Tennessee’s Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship
What are the best colleges and universities in Tennessee if you reward schools for making the best use of their limited resources? Academic Stewardship asks how effectively schools manage their financial and human resources to gain the influence that makes them academically excellent. Schools that are exemplary in Academic Stewardship are doing everything in their power to help students and faculty achieve their full potential.
Colleges and universities in Tennessee deserve to be recognized when they do more with less. It’s impressive when a large wealthy school can spend money lavishly on expensive buildings and programs. But it’s even more impressive when a small school with limited means is able to train and inspire students that the larger wealthier schools tend to ignore.
The American Association of Colleges and Universities reported in late 2021 that almost 75 percent of higher-education professionals at US colleges and universities felt financial constraints prevented their schools from effectively attracting students. Distracted by the size and amenities of larger schools, prospective students tended especially to be overawed by the big research universities.
Tennessee’s smaller colleges, especially its liberal arts colleges, need effective ways of communicating their value to a world that celebrates “bigger is better” and “you need the best.” Unfortunately, most college ranking companies, such as U.S. News & World Report, define “best” in a way that devalues schools with smaller budgets and fewer students even when these schools do remarkable work in advancing their students’ education. By and large, college rankings penalize schools that serve underserved populations.
Inspired by Malcolm Gladwell, who for years now has criticized conventional college rankings for misrepresenting what’s good and valuable in education, we decided to construct a new ranking metric that highlights those schools that do more with less. That metric—called the Academic Stewardship metric—takes away both the size and the wealth advantage of schools, and focuses instead on how well schools use the resources available to them to advance the education of their students.
How We Measure the Academic Stewardship of Tennessee’s Colleges and Universities
As a metric, Academic Stewardship is defined by a precise mathematical formula, which can be found in our Academic Stewardship white paper. Measuring the Academic Stewardship of Tennessee’s colleges requires measuring two forms of stewardship: 1) Stewardship of financial resources (using the money they have responsibility without waste) and 2) Stewardship of human resources (doing their best to help students, faculty, and administration to flourish). Together, these two types of stewardship form what we call Academic Stewardship. If you want to learn more about the factors involved in Academic Stewardship, click the more button below.
- Stewardship of financial resources: To determine a school’s stewardship of financial resources, we factored in its undergraduate size, budget, endowments and reserves, as well as tuition and fees. All these data are available from the National Center for Educational Statistics Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. In addition, we factored in a school’s financial responsibility as gauged by the Federal Student Aid Office at the US Department of Education through its financial responsibility composite scores.
- Stewardship of human resources: To determine a school’s stewardship of human resources, we used our InfluenceRanking engine to track the influence of the school’s faculty and alumni but also to control for size of the undergraduate student body. We’ve found that measuring a school’s influence based on the contributions of faculty and alumni make in their fields of study but then also controlling for size of the undergraduate population is the single best indicator of academic excellence. We call this Concentrated Influence. Schools that rank highly in Concentrated Influence are schools that, given their available human resources, invest heavily in their students and faculty, and the results are demonstrable.
- We measure the influence of colleges and universities based on the publications and citations of the schools’ faculty and alumni who are teaching in and working in areas related to their degrees. To do this, we take publicly available databases, such as Semantic Scholar, Crossref, and Wikipedia and use these to measure the influence of academics in their disciplines. Having measured the influence of persons, we then identify the schools that they’re affiliated with, adding up the influence scores of the faculty and alumni to measure the influence of the schools and their disciplinary programs. Finally, we control these influence scores by size of undergraduate student body so that schools do not score high in influence simply because of a size advantage. We lay out these methodological considerations on our methodology page.
- Academic Stewardship: Having measured a school’s stewardship of financial and human resources in the two previous points, we now divide the second measure by the first to define the Academic Stewardship metric. This metric spotlights smaller schools, with fewer financial resources and people, that invest wisely and do proportionately better in building influence than large wealthy schools. Many of these smaller, less wealthy schools are incentivized to make better use of their resources but would never get recognized in conventional school rankings, which directly or indirectly put a premium on the wealth of schools.
Academic Stewardship as so defined is connected to keeping tuition and other costs down, but it should not be confused with affordability or frugality. The schools that this metric ranks as exemplary academic stewards tend to be all over the map when it comes to tuition and other costs. At issue is the influence of schools given the financial and human resources they have on hand. If a school is going to charge more for tuition, then that needs to be reflected in the school having proportionately greater influence.
