Best Colleges in Tennessee 2023

Best Colleges in Tennessee 2023
By James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Here are the best colleges and universities in Tennessee. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.

10 Best Colleges in Tennesee

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  1. Vanderbilt University
    2. 64%
  2. University of Tennessee
    3. 58%
  3. Fisk University
    4. 48%
  4. University of Memphis
    5. 47%
  5. Rhodes College
    6. 39%
  6. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
    7. 38%
  7. Tennessee State University
    8. 37%
  8. Middle Tennessee State University
    9. 37%
  9. Cumberland University
    10. 36%
  10. Sewanee: The University of the South
    11. 35%
  1. LeMoyne–Owen College
    2. 98%
  2. Christian Brothers University
    3. 97%
  3. University of Memphis
    4. 95%
  4. Austin Peay State University
    5. 93%
  5. University of Tennessee Southern
    6. 92%
  6. Belmont University
    7. 88%
  7. Freed–Hardeman University
    8. 88%
  8. East Tennessee State University
    9. 87%
  9. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
    10. 86%
  10. Lee University
    11. 83%
  1. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
    2. 18 to 1
  2. Tennessee Tech
    3. 18 to 1
  3. Tusculum University
    4. 18 to 1
  4. University of Tennessee
    5. 17 to 1
  5. Cumberland University
    6. 17 to 1
  6. Lane College
    7. 17 to 1
  7. Middle Tennessee State University
    8. 17 to 1
  8. East Tennessee State University
    9. 16 to 1
  9. University of Memphis
    10. 16 to 1
  10. University of Tennessee at Martin
    11. 16 to 1
  1. Vanderbilt University
    2. $56,966
  2. Rhodes College
    3. $50,910
  3. Sewanee: The University of the South
    4. $49,418
  4. Belmont University
    5. $38,430
  5. Maryville College
    6. $37,016
  6. Lipscomb University
    7. $35,752
  7. Union University
    8. $35,510
  8. Christian Brothers University
    9. $34,820
  9. King University
    10. $32,838
  10. Carson–Newman University
    11. $31,320
  1. Vanderbilt University
    2. $51,600
  2. Rhodes College
    3. $50,600
  3. Belmont University
    4. $24,300
  4. Fisk University
    5. $21,238
  5. Tennessee Wesleyan University
    6. $20,870
  6. Lincoln Memorial University
    7. $19,654
  7. Sewanee: The University of the South
    8. $17,963
  8. Lipscomb University
    9. $17,100
  9. Lee University
    10. $14,850
  10. King University
    11. $14,207
  1. Daymar Institute
    2. 11%
  2. Bethel University
    3. 13%
  3. Freed–Hardeman University
    4. 15%
  4. Welch College
    5. 15%
  5. Tusculum University
    6. 15%
  6. LeMoyne–Owen College
    7. 17%
  7. Bryan College
    8. 20%
  8. Southern Adventist University
    9. 20%
  9. Carson–Newman University
    10. 20%
  10. Trevecca Nazarene University
    11. 22%
  1. Vanderbilt University
    2. 7%
  2. Bethel University
    3. 50%
  3. Union University
    4. 53%
  4. Rhodes College
    5. 57%
  5. Cumberland University
    6. 58%
  6. Tennessee Wesleyan University
    7. 60%
  7. Sewanee: The University of the South
    8. 60%
  8. Fisk University
    9. 61%
  9. King University
    10. 66%
  10. Middle Tennessee State University
    11. 68%
  1. Vanderbilt University
    2. 8 to 1
  2. Welch College
    3. 9 to 1
  3. Rhodes College
    4. 9 to 1
  4. Sewanee: The University of the South
    5. 10 to 1
  5. Daymar Institute
    6. 10 to 1
  6. Union University
    7. 10 to 1
  7. Christian Brothers University
    8. 11 to 1
  8. King University
    9. 11 to 1
  9. LeMoyne–Owen College
    10. 11 to 1
  10. Tennessee Wesleyan University
    11. 11 to 1
  1. Austin Peay State University
    2. $6,816
  2. Tennessee State University
    3. $7,128
  3. Middle Tennessee State University
    4. $7,344
  4. East Tennessee State University
    5. $7,486
  5. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
    6. $7,992
  6. University of Memphis
    7. $8,352
  7. University of Tennessee at Martin
    8. $8,378
  8. Tennessee Tech
    9. $8,520
  9. University of Tennessee Southern
    10. $10,200
  10. University of Tennessee
    11. $11,332
  1. Tusculum University
    2. $7,200
  2. Cumberland University
    3. $7,500
  3. Welch College
    4. $8,100
  4. Austin Peay State University
    5. $8,226
  5. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
    6. $8,618
  6. East Tennessee State University
    7. $8,784
  7. University of Tennessee Southern
    8. $8,910
  8. University of Tennessee at Martin
    9. $9,278
  9. University of Memphis
    10. $9,378
  10. Middle Tennessee State University
    11. $9,396

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?

Tennessee’s Best Overall

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

Tennesee' Best Colleges and Universities Badge
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We’ve identified 35 colleges and universities in Tennesee that meet our criteria. This list of the top 25 colleges in Tennesee below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in Tennesee.

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Best Colleges in Tennesee 2022

  3. #3

    University of Memphis

    Memphis , TN
    #2 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #3 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2023 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/22

    What 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
  7. #6

    Tennessee State University

    Nashville , TN
    #3 HBCU Doctoral Programs Online #5 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2000-2020 #6 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #4 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    30%

    Student body

    6K

    What is Tennessee State University known for?

