Best Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Here are the best colleges and universities in Tennessee. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.
Key Takeaways
- Tennessee’s top colleges emphasize programs in fields like history, music, and cultural studies, offering students unique opportunities to explore the region’s rich heritage and influence, particularly in areas such as civil rights and music history.
- Leading colleges in Tennessee are known for their robust programs in healthcare, engineering, and business, providing students with hands-on learning experiences, industry partnerships, and pathways to high-demand careers.
- Tennessee colleges foster a welcoming campus environment with numerous student organizations, community engagement projects, and vibrant traditions, appealing to students seeking a tight-knit and active college experience.
10 Best Colleges in Tennessee in 2026
Below are the top 25 colleges and universities in Tennessee for 2026, drawn from a broader set of 35 colleges and universities in Tennessee that meet our criteria. The list highlights institutions that award bachelor’s degrees and includes fully accredited public and private schools across urban and rural settings, with attention to program variety, campus resources, and student outcomes.
Selections are based on a practical synthesis of academic reputation, program strength, faculty influence, and demonstrable student supports—factors that matter for preparing graduates in fields such as engineering, health professions, business, and the liberal arts. Use this ranking to compare fits by size, mission, cost considerations, and areas of academic emphasis as you narrow college choices in Tennessee for 2026.
Best Colleges in Tennessee
- #15 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2026 #1 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2026 #1 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$71K
Acceptance
6%
Graduation
93%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1535/34
Career Outlook for degree at Vanderbilt University
Cost of Degree: $63,946Expenses: $25,644Starting Salary: $99,080Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #1 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #2 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2026 #2 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
42%
Graduation
74%
Student body
39K
Median SAT/ACT
1285/28
Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee
Cost of Degree: $13,484Expenses: $20,194Starting Salary: $65,090Cost Recoup Time: 10 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
- #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #2 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #3 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2026 #3 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
72%
Graduation
53%
Student body
25K
Median SAT/ACT
1047/21
Career Outlook for degree at University of Memphis
Cost of Degree: $10,344Expenses: $17,726Starting Salary: $52,227Cost Recoup Time: 11 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
- Format: Fully online
BA in Anthropology
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Communication
Degree Concentrations
- Communication Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in English
Degree Concentrations
- African American Literature
- Professional Writing
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Health Sciences major in Healthcare Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Health Sciences
- Format: Fully online
BS in Healthcare Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Healthcare Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Hospitality and Resort Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Accounting
- Business Information and Technology
- Management
- Marketing Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Business Administration in Business Information and Technology
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Business Administration in Finance
Degree Concentrations
- Business Finance
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Business Administration major in Finance
Degree Concentrations
- Real Estate
- Finance
- Insurance
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Health Services
- Child Life Specialist
- Legal Studies
- Early Care and Learning
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Organizational Leadership
- Information Technology
- Format: Fully online
BA in Public Relations
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in History
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Philosophy
Degree Concentrations
- Applied Ethics
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Sport and Leisure Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
- #3 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #4 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2026 #1 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$27K
Acceptance
37%
Graduation
40%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1325/21
Career Outlook for degree at Fisk University
Cost of Degree: $24,298Expenses: $17,198Starting Salary: $45,614Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
- #5 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2026 #5 Best Online HBCU Doctoral Programs 2026 #8 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
34%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
965/18
Career Outlook for degree at Tennessee State University
Cost of Degree: $8,568Expenses: $17,300Starting Salary: $47,151Cost Recoup Time: 11 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
- Format: Fully online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Format: Fully online
BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Nursing
- Completion Time: 8-12 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Professional Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Health Administration
- Information Technology
- International Organizational Leadership
- Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Social Work
- Format: Fully online
BS in Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Urban Studies
- #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #4 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #5 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2026 #5 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
56%
Student body
13K
Median SAT/ACT
1111/23
Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Cost of Degree: $10,144Expenses: $16,402Starting Salary: $56,442Cost Recoup Time: 10 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
- #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #5 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #6 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2026 #6 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
54%
Student body
24K
Median SAT/ACT
1120/23
Career Outlook for degree at Middle Tennessee State University
Cost of Degree: $9,506Expenses: $18,314Starting Salary: $52,702Cost 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
- #1 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #2 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #3 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$59K
Acceptance
50%
Graduation
81%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1393/29
Career Outlook for degree at Rhodes College
Cost of Degree: $54,892Expenses: $16,654Starting Salary: $79,506Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #4 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #7 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$44K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
71%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1255/27
Career Outlook for degree at Belmont University
Cost of Degree: $41,320Expenses: $21,250Starting Salary: $62,789Cost Recoup Time: 16 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
- #3 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #5 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
57%
Graduation
79%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1325/29
Career Outlook for degree at Sewanee: The University of the South
Cost of Degree: $53,704Expenses: $18,288Starting Salary: $72,175Cost Recoup Time: 16 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
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2026 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #6 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #7 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