Why Academic Stewardship Matters to Students and Their Families
The benefits of attending a school with strong academic stewardship include:
- A clear reason for why students are at the school in the first place. Without the distraction of amenities and luxuries, these schools are at once unpretentious but also passionately committed to their educational mission. The schools in this ranking are financially efficient and academically rigorous. By avoiding frills, these schools take the most direct path to accomplishing their mission of educating students.
- Valuing character over prestige and self-indulgence. A school that’s a good steward of its resources doesn’t instill shame in its students over what they are missing (such as elite cuisine) but rather pride in what they have and making the most of it. These schools exhibit a culture of good stewardship, which tends to build good character in the students that attend these schools.
- Avoiding the spoiled-student syndrome. It’s easy to think that offering students endless options and opportunities will enrich their time at school in every way. But spoiling people—whether in business, sports, or academics—has the opposite effect, causing people to take their advantages for granted and in the end achieving less than they might otherwise, a point well-documented in Daniel Coyle’s The Talent Code. Schools exhibiting academic stewardship avoid this pitfall.
- The best schools vs. the schools that help students to be their best. Students at schools demonstrating outstanding academic stewardship aren’t so much concerned about being at the “best” school, whatever that may mean, as about being at a school that helps them to be their best. These schools pay attention to their students, hoping that any glory goes to them rather than to the school. Small schools, and especially liberal arts colleges, help themselves by communicating this advantage to prospective students.
- Emphasizing development over talent and achievement. Schools like Harvard and Stanford have their pick of academic talent, and their students have a long record of achievement even before they apply to such elite schools. But if a school doesn’t have the resources of a Harvard or Stanford, how does it build a great team of students? In that case, it must focus on student development. Colleges exemplifying academic stewardship emphasize student growth and development, ensuring that the schools are doing everything in their power to help students reach their full potential and thereby become their best selves.
Tennessee’s Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #4 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$24K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
56%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1270/22
Career Outlook for degree at Fisk University
Cost of Degree: $23,578Expenses: $16,700Starting Salary: $36,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Fisk University known for?
Fisk University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #16 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #18 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$27K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
50%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1050/21
Career Outlook for degree at Tennessee Wesleyan University
Cost of Degree: $27,350Expenses: $12,500Starting Salary: $43,700Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Tennessee Wesleyan University known for?
Tennessee Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tennessee Wesleyan University’s Online Degrees
BS in Management
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #10 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #15 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024 #19 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$26K
Acceptance
66%
Graduation
49%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Cumberland University
Cost of Degree: $26,400Expenses: $16,280Starting Salary: $43,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Cumberland University known for?
Cumberland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- History
- Political Science
- Mathematics
- Education
- Biology
- Business
- Criminal Justice
- Literature
- Medical
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
Cumberland University’s Online Degrees
BSN in Nursing
Degree Concentrations
- Nursing
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #22 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$52K
Acceptance
54%
Graduation
85%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1390/30
Career Outlook for degree at Rhodes College
Cost of Degree: $52,310Expenses: $16,040Starting Salary: $64,800Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Rhodes College known for?
Rhodes College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Political Science
- History
- Religious Studies
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Communications
- Economics
Most Influential Alumni
- #24 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$51K
Acceptance
52%
Graduation
81%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1306/29
Career Outlook for degree at Sewanee: The University of the South
Cost of Degree: $51,135Expenses: $17,558Starting Salary: $51,700Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Sewanee: The University of the South known for?
Sewanee: The University of the South’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Literature
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- Business
- History
- Economics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 Best Online Associate in Human Services
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
- #5 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2024
- #8 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee
- #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
- #12 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #14 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #18 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
53%
Graduation
67%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1235/26
Career Outlook for degree at Union University
Cost of Degree: $19,363Expenses: $19,460Starting Salary: $49,600Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Union University known for?
