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Higher Education and Colleges in the New Braunfels Area
The residents of New Braunfels continue to enjoy their thriving and culturally diverse community. Thanks to our efficient economy in the New Braunfels and San Marcos, TX, areas, many individuals are looking into furthering their education. That means college students who have taken residence in the area may wonder which universities or community colleges in New Braunfels are worth the cost and time investment.
Colleges and Community Colleges in New Braunfels
Our team at Mayfair continues to find ways to innovate and expand our community, and we achieve this by working with smart and passionate individuals. If you’re a student looking to attend one of the local colleges in New Braunfels, there are several options to consider.
Howard Payne University
Located directly in New Braunfels, Howard Payne University (HPU) aims to educate students in a Christ-centered environment and thriving community. HPU offers master’s degrees in theology, MBA, sport and wellness leadership, and minors in business, art, science, mathematics, and Christian studies. For students in New Braunfels looking for a convenient location to attend, HPU may be the best option for you.
Texas State University
Located in San Marcos, Texas State University (TXST) is one of the largest college campuses in the state. Home to nearly 40,000 students across 200 different programs, there’s a wide range of activities to participate in. For more than a century, many individuals near San Marcos have gone on to have successful careers, including Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President of the United States.
TSU also performs frequent research in the medical and scientific fields, always striving to learn more about our community and the rest of the world. Similarly to TLU, TSU provides several resources to ensure everyone on campus feels safe and healthy. TSU takes mental health concerns seriously and is prepared to help those with difficulties navigate their issues and complete their degree.
Wayland Baptist University
Wayland Baptist University (WBU) has multiple locations throughout Texas, including New Braunfels. WBU is known for accepting work experience, credits from other universities, and military experience when admitting students. WBU is also regarded as one of the top Christian universities in the United States, having educated students and seen them launch successful careers for over a century. There are roughly 18 students per faculty member at WBU, with just over 1,100 students enrolled. While the staff is focused on providing an academically challenging environment, they also intend to prepare you to serve God, family, and the community.
Texas Lutheran University
Focused on faith, learning, and inclusivity, Texas Lutheran University (TLU), located in Seguin, TX, is only a short drive from New Braunfels. Unsurprisingly, a university focused on growing and connecting the community is home to many residents in the New Braunfels area.
TLU offers various academic programs, including business administration, nursing, psychology, education, music, and more. Most classes average around 19 students, allowing students to fully socialize with their professors, staff, and other students. You’re not required to practice a certain religion or have certain political views, either, as TLU is committed to offering a safe and inclusive space for everyone on campus.
Northeast Lakeview College
A public community college based in Universal City, Northeast Lakeview College (NLC) focuses on partnering with several communities to ensure residents all across Texas have the academic resources they need. New Braunfels specifically is home to the Central Texas Technology Center (CTTC), hosting several programs for biology, nursing, math, and education majors. They also provide higher education and technical training essential to securing a high-demand job.
NLC tends to keep class sizes small like TLU, allowing students in the community to feel connected to those around them. The price of admission is typically lower than other colleges throughout Texas, so students on a strict budget may have an easier time finding the educational resources they need. With a location close to home in an economically-stable area, NLC and CTTC are great options for students in the New Braunfels area.
Austin Community College District
With 11 locations across Central Texas, Austin Community College (ACC) offers plenty of educational programs and research labs to help students succeed in their field of study. All locations are northeast of San Marcos, and the entire district is popular among residents in New Braunfels and San Marcos.
Students can choose from various academic programs, including computer science, culinary, liberal arts, digital media, and more. Because of the multiple campuses, each focused on a different area of education; students have a better chance of finding the right fit.
The University of Texas at Austin
One of the top universities in the world, The University of Texas at Austin (UT) is known for the McCombs School of Business, consistently ranking in the top ten business schools across the nation. Of course, UT also offers exceptional fine arts, nursing, architecture, geoscience programs, and many more. Known for its vibrance and positive atmosphere, UT is not only a great university to consider but a great one to reside in or nearby. Because of the evolving economy in Texas, many students have not only found success in academics but enjoyed memorable recreational activities and attractions.
Preparing for College
In addition to figuring out which college to attend, you’ll want to adequately prepare for this life-changing adventure to get the most out of the experience. Consider the following steps:
- Practice time management. You’ll have much more independence on college campuses than in high school, so practice balancing your schedule and keep track of everything you need to via your phone or journal.
- Do research. Many colleges and community colleges in New Braunfels offer similar programs, but you’ll want to research further than that. If a university has goals and values that conflict with yours, you may want to look elsewhere.
- Gather your dorm or apartment necessities. If you live away from home, write down everything you’ll need for your dorm or apartment. It can be easy to overlook something, so think carefully and allow plenty of time to plan.
- Refresh your memory. Before taking advanced courses in college, refresh your memory from your high school courses relevant to your area of study.
- Ask for help. You may have coasted through high school without much difficulty, but college can become more challenging when you least expect it. Remember, asking for help is always acceptable, so practice doing that.
Above all, remember that your studies come first. It can be exciting to meet new friends and form connections, but the priority should be to learn what’s necessary to live a successful future. There are times when you’ll experience social pressures, and it’s essential to practice standing your ground.
Students Are Welcome in New Braunfels
When moving to a new state and community, finding a place to integrate into can seem intimidating. Students wanting to complete a degree to improve their odds of finding a job need the right resources and academics, and our community is proud to work alongside various colleges in New Braunfels to make it possible.
Mayfair continues to work toward improving our community, from implementing safer technology to constructing new homes. We value connection and hope to provide students with what they need to feel included.