How do I avoid tension with my parents over college?

Who cares? They should be proud of you for wanting to educate yourself further, and to such a high standard. Trust me, even if they act disapproving, I bet they'll be proud of you too - even if that emotion is buried deep inside them! At the end of the day, you need to do what's best for you, and not what you think will please them. It's your life, your education, your career.