Union University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Religious Studies
- Economics
- Communications
- Philosophy
- Criminal Justice
- Political Science
- Education
- History
- Physics
Most Influential Alumni
Union University’s Online Degrees
BS in Christian Leadership
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Organizational Leadership
Degree Concentrations
- Organizational Management
- Project Management
- Health Management
- Church Leadership
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #3 HBCU Doctoral Programs Online #5 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #6 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #4 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #5 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024
- #5 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024
- #6 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #3 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #4 Most Affordable Online Master's of Speech Pathology Programs
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #8 Best HBCU Online Programs
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #12 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #18 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #20 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
- #22 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #22 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #24 Best Online Master's in Special Education
- #25 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #5 20 Fastest Accelerated Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
32%
Student body
9K
Career Outlook for degree at Tennessee State University
Cost of Degree: $8,336Expenses: $15,556Starting Salary: $39,800Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Tennessee State University known for?
Tennessee State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Medical
- Education
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- History
- Business
- Political Science
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
Tennessee State University’s Online Degrees
BS in Health Information Management
Degree Concentrations
- Utilizing Technologies in Healthcare Organizations
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Professional Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Health Administration
- Information Technology
- International Organizational Leadership
- Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Social Work
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #4 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$25K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
51%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1086/21
Career Outlook for degree at Lincoln Memorial University
Cost of Degree: $25,180Expenses: $16,540Starting Salary: $41,600Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lincoln Memorial University known for?
Lincoln Memorial University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Lincoln Memorial University’s Online Degrees
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #6 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$22K
Acceptance
73%
Graduation
63%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1125/23
Career Outlook for degree at Lee University
Cost of Degree: $21,730Expenses: $14,070Starting Salary: $37,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lee University known for?
Lee University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Religious Studies
- Psychology
- Education
- Social Work
- History
- Literature
- Communications
- Business
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee
Other Rankings
- #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Philosophy Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #8 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs
- #10 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #12 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Master's in Agriculture and Agribusiness Degree Programs
- #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
53%
Student body
8K
Median SAT/ACT
1130/22
Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee at Martin
Cost of Degree: $9,912Expenses: $12,260Starting Salary: $40,100Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Tennessee at Martin known for?
University of Tennessee at Martin’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Earth Sciences
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- Criminal Justice
- Political Science
- Biology
- History
- Nursing
- Education
- Social Work
Most Influential Alumni
University of Tennessee at Martin’s Online Degrees
BS in Agricultural Business
Degree Concentrations
- Veterinary Technology and Management
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS/BA in History and Philosophy
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS/BA in Criminal Justice
Degree Concentrations
- Law Enforcement
- Corrections
- Courts and Law
- Forensics
- Generalist
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Business Administration major in Agricultural Business
Degree Concentrations
- Agricultural Business
- Farm and Ranch Management
- Veterinary Technology and Management
- Required Credits: 30
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Administration major in Information Systems
Degree Concentrations
- Management Information Systems
- Business Communication and Information Systems
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 123
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
- #19 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #7 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
- #10 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Counseling Degree Programs for 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Tennessee
- #7 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
- #11 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #14 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #18 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
69%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1225/26
Career Outlook for degree at Lipscomb University
Cost of Degree: $37,152Expenses: $19,536Starting Salary: $51,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lipscomb University known for?
Lipscomb University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Nursing
- Religious Studies
- Business
- Education
- Medical
- Political Science
- History
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
Lipscomb University’s Online Degrees
BA/BS in Customer Experience
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Data Analytics
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Entertainment Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Psychology
Degree Concentrations
- Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC)
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Integrated Studies
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Psychology
Degree Concentrations
- Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC)
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 33-60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Business Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Organizational Communication
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Customer Experience
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Data Analytics
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Entertainment Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Integrated Studies
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Public Administration
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Strategic Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Supply Chain and Operations Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Technology Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Public Administration
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Organizational Communication
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Strategic Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Supply Chain and Operations Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Technology Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #15 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024
- #9 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #7 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Master's in Management
- #18 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$60K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
93%
Student body
15K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/34
Career Outlook for degree at Vanderbilt University
Cost of Degree: $60,348Expenses: $24,064Starting Salary: $86,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Vanderbilt University known for?
Vanderbilt University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #9 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
60%
Student body
11K
Career Outlook for degree at Tennessee Tech
Cost of Degree: $9,802Expenses: $17,182Starting Salary: $46,700Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Tennessee Tech known for?
Tennessee Tech’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Biology
- Sociology
- Engineering
- Economics
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Political Science
- History
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
Tennessee Tech’s Online Degrees
BS in Medical Laboratory Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
- #6 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024 #7 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
52%
Student body
12K
Median SAT/ACT
1116/23
Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Cost of Degree: $9,848Expenses: $14,950Starting Salary: $42,600Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Tennessee at Chattanooga known for?
