starting Salary	Save
1	Aspen University	100	87.5	--	0	29448	#1 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Aspen University Phoenix, AZ Based in Phoenix, Aspen University accepted 88% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 0% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 100 % Acceptance Rate 87.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $29,448
2	Wiley University	100	97.35	--	10290	28078	#2 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Wiley University Marshall, TX Wiley University opened in 1873, became Wiley College in 1929, and began offering Master’s degrees again in 2024. Two commonly chosen undergraduate majors are Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General, and Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. The school’s motto is “Go Forth Inspired.” First Year Retention Rate 100 % Acceptance Rate 97.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $10,290 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $28,078
3	Rice University	97	8	1,510 – 1,570	20587	79751	#3 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Rice University Houston, TX A private, doctoral/research college, Rice University sits on a 300-acre campus in Houston. The school is known for its research collaboration with NASA, and today 16 Rice faculty and alumni have served as astronauts or NASA Administrators....Read more First Year Retention Rate 97 % 0.6% Acceptance Rate 8.0% SAT Score 1,510 – 1,570 Avg. Net Price $20,587 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $79,751
4	The University of Texas at Austin	96.7	26.64	1,230 – 1,500	18036	60896	#4 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas at Austin Austin, TX The University of Texas at Austin was founded in 1883, but the first mention of it can be traced back to 1827. Famous alumni include Wes Anderson, James Baker, Matthew McConaughey, and Neil deGrasse Tyson....Read more First Year Retention Rate 97 % 0.6% Acceptance Rate 26.6% SAT Score 1,230 – 1,500 Avg. Net Price $18,036 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,896
5	Trinity University	93	25.92	1,330 – 1,490	32264	55224	#5 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Trinity University San Antonio, TX Trinity University is a private school affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. A whopping 99% of students receive institutional grants to help lower the cost of attendance, averaging $31,314 each. The school has produced entrepreneurs, athletes, actors, actresses, politicians, and more. First Year Retention Rate 93 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 25.9% SAT Score 1,330 – 1,490 Avg. Net Price $32,264 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,224
6	Texas Christian University	92.9	44.49	1,190 – 1,380	39005	60435	#6 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas Christian University Fort Worth, TX 81% of students attending Texas Christian University receive institutional grants to help cover the cost of college. With an impressive 92% first year retention rate, the school has a 14 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. Finance, General, and Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse are the most common undergraduate majors. First Year Retention Rate 93 % 1.5% Acceptance Rate 44.5% SAT Score 1,190 – 1,380 Avg. Net Price $39,005 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,435
7	University of Tulsa	92.12	61.5	1,220 – 1,510	23681	54779	#7 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Tulsa Tulsa, OK Royal blue, old gold, and crimson are the official colors of the University of Tulsa. The Golden Hurricanes compete in Football, Basketball, and Soccer, among others. Alumni include inventors, businessmen, actors, scientists, and politicians. UT’s student-to-faculty ratio is 10 to 1. First Year Retention Rate 92 % 8.4% Acceptance Rate 61.5% SAT Score 1,220 – 1,510 Avg. Net Price $23,681 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,779
8	Southern Methodist University	91	63.35	1,360 – 1,500	45792	65556	#8 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Southern Methodist University Dallas, TX Southern Methodist University is a private doctoral/research university that was founded in 1911. It also has a satellite campus in New Mexico. Alumni include Laura Bush, Powers Boothe, and Kathy Bates, as well as astronauts, scientists, politicians, and writers. 69% of students receive institutional grant aid. First Year Retention Rate 91 % 1.1% Acceptance Rate 63.4% SAT Score 1,360 – 1,500 Avg. Net Price $45,792 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $65,556
9	Baylor University	90.9	51.28	1,180 – 1,380	49727	56532	#9 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Baylor University Waco, TX Baylor University sits along the Brazos River. Alumni include John Lee Hancock, Jeff Dunham, Thomas Harris, and Michael Johnson. A fairly selective school, 14% of accepted students enroll and 90% will stay on after they complete their first year. 82% graduate within six years. First Year Retention Rate 91 % 0.3% Acceptance Rate 51.3% SAT Score 1,180 – 1,380 Avg. Net Price $49,727 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $56,532
10	University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center	90.18	97.07	1,140 – 1,350	0	52216	#10 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center Oklahoma City, OK Found in Oklahoma City, the University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center accepts 97% of applicants. Undergraduates have to send in $40 to apply. Approximately 0% of students attending the University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 90 % Acceptance Rate 97.1% SAT Score 1,140 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,216
11	University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus	90	76.6	1,140 – 1,340	19900	52216	#11 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus Norman, OK The University of Oklahoma offers up to Doctor's degrees and has a first year retention rate of 90%. It originally opened as the Norman Territorial University in 1890, 17 years before Oklahoma became a state. Competing in the Big Twelve Conference, the Sooners have brought home over 40 national titles. First Year Retention Rate 90 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 76.6% SAT Score 1,140 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $19,900 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,216
12	The University of Texas at Dallas	89.95	65.13	1,170 – 1,420	13464	57249	#12 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas at Dallas Richardson, TX The University of Texas at Dallas has an inspiring motto: “A cultivated mind is the guardian genius of democracy.” 22,000 students are currently studying for their Bachelor’s degree, but the school offers up to Doctor's degrees. Athletes are known as the Comets, and their mascot is Temoc (comet spelled backwards). First Year Retention Rate 90 % 2.1% Acceptance Rate 65.1% SAT Score 1,170 – 1,420 Avg. Net Price $13,464 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $57,249
13	Galen College of Nursing-San Antonio	88	64.5	630 – 850	28479	59213	#13 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Galen College of Nursing-San Antonio San Antonio, TX Found in San Antonio, Galen College of Nursing-San Antonio accepted 64% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 7% of students attending Galen College of Nursing-San Antonio will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 88 % Acceptance Rate 64.5% SAT Score 630 – 850 Avg. Net Price $28,479 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
14	Laredo College	86	85.73	--	5053	27435	#14 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Laredo College Laredo, TX Based in Laredo, Laredo College accepted 86% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 18% of students at Laredo College will receive grant aid from the school. 86% of students continued their studies at Laredo College after completing......Read more First Year Retention Rate 86 % Acceptance Rate 85.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,053 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,435
15	Arizona State University Campus Immersion	85	89.89	1,090 – 1,320	16401	52843	#15 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Arizona State University Campus Immersion Tempe, AZ Arizona State University was founded in 1885, first known as the Territorial Normal School, an institution to train teachers. The campus is home to the Grady Gammage Memorial Auditorium, which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. ASU has an 86% first year retention rate, and many students major in Computer Science. First Year Retention Rate 85 % Acceptance Rate 89.9% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $16,401 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,843
16	Texas Tech University	85	72.65	1,110 – 1,290	16773	52588	#16 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas Tech University Lubbock, TX Texas Tech University’s motto is “From here, it’s possible.” The school has a first year retention rate of 85%. Wearing scarlet and black, the Scarlet Raiders compete in Football, Basketball, and Baseball. Their mascot is The Masked Rider. First Year Retention Rate 85 % Acceptance Rate 72.7% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $16,773 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,588
17	Oklahoma State University-Main Campus	84.8	75.04	1,040 – 1,280	18291	46855	#17 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Oklahoma State University-Main Campus Stillwater, OK Oklahoma State University’s Cowboys and Cowgirls compete in the NCAA Division I-FBS Big Twelve Conference and have brought home over 50 team championships. The average athletic scholarship is $20,218. OSU is somewhat selective. First Year Retention Rate 85 % 1.2% Acceptance Rate 75.0% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $18,291 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,855
18	Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott	83.8	76.58	1,160 – 1,360	41209	65391	#18 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott Prescott, AZ Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott campus is located just north of a wildlife sanctuary and the Willow Creek Reservoir. Alumni of the school have gone on to have impressive careers as astronauts, scientists, military members, authors, athletes, and politicians....Read more First Year Retention Rate 84 % 7.2% Acceptance Rate 76.6% SAT Score 1,160 – 1,360 Avg. Net Price $41,209 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $65,391
19	University of Arizona	82.8	86.14	1,100 – 1,330	18144	47665	#19 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Arizona Tucson, AZ The University of Arizona is older than the state, having been founded in 1885 (Arizona only became a state in 1912). A public research university, the school charges $50 for undergraduate applications. The Arizona Wildcats, or simply “Cats,” play in the Pacific-12 Conference. First Year Retention Rate 83 % 5.6% Acceptance Rate 86.1% SAT Score 1,100 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $18,144 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,665