55%
Student body
15K
Median SAT/ACT
1090/22
Career Outlook for degree at East Tennessee State University
Cost of Degree: $9,706Expenses: $18,550Starting Salary: $48,646Cost Recoup Time: 11 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: 48 months
BS in Education
Degree Concentrations
- Early Childhood Education
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
BS in General Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
BA in Humanities
Degree Concentrations
- English
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
BS in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Human Services
- Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Dentistry
Degree Concentrations
- Dental Hygiene
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Medical
Degree Concentrations
- Allied Health Leadership
- Respiratory Therapy
- Radiologic Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
BSN in Nursing
Degree Concentrations
- Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Science
Degree Concentrations
- Surveying & Mapping
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #7 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #4 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
51%
Student body
8K
Median SAT/ACT
1090/22
Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee at Martin
Cost of Degree: $10,194Expenses: $13,380Starting Salary: $48,116Cost Recoup Time: 10 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
- Completion Time: 2 years
- Format: Fully online
BS/BA in History and Philosophy
- Format: Fully online
BS/BA in Criminal Justice
Degree Concentrations
- Law Enforcement
- Corrections
- Courts and Law
- Forensics
- Generalist
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 4 years
BS in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 4 years
BS in Business Administration major in Agricultural Business
Degree Concentrations
- Agricultural Business
- Farm and Ranch Management
- Veterinary Technology and Management
- Required Credits: 30
- Format: Fully online
BS in Business Administration major in Information Systems
Degree Concentrations
- Management Information Systems
- Business Communication and Information Systems
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 4 years
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 123
BA in Philosophy
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 4 years
- Format: Fully online
- #4 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #6 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #5 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$29K
Acceptance
67%
Graduation
45%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at Cumberland University
Cost of Degree: $27,840Expenses: $16,900Starting Salary: $66,885Cost Recoup Time: 12 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: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
- #19 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2026 #4 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #5 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #7 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$43K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
71%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1270/26
Career Outlook for degree at Lipscomb University
Cost of Degree: $38,824Expenses: $20,854Starting Salary: $62,332Cost Recoup Time: 16 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
- Format: Fully online
BA/BS in Data Analytics
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA/BS in Entertainment Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Psychology
Degree Concentrations
- Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC)
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA/BS in Integrated Studies
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA/BS in Psychology
Degree Concentrations
- Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC)
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 33-60
- Completion Time: 18 months
- Format: Fully online
BA/BS in Business Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA/BS in Organizational Communication
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Customer Experience
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Data Analytics
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Entertainment Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Integrated Studies
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Public Administration
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Strategic Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Supply Chain and Operations Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Technology Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA/BS in Public Administration
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Organizational Communication
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA/BS in Strategic Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA/BS in Supply Chain and Operations Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA/BS in Technology Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Studies in Business Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Format: Fully online
- #6 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #8 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #9 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2026 #10 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$27K
Acceptance
63%
Graduation
49%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1105/21
Career Outlook for degree at Lincoln Memorial University
Cost of Degree: $26,150Expenses: $17,408Starting Salary: $59,630Cost Recoup Time: 13 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
- Format: Fully online
- #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #8 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #10 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2026 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Tennessee
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
76%
Graduation
56%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1179/23
Career Outlook for degree at Tennessee Tech
Cost of Degree: $10,084Expenses: $17,182Starting Salary: $52,901Cost Recoup Time: 10 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
- Format: Fully online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 4 years
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #7 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #9 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
100%
Graduation
44%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at King University
Cost of Degree: $34,800Expenses: $15,484Starting Salary: $65,781Cost Recoup Time: 14 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: 16 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Technology
Degree Concentrations
- Information Technology
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion Time: 16 months
- Format: Fully online
BA in Arts
Degree Concentrations
- English
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: 16 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Humanities
Degree Concentrations
- History
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: 16 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Criminal Justice
- Communication
- Psychology
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: 16 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Theology
Degree Concentrations
- Religious Studies
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: 16 months
- Format: Fully online
BSW in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Social Work
- Required Credits: 52
- Completion Time: 16 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Medical
Degree Concentrations
- Healthcare Administration
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: 16 months
- Format: Fully online
- #6 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #8 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #10 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$41K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
48%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1103/24
Career Outlook for degree at Maryville College
Cost of Degree: $38,514Expenses: $17,214Starting Salary: $50,006Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Maryville College known for?