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Earth Sciences
- Psychology
- History
- Business
- Medical
- Physics
- Education
- Communications
- Chemistry
Most Influential Alumni
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s Online Degrees
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
- #2 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Philosophy Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Best Online Master's in English
- #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Health Science Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #6 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024
- #6 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
- #6 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
- #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
- #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Humanities Degree Programs for 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Anthropology
- #11 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
- #14 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting
- #14 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs)
- #15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #19 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2024
- #21 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #21 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
- #22 Best Online Master’s in Communications
- #22 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2024
- #23 Best Online Master's in Special Education
- #24 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
48%
Student body
25K
Median SAT/ACT
1080/20
Career Outlook for degree at University of Memphis
Cost of Degree: $10,056Expenses: $18,080Starting Salary: $43,200Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Memphis known for?
University of Memphis’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
University of Memphis’s Online Degrees
BA in African and African American Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Anthropology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Communication
Degree Concentrations
- Communication Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in English
Degree Concentrations
- African American Literature
- Professional Writing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Health Sciences major in Healthcare Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Health Sciences
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Healthcare Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Healthcare Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Hospitality and Resort Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Accounting
- Business Information and Technology
- Management
- Marketing Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Business Administration in Business Information and Technology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Business Administration in Finance
Degree Concentrations
- Business Finance
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Business Administration major in Finance
Degree Concentrations
- Real Estate
- Finance
- Insurance
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Health Services
- Child Life Specialist
- Legal Studies
- Early Care and Learning
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Organizational Leadership
- Information Technology
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Public Relations
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in History
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Philosophy
Degree Concentrations
- Applied Ethics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #9 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Tennessee
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2024
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs
- #5 Best Online Associate in Business Management
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #7 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Computer Science
- #7 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #8 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology
- #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2024
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
- #18 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
- #22 Best Online Associate in Liberal Arts
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
43%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1076/21
Career Outlook for degree at Austin Peay State University
Cost of Degree: $8,431Expenses: $22,434Starting Salary: $38,800Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Austin Peay State University known for?
Austin Peay State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Business
- History
- Political Science
- Engineering
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
Austin Peay State University’s Online Degrees
BBA in Business
Degree Concentrations
- Hospitality Administration
- Leadership Science
- Organizational Administration
- Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Technology
Degree Concentrations
- Cis: Systems Development
- Cis: Information Assurance & Security
- Cis: Database Administration
- Cis: Internet & Web Technology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Criminal Justice - Homeland Security
- Public Management
- Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Political Science
- Professional Communication - Information Specialist
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Medical
Degree Concentrations
- Medical Laboratory Science - Mlt To Mls
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing
Degree Concentrations
- Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$40K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
72%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1245/27
Career Outlook for degree at Belmont University
Cost of Degree: $39,850Expenses: $20,630Starting Salary: $51,500Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Belmont University known for?
Belmont University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
- #6 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024
- #9 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #3 Best Online Certificate in Liberal Arts and Humanities Ranked for Students
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
- #4 Fastest Accelerated Online Healthcare Administration Masters
- #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #22 Best Online Master's in Sports Management
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
55%
Student body
15K
Median SAT/ACT
1085/22
Career Outlook for degree at East Tennessee State University
Cost of Degree: $9,438Expenses: $17,323Starting Salary: $40,600Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is East Tennessee State University known for?
East Tennessee State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Medical
- Nursing
- Biology
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Earth Sciences
- Education
- History
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
East Tennessee State University’s Online Degrees
BS in Business
Degree Concentrations
- Business Administration
- Marketing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Education
Degree Concentrations
- Early Childhood Education
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in General Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Humanities
Degree Concentrations
- English
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Human Services
- Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Dentistry
Degree Concentrations
- Dental Hygiene
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Medical
Degree Concentrations
- Allied Health Leadership
- Respiratory Therapy
- Radiologic Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing
Degree Concentrations
- Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #4 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024
- #5 Best Online Doctorate of Educational Psychology (PhDs) 2024
- #8 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates)
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
73%
Student body
35K
Median SAT/ACT
1250/28
Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee
Cost of Degree: $13,244Expenses: $19,414Starting Salary: $56,700Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Tennessee known for?
