Best Colleges for Teaching Degrees in Texas: Factors, Rankings, and Guidance
Teaching is a noble and fulfilling profession that can shape the lives of students. The impact of teachers extends beyond the classroom, influencing society at large. In Texas, a state renowned for its education programs, selecting the right teaching college is crucial for aspiring educators. Discover the opportunities, factors to consider, and top-ranked teaching colleges in Texas that can empower you to make a difference.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Teaching College in Texas
- Accreditation: Verify the college’s accreditation through esteemed agencies like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools or the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Accreditation guarantees the institution meets rigorous educational standards and enhances your employment prospects.
- Program Offerings: Explore colleges with a wide range of teaching degree programs aligned with your career goals. Customize your learning experience by exploring specialized areas such as early childhood education, secondary education, special education, or bilingual education.
- Curriculum: Examine the curriculum’s depth and relevance. A robust curriculum should cover essential subjects like instructional strategies, classroom management, educational psychology, and student assessment. Seek programs with experiential learning opportunities, practical teaching experiences, and exposure to diverse student populations.
- Faculty Excellence: Exceptional faculty members play a pivotal role in your education. Look for colleges with accomplished and experienced professors who possess strong academic credentials, real-world teaching experience, and a passion for mentorship. Their guidance can shape your development as an educator.
- Resources and Support: Consider the resources available to support your learning journey. Look for well-equipped libraries, modern technology infrastructure, dedicated research centers, student teaching programs, and partnerships with local schools. These resources provide hands-on experience and contribute to your professional growth.
Top-Ranked Teaching Colleges in Texas
Based on a combination of rankings by U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review, and Niche, the following colleges are regarded as top-ranked for teaching degrees in Texas:
University of Texas at Austin
- Average Net Price: $17,519
- Graduation Rate: 82.03%
- Retention Rate: 96.54%
- Median Earnings: $72,713
The University of Texas at Austin provides an extensive array of teaching programs encompassing diverse grade levels and specializations. Their faculty comprises accomplished educators, and the college provides extensive resources for student support and practical experience.
- The College of Education offers a variety of teaching programs at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels.
- The undergraduate programs equip students with the skills to excel as educators in classrooms spanning early childhood, elementary, middle, and high school levels.
- The master’s programs encompass diverse specializations such as early childhood education, elementary education, bilingual education, special education, and educational leadership.
- The doctoral programs prepare students for careers in research, teaching, and leadership in education.
The College of Education boasts accomplished educators who fervently dedicate themselves to equipping students with the skills to excel as effective teachers. The college also provides extensive resources for student support and practical experience. These resources include:
- A state-of-the-art teacher education laboratory school
- A variety of field experiences in schools and community settings
- A robust student teaching program
- A variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities
The University of Texas at Austin boasts fiercely competitive and discerning teaching programs. However, if you are interested in a career in education, this is an excellent school to consider.
Here are some specific examples of the diverse grade levels and specializations offered by the College of Education at UT Austin:
- Grade levels: Early childhood (birth-5), elementary (K-6), middle school (6-8), high school (9-12)
- Specializations: Bilingual education, special education, educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, educational psychology, and more
In addition to its regular offerings, the College of Education presents several exceptional programs, including the Urban Teachers program that equips students to instruct in urban schools, and the Teach for America program that positions recent college graduates in high-need schools.
Texas A&M University
- Average Net Price: $20,976
- Graduation Rate: 83.23%
- Retention Rate: 93.59%
- Median Earnings: $70,877
Texas A&M University provides an array of teaching programs encompassing undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees, and teacher certification programs. These programs prioritize experiential learning, granting students the chance to actively employ their classroom knowledge in real-world contexts. For example, students in the undergraduate education program are required to complete a field experience in a local school. They seize the opportunity to collaborate directly with actual students and educators, gaining firsthand experience of the teaching profession.
In addition to experiential learning, Texas A&M University also emphasizes research-based practices in its teaching programs. Students gain exposure to cutting-edge research on teaching and learning, empowering them to engage in independent research on educational subjects. This research-based approach helps students to become more effective teachers.
The college’s unwavering dedication to mentorship and hands-on instruction also helps students to succeed in the academic realm. Students are paired with experienced teachers who serve as mentors. The mentors actively guide and support students, empowering them to cultivate their teaching abilities. Furthermore, students can actively engage in practical instruction within the teaching labs offered by the college. The state-of-the-art technology in these labs empowers students to hone their teaching skills within a secure and encouraging setting.