    Tennessee State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
  10. #9

    East Tennessee State University

    Johnson City , TN
    #5 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #6 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/23

    What is East Tennessee State University known for?

    East Tennessee State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
  11. #10

    University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

    Chattanooga , TN
    #6 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #7 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2023 #7 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/23

    What is University of Tennessee at Chattanooga known for?

    University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
  14. #12

    Lincoln Memorial University

    Harrogate , TN
    #4 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #6 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #8 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2023 #9 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $24K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/22

    What 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
  15. #13

    Tennessee Tech

    Cookeville , TN
    #7 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #9 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2023 #10 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1150/24

    What is Tennessee Tech known for?

    Tennessee Tech’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
  16. #14

    Lipscomb University

    Nashville , TN
    #19 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2023 #4 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #5 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #7 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1195/25

    What is Lipscomb University known for?

    Lipscomb University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
  17. #15

    University of Tennessee at Martin

    Martin , TN
    #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #8 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    6K

    What is University of Tennessee at Martin known for?

    University of Tennessee at Martin’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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. #16

    Bryan College

    Dayton , TN
    #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023 #5 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #6 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2023
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    1K

    What is Bryan College known for?

    Bryan College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Bryan College’s Online Degrees

    BS in Applied Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Leadership
    • Healthcare Management
    • Human Resource Management or Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Communication Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  20. #17

    Austin Peay State University

    Clarksville , TN
    #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #9 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1053/21

    What is Austin Peay State University known for?

    Austin Peay State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
  22. #19

    Union University

    Jackson , TN
    #7 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #8 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #10 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    53%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1200/26

    What is Union University known for?

    Union University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
  23. #20

    King University

    Bristol , TN
    #8 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #9 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/22

    What is King University known for?

    King University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
  25. #21

    Cumberland University

    Lebanon , TN
    #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #10 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $25K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    2K

    What is Cumberland University known for?

    Cumberland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Cumberland University’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Nursing
    • Required Credits: 125
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  26. #22

    Christian Brothers University

    Memphis , TN
    #9 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2023 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    2K

    What 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
  27. #23

    Carson–Newman University

    Jefferson City , TN
    #10 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2023

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1040/22

    What 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
  28. #24

    Maryville College

    Maryville , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1020/24

    What is Maryville College known for?

    Maryville College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  29. #25

    Southern Adventist University

    Collegedale , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/23

    What is Southern Adventist University known for?

    Southern Adventist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Southern Adventist University’s Online Degrees

    Bachelor of Science to Post Master's in Doctor of Nursing Practice
    • Required Credits: 77
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
  31. #26

    Tennessee Wesleyan University

    Athens , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    60%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    955/22

    What is Tennessee Wesleyan University known for?

    Tennessee Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    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
  32. #27

    Trevecca Nazarene University

    Nashville , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1146/22

    What is Trevecca Nazarene University known for?

    Trevecca Nazarene University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Trevecca Nazarene University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Health Care Administration
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Christian Ministry
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management and Leadership
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
  34. #29

    Welch College

    Gallatin , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    <1K

    What is Welch College known for?

    Welch College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Welch College’s Online Degrees

    BS in Theological Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • General Christian Ministries
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  35. #30

    Bethel University

    McKenzie , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    50%

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    987/18

    What is Bethel University known for?

    Bethel University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Bethel University ’s Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Emergency Services Management
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  37. #31

    LeMoyne–Owen College

    Memphis , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    98%

    Graduation

    18%

    Student body

    <1K

    What is LeMoyne–Owen College known for?

    LeMoyne–Owen College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  38. #32

    University of Tennessee Southern

    Pulaski , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    34%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1017/20

    What is University of Tennessee Southern known for?

    University of Tennessee Southern’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  39. #33

    Freed–Hardeman University

    Henderson , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/24

    What is Freed–Hardeman University known for?

    Freed–Hardeman University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  40. #34

    Tusculum University

    Greeneville , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1002/21

    What is Tusculum University known for?

    Tusculum University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Tusculum University’s Online Degrees

    Bachelor of Independent Studies in English major
    Degree Concentrations
    • Creative Writing
    • Literature
    • Communication & Public Relations
    • Education 6-12
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Bachelor of Independent Studies in Criminal Justice
    • 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
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  41. #35

    Daymar Institute

    Nashville , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $22K

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    <1K

    What is Daymar Institute known for?

    Daymar Institute’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

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Tennesee’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest

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2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. Vanderbilt University
  2. Rhodes College
  3. University of Tennessee
  4. Sewanee: The University of the South
  5. Fisk University
  6. Tennessee State University
  7. Bryan College
  8. Southern Adventist University
  9. Middle Tennessee State University
  10. University of Memphis
  11. Lincoln Memorial University
  12. Maryville College
  13. Carson–Newman University
  14. University of Tennessee at Martin
  15. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
  16. King University
  17. Tusculum University
  18. Lipscomb University
  19. Lee University
  20. Cumberland University
  21. Union University
  22. Christian Brothers University
  23. Tennessee Tech
  24. East Tennessee State University
  25. Trevecca Nazarene University
  26. Freed–Hardeman University
  27. Tennessee Wesleyan University
  28. Belmont University
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