8 Best Colleges and Universities Near Abilene, TX

Are you ready to start college?

Looking for a school in or near Abilene, Texas? Perhaps you live in Abilene and would like to live at home while going to school.

Whatever your particular circumstances, you've come to the right place.

Read on as we discuss the best colleges in Abilene and answer some frequently asked questions you may have.

Featured Colleges Near Abilene, TX

There are several good schools near Abilene. Let's take a closer look at each one.

1. Abilene Christian University

Abilene Christian University is a private school that has been around since 1906. It enrolls around 6,200 students.

Various degree programs are available through seven colleges focusing on arts, sciences, health, business, and Bible studies.

Both undergraduate and graduate degrees are available, and many programs can be completed entirely online.

Study-abroad opportunities are also available.

2. Hardin-Simmons University

Hardin-Simmons University is a private school associated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. It enrolls nearly 2,400 students.

Some of the available degrees include:

• Art Education
• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
• Criminal Justice
• Finance
• Social Work

The school offers both graduate and undergraduate degree and certificate programs.

Some programs must be completed on campus, but some can be completed online as well.

3. McMurry University

McMurry University is a private school affiliated with the United Methodist Church. It was founded in 1923 and has around 1,200 students.

The school offers around 45 bachelor's degree programs in fields such as humanities, natural and social sciences, religion, fine arts, and business. Various pre-professional programs are also available.

A generous collection of degree programs is also available online so students can choose how and when they want to study.

4. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center is a part of the Texas Tech University System. Though it is headquartered in Lubbock, it has several additional campuses in Texas, including one in Abilene.

The school provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree with the following options:

• Traditional BSN
• RN to BSN
• Accelerated BSN

Graduate degrees and certificates in pharmacy, public health, and biotechnology are also available.

5. Cisco College

Cisco College is a junior college enrolling around 3,200 students. It has two campus locations: one in Cisco and one in Abilene.

The school provides a variety of associate degrees and career-focused training programs. Students can also pursue continuing and professional education and dual enrollment opportunities.

Many courses are available online, making it possible for some students to complete their degrees remotely.

6. Texas State Technical College

Texas State Technical College is a public school with various locations throughout Texas. One of these locations is in Abilene.

This junior college provides associate degrees and career training programs in allied health, engineering, construction and maintenance, aviation, and environmental disciplines.

Most students attend classes on campus, with flexible afternoon and evening classes available for busy or nontraditional students.

7. Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing

Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing is a private school dedicated to preparing the next generation of nurses according to Christian principles.

Students can pursue the following nursing programs through this school:

• certified nursing assistant (CNA) training program
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
• RN-BSN
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

The RN-BSN and MSN programs can be completed online.

8. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Dyess

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a private school specializing in aeronautical and aviation disciplines. It has various locations throughout the U.S. including one at Dyess AFB near Abilene.

A wide variety of highly specialized degrees and certificates are available in fields such as:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Emergency Services
• Aviation Cybersecurity
• Pilot Operations
• Unscrewed Systems

Many of these programs are completed online, while others combine both in-person and remote education. Both undergraduate and graduate degrees are available.

Other Colleges Available

Now let's turn our focus to a couple of additional schools located in the nearby communities of Brownwood and Early.

Howard Payne University

Howard Payne University is located in Brownwood. This private Baptist college was founded in 1889 and currently enrolls around 1,200 students.

Degree programs are available through the following schools at this university:

• School of Nursing
• School of Education
• School of Business
• School of Music and Fine Arts
• School of Humanities
• School of Christian Studies
• School of Science and Mathematics

Graduate and undergraduate degrees are both available, and study abroad opportunities give students the chance to gain new experiences while in school.

Ranger College

Ranger College is a public school with around 2,500 total students. It is headquartered in Ranger but has additional campuses in Brown and Erath counties, including one in Early.

This community college offers transferable associate degrees, as well as focused training programs in nursing, cosmetology, and truck driving.

Continuing education is also available along with dual-credit programs for high school students looking to gain college credit.

What Is the Biggest School Near Abilene, TX?

The biggest school in Abilene is Abilene Christian University. It enrolls around 6,200 students and sits on a 208-acre campus.

How to Choose the Right College Near Abilene, TX

Are you wondering which school is right for you? Having a hard time making a decision? Spend some time considering what you're looking for in the school of your dreams.

Maybe you're interested in a particular degree program, or you want to attend a school close to your house to avoid a long commute, or you need a school offering low tuition rates and financial aid.

Consider these and other factors, and make a list of the things that are most important to you.

Identifying your priorities is a crucial step as you look at schools as it will help you narrow down your options.

Paying for Your Degree Near Abilene, TX

Students often obtain financial aid in the form of federal grants and merit-based scholarships.

Start by filling out the FAFSA and applying for any scholarships you think would be a good fit.

If you are a veteran or are currently serving in the military, you may be eligible for tuition discounts and waivers.

Many schools offer these, and your GI Bill benefits may also include them.

Schools typically offer work-study programs for industrious students looking to work off their expenses, and those who already have a job often receive tuition assistance from their companies.

Start Your Degree Near Abilene, TX Today

Check out each of the Abilene-area schools outlined in this article to get a better idea of which one might be the best fit for your needs, budget, and lifestyle.