Texas A&M University, renowned for its unwavering dedication to experiential learning, research-driven methodologies, mentoring, and interactive teaching, stands as a premier institution in the nation, effectively equipping aspiring educators. The college equips graduates with exceptional preparation to excel in the classroom, enabling them to profoundly impact the lives of students across Texas.
Here are some specific examples of how Texas A&M University’s teaching programs prepare students for success:
- The undergraduate education program requires students to complete a field experience in a local school. They seize the opportunity to collaborate with actual students and educators, gaining a firsthand experience of the teaching profession.
- The graduate education program provides a diverse array of courses emphasizing research-based practices in teaching and learning. Enabling students to stay current with cutting-edge research and foster their own research prowess, these courses equip them with the necessary tools.
- The college’s teaching labs brim with cutting-edge technology, empowering students to hone their teaching skills within a secure and nurturing setting.
- The college’s faculty are experienced and dedicated to helping students succeed. They offer students guidance, support, and feedback, nurturing the growth of their teaching abilities.
Texas Tech University
- Average Net Price: $17,313
- Graduation Rate: 62.88%
- Retention Rate: 86.26%
- Median Earnings: $60,456
Texas Tech University offers comprehensive teaching programs that cover a wide range of subjects and grade levels. The college focuses on equipping future educators with practical skills, innovative teaching techniques, and research opportunities.
- Texas Tech University’s College of Education presents a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, encompassing diverse teaching disciplines such as elementary education, secondary education, special education, and early childhood education.
- The college’s teacher preparation programs aim to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for becoming accomplished educators. Students learn about effective teaching methods, classroom management, and child development. They also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through field placements in local schools.
- Texas Tech University not only provides traditional teacher preparation programs but also offers a multitude of pioneering programs that equip students for the future of education. For example, the college’s TechTeach program combines coursework with a yearlong residency in a school district, where students co-teach alongside a skilled mentor teacher.
- Several education-focused research centers find their home at Texas Tech University. Students at these centers can engage in research on subjects like autism, STEM education, and sensory disabilities, thereby availing themselves of valuable opportunities.
Here are some of the specific benefits of attending Texas Tech University for a teaching degree:
- The college’s teacher preparation programs are nationally recognized and accredited.
- The college has a strong focus on practical experience, with students having the opportunity to gain field placements in local schools.
- The college presents an array of groundbreaking programs that equip students for the future of education.
- Several education-focused research centers thrive within the college’s premises.
Texas Tech University offers an excellent opportunity for those intrigued by a teaching profession. The college provides robust teaching programs encompassing diverse subjects and grade levels. The college also focuses on equipping future educators with practical skills, innovative teaching techniques, and research opportunities.
University of Houston
- Average Net Price: $13,798
- Graduation Rate: 61.39%
- Retention Rate: 85.57%
- Median Earnings: $59,580
The University of Houston provides a supportive and engaging learning environment for aspiring teachers. The college presents an array of teaching programs, prioritizing urban education, bilingual education, and curriculum and instruction.
- The UH College of Education is a nationally recognized leader in teacher education. The college offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in teaching, including:
- Bachelor of Science in Teaching and Learning
- Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
- Master of Education in Educational Leadership
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
- The UH Teacher Education Program achieves Tier 1 status, signifying its adherence to the Texas Education Agency’s most rigorous quality benchmarks.
- The college has a strong focus on urban education, bilingual education, and curriculum and instruction. Students in the UH Teacher Education Program will actively engage with and acquire knowledge on the distinctive hurdles and possibilities inherent in urban school settings, equipping themselves with the skills to proficiently educate English language learners.
- The college vigorously prioritizes furnishing students with immersive learning opportunities. In the UH Teacher Education Program, students will actively engage in field experiences within local schools and actively participate in professional development opportunities.
In addition to the above, the UH College of Education also offers a number of other benefits to students, including:
- Small class sizes
- Personalized attention from faculty
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities
- Financial aid opportunities
Choose the UH College of Education for an excellent opportunity if you aspire to become a teacher. The college provides an exceptional education, fosters a nurturing atmosphere, and presents numerous avenues for learning and personal development.
Here are some specific examples of how the UH College of Education prioritizes urban education, bilingual education, and curriculum and instruction:
- The college offers a specialized program in urban education that prepares students to teach in urban schools.
- The college offers a bilingual education program that prepares students to teach English language learners.
- The college offers a curriculum and instruction program that prepares students to design and implement effective learning experiences.
These programs are designed to meet the specific needs of students who are interested in teaching in urban schools, teaching English language learners, or designing and implementing effective learning experiences.