20	St. John's College	81.08	52.79	1,300 – 1,480	28368	33770	#20 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) St. John's College Santa Fe, NM St. John’s College sits in the shadow of Atalaya Mountain. A very small school, it should come as no surprise that the student-to-faculty ratio is low – 8 to 1. The mascot of the New Mexico branch is the axolotl. 92% of students receive institutional grants. First Year Retention Rate 81 % 3.4% Acceptance Rate 52.8% SAT Score 1,300 – 1,480 Avg. Net Price $28,368 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,770
21	Southwestern Adventist University	81	55.52	940 – 1,180	20198	43643	#21 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Southwestern Adventist University Keene, TX Located in Keene, Southwestern Adventist University’s acceptance rate is 56%. They require $25 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 98% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. On average, these students receive $10,653 each. The first year retention rate is 81%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % Acceptance Rate 55.5% SAT Score 940 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $20,198 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,643
22	Southwestern University	81	43.05	1,160 – 1,320	30687	49249	#22 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Southwestern University Georgetown, TX A small liberal arts school, Southwestern University offers 98% of attending students institutional grants, $30,608 on average. With nearly 40 majors, Business/Commerce, General, Psychology, General, and Kinesiology and Exercise Science are the most popular options. First Year Retention Rate 81 % 2.4% Acceptance Rate 43.1% SAT Score 1,160 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $30,687 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,249
23	The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley	81	94.01	870 – 1,090	6978	35812	#23 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Edinburg, TX Found in Edinburg, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s acceptance rate is 94%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. Approximately 52% of students at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley currently receive grant aid from the school. 81% of students continued studying......Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % 2.6% Acceptance Rate 94.0% SAT Score 870 – 1,090 Avg. Net Price $6,978 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,812
24	LeTourneau University	80.78	38.01	1,030 – 1,350	27007	51058	#24 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) LeTourneau University Longview, TX Called LeTourneau Technical Institute when it opened in 1946, LeTourneau University's first classes were made up of almost entirely veterans who had just returned from World War II. It received its current name in 1989....Read more First Year Retention Rate 81 % 0.3% Acceptance Rate 38.0% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $27,007 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,058
25	Oral Roberts University	80.4	98.9	1,020 – 1,260	24347	39112	#25 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Oral Roberts University Tulsa, OK Based in Tulsa, Oral Roberts University’s acceptance rate is 99% and requires $35 for undergraduate applications and $35 for graduate applications. About 93% of students at Oral Roberts University currently receive grant aid from the school. The institution’s first year retention rate is 80% and around 49% of students will......Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 0.0% Acceptance Rate 98.9% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $24,347 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,112
26	Texas State University	80	89.08	990 – 1,210	15307	46716	#26 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas State University San Marcos, TX Found in San Marcos, Texas State University accepted 89% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $75 for undergraduate applications and $55 for graduate applications. About 41% of students attending Texas State University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college......Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 2.6% Acceptance Rate 89.1% SAT Score 990 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $15,307 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,716
27	The University of Texas at San Antonio	80	86.79	1,010 – 1,220	10831	46340	#27 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas at San Antonio San Antonio, TX Located in San Antonio, The University of Texas at San Antonio accepted 87% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $70 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 60% of students at The University of Texas at San Antonio currently receive grant......Read more First Year Retention Rate 80 % 1.3% Acceptance Rate 86.8% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $10,831 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,340
28	Austin College	79.4	47.65	1,110 – 1,320	24777	45242	#28 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Austin College Sherman, TX Austin College’s Fighting Kangaroos, competing in the American Southwest Conference, wear crimson and gold. Many alumni have gone on to have impressive careers as musicians, politicians, educators, athletes, and authors. The most popular undergraduate major is Business/Commerce, General. First Year Retention Rate 79 % 0.8% Acceptance Rate 47.7% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $24,777 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,242
29	Saint Edward's University	78	83.69	1,040 – 1,230	28351	47743	#29 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Saint Edward's University Austin, TX Saint Edward’s University is a Roman Catholic school, affiliated with the Congregation of Holy Cross. It’s somewhat selective and boasts a 13 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. 250 Hilltoppers compete in the Lone Star Conference. Some sports include Basketball, Soccer, and Baseball. First Year Retention Rate 78 % Acceptance Rate 83.7% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $28,351 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,743
30	University of St Thomas	78	89.93	960 – 1,200	20469	49971	#30 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of St Thomas Houston, TX The University of St. Thomas’s motto is “Crescamus in Christo” – “Let us grow in Christ.” A Catholic school that opened in 1947, it was named after St. Thomas Aquinas. Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse is the most popular undergraduate major by far. UST also has a satellite campus in Conroe, Texas. First Year Retention Rate 78 % 6.8% Acceptance Rate 89.9% SAT Score 960 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $20,469 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,971
31	Oklahoma Christian University	77.96	97.07	1,040 – 1,280	21810	43281	#31 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Oklahoma Christian University Edmond, OK Known as the Bald Eagles, there are 392 athletes at Oklahoma Christian University. You’ll also find a Bald Eagle on their seal and sideline, where Eagle cheers them on. 98% receive grant aid, and OC also provides its full-time students with laptops, iPhones, and iPads. First Year Retention Rate 78 % Acceptance Rate 97.1% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $21,810 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,281
32	The University of Texas at El Paso	77.4	99.9	880 – 1,100	10333	37978	#32 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas at El Paso El Paso, TX Found in El Paso, The University of Texas at El Paso accepts 100% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications. About 44% of students attending The University of Texas at El Paso will receive institutional grant aid. 77% of students continued their studies at The University of Texas at El Paso after......Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % Acceptance Rate 99.9% SAT Score 880 – 1,100 Avg. Net Price $10,333 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,978
33	Oklahoma City University	77	70.39	1,140 – 1,240	23143	42312	#33 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Oklahoma City University Oklahoma City, OK Oklahoma City University has a 70% acceptance rate, and 99% of enrolled students receive institutional aid. On the field, the Stars wear blue and white and are cheered on by their mascot, a ram named Starsky. A NAIA Division I school, the average athletic scholarship is $8,577. First Year Retention Rate 77 % Acceptance Rate 70.4% SAT Score 1,140 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $23,143 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,312
34	University of Dallas	77	53.44	1,120 – 1,360	31221	45950	#34 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Dallas Irving, TX “Veritatem, Justitiam Diligite” is the motto of the University of Dallas, which translates to “Love Ye Truth and Justice.” The Crusaders compete in the NCAA Division III without football Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference. Popular sports include Basketball, Soccer, and Baseball. First Year Retention Rate 77 % 3.8% Acceptance Rate 53.4% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,360 Avg. Net Price $31,221 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,950
35	University of North Texas	76.84	72.23	990 – 1,240	14675	46304	#35 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of North Texas Denton, TX Located in Denton, the University of North Texas’s acceptance rate is 72% and charges $75 for undergraduate applications. About 69% of students at the University of North Texas currently receive grant aid from the school. The institution’s first year retention rate is 76% and its four year graduation rate is 40%. Computer and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % 0.2% Acceptance Rate 72.2% SAT Score 990 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $14,675 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,304
36	The University of Texas at Tyler	76.8	94.02	1,020 – 1,220	14043	49355	#36 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas at Tyler Tyler, TX Based in Tyler, The University of Texas at Tyler accepts 94% of applicants. They charge $60 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 75% of students attending The University of Texas at Tyler will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 77 % 5.2% Acceptance Rate 94.0% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $14,043 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,355
37	New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology	76.6	54.05	1,130 – 1,330	9133	54530	#37 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology Socorro, NM The New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology offers 29 degree programs. Many students choose to study Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, and Chemical Engineering. NMT is a space-grant school with a 9 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. First Year Retention Rate 77 % Acceptance Rate 54.1% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,330 Avg. Net Price $9,133 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $54,530