Maryville College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #9 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #2 Best Online Associate in Human Services #4 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
Tuition + fees
$41K
Acceptance
60%
Graduation
75%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1275/26
Career Outlook for degree at Union University
Cost of Degree: $20,302Expenses: $20,826Starting Salary: $58,910Cost Recoup Time: 13 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
- Format: Fully online
BS in Organizational Leadership
Degree Concentrations
- Organizational Management
- Project Management
- Health Management
- Church Leadership
- Completion Time: 18 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Nursing
- Completion Time: 18 months
- Format: Fully online
- #23 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2026 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #8 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #10 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$40K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
55%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1200/21
Career Outlook for degree at Christian Brothers University
Cost of Degree: $37,300Expenses: $14,252Starting Salary: $55,642Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
- Format: Fully 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
- Format: Fully online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 122
- Format: Fully 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
- Format: Fully online
BA in Professional Psychology; Criminal Justice
Degree Concentrations
- Public Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Criminology
- Criminal Law
- Corrections
- Policing
- Juvenile Justice
- Format: Fully online
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #9 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$13K
Graduation
18%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Lane College
Cost of Degree: $11,790Expenses: $11,890Starting Salary: $35,657Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lane College known for?
Lane College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- History
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Education
- Religious Studies
- Communications
- Sociology
- Literature
- Physics
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Tennessee
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
42%
Student body
12K
Median SAT/ACT
984/21
Career Outlook for degree at Austin Peay State University
Cost of Degree: $8,675Expenses: $17,840Starting Salary: $48,900Cost Recoup Time: 11 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: 48 months
- Format: Fully 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: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Criminal Justice - Homeland Security
- Public Management
- Sociology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
BA in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Political Science
- Professional Communication - Information Specialist
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Medical
Degree Concentrations
- Medical Laboratory Science - Mlt To Mls
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
BSN in Nursing
Degree Concentrations
- Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
BS in Science
Degree Concentrations
- Agri-Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
Tuition + fees
$25K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
62%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1135/23
Career Outlook for degree at Lee University
Cost of Degree: $22,690Expenses: $14,610Starting Salary: $47,741Cost Recoup Time: 14 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
- #6 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2026 #7 Best Online Associate in Human Services #9 Best Online MBA in Data Analytics Ranked for Students in 2026 #10 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
51%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1107/21
Career Outlook for degree at Trevecca Nazarene University
Cost of Degree: $30,090Starting Salary: $56,862What is Trevecca Nazarene University known for?
Trevecca Nazarene University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Physics
- Psychology
- Engineering
- Sociology
- Literature
- Communications
- Political Science
- History
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
Trevecca Nazarene University’s Online Degrees
BS in Health Care Administration
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion Time: 18 months
- Format: Fully online
BA in Christian Ministry
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion Time: 18 months
- Format: Fully online
BA in Management and Leadership
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion Time: 18 months
BA in Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
32%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1007/21
Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee Southern
Cost of Degree: $10,506Expenses: $17,600Starting Salary: $46,623Cost Recoup Time: 12 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:
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2026 #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #7 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2026 #11 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students
Tuition + fees
$22K
Graduation
53%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Bryan College
Cost of Degree: $18,900Expenses: $13,470Starting Salary: $55,127Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bryan College known for?
