If you ultimately want to make your own Graphic Novels, you’ll likely need to work somewhere else while doing your Graphic Novels as a side hustle until you get to the point that you can support yourself financially from the Graphic Novels. With that in mind, I suggest you look closely at the college curriculums to determine which ones offer the skills to give you that day job. Luckily illustration is pretty broad, so you can morph those skills into editorial/book illustration, film/gaming, graphic design, advertising, communications, web design, etc. Since there are so many career options, some colleges place illustration under a broader name, such as “visualization”. So keep an open mind in terms of your college education. You’ll be amazed at the career paths of some of these alumni. There isn’t always one linear path to your ultimate goal and it can be a worthwhile journey. Also, compare the curriculums below to those offered at a couple art schools so that you can see the differences just to be fully informed.
Since finances are an issue, you should enter this process knowing as much as possible about your costs. You can calculate how much financial aid a college is likely to give you here:
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/paying-your-share/expected-family-contribution-calculator.
You should submit the FAFSA (financial aid forms) at the same time as your college apps. Then you can compare how much aid you get from each college and use that to make your decisions. Keep in mind that many colleges will negotiate a financial package if you push for it. If you find an art school outside of TX that you just love, you can always apply (with FAFSA) and see if their financial offer works for you. Also keep in mind that most art schools require a portfolio.
Visit National Portfolio Day in your area to explore colleges and learn what they are looking for. You can go with your artwork and get feedback on your skills, or just go to ask questions. Don’t be intimidated to do either. Here’s the link to the calendar of events:
https://nationalportfolioday.org/undergraduate-events/
The list below may not be an exhaustive list, but it’s a start.
FROM ART-RELATED SITES:
https://www.theartcareerproject.com/schools/illustration/
https://www.animationcareerreview.com/articles/illustration-schools-texas
https://www.universities.com/find/texas/best/illustration-degrees
SPECIFIC TX COLLEGE WEBSITES:
http://viz.arch.tamu.edu/?_ga=2.90832537.2037625043.1558295914-1640138660.1558295914
https://careercenter.tamu.edu/Resources/Exploring_Career_Paths/Careers-Salaries-and-Employers-by-Major/Visualization
https://pride.tamuc.edu/art/
https://atec.utdallas.edu/
https://www.utdallas.edu/ah/programs/arts/visual/index.html