38	University of Houston-Clear Lake	75.26	83.4	990 – 1,170	10488	52098	#38 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Houston-Clear Lake Houston, TX Based in Houston, the University of Houston-Clear Lake accepts 83% of applicants and requires $45 for undergraduate applications and $45 for graduate applications. About 45% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % Acceptance Rate 83.4% SAT Score 990 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $10,488 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,098
39	Northern Arizona University	75	89.61	1,040 – 1,250	16544	47308	#39 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Northern Arizona University Flagstaff, AZ Northern Arizona University's most popular major is Psychology, General, though there are 171 degree programs available. 93% of students receive institutional grant aid, averaging $9,981 each. The Access2Excellence program covers full tuition for qualifying in-state students. First Year Retention Rate 75 % 2.7% Acceptance Rate 89.6% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $16,544 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,308
40	University of New Mexico-Main Campus	75	79.33	910 – 1,180	7528	37150	#40 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of New Mexico-Main Campus Albuquerque, NM Based in Albuquerque, the University of New Mexico-Main Campus’s acceptance rate is 79% and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 74% of students attending the University of New Mexico-Main Campus will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At......Read more First Year Retention Rate 75 % 4.2% Acceptance Rate 79.3% SAT Score 910 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $7,528 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,150
41	Lubbock Christian University	74	75.89	950 – 1,190	25351	46464	#41 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Lubbock Christian University Lubbock, TX Based in Lubbock, Lubbock Christian University accepted 76% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $50 for undergraduate applications. About 99% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % Acceptance Rate 75.9% SAT Score 950 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $25,351 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,464
42	Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology	74	97.28	890 – 1,080	10889	44523	#42 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Okmulgee, OK Found in Okmulgee, Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology accepts 97% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 95% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % 4.7% Acceptance Rate 97.3% SAT Score 890 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $10,889 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,523
43	Texas A&M International University	74	45.96	890 – 1,080	3833	37327	#43 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas A&M International University Laredo, TX Located in Laredo, Texas A&M International University’s acceptance rate is 46% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 60% of students attending Texas A&M International University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year retention rate is 74%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 74 % Acceptance Rate 46.0% SAT Score 890 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $3,833 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,327
44	New Mexico State University-Main Campus	73.4	88.96	890 – 1,130	8353	32960	#44 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) New Mexico State University-Main Campus Las Cruces, NM Found in Las Cruces, New Mexico State University-Main Campus accepts 89% of applicants and charges $25 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 73% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. On average, these students receive $8,707 each. The first year retention rate is 73%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 2.1% Acceptance Rate 89.0% SAT Score 890 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $8,353 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,960
45	Sam Houston State University	73.25	90.26	930 – 1,130	14556	45337	#45 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Sam Houston State University Huntsville, TX Found in Huntsville, Sam Houston State University accepted 90% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. About 7% of students at Sam Houston State University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 73 % 2.3% Acceptance Rate 90.3% SAT Score 930 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $14,556 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,337
46	Criswell College	73	91.67	1,090 – 1,150	11464	42026	#46 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Criswell College Dallas, TX Criswell College was founded in 1970, originally named the Criswell Bible Institute. This Baptist Christian school offers up to Master's degree, and it has very small class sizes, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 5 to 1. andGeneral Studies are commonly chosen undergraduate majors. First Year Retention Rate 73 % Acceptance Rate 91.7% SAT Score 1,090 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $11,464 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,026
47	St. Mary's University	73	97.76	890 – 1,310	20562	44130	#47 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) St. Mary's University San Antonio, TX St. Mary’s University is the oldest Catholic university in the state – the Roman Catholic Society of Mary opened it in 1852 at St. Mary’s Institute. The school offers up to Doctor's degrees and 52 programs, with many students currently studying Law. First Year Retention Rate 73 % 7.4% Acceptance Rate 97.8% SAT Score 890 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $20,562 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,130
48	Southwestern Assemblies of God University	72	84.23	960 – 1,130	19834	37425	#48 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Southwestern Assemblies of God University Waxahachie, TX Found in Waxahachie, Southwestern Assemblies of God University’s acceptance rate is 84%. They charge $35 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be requested. Approximately 91% of students at Southwestern Assemblies of God University currently receive institutional grant aid. At Southwestern Assemblies of God......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 84.2% SAT Score 960 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $19,834 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,425
49	University of Central Oklahoma	71.9	81.76	1,010 – 1,180	18893	43074	#49 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Central Oklahoma Edmond, OK Based in Edmond, the University of Central Oklahoma’s acceptance rate is 82% and requires $50 for undergraduate applications and $60 for graduate applications. Approximately 53% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. On average, these students are given $3,080 each. The first year retention rate is 71%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % Acceptance Rate 81.8% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $18,893 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,074
50	Stephen F Austin State University	71.7	74.45	970 – 1,150	15498	43144	#50 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Stephen F Austin State University Nacogdoches, TX Based in Nacogdoches, Stephen F Austin State University’s acceptance rate is 74%. They request $50 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. Approximately 70% of students attending Stephen F Austin State University will receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 71%......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 0.6% Acceptance Rate 74.5% SAT Score 970 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $15,498 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,144
51	Tarleton State University	71.54	52.56	--	15363	46729	#51 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Tarleton State University Stephenville, TX Located in Stephenville, Tarleton State University accepted 53% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $50 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. Approximately 80% of students attending Tarleton State University will receive institutional grant aid to make......Read more First Year Retention Rate 72 % 4.6% Acceptance Rate 52.6% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $15,363 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,729
52	East Texas Baptist University	71	57.76	930 – 1,120	24388	41759	#52 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) East Texas Baptist University Marshall, TX Located in Marshall, East Texas Baptist University accepts 58% of applicants and charges $25 for undergraduate applications. About 99% of students attending East Texas Baptist University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At East Texas Baptist University, there is a 71% first......Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % 2.9% Acceptance Rate 57.8% SAT Score 930 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $24,388 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,759
53	University of the Incarnate Word	71	98.13	920 – 1,150	21246	47625	#53 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of the Incarnate Word San Antonio, TX Based in San Antonio, the University of the Incarnate Word’s acceptance rate is 98%. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. Approximately 99% of students attending the University of the Incarnate Word will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 71 % Acceptance Rate 98.1% SAT Score 920 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $21,246 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,625
54	Southwestern Oklahoma State University	70	100	930 – 1,140	14761	42896	#54 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Southwestern Oklahoma State University Weatherford, OK Found in Weatherford, Southwestern Oklahoma State University accepted 100% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 85% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score 930 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $14,761 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,896
55	Texas College	70	42.6	--	10901	27901	#55 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas College Tyler, TX Found in Tyler, Texas College accepted 43% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in $20 to apply. Approximately 5% of students attending Texas College will receive grant aid from the school. 70% of students continued studying at Texas College after completing their first......Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % Acceptance Rate 42.6% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $10,901 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,901
56	University of North Texas at Dallas	70	93.86	800 – 1,040	9109	51716	#56 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of North Texas at Dallas Dallas, TX Found in Dallas, the University of North Texas at Dallas accepts 94% of applicants. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. Approximately 41% of students attending the University of North Texas at Dallas will receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 70% and its four year graduation......Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % Acceptance Rate 93.9% SAT Score 800 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $9,109 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $51,716
