Putting together a list of the top universities in the Southwest opens one up to criticism from many different factions. Alums from the great Southwestern schools take it very personally when they see their alma mater losing rank and swell with pride at a gain. Faculty and staff are also eager to see their schools rank well. Happily, this list has not been composed to stroke the egos of graduates and employees but to help guide those who are searching for the school that is right for them, the students of tomorrow.

Choosing a school can be a grueling and anxiety provoking process. Will this decision change the course of your life? Actually, it very well may. Your friendships, your understanding of the world, and your future life course can all be shaped during the crucial years of education. In fact, if the school you choose does not somehow determine who you are and who you become, then you have chosen unwisely. It is the job of our educational institutions to help shape us and guide us toward becoming the best that we can be at whatever it is we set out to do.

With this in mind, those researching this list have taken into careful consideration not only high academic standards (an absolute must), but also the quality of campus life, along with several other factors essential for an enriching university experience. And so, with no further ado, here is the list:

1. University of Texas, Austin, TX

It will be no surprise to those who gauge Southwestern universities to see the University of Texas topping this list. Nestled in Austin, Texas, one of the most beloved Southwestern cities, the University of Texas consistently delivers outstanding performance throughout the spectrum of qualities deemed most important in a school: Academics are stellar; student life is rich and fulfilling; alums go on to rewarding and varied careers. For those seeking an education in the Southwest, it is hard to better than acquiring one of the sought-after enrollment slots at this prestigious institution.

2. Texas A&M University, College Station, TX

Texas A&M University was the first of Texas's public schools and has grown into a top-notch institution. The university has expanded beyond its "agriculture and machinery" roots into all fields, exhibiting excellence in many. At the same time, Texas A&M has retained a spirit of tradition. The combination of academic excellence and old Texas spirit makes Texas A&M an irresistible choice for many and lands the school at number two on this list.

3. Brigham Young University, Provo, UT

Brigham Young University earns the third place on this list with its outstanding educational programs and high quality of student life. BYU sits among spectacular mountains, offering acclaimed language and performing arts programs. Note that the school's sponsor is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; all programs are designed to be consistent with the principles of that faith.

4. Baylor University, Waco, TX

The third of four Texas campuses to make this list, Baylor University in Waco earns top marks with its uniquely effective combination of high academic standards and Baptist faith. The Baylor seals sums up the mission of the school: "Pro Ecclesia, Pro Texana." That is, "For Church, For Texas."

5. Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX

Rounding out the top five Southwestern schools is Southern Methodist University, in Dallas, Texas. SMU gains its high ranking by offering relatively small class size and easily accessible professors. SMU's urban location affords students the additional benefit of cultural enrichment as well as internship experience in the university's host city.

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