Generally speaking, there are very few decent apartments immediately nearby. Avoid anything east of there along 635; the area around Forest/Audelia/Skillman actually ranked as the most dangerous neighborhood in Dallas a few years back. Likewise, the apartments to the northwest of the 75/635 interchange (locally known as the High Five) are similarly sketchy (before you cross into Richardson). You best bets are further north along 75 in Richardson (stay north of Spring Valley/Centennial), further south along 75, or potentially some of the complexes around the Costco on Churchill Way nearby. If your son is willing to drive 10-15 mins or so, the Village Apartments bounded by Lovers/Northwest Highway/Greenville/Skillman are great (and are a popular young hangout spot), though I'm not sure if they offer short term leases. On the other hand, avoid anything directly north of Northwest Highway and east of Greenville; that neighborhood is known as Vickery Meadow and is also known for crime/safety issues, along with very run down apartments.

Look at the area around UTD and try to find someone sub-leasing for the summer. Most leases for students start in August and there are usually people looking to sublet over the summer when they aren't there.

Village is always the answer.