57	West Texas A & M University	69.63	58.63	960 – 1,160	17182	44399	#57 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) West Texas A & M University Canyon, TX Found in Canyon, West Texas A & M University accepted 59% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 62% of students at West Texas A & M University will receive grant aid from the school. 69% of students decide to stay at West Texas A......Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 16.1% Acceptance Rate 58.6% SAT Score 960 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $17,182 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,399
58	Texas Woman's University	69.55	96.13	950 – 1,160	10763	48773	#58 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas Woman's University Denton, TX Found in Denton, Texas Woman's University’s acceptance rate is 96% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 61% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 70 % 5.8% Acceptance Rate 96.1% SAT Score 950 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $10,763 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,773
59	Houston Christian University	69.3	84.58	990 – 1,190	20530	44595	#59 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Houston Christian University Houston, TX Based in Houston, Houston Christian University accepted 85% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students at Houston Christian University will receive grant aid from the school. The school’s first year retention rate is 69% and......Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 0.2% Acceptance Rate 84.6% SAT Score 990 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $20,530 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,595
60	The University of Texas at Arlington	69.3	81.29	1,020 – 1,240	14956	60902	#60 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas at Arlington Arlington, TX Found in Arlington, The University of Texas at Arlington accepts 81% of applicants. They charge $75 for undergraduate applications and $75 for graduate applications. About 68% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % Acceptance Rate 81.3% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $14,956 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $60,902
61	Midwestern State University	69	87.38	950 – 1,160	11798	46637	#61 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Midwestern State University Wichita Falls, TX Located in Wichita Falls, Midwestern State University’s acceptance rate is 87%. They require $40 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 69% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % Acceptance Rate 87.4% SAT Score 950 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $11,798 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,637
62	Western Technical College	69	92.59	--	29837	35035	#62 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Western Technical College El Paso, TX Based in El Paso, Western Technical College accepts 93% of applicants and requires $100 for undergraduate applications and . About 3% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. At Western Technical College, there is a 69% first year retention rate and a 0% four year graduation rate....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % Acceptance Rate 92.6% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $29,837 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,035
63	Angelo State University	68.7	83.01	940 – 1,170	12518	41050	#63 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Angelo State University San Angelo, TX Located in San Angelo, Angelo State University accepted 83% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They require $50 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 59% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 69 % 4.2% Acceptance Rate 83.0% SAT Score 940 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $12,518 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,050
64	Navajo Technical University	68	92.52	--	4233	23280	#64 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Navajo Technical University Crownpoint, NM Found in Crownpoint, Navajo Technical University’s acceptance rate is 93%. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. Approximately 92% of students at Navajo Technical University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 68 % Acceptance Rate 92.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $4,233 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $23,280
65	Oklahoma Baptist University	68	63.27	1,010 – 1,210	25099	42581	#65 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Oklahoma Baptist University Shawnee, OK Located in Shawnee, Oklahoma Baptist University accepted 63% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 68% and its four year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 68 % Acceptance Rate 63.3% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $25,099 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,581
66	Texas Southern University	68	93.35	830 – 1,010	15021	32986	#66 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas Southern University Houston, TX Located in Houston, Texas Southern University’s acceptance rate is 93% and requires $42 for undergraduate applications and $75 for graduate applications. About 84% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year retention rate is 68% and its four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 68 % Acceptance Rate 93.4% SAT Score 830 – 1,010 Avg. Net Price $15,021 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,986
67	University of Houston-Downtown	67.09	89.96	890 – 1,080	14269	49120	#67 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Houston-Downtown Houston, TX Located in Houston, the University of Houston-Downtown’s acceptance rate is 90%. They request $50 for undergraduate applications. About 19% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % 0.5% Acceptance Rate 90.0% SAT Score 890 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $14,269 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,120
68	Cameron University	67	100	850 – 1,040	11094	33447	#68 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Cameron University Lawton, OK Based in Lawton, Cameron University’s acceptance rate is 100% and requests $20 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 53% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year retention rate is 67%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % 1.5% Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score 850 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $11,094 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,447
69	Texas A&M University-Kingsville	67	92.29	900 – 1,110	10474	44882	#69 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas A&M University-Kingsville Kingsville, TX Located in Kingsville, Texas A&M University-Kingsville accepted 92% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $25 for undergraduate applications. About 86% of students attending Texas A&M University-Kingsville currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % Acceptance Rate 92.3% SAT Score 900 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $10,474 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,882
70	Southern Nazarene University	66.7	77.03	930 – 1,180	19825	48255	#70 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Southern Nazarene University Bethany, OK Based in Bethany, Southern Nazarene University accepted 77% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $35 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. Approximately 99% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 67 % Acceptance Rate 77.0% SAT Score 930 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $19,825 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,255
71	Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology	66	76.87	860 – 1,060	29383	58542	#71 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology Tulsa, OK Found in Tulsa, Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology accepted 77% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications. About 9% of students at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 66 % Acceptance Rate 76.9% SAT Score 860 – 1,060 Avg. Net Price $29,383 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,542
72	Rogers State University	65.63	66.83	800 – 1,070	13953	39324	#72 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Rogers State University Claremore, OK Located in Claremore, Rogers State University’s acceptance rate is 67% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 46% of students attending Rogers State University will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 66 % 5.9% Acceptance Rate 66.8% SAT Score 800 – 1,070 Avg. Net Price $13,953 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,324
73	Hardin-Simmons University	65.33	96.53	970 – 1,190	21321	44392	#73 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Hardin-Simmons University Abilene, TX Found in Abilene, Hardin-Simmons University accepted 97% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 65 % Acceptance Rate 96.5% SAT Score 970 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $21,321 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,392
74	Dallas Baptist University	64.4	88.84	980 – 1,230	30275	45138	#74 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Dallas Baptist University Dallas, TX Located in Dallas, Dallas Baptist University’s acceptance rate is 89%. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. Approximately 89% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. They receive $16,006 on average. The first year retention rate is 64%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 0.6% Acceptance Rate 88.8% SAT Score 980 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $30,275 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,138
75	McMurry University	64	57.04	960 – 1,170	20817	38647	#75 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) McMurry University Abilene, TX Found in Abilene, McMurry University accepts 57% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 96% of students at McMurry University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year retention rate is 64%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 64 % 1.5% Acceptance Rate 57.0% SAT Score 960 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $20,817 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,647
76	Lamar University	62.7	85.7	940 – 1,150	10999	47077	#76 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Lamar University Beaumont, TX Found in Beaumont, Lamar University accepts 86% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 79% of students at Lamar University will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 63 % 2.8% Acceptance Rate 85.7% SAT Score 940 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $10,999 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,077
77	University of Mary Hardin-Baylor	62.4	95.76	990 – 1,220	29904	48368	#77 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Belton, TX Based in Belton, the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s acceptance rate is 96%. Undergraduates have to pay $35 to apply. Approximately 99% of students at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % 8.2% Acceptance Rate 95.8% SAT Score 990 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $29,904 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,368