Bryan College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Education
- Biology
- Literature
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Political Science
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
Bryan College’s Online Degrees
BS in Applied Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BA in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Leadership
- Healthcare Management
- Human Resource Management or Marketing
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Communication Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Format: Fully online
- #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #15 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #18 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
49%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Tennessee Wesleyan University
Cost of Degree: $29,264Expenses: $13,816Starting Salary: $53,474Cost Recoup Time: 14 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
- Format: Fully online
BS in Nursing
- Completion Time: 1 years
- Format: Fully online
- #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #16 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #17 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2026 #19 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
54%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1085/22
Career Outlook for degree at Carson–Newman University
Cost of Degree: $34,700Expenses: $15,843Starting Salary: $51,756Cost Recoup Time: 16 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: 48 months
- Format: Fully online
Tuition + fees
$29K
Acceptance
65%
Graduation
56%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1160/22
Career Outlook for degree at Southern Adventist University
Cost of Degree: $25,590Expenses: $13,910Starting Salary: $58,780Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Southern Adventist University known for?
Southern Adventist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Medical
- Religious Studies
- Economics
- Social Work
- Literature
- Computer Science
- History
- Business
- Engineering
Most Influential Alumni
Southern Adventist University’s Online Degrees
Bachelor of Science to Post Master's in Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Required Credits: 77
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
24%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at LeMoyne–Owen College
Cost of Degree: $12,076Expenses: $8,100Starting Salary: $41,221Cost Recoup Time: 10 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
- #10 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2026 #15 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #17 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2026 #21 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
72%
Graduation
39%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Tusculum University
Cost of Degree: $28,500Expenses: $16,750Starting Salary: $48,636Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Tusculum University known for?
Tusculum University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Communications
- Education
- Psychology
- Political Science
- History
- Business
- Criminal Justice
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: 2 years
- Format: Fully online
Bachelor of Independent Studies in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 2 years
- Format: Fully online
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: 18-20 months
BS in Business Administration
- Format: Fully online
BS in Nursing
- #13 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry #16 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2026 #19 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$22K
Graduation
55%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Welch College
Cost of Degree: $20,796Expenses: $17,116Starting Salary: $44,636Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- Format: Fully online
- #9 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA #13 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #18 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2026 #21 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$19K
Acceptance
60%
Graduation
29%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
975/18
Career Outlook for degree at Bethel University
Cost of Degree: $17,530Expenses: $13,745Starting Salary: $49,011Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bethel University known for?
Bethel University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Bethel University ’s Online Degrees
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 128
- Format: Fully online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 128
- Format: Fully online
BS in Emergency Services Management
- Required Credits: 128
- Format: Fully online
BS in Business Leadership
Degree Concentrations
- Customer Relationship Management
- Fire Science
- Business Management
- Information Technology
- Healthcare Management
- Required Credits: 128
- Format: Fully online
- #14 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #17 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs #24 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2026
Tuition + fees
$26K
Acceptance
60%
Graduation
73%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1019/22
Career Outlook for degree at Freed–Hardeman University
Cost of Degree: $25,000Expenses: $13,590Starting Salary: $48,969Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Freed–Hardeman University known for?
Freed–Hardeman University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Religious Studies
- Psychology
- Nursing
- Communications
- Literature
- History
- Business
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$22K
Graduation
74%
Student body
<1K
What is Daymar Institute known for?
Daymar Institute’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tennesee’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 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.
- Vanderbilt University
- Rhodes College
- University of Tennessee
- Sewanee: The University of the South
- Fisk University
- Tennessee State University
- Bryan College
- Southern Adventist University
- Middle Tennessee State University
- University of Memphis
- Lincoln Memorial University
- Maryville College
- Carson–Newman University
- University of Tennessee at Martin
- University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
- King University
- Tusculum University
- Lipscomb University
- Lee University
- Cumberland University
- Union University
- Christian Brothers University
- Tennessee Tech
- East Tennessee State University
- Trevecca Nazarene University
- Freed–Hardeman University
- Tennessee Wesleyan University
- Belmont University
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