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Cheapest Human Development Colleges in Texas

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley offers the most affordable Human Development, Family Studies path in Texas at just $6,500 net cost annually, while the highest-priced program reaches $20,261. This $13,761 cost spread reflects significant variations in institutional support and program structure across 20 Texas schools. Graduate earnings range from $23,579 to $35,861, with University of Houston graduates earning the top figure despite moderate program costs. Texas employs over 180,000 family and social services workers, creating steady demand for graduates who understand child development, family dynamics, and community support systems. The state's rapid population growth and varied demographics fuel need for professionals in early childhood centers, family resource programs, and social service agencies. Public institutions dominate the affordable options, with 13 of the 15 lowest-cost programs housed at state universities that benefit from legislative funding.
25
Programs
$6,500 – $41,942
Net Price Range
$31,276
Avg. Program Earnings
51.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

25 Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $6,500 $9,859 49.3% 87.7%
2 $8,376 $9,590 43.8% 93.6%
3 $9,144 $10,904 43.0% 94.7%
4 $10,204 $9,892 45.6% 96.6%
5 $10,948 $8,648 44.2% 93.6%
6 $11,056 $7,746 50.9% 69.4%
7 $11,234 $8,991 51.2% 86.9%
8 $11,429 $8,690 37.2% 83.7%
9 $12,714 $14,520 99.2%
10 $13,220 $9,548 29.4% 96.1%
11 $13,853 $9,711 64.9% 66.2%
12 $14,352 $11,164 59.6% 79.1%
13 $14,623 $7,708 33.8% 88.4%
14 $15,152 $10,600 51.7% 89.5%
15 $16,438 $11,450 56.2% 87.7%
16 $19,655 $18,610 35.5% 85.7%
17 $19,678 $11,678 87.6% 31.4%
18 $19,710 $38,100 49.8% 84.5%
19 $20,071 $11,852 67.5% 67.3%
20 $20,261 $7,878 51.2% 87.1%
21 $20,498 $35,660 51.8% 94.2%
22 $25,255 $33,322 31.1% 62.3%
23 $25,910 $27,298 48.7% 81.6%
24 $27,401 $42,380 60.2% 65.8%
25 $41,942 $54,844 80.2% 45.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes UT Rio Grande Valley's program so affordable at $6,500 net cost?

UT Rio Grande Valley leverages substantial state funding and institutional aid to keep costs low for in-state students. The school serves a high-need student population in South Texas, qualifying for additional federal support that reduces net prices. With an 87.7% acceptance rate and focus on accessibility, the university prioritizes affordability over selectivity. The $6,500 figure represents actual student costs after all financial aid is applied.

How do graduation rates vary between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

The most affordable programs show mixed graduation outcomes, with UT Rio Grande Valley at 49.3% and University of North Texas at Dallas at 43.8%. However, higher-cost options like University of Houston achieve 64.9% graduation rates despite $13,853 net costs. Texas A&M University-San Antonio struggles with just 29.4% graduation rates at $13,220 net cost. Cost alone doesn't predict completion success in Human Development programs.

Does Texas Woman's University offer better value despite higher costs?

Texas Woman's University charges $10,948 net cost but produces graduates earning $31,856 annually with only $20,761 in debt. The school maintains a 44.2% graduation rate while accepting 93.6% of applicants. Compared to cheaper alternatives, TWU graduates earn $8,277 more than UT Permian Basin graduates who paid $1,804 less for their education. The specialized focus on family studies creates targeted career preparation.

Is debt load manageable for graduates in this field?

Debt levels vary significantly, from $18,500 at University of North Texas to $28,000 at Texas A&M Kingsville. Most programs keep debt below $25,000, which remains manageable given starting salaries between $23,579 and $35,861. University of Houston graduates carry $20,000 in debt but earn $35,861, creating a favorable debt-to-income ratio. Texas public universities generally produce lower debt burdens than national averages for Human Development majors.

Where do graduates find employment in Texas's job market?

Texas employs Human Development graduates across childcare centers, family resource agencies, and community organizations in major metropolitan areas. Houston's Texas Medical Center hires family support specialists, while Dallas-Fort Worth's growing suburbs need early childhood professionals. Baylor Scott & White health system and other major employers recruit graduates for patient family services roles. The state's 29.5 million residents create consistent demand for family-focused social services across urban and rural communities.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.