78	Northwestern Oklahoma State University	62	66.43	890 – 1,100	12067	39997	#78 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Northwestern Oklahoma State University Alva, OK Found in Alva, Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s acceptance rate is 66% and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $25 for graduate applications. Approximately 88% of students attending Northwestern Oklahoma State University will receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is......Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % Acceptance Rate 66.4% SAT Score 890 – 1,100 Avg. Net Price $12,067 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,997
79	Schreiner University	62	87.95	970 – 1,170	21786	45527	#79 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Schreiner University Kerrville, TX Found in Kerrville, Schreiner University accepts 88% of applicants. They request $25 for undergraduate applications and $25 for graduate applications. Approximately 100% of students at Schreiner University will receive institutional grant aid. At Schreiner University, there is a 62% first year retention rate and a 42% four......Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % Acceptance Rate 88.0% SAT Score 970 – 1,170 Avg. Net Price $21,786 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,527
80	Texas Lutheran University	62	95.71	1,040 – 1,240	23600	48125	#80 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas Lutheran University Seguin, TX Located in Seguin, Texas Lutheran University accepted 96% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 100% of students at Texas Lutheran University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % 5.2% Acceptance Rate 95.7% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $23,600 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,125
81	Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus	61.51	91.66	860 – 1,080	6683	33619	#81 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus Portales, NM Based in Portales, Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus accepts 92% of applicants and requests $100 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 38% of students attending Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus will receive institutional grant aid. At Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus, there is a......Read more First Year Retention Rate 62 % 1.0% Acceptance Rate 91.7% SAT Score 860 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $6,683 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,619
82	Concordia University Texas	61	91.06	1,010 – 1,210	23621	48058	#82 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Concordia University Texas Austin, TX Located in Austin, Concordia University Texas accepted 91% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $25 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 99% of students attending Concordia University Texas currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending......Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % Acceptance Rate 91.1% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $23,621 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,058
83	East Central University	61	58.15	930 – 1,180	9355	40677	#83 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) East Central University Ada, OK Located in Ada, East Central University accepted 58% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $20 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be available. About 55% of students attending East Central University will receive grant aid from the school. 61% of students continued their......Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % 8.9% Acceptance Rate 58.2% SAT Score 930 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $9,355 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,677
84	The University of Texas Permian Basin	61	93.07	910 – 1,130	10143	50020	#84 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas Permian Basin Odessa, TX Found in Odessa, The University of Texas Permian Basin accepts 93% of applicants. They charge $40 for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. About 83% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year retention rate is 61%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % Acceptance Rate 93.1% SAT Score 910 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $10,143 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,020
85	Northeastern State University	60.81	99.35	930 – 1,140	11153	41207	#85 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Northeastern State University Tahlequah, OK Located in Tahlequah, Northeastern State University’s acceptance rate is 99%. They request $25 for undergraduate applications. About 55% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 61 % 3.8% Acceptance Rate 99.4% SAT Score 930 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $11,153 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,207
86	Mid-America Christian University	60	0	--	16187	39265	#86 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Mid-America Christian University Oklahoma City, OK First Year Retention Rate 60 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $16,187 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,265
87	Randall University	60	44.81	850 – 1,040	17827	41012	#87 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Randall University Moore, OK Based in Moore, Randall University’s acceptance rate is 45%. They charge $20 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 100% of students attending Randall University will receive institutional grant aid. At Randall University, there is a 60% first year retention rate and around 6% of......Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % Acceptance Rate 44.8% SAT Score 850 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $17,827 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,012
88	Wade College	60	87.38	--	21023	28055	#88 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Wade College Dallas, TX Located in Dallas, Wade College accepts 87% of applicants and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 0% of students at Wade College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. 60% of students continued studying at Wade College after completing their first year....Read more First Year Retention Rate 60 % Acceptance Rate 87.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $21,023 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $28,055
89	Southeastern Oklahoma State University	59.1	80.34	960 – 1,140	8064	40734	#89 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Southeastern Oklahoma State University Durant, OK Located in Durant, Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s acceptance rate is 80%. Undergraduates have to send in $25 to apply. About 78% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The school’s first year retention rate is 59% and its four year graduation rate is 16%. Many students attending this school......Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % Acceptance Rate 80.3% SAT Score 960 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $8,064 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,734
90	Oklahoma Panhandle State University	59	97.07	890 – 1,080	5274	39089	#90 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Oklahoma Panhandle State University Goodwell, OK Located in Goodwell, Oklahoma Panhandle State University accepts 97% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. About 74% of students attending Oklahoma Panhandle State University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 59 % Acceptance Rate 97.1% SAT Score 890 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $5,274 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,089
91	Texas A&M University-Commerce	58.3	74.98	930 – 1,150	11902	43157	#91 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas A&M University-Commerce Commerce, TX Found in Commerce, Texas A&M University-Commerce’s acceptance rate is 75% and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 78% of students attending Texas A&M University-Commerce will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 58 % 9.3% Acceptance Rate 75.0% SAT Score 930 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $11,902 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,157
92	Glendale Community College	58	75.19	--	13166	37269	#92 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Glendale Community College Glendale, AZ Based in Glendale, Glendale Community College accepts 75% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 50% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more First Year Retention Rate 58 % Acceptance Rate 75.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,166 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,269
93	National Paralegal College	58	84.9	--	14359	34769	#93 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) National Paralegal College Phoenix, AZ Based in Phoenix, National Paralegal College’s acceptance rate is 85%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 0% of students at National Paralegal College currently receive institutional grant aid. 58% of students decide to stay at National Paralegal College after completing their first year....Read more First Year Retention Rate 58 % Acceptance Rate 84.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $14,359 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,769
94	Sul Ross State University	58	95.62	900 – 1,100	12240	34340	#94 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Sul Ross State University Alpine, TX Found in Alpine, Sul Ross State University’s acceptance rate is 96% and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and $25 for graduate applications. About 48% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 58 % Acceptance Rate 95.6% SAT Score 900 – 1,100 Avg. Net Price $12,240 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,340
95	Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi	58	88.58	950 – 1,200	14991	42933	#95 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Corpus Christi, TX Based in Corpus Christi, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi accepted 89% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in $40 to apply. About 63% of students at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 58 % Acceptance Rate 88.6% SAT Score 950 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $14,991 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,933
96	Western New Mexico University	58	100	--	8712	31166	#96 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Western New Mexico University Silver City, NM Found in Silver City, Western New Mexico University’s acceptance rate is 100%. They request $30 for undergraduate applications and $40 for graduate applications. Approximately 35% of students at Western New Mexico University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 58 % 48.7% Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,712 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $31,166