University of Tennessee’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- Criminal Justice
- Earth Sciences
- History
- Economics
- Engineering
- Medical
- Business
- Social Work
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #4 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
73%
Graduation
55%
Student body
29K
Median SAT/ACT
1125/22
Career Outlook for degree at Middle Tennessee State University
Cost of Degree: $9,232Expenses: $15,322Starting Salary: $44,400Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Middle Tennessee State University known for?
Middle Tennessee State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Social Work
- Chemistry
- Business
- History
- Communications
- Mathematics
- Political Science
- Anthropology
- Earth Sciences
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #10 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #16 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
56%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1061/22
Career Outlook for degree at Carson–Newman University
Cost of Degree: $33,000Expenses: $14,964Starting Salary: $41,300Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Carson–Newman University known for?
Carson–Newman University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Carson–Newman University’s Online Degrees
BBA in Business
Degree Concentrations
- Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024 #17 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
60%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Christian Brothers University
Cost of Degree: $35,520Expenses: $13,574Starting Salary: $50,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Christian Brothers University known for?
Christian Brothers University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Christian Brothers University’s Online Degrees
BA in Professional Psychology
Degree Concentrations
- Criminal Justice
- Organizational Psychology
- Public Health
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Psychology; Organizational Psychology
Degree Concentrations
- Business Law
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Organization and Management
- International Business
- Human Resources Management
- Marketing
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Psychology; Public Health
Degree Concentrations
- Principles of Epidemiology
- Health Policy and Management
- Global Public Health
- Public Health of Mental Illness
- Social and Behavioral Public Health
- Social Determinants of Health and Well-being
- Public Health Research Methods
- Program Planning and Evaluation
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2024
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
- #11 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #24 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
- #24 Best Online Associate in General Studies
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
46%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at King University
Cost of Degree: $33,784Expenses: $15,026Starting Salary: $50,300Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is King University known for?
King University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Religious Studies
- Criminal Justice
- Literature
- Social Work
- Communications
- Business
- Education
- History
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
King University’s Online Degrees
BBA in Business
Degree Concentrations
- Business Administration
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Technology
Degree Concentrations
- Information Technology
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Arts
Degree Concentrations
- English
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Humanities
Degree Concentrations
- History
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Criminal Justice
- Communication
- Psychology
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Theology
Degree Concentrations
- Religious Studies
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSW in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Social Work
- Required Credits: 52
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
30%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1092/21
Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee Southern
Cost of Degree: $10,200Expenses: $17,600Starting Salary: $36,300Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Tennessee Southern known for?
University of Tennessee Southern’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
100%
Graduation
18%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at LeMoyne–Owen College
Cost of Degree: $12,076Expenses: $8,100Starting Salary: $30,200Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is LeMoyne–Owen College known for?
LeMoyne–Owen College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Social Work
- Literature
- Biology
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
- History
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
Tennessee’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest
Colleges and Universities in Tennessee
About one third of the higher learning institutes in Tennessee are public schools. Students who attend these schools can expect to pay anywhere between $4,000 to $13,000 in tuition and have the option to pursue degrees in fields such as economics, history, nursing, literature, education, and criminal justice. Tennessee’s largest public school, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, boasts some impressive alumni, including Oprah Winfrey, Kurt Vonnegut, and Cormac McCarthy. The private school alumni are equally as notable. For example, author James Patterson and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Muhammad Yunus both attended Vanderbilt University in Nashville.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
Tennessee also offers nearly 30 religiously affiliated schools, the largest being Belmont University in Nashville, located just blocks from the famous Music Row. Here, students can study a wide range of fields including Christian leadership, audio engineering technology, and biophysics. Additionally, Tennessee offers students several loan forgiveness programs. Math and science teachers, minority teachers, and registered nurses interested in becoming teachers or administrators who meet certain requirements may be eligible.
Tennessee is home to mouthwatering barbecues, electrified blues, and the sweeping majesty of the Smoky Mountains National Park. And with access to countless historic sites, unique museums, and lush green spaces, students attending one of the more than 60 colleges and universities in The Volunteer State will have plenty to do and see in their downtime.
Discover more about the top programs and higher education learning opportunities available in Tennessee.
What are Tennessee’s Colleges & Universities?
- 14 Research Universities
- 21 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 14 Graduate Schools
- 9 Public Colleges & Universities
- 26 Private Colleges & Universities
- 21 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 24 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 15 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 13 Community Colleges
- 21 Online Colleges