University of North Texas
- Average Net Price: $12,006
- Graduation Rate: 60.26%
- Retention Rate: 82.23%
- Median Earnings: $54,047
The University of North Texas provides immersive teaching programs centered on experiential learning and cutting-edge instructional methods. The college emphasizes practical experience, pedagogical training, and fostering critical thinking skills in future teachers.
- Experiential learning: The teaching programs at UNT offer students who are interested in Experiential learning tailored programs that fulfill their specific needs, enabling them to actively engage in classroom practice through diverse field experiences such as student teaching, tutoring, and mentoring. Engaging in these experiences empowers students, fostering the growth of their teaching skills and the practical application of their theoretical knowledge.
- Cutting-edge instructional methods: UNT’s teaching programs are designed to prepare students for the 21st century classroom. Students acquire knowledge on diverse instructional approaches such as project-based learning, differentiated instruction, and technology-enhanced learning. They also learn about how to use data to inform their teaching practice.
- Pedagogical training: Students in the teaching programs at UNT receive extensive training in pedagogy, or the art and science of teaching. They learn about how to plan lessons, deliver instruction, assess student learning, and manage a classroom.
- Critical thinking skills: UNT’s teaching programs emphasize the development of critical thinking skills in future teachers. Students acquire the skills of problem analysis, creative thinking, and informed decision-making. These skills are essential for effective teaching.
The teaching programs at UNT extend beyond the core elements to encompass diverse specializations including early childhood education, STEM education, and English as a second language education. In addition, students possess the option of pursuing a master’s degree in education or attaining a doctorate in education.
UNT’s teaching programs aim to equip students with the necessary tools for thriving in their future education careers. These programs equip graduates with the necessary skills to teach in diverse educational environments, spanning from elementary schools to high schools to community colleges.
Here are some specific examples of how UNT’s teaching programs emphasize experiential learning and cutting-edge instructional methods:
- The Teach North Texas program: This program is designed to prepare math and science teachers for the secondary level. In this program, students engage in a year-long internship within a local school district, seizing the chance to actively instruct math or science classes.
- The UTeach network: UNT is a member of the UTeach network, which is a consortium of universities that are committed to preparing STEM teachers. UTeach program students at UNT conquer a demanding curriculum encompassing math, science, and pedagogy coursework. They also complete a year-long internship in a local school district.
- The Center for Research on Learning and Teaching: This center provides UNT students with opportunities to learn about and use cutting-edge instructional methods. The center provides an array of workshops, seminars, and courses focusing on project-based learning, differentiated instruction, and technology-empowered learning.
Texas Christian University
- Average Net Price: $39,155
- Graduation Rate: 81.08%
- Retention Rate: 91.49%
- Median Earnings: $63,517
TCU’s College of Education presents an array of dynamic undergraduate and graduate programs in education, encompassing early childhood education, middle school education, secondary education, and special education.
The College of Education at TCU is committed to preparing educators who are “global leaders” who are “compassionate, knowledgeable, and skilled.” The college’s programs focus on collaboration, critical thinking, and practical experience. TCU’s College of Education empowers students to engage in peer collaboration, glean wisdom from seasoned faculty, and acquire hands-on experience via field placements.
The National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education accredits the College of Education at TCU. NCATE serves as the preeminent national accreditor for teacher education programs across the United States.
Some of the benefits of attending TCU’s College of Education include:
- A strong academic program with a focus on collaboration, critical thinking, and practical experience
- A diverse student body with students from all over the world
- A supportive faculty who are committed to helping students succeed
- A beautiful campus in Fort Worth, Texas
Consider the College of Education at TCU if you aspire to become an educator; it offers an excellent choice. The college provides a diverse range of programs catering to diverse student needs, with a dedicated faculty determined to ensure student success.
Here are some specific examples of how TCU’s College of Education prepares educators for diverse educational settings:
- The college’s early childhood education program includes a field placement requirement in a diverse early childhood setting. Students are empowered to explore the diverse needs of children from various backgrounds and cultures, fostering invaluable learning experiences.
- The college’s middle school education program includes a course on teaching in diverse classrooms. This course helps students to develop strategies for teaching students from different backgrounds and cultures.
- The college’s secondary education program includes a field placement requirement in a high-needs school. Students have the chance to acquire knowledge regarding the demanding aspects of teaching in high-needs schools, enabling them to formulate effective approaches for addressing the students’ requirements in such educational settings.
In addition to these specific examples, the College of Education at TCU also prepares educators for diverse educational settings through its focus on collaboration, critical thinking, and practical experience. These skills are essential for educators who are working in diverse classrooms.