97	Our Lady of the Lake University	57	72.46	880 – 1,100	17961	41195	#97 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Our Lady of the Lake University San Antonio, TX Located in San Antonio, Our Lady of the Lake University accepts 72% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 98% of students at Our Lady of the Lake University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 57 % Acceptance Rate 72.5% SAT Score 880 – 1,100 Avg. Net Price $17,961 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,195
98	Paul Quinn College	57	33.81	760 – 970	18118	27021	#98 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Paul Quinn College Dallas, TX Found in Dallas, Paul Quinn College accepted 34% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 98% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 57 % Acceptance Rate 33.8% SAT Score 760 – 970 Avg. Net Price $18,118 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,021
99	South Texas College	57	0	--	1414	28239	#99 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) South Texas College McAllen, TX First Year Retention Rate 57 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $1,414 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $28,239
100	Texas A&M University-Texarkana	56.78	80.14	940 – 1,190	13320	41785	#100 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas A&M University-Texarkana Texarkana, TX Based in Texarkana, Texas A&M University-Texarkana’s acceptance rate is 80%. Undergraduates have to send in $30 to apply. Approximately 68% of attending students will receive grant aid from the school. The college’s first year retention rate is 56% and its four year graduation rate is 19%. The three most popular majors among......Read more First Year Retention Rate 57 % Acceptance Rate 80.1% SAT Score 940 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $13,320 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,785
101	Del Mar College	56.37	54.2	--	4322	32526	#101 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Del Mar College Corpus Christi, TX Based in Corpus Christi, Del Mar College accepted 54% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $25 for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 25% of students at Del Mar College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 56 % Acceptance Rate 54.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $4,322 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,526
102	University of the Southwest	56	75.73	850 – 1,040	20438	36600	#102 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of the Southwest Hobbs, NM Based in Hobbs, the University of the Southwest accepted 76% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 92% of students at the University of the Southwest currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 56 % Acceptance Rate 75.7% SAT Score 850 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $20,438 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,600
103	Arizona Christian University	55	74.42	970 – 1,210	32397	39524	#103 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Arizona Christian University Glendale, AZ Located in Glendale, Arizona Christian University accepted 74% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 96% of students at Arizona Christian University will receive institutional grant aid. The institution’s......Read more First Year Retention Rate 55 % Acceptance Rate 74.4% SAT Score 970 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $32,397 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,524
104	University of Houston-Victoria	55	76.71	850 – 1,010	9912	44888	#104 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Houston-Victoria Victoria, TX Based in Victoria, the University of Houston-Victoria accepted 77% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and $25 for graduate applications. About 63% of students at the University of Houston-Victoria currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 55 % Acceptance Rate 76.7% SAT Score 850 – 1,010 Avg. Net Price $9,912 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,888
105	Prescott College	54.05	98.57	1,020 – 1,260	23163	33539	#105 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Prescott College Prescott, AZ Located in Prescott, Prescott College’s acceptance rate is 99%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 97% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. 54% of students continued their studies at......Read more First Year Retention Rate 54 % Acceptance Rate 98.6% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $23,163 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,539
106	Grayson College	53	92.59	--	6394	59213	#106 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Grayson College Denison, TX Based in Denison, Grayson College accepted 93% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in $100 to apply. About 75% of students at Grayson College will receive institutional grant aid. 53% of students continued studying at Grayson College after completing their first year....Read more First Year Retention Rate 53 % Acceptance Rate 92.6% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $6,394 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
107	Huston-Tillotson University	53	67.69	830 – 1,020	19638	38342	#107 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Huston-Tillotson University Austin, TX Based in Austin, Huston-Tillotson University accepted 68% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $25 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be available. About 52% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid. The institution’s first year retention rate is......Read more First Year Retention Rate 53 % Acceptance Rate 67.7% SAT Score 830 – 1,020 Avg. Net Price $19,638 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,342
108	Jarvis Christian University	53	93.36	760 – 930	10674	27077	#108 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Jarvis Christian University Hawkins, TX Based in Hawkins, Jarvis Christian University accepted 93% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in $50 to apply. About 73% of students at Jarvis Christian University will receive grant aid from the school. At Jarvis Christian University, there is a 53% first year......Read more First Year Retention Rate 53 % Acceptance Rate 93.4% SAT Score 760 – 930 Avg. Net Price $10,674 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,077
109	Oklahoma Wesleyan University	53	77.03	960 – 1,160	26811	55700	#109 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Oklahoma Wesleyan University Bartlesville, OK Found in Bartlesville, Oklahoma Wesleyan University accepted 77% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $25 for undergraduate applications. About 99% of students attending Oklahoma Wesleyan University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 53 % Acceptance Rate 77.0% SAT Score 960 – 1,160 Avg. Net Price $26,811 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $55,700
110	Brazosport College	52	0	--	5659	37347	#110 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Brazosport College Lake Jackson, TX First Year Retention Rate 52 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,659 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,347
111	Langston University	52	60.96	760 – 1,040	10589	29691	#111 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Langston University Langston, OK Based in Langston, Langston University accepts 61% of applicants. They request unknown for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be available. About 24% of students attending Langston University currently receive grant aid from the school. At Langston University, there is a 52% first year retention rate and a 11%......Read more First Year Retention Rate 52 % Acceptance Rate 61.0% SAT Score 760 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $10,589 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $29,691
112	University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma	52	55.77	930 – 1,140	8685	35520	#112 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma Chickasha, OK Based in Chickasha, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma accepted 56% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $40 for undergraduate applications and . About 93% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. At the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma,......Read more First Year Retention Rate 52 % Acceptance Rate 55.8% SAT Score 930 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $8,685 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,520
113	Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City	51	70.93	--	5347	35073	#113 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City Oklahoma City, OK Located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City accepted 71% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 18% of students at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City currently receive institutional......Read more First Year Retention Rate 51 % Acceptance Rate 70.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,347 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,073
114	College of Biblical Studies-Houston	50	89.93	--	14684	33366	#114 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) College of Biblical Studies-Houston Houston, TX Found in Houston, the College of Biblical Studies-Houston accepts 90% of applicants. They request $40 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 22% of students attending the College of Biblical Studies-Houston currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 50 % Acceptance Rate 89.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $14,684 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,366
115	Dallas Christian College	50	84.03	800 – 1,080	22463	39868	#115 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Dallas Christian College Dallas, TX Found in Dallas, Dallas Christian College accepts 84% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 96% of students attending Dallas Christian College currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 50 % Acceptance Rate 84.0% SAT Score 800 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $22,463 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,868
116	Galveston College	49	99.9	--	8085	34299	#116 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Galveston College Galveston, TX Located in Galveston, Galveston College accepted 100% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. Approximately 33% of students at Galveston College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more First Year Retention Rate 49 % Acceptance Rate 99.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,085 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,299
117	Howard Payne University	48	67.69	920 – 1,130	25768	38212	#117 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Howard Payne University Brownwood, TX Based in Brownwood, Howard Payne University’s acceptance rate is 68%. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. About 91% of students at Howard Payne University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more First Year Retention Rate 48 % Acceptance Rate 67.7% SAT Score 920 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $25,768 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,212
