10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Plano, TX
Find out about the top colleges and universities in Plano, Texas, and surrounding areas. Get answers about paying for college and choosing the best school for you.
If you live in Plano, Texas, and are curious to find out about some of the schools in your area, then you've come to the right place.
In this article, we'll talk about the best colleges in Plano and the surrounding areas. We'll also answer some frequently asked questions you may have regarding choosing and paying for your school.
Featured Colleges in Plano, TX
Let's take a look at the top 10 colleges found in Plano and surrounding cities such as Dallas and Richardson.
1. University of Texas
The University of Texas - Dallas is located in Richardson, near Plano. This large public school is part of the University of Texas System.
The school offers a range of degree programs and certificates in many disciplines. Both graduate and undergraduate programs are available.
Students study on-campus, and various study-abroad opportunities are also available.
2. Collin College
Collin College is a large public community college district with locations around the Dallas metro area. Two of these campuses are located in Plano.
The school offers associate and bachelor's degrees in the arts, sciences, education, technology, business, and more.
Tuition rates are highly affordable, especially for residents residing within Collin County. Degree programs are completed through campus-based studies.
3. Dallas Baptist University
Dallas Baptist University is located in Dallas but has additional campuses in Hurst and Plano. It is a private school enrolling around 4,300 students.
The school offers associate degrees up to doctoral degrees, as well as certificates and pre-professional programs.
Students can pursue their degrees either online or in-person, and courses are flexible to accommodate the needs of a variety of students.
4. West Coast University
West Coast University is a private school with a healthcare focus. It has several campuses in the United States, including one close to Plano in Richardson.
This school offers four academic programs:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- LVN to BSN
- Master of Physician Assistant
- Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Students in these programs can take advantage of accelerated course schedules to finish their degrees at a faster-than-average rate.
5. Amberton University
Amberton University is located in Garland, in the greater Dallas metropolitan area. It is a small, private, non-denominational Christian school.
The school tailors its degree programs to the needs of busy working adults. Most courses and degrees can be completed either online or in person through flexible evening and weekend schedules.
Course schedules are offered in accelerated 10-week sessions, making it possible for many students to graduate sooner and fit their schooling into their lives.
6. Dallas College
Dallas College is a multi-campus community college with locations throughout the Dallas area. This public school system enrolls more than 74,000 students.
This school offers one bachelor's degree (education). Associate degrees, certificates, and career-focused technical programs are available in more than 100 areas of study.
Students can complete many degree programs entirely online if they choose.
7. Asher College
Asher College is a career training school with three locations in the U.S., including one in Dallas.
This school provides certification programs and degrees in business, healthcare, information technology, and CompTIA. These programs can be completed in a short amount of time and lead to careers in high-demand industries.
Courses are designed to be flexible so they fit into your schedule. Some individual courses and programs can be completed online for even greater flexibility.
8. Arizona College of Nursing
Arizona College of Nursing is a network of nursing schools headquartered in Arizona. However, it has some campuses in other states as well, including one in Dallas.
The school offers a Bachelor of Science in nursing degree that can be completed in three years or less, especially if you have existing credits to transfer from another school.
This career-focused program provides hands-on training and simulations to help students prepare for life as a nurse.
9. Remington College
Remington College is part of a group of private colleges with campuses throughout the country. One of its locations is in Dallas.
The career-focused school offers associate degrees and diploma programs in areas such as:
- Paralegal
- HVAC
- Medical Assisting
- Construction and Building Maintenance
Courses are typically completed in a hybrid format, with some sessions completed online and others on campus.
10. Concorde Career College
Concorde Career College is a series of private technical schools with locations in several states. One of the campuses is located in Dallas.
This campus of Concorde Career College focuses primarily on healthcare training programs. Some of the programs to choose from include:
- Diagnostic Medical Sonography
- Dental Hygiene
- Surgical Technology
- Pharmacy Technician
- Vocational Nursing
The flexible programs offer multiple start dates each month, making it easy for you to enroll and get started as soon as you are ready.
What Is the Biggest School Near Plano, TX?
The largest single school in the Plano area is the University of Texas - Dallas, which has more than 31,000 students.
That said, Dallas College, which is made up of several campuses throughout the Dallas metro area, enrolls more than 74,000 students across its various locations.
How to Choose the Right College Near Plano, TX
Choosing the right college is important to get the most out of your educational experience. But it may feel like an overwhelming task.
To make the job easier, ask yourself some questions:
- What is my budget? What tuition rates am I looking for?
- Which schools offer the best financial aid packages?
- What is my preferred degree program and does each school offer it?
- Where is each school located?
- Will I live on campus or be commuting?
Your answers to these questions can help you establish priorities. Then, you can choose a school that best aligns with these priorities.
Paying for Your Degree Near Plano, TX
If you're looking for help to pay for college, start by filling out the FAFSA to apply for federal and state aid, and find out if your school or other organizations offer scholarships that you might qualify for.
Have you or are you currently serving in the military? You may be able to receive school discounts and tuition waivers through your GI Bill benefits.
Find out if your school offers a work-study program and apply for it.
If you already have a job, ask your employer if the company offers tuition assistance as a benefit.
Start Your Degree Near Plano, TX Today
The Plano schools outlined above offer various career programs and degrees. With so many options, you're sure to find a school that will meet your needs.