10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Lubbock, TX

Do you live in Lubbock, Texas? Are you wondering about the colleges and universities located in and near your community?

If so, keep reading. In this article, we'll discuss the best colleges in and around Lubbock and answer questions you may have related to starting college.

Featured Colleges in Lubbock, TX

In addition to the colleges located in Lubbock, we've also gathered some additional schools from the surrounding cities of Snyder, Lamesa, Childress, Canyon, Hereford, and Sweetwater.

1. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University is a large public school located in the heart of Lubbock. Established in 1923, it currently enrolls more than 40,000 students.

The school offers a diverse array of degree and certificate programs for graduate and undergraduate students. Short-term career certificates and microcredentials in various fields are also available.

Though many students attend classes on-campus, Texas Tech also offers a range of flexible online program options.

2. Lubbock Christian University

Lubbock Christian University is a small private school in Lubbock. It is affiliated with the Churches of Christ and enrolls fewer than 2,000 students.

Despite its small size, the school offers more than 100 academic programs. Most of these are bachelor's and master's degrees, though various short-term programs can be completed as well.

Most programs are completed on-campus, but flexible options are available for busy working adults and nontraditional students.

3. Wayland Baptist University

Wayland Baptist University is headquartered in Plainview but has additional campuses in other parts of the state and the country. One of these campuses is in Lubbock.

This private school offers associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees known for being flexible and accessible. Courses are offered in accelerated 8-week sessions and can be completed online or in person.

The school often accepts work experience as credit toward a degree. Affordable tuition rates and generous financial aid options make it easier for those on a budget to get a quality education.

4. South Plains College

South Plains College is a community college headquartered in Levelland but with several additional locations, including one in Lubbock. It enrolls nearly 10,000 students.

Some of the many associate degree and certificate programs include:

• English and philosophy
• kinesiology
• nursing
• computer information systems
• business

Students complete their program of choice on-campus.

5. Western Texas College

Western Texas College is a public school located in Snyder. It's a community college enrolling just over 3,000 students.

It offers various degrees and technical training programs in a variety of disciplines. Most students attend classes in person, though some online classes are available.

This school offers highly affordable tuition, which makes it a great choice for students on a budget.

6. Howard College

Howard College is another public community college. Though it is headquartered in Big Springs, it has a couple of additional campuses, including one in Lamesa, south of Lubbock.

Students can choose between transfer degrees and career-focused technical training programs. Continuing education and workforce training programs are also available.

Affordable tuition combines with work-study programs and financial aid packages to make college more affordable for in-district and in-state students.

7. Clarendon College

Clarendon College is a public community college in Clarendon. It has two additional campuses as well; the one closest to Lubbock is located in Childress.

Students can pursue associate degrees, certificates, and other technical training programs. This school also partners with West Texas A&M University to provide bachelor's degrees in some fields.

Students typically pursue their degree on campus and have the opportunity to obtain financial aid and participate in work-study programs to help cover their expenses.

8. West Texas A&M University

West Texas A&M University, located in Canyon, is part of the Texas A&M University System. This public school has more than 10,000 students.

Students can pursue various degree and certificate programs either online or in person. Both graduate and undergraduate programs are available.

Students also have various opportunities to study abroad.

9. Amarillo College - Hereford

Amarillo College is a community college in Amarillo, though it has several additional campuses. The closest campus to Lubbock is located in Hereford.

The classes offered at the Hereford campus lead to various associate degrees and certificate programs. Students can also pursue continuing education programs through the campus.

Students take classes on campus.

10. Texas State Technical College - West Texas

Texas State Technical College is a community college with nearly 12,000 students. It is headquartered near Waco but has several other campuses, with the one closest to Lubbock found at Sweetwater.

This school offers over 40 career-focused certificate and degree programs. These programs are designed to be flexible and are offered in course sessions of varying lengths to best fit your needs.

What's more, you can choose to complete many of the programs online and on your own time. Campus-based programs are also designed with flexibility in mind so you can enjoy a college experience that works for you.

What Is the Biggest School Near Lubbock, TX?

Among the schools in the Lubbock area, Texas Tech University is by far the largest. It enrolls more than 40,000 students, and its campus sits on more than 1,800 acres of land.

How to Choose the Right College Near Lubbock, TX

Choosing the right college comes down to determining what factors in a school are most important to you.

Consider things like tuition and fees, financial aid options, degree programs and concentrations, student organizations, location, and housing.

Once you know which of these factors (or others) you tend to prioritize, you will be able to determine which schools on your list align best with your needs and desires.

Paying for Your Degree Near Lubbock, TX

If you're worried about being able to afford college, fill out the FAFSA to see if you qualify for state or federal financial aid. You can also apply for scholarships through your school or outside organizations.

Those who are or have been in the military may qualify for tuition waivers or hefty discounts through their GI Bill benefits.

Many schools offer work-study programs that enable students to work off some or all of their expenses. For those who are already employed, tuition assistance benefits are offered by many companies and businesses.

Start Your Degree Near Lubbock, TX Today

Ready to get started with your educational journey? Check out the schools discussed above to find out which one will best fit your goals, budget, and lifestyle.