118	North American University	46	22.7	--	13702	32221	#118 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) North American University Stafford, TX Located in Stafford, North American University accepted 23% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and requires $75 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. About 92% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate 46 % 31.4% Acceptance Rate 22.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,702 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,221
119	Wayland Baptist University	44	55.96	840 – 1,010	20222	44159	#119 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Wayland Baptist University Plainview, TX Found in Plainview, Wayland Baptist University’s acceptance rate is 56%. They request $35 for undergraduate applications. About 82% of students at Wayland Baptist University will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year retention rate is 44%....Read more First Year Retention Rate 44 % 7.4% Acceptance Rate 56.0% SAT Score 840 – 1,010 Avg. Net Price $20,222 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,159
120	Rio Salado College	43	0	--	9003	42314	#120 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Rio Salado College Tempe, AZ First Year Retention Rate 43 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $9,003 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,314
121	Texas Wesleyan University	41	62.39	970 – 1,120	21169	44773	#121 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas Wesleyan University Fort Worth, TX Based in Fort Worth, Texas Wesleyan University accepted 62% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to pay unknown to apply. Approximately 89% of students at Texas Wesleyan University will receive institutional grant aid. The college’s first year retention rate is 41% and around 17%......Read more First Year Retention Rate 41 % Acceptance Rate 62.4% SAT Score 970 – 1,120 Avg. Net Price $21,169 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,773
122	Arlington Baptist University	35	79.23	--	26503	32206	#122 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Arlington Baptist University Arlington, TX Located in Arlington, Arlington Baptist University’s acceptance rate is 79% and charges $40 for undergraduate applications. About 82% of students at Arlington Baptist University currently receive grant aid from the school. The school’s first year retention rate is 35% and around 14% of students will graduate in four years or......Read more First Year Retention Rate 35 % Acceptance Rate 79.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $26,503 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,206
123	Abilene Christian University	0	66.04	1,010 – 1,250	28311	46727	#123 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Abilene Christian University Abilene, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 66.0% SAT Score 1,010 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $28,311 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,727
124	Amberton University	0	63.88	--	0	63721	#124 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Amberton University Garland, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 63.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,721
125	American InterContinental University System	0	92.44	--	14250	27823	#125 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) American InterContinental University System Chandler, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 92.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $14,250 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,823
126	American InterContinental University-Houston	0	92.44	--	18558	27823	#126 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) American InterContinental University-Houston Houston, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 92.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $18,558 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,823
127	Arizona College of Nursing-Dallas	0	100	--	32728	59213	#127 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Arizona College of Nursing-Dallas Dallas, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $32,728 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
128	Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix	0	100	--	34731	59213	#128 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Arizona College of Nursing-Phoenix Phoenix, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $34,731 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
129	Arizona College of Nursing-Tucson	0	100	--	28338	32840	#129 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Arizona College of Nursing-Tucson Tucson, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $28,338 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,840
130	Austin Community College District	0	46.66	--	3502	38647	#130 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Austin Community College District Austin, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 46.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $3,502 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,647
131	Baptist Health System School of Health Professions	0	0	--	0	73262	#131 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Baptist Health System School of Health Professions San Antonio, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $73,262
132	Brookline College-Albuquerque	0	58.22	--	37566	59213	#132 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Brookline College-Albuquerque Albuquerque, NM First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 58.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $37,566 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
133	Brookline College-Phoenix	0	85.97	--	0	32705	#133 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Brookline College-Phoenix Phoenix, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 86.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,705
134	Brookline College-Tempe	0	0	--	18711	50742	#134 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Brookline College-Tempe Tempe, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $18,711 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,742
135	Bryan University	0	100	--	20495	32146	#135 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Bryan University Tempe, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $20,495 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,146
136	Chamberlain University-Arizona	0	87.5	--	31755	59213	#136 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Chamberlain University-Arizona Phoenix, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 87.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $31,755 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
137	Chamberlain University-Texas	0	84.62	--	32247	59213	#137 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Chamberlain University-Texas Houston, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 84.6% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $32,247 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
138	College of the Mainland	0	0	--	3442	59213	#138 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) College of the Mainland Texas City, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $3,442 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
139	Collin County Community College District	0	98.36	--	8071	38984	#139 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Collin County Community College District McKinney, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 98.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,071 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,984
140	Dallas College	0	100	--	4068	35493	#140 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Dallas College Dallas, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $4,068 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,493
141	Dine College	0	60.36	--	10354	23195	#141 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Dine College Tsaile, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 60.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $10,354 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $23,195
142	Galen Health Institutes-Austin Campus	0	0	--	25240	58951	#142 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Galen Health Institutes-Austin Campus Round Rock, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $25,240 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,951
143	Galen Health Institutes-Dallas	0	0	--	0	58951	#143 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Galen Health Institutes-Dallas Richardson, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,951
144	Galen Health Institutes-Houston	0	0	--	0	58951	#144 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Galen Health Institutes-Houston Houston, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,951
145	GateWay Community College	0	60.36	--	13317	42262	#145 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) GateWay Community College Phoenix, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 60.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,317 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $42,262
146	Grace School of Theology	0	100	--	0	49343	#146 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Grace School of Theology Conroe, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,343
147	Grand Canyon University	0	60.36	960 – 1,150	22239	47280	#147 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Grand Canyon University Phoenix, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 60.4% SAT Score 960 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $22,239 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $47,280
148	Hallmark University	0	100	--	10153	46666	#148 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Hallmark University San Antonio, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $10,153 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,666
149	Houston Community College	0	100	--	6033	31319	#149 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Houston Community College Houston, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $6,033 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $31,319
150	Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development	0	100	780 – 1,010	14334	20816	#150 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development Santa Fe, NM First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score 780 – 1,010 Avg. Net Price $14,334 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $20,816
151	Lone Star College System	0	100	--	11049	32889	#151 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Lone Star College System The Woodlands, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $11,049 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $32,889
152	Midland College	0	57.65	--	6396	38470	#152 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Midland College Midland, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 57.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $6,396 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,470
153	Navarro College	0	0	--	12099	31865	#153 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Navarro College Corsicana, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $12,099 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $31,865