Baylor University
- Average Net Price: $37,248
- Graduation Rate: 77.72%
- Retention Rate: 89.43%
- Median Earnings: $62,913
Baylor University emphasizes research-based practices and transformative learning experiences in its teaching programs. The college offers comprehensive education degrees, personalized mentorship, and small class sizes to foster an engaging and supportive learning environment.
- Research-based practices: Baylor’s teaching programs are grounded in research on effective teaching and learning. Students are encouraged to engage in research on their own teaching practices, and they have access to a variety of resources to support their research, such as the Academy for Teaching and Learning and the Baylor Center for School Leadership.
- Transformative learning experiences: Baylor’s teaching programs are designed to provide students with transformative learning experiences. This means that students are not only learning the content of their courses, but they are also learning how to become effective teachers who can make a difference in the lives of their students. Baylor’s teaching programs offer a variety of opportunities for transformative learning, such as field experiences, clinical placements, and service learning.
- Comprehensive education degrees: Baylor’s teaching programs offer comprehensive education degrees that prepare students for a variety of teaching positions. Students can choose from a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including programs in elementary education, secondary education, and special education.
- Personalized mentorship: Baylor’s teaching programs offer personalized mentorship. Students are assigned to a faculty mentor who can provide guidance and support throughout their studies. Mentors can help students with their coursework, their field experiences, and their professional development.
- Small class sizes: Baylor’s teaching programs have small class sizes. This allows students to get to know their professors and classmates well, and it also allows for more individualized attention. Small class sizes also create a more collaborative and supportive learning environment.
Overall, Baylor University’s teaching programs offer a rigorous and comprehensive education that prepares students to become effective teachers. The programs emphasize research-based practices, transformative learning experiences, and personalized mentorship. Small class sizes create a supportive and collaborative learning environment.
Here are some of the specific benefits of Baylor’s teaching programs:
- Students have access to a variety of research-based resources to support their teaching practices.
- Students have opportunities to engage in transformative learning experiences, such as field experiences, clinical placements, and service learning.
- Students receive personalized mentorship from faculty members who are experts in the field of education.
- Students have the opportunity to learn in small class sizes, which allows for more individualized attention and a more collaborative and supportive learning environment.
Southern Methodist University
- Average Net Price: $40,452
- Graduation Rate: 79.73%
- Retention Rate: 90.46%
- Median Earnings: $76,672
Southern Methodist University offers a variety of teaching programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. At the undergraduate and graduate levels, Southern Methodist University provides a diverse range of teaching programs. The graduate programs in Teacher Education offer specializations in a variety of areas, including bilingual education, ESL, urban education, mathematics, literacy, STEM, gifted and talented, special education, and learning therapy.
SMU’s teaching programs emphasize experiential learning, innovative teaching methods, and practical training. Students can acquire knowledge in diverse settings such as conventional classrooms, field expeditions, and clinical internships. Experienced teachers and researchers, devoted to cultivating well-rounded educators, offer them the chance to collaborate and learn.
SMU not only provides teaching programs but also presents a diverse range of other programs that bolster the education profession. The Simmons School of Education & Human Development’s Center for Teaching Excellence equips teachers with professional development opportunities, while the SMU Teach for America program actively recruits and trains recent college graduates to teach in high-need schools.
The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education accredits SMU’s teaching programs. NCATE is a national organization that sets standards for teacher education programs. SMU’s programs are regularly reviewed by NCATE to ensure that they meet the highest standards of quality.
Here are some specific examples of how SMU’s teaching programs emphasize experiential learning, innovative teaching methods, and practical training:
- Experiential learning: Students in SMU’s teaching programs have the opportunity to learn in a variety of settings, including traditional classrooms, field experiences, and clinical internships. For example, students in the undergraduate program in Educational Studies complete a field experience in a local school. This gives them the opportunity to observe experienced teachers and to practice teaching in a real-world setting.
- Innovative teaching methods: SMU’s teaching programs use a variety of innovative teaching methods, such as project-based learning, problem-based learning, and cooperative learning. The implementation of these techniques fosters the cultivation of critical thinking abilities, problem-solving prowess, and collaborative aptitude in students.
- Practical training: Students in SMU’s teaching programs have the opportunity to receive practical training in a variety of areas, such as classroom management, assessment, and curriculum development. This training empowers students, enabling them to cultivate the essential skills required for becoming impactful teachers.
Overall, SMU’s teaching programs offer a rigorous and comprehensive education that prepares students to become well-rounded educators. The programs emphasize experiential learning, innovative teaching methods, and practical training. SMU graduates emerge equipped to confront the trials of instructing in modern-day classrooms.
