georgetown, October 16, 2025
News Summary
Southwestern University in Georgetown has been named the 7th best university in Texas according to WalletHub’s 2026 ranking. The analysis examined nearly 800 institutions and evaluated metrics like graduation rates and campus safety. The University of Texas at Austin and Rice University also highlighted, ranking 2nd and 1st in Texas, respectively. The rankings reflect the competitive educational landscape and include recognition of the funding and development projects underway at Southwestern University.
Georgetown
Southwestern University in Georgetown has been recognized as the 7th best university in Texas for 2026, according to a comprehensive ranking analysis. This ranking highlights the university’s notable achievements in the competitive educational landscape of Texas.
The University of Texas at Austin secured the No. 2 university in Texas for 2026, reflecting its status as a leading institution in the state. Despite achieving this position at the state level, UT Austin experienced a decline, dropping five spots in the national college rankings from 2024, where it was previously rated higher at 58th nationally and 11th best in the South.
The rankings were compiled by WalletHub, which assessed nearly 800 colleges and universities using 30 different metrics. These included factors such as student-faculty ratios, graduation rates, and campus safety. In addition, Houston’s Rice University was rated as the top university in Texas and also ranked 9th nationally. Following Rice, Trinity University in San Antonio was placed third in Texas and ranked 62nd nationally.
UT Austin received commendable scores for its student educational outcomes, achieving No. 63, and for its student selectivity, ranked at No. 74. However, the university faced challenges in areas such as student career outcomes (ranked No. 118), campus safety (No. 187), cost and financing (No. 337), campus experience (No. 552), and faculty resources (No. 629).
According to U.S. News & World Report, in-state students at UT Austin incur tuition and fees exceeding $11,000 annually, with total costs surpassing $32,000 when factoring in other expenses. Other universities in the Austin area also featured prominently in the rankings, with St. Edward’s University placed No. 157 and Texas State University at No. 173.
Southwestern University further distinguished itself by being ranked 36th in the South and 117th nationally by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, St. Edward’s University achieved recognition as the 5th in the regional Best Universities in the West for 2026, while Concordia University was marked 103rd, alongside National University in San Diego.
Huston-Tillotson University also made its mark, ranking 20th in the Best Colleges in the West for 2026. The institution received a $150 million donation from the Moody Foundation, representing the largest single donation to any Historically Black College or University (HBCU).
In addition to these impressive rankings, Southwestern University is undergoing significant developments with a project called SU 560. This new facility will feature a concert hall, boutique hotel, restaurants, and research spaces. Notably, the project will also preserve 17 acres of the EcoLab, which is a natural area utilized for environmental studies and research. Future development phases may enhance preservation efforts further.
Summary of Key Rankings
| University | State Ranking | National Ranking | Notable Scores |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rice University | 1 | 9 | N/A |
| UT Austin | 2 | 58 | Education Outcome: 63, Selectivity: 74 |
| Trinity University | 3 | 62 | N/A |
| Southwestern University | 7 | 117 | Regional: 36 |
| St. Edward’s University | 157 | N/A | Regional Best West: 5 |
| Texas State University | 173 | N/A | N/A |
| Huston-Tillotson University | N/A | N/A | Best West: 20 |
FAQ
What is Southwestern University’s ranking in Texas for 2026?
Southwestern University in Georgetown ranked as the 7th best university in Texas for 2026.
Which university is ranked as the best in Texas?
Houston’s Rice University was ranked No. 1 in Texas.
Where does the University of Texas at Austin rank in Texas for 2026?
The University of Texas at Austin ranked as the No. 2 university in Texas for 2026.
What factors were considered in these rankings?
The rankings were based on analysis of nearly 800 colleges and universities using 30 metrics, including student-faculty ratios, graduation rates, and campus safety.
What are the key scores for UT Austin?
UT Austin scored highly for student educational outcomes (No. 63) and student selectivity (No. 74).
What is the tuition cost for in-state students at UT Austin?
In-state students pay over $11,000 annually for tuition and fees, with total costs exceeding $32,000.
What developments are happening at Southwestern University?
The new facility surrounding Southwestern University, called SU 560, will include new developments such as a concert hall, boutique hotel, restaurants, and research spaces.
What is the significance of the EcoLab at Southwestern University?
17 acres of the EcoLab, a natural area on campus used for environmental studies and research, will be preserved amidst the new development.
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Additional Resources
- CultureMap Austin
- Wikipedia: Southwestern University
- Community Impact
- Google Search: Georgetown Customer Service Center Southwestern University
- KVUE
- Google Scholar: Southwestern University Georgetown Texas Ecolab
- CBS Austin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Southwestern University
- Community Impact
- Google News: Southwestern University Sports Complex
Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN
The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