154	New Mexico Highlands University	0	94.81	850 – 1,040	15106	38952	#154 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) New Mexico Highlands University Las Vegas, NM First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 94.8% SAT Score 850 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $15,106 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,952
155	Northern New Mexico College	0	75.73	--	6102	34377	#155 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Northern New Mexico College Espanola, NM First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 75.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $6,102 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,377
156	Odessa College	0	72.46	--	4300	34867	#156 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Odessa College Odessa, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 72.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $4,300 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,867
157	Ottawa University-Surprise	0	39.88	910 – 1,050	35030	49139	#157 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Ottawa University-Surprise Surprise, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 39.9% SAT Score 910 – 1,050 Avg. Net Price $35,030 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $49,139
158	Paradise Valley Community College	0	95.15	--	14322	41597	#158 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Paradise Valley Community College Phoenix, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 95.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $14,322 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,597
159	Pima Medical Institute-Tucson	0	90.95	--	0	37302	#159 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Pima Medical Institute-Tucson Tucson, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 91.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,302
160	Prairie View A & M University	0	74.41	870 – 1,040	14065	36350	#160 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Prairie View A & M University Prairie View, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 74.4% SAT Score 870 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $14,065 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,350
161	Remington College-Dallas Campus	0	50.99	--	27674	50742	#161 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Remington College-Dallas Campus Dallas, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 51.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $27,674 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,742
162	San Antonio College	0	85.39	--	5832	59213	#162 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) San Antonio College San Antonio, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 85.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,832 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
163	San Jacinto Community College	0	0	--	7674	35337	#163 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) San Jacinto Community College Pasadena, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $7,674 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,337
164	Sessions College for Professional Design	0	85.71	--	13681	36805	#164 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Sessions College for Professional Design Tempe, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 85.7% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,681 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,805
165	South University-Austin	0	50	--	25434	34115	#165 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) South University-Austin Round Rock, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 50.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $25,434 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,115
166	Southwest University at El Paso	0	0	--	17365	29611	#166 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Southwest University at El Paso El Paso, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $17,365 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $29,611
167	Southwestern Christian College	0	55.52	--	15275	19686	#167 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Southwestern Christian College Terrell, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 55.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $15,275 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $19,686
168	Southwestern Christian University	0	80.34	850 – 1,010	20714	34574	#168 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Southwestern Christian University Bethany, OK First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 80.3% SAT Score 850 – 1,010 Avg. Net Price $20,714 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,574
169	Strayer University-Texas	0	0	--	17517	36582	#169 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Strayer University-Texas Farmers Branch, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $17,517 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,582
170	Texas A&M University-Central Texas	0	95.92	--	437	50382	#170 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas A&M University-Central Texas Killeen, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 95.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $437 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,382
171	Texas A&M University-College Station	0	57.32	1,170 – 1,400	21610	59386	#171 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas A&M University-College Station College Station, TX Found in College Station, Texas A&M University-College Station accepts 57% of applicants and requests $75 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 59% of students attending Texas A&M University-College Station currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 57.3% SAT Score 1,170 – 1,400 Avg. Net Price $21,610 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,386
172	Texas A&M University-San Antonio	0	92	850 – 1,070	13263	43479	#172 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas A&M University-San Antonio San Antonio, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 92.0% SAT Score 850 – 1,070 Avg. Net Price $13,263 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,479
173	Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso	0	0	--	0	63721	#173 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso El Paso, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $63,721
174	The College of Health Care Professions-Northwest	0	100	--	25723	59213	#174 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The College of Health Care Professions-Northwest Houston, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $25,723 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
175	The King's University	0	100	870 – 1,130	23878	30883	#175 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The King's University Southlake, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 100.0% SAT Score 870 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $23,878 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,883
176	The Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary	0	52.75	1,050 – 1,260	11654	53001	#176 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary Fort Worth, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 52.8% SAT Score 1,050 – 1,260 Avg. Net Price $11,654 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $53,001
177	The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston	0	28.16	--	0	89371	#177 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Houston, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 28.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $89,371
178	The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio	0	94.2	--	0	73887	#178 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio San Antonio, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 94.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $73,887
179	The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center	0	21.62	--	0	72924	#179 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 21.6% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $72,924
180	The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston	0	94.2	--	0	82535	#180 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston Galveston, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 94.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $82,535
181	Trinity Valley Community College	0	96.53	--	4327	59213	#181 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Trinity Valley Community College Athens, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 96.5% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $4,327 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
182	Tyler Junior College	0	28.16	--	9148	33789	#182 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Tyler Junior College Tyler, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 28.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $9,148 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,789
183	University of Advancing Technology	0	95.15	950 – 1,180	21148	39016	#183 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Advancing Technology Tempe, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 95.2% SAT Score 950 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $21,148 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,016
184	University of Houston	0	73.92	1,160 – 1,340	13738	52768	#184 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Houston Houston, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 73.9% SAT Score 1,160 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $13,738 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $52,768
185	University of Phoenix-Arizona	0	0	--	13612	35359	#185 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) University of Phoenix-Arizona Phoenix, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $13,612 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,359
186	Weatherford College	0	54.05	--	8264	59213	#186 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Weatherford College Weatherford, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 54.1% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $8,264 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,213
187	West Coast University-Dallas	0	92.86	--	25957	96114	#187 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) West Coast University-Dallas Richardson, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 92.9% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $25,957 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $96,114
188	Western Technical College	0	92.59	--	5799	58542	#188 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Western Technical College El Paso, TX First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 92.6% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $5,799 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,542
189	Yavapai College	0	74.42	--	6985	35028	#189 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by First Year Retention Rate – Southwest (AZ, NM, OK, TX) Yavapai College Prescott, AZ First Year Retention Rate -- Acceptance Rate 74.4% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $6,985 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,028