Rice University
- Average Net Price: $17,805
- Graduation Rate: 94.06%
- Retention Rate: 96.87%
- Median Earnings: $87,254
Rice University offers rigorous teaching programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The college’s dedication to research, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary education equips teachers to exert a transformative influence within the classroom.
- Rigorous teaching programs: Rice’s teaching programs are designed to be rigorous and challenging. Students are required to take a variety of courses in education, as well as complete a significant amount of field experience. This ensures that graduates of Rice’s teaching programs have the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful teachers.
- Combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience: Rice’s teaching programs emphasize the importance of both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Students learn about the latest research in education, as well as how to apply this knowledge in the classroom. They also have the opportunity to complete field experiences in a variety of settings, which gives them the chance to put their learning into practice.
- Dedication to research, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary education: Rice’s teaching programs are also committed to research, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary education. Students are encouraged to conduct their own research, to think critically about educational issues, and to draw on knowledge from a variety of disciplines. This prepares them to be innovative and effective teachers who can meet the challenges of the 21st century.
As a result of these factors, Rice University’s teaching programs are highly regarded by both educators and employers. Graduates of Rice’s teaching programs are well-prepared to make a transformative impact within the classroom.
Here are some specific examples of how Rice’s teaching programs prepare students to be transformative teachers:
- The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree: The MAT degree is designed for students who want to become teachers. The program includes a combination of coursework, field experiences, and a capstone project. Students in the MAT program have the opportunity to work with experienced teachers and to learn about the latest research in education.
- The Teacher Certification for Undergraduates program: This program is designed for Rice undergraduates who want to become teachers. The program includes a combination of coursework, field experiences, and a capstone project. Students in the Teacher Certification for Undergraduates program have the opportunity to learn about the latest research in education and to gain practical experience in the classroom.
- The Principal Certification program: This program is designed for experienced teachers who want to become principals. The program includes a combination of coursework, field experiences, and a capstone project. Students in the Principal Certification program learn about the latest research on school leadership and gain practical experience in leading schools.
These are just a few examples of how Rice University’s teaching programs prepare students to be transformative teachers.
University of Dallas
- Average Net Price: $20,636
- Graduation Rate: 68.67%
- Retention Rate: 80.95%
- Median Earnings: $56,733
The University of Dallas provides a well-rounded education in teaching, focusing on classical education, curriculum design, and instructional strategies. The college emphasizes personalized mentorship, critical thinking, and strong pedagogical foundations.
- The program is grounded in the liberal arts tradition, with a focus on classical education. This means that students study the great works of literature, philosophy, and history from Western civilization. This foundation in the liberal arts helps students to develop critical thinking skills and a broad understanding of the world.
- The program also emphasizes curriculum design and instructional strategies. Students learn how to create effective lesson plans and deliver engaging instruction. They also have the opportunity to practice their teaching skills in field experiences.
- The program is small and personalized, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. This allows students to get to know their professors and receive individual attention.
- The program emphasizes strong pedagogical foundations. Students learn about the latest research in education and how to apply it in their own teaching.
Overall, the University of Dallas’s teaching program provides a well-rounded education that prepares students to become effective teachers. The program’s focus on classical education, curriculum design, instructional strategies, and personalized mentorship gives students the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the classroom.
Here are some specific examples of how the program emphasizes these areas:
- Classical education: Students take courses in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy, literature, and history. They also study the Bible and other religious texts.
- Curriculum design: Students learn how to develop lesson plans that are aligned with state standards and that meet the needs of their students. They also learn how to assess student learning and make adjustments to their instruction as needed.
- Instructional strategies: Students learn a variety of instructional strategies, including lecture, discussion, group work, and project-based learning. They also learn how to use technology to support their instruction.
- Personalized mentorship: Students are assigned a faculty mentor who provides them with guidance and support throughout the program. The mentor meets with students regularly to discuss their progress and offer feedback.
If you are interested in becoming a teacher, the University of Dallas’s teaching program is a great option. The program provides you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the classroom.
Guidance
Choosing the right teaching college in Texas is a pivotal step towards a successful career in education. Consider the factors discussed, conduct in-depth research, and explore the top-ranked teaching colleges. Seek programs that align with your aspirations, provide comprehensive education, and empower you to positively impact the lives of students.
Keep in mind that this voyage entails not just gaining knowledge, but also embracing the empowering potential of imparting wisdom. Let your passion and dedication shine through as you embark on this rewarding path.