Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024

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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. University of Tennessee
  3. University of Memphis
  4. Middle Tennessee State University
  5. Fisk University
  6. Tennessee State University
  7. Rhodes College
  8. Sewanee: The University of the South
  9. East Tennessee State University
  10. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
  1. Vanderbilt University
  2. University of Tennessee
  3. Fisk University
  4. University of Memphis
  5. Tennessee State University
  6. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
  7. Middle Tennessee State University
  8. Rhodes College
  9. East Tennessee State University
  10. Sewanee: The University of the South
  1. LeMoyne–Owen College 98%
  2. Christian Brothers University 97%
  3. University of Memphis 95%
  4. Austin Peay State University 93%
  5. University of Tennessee Southern 92%
  6. Belmont University 88%
  7. Freed–Hardeman University 88%
  8. East Tennessee State University 87%
  9. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga 86%
  10. Lee University 83%
  1. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga 18 to 1
  2. Tennessee Tech 18 to 1
  3. Tusculum University 18 to 1
  4. University of Tennessee 17 to 1
  5. Cumberland University 17 to 1
  6. Lane College 17 to 1
  7. Middle Tennessee State University 17 to 1
  8. East Tennessee State University 16 to 1
  9. University of Tennessee at Martin 16 to 1
  10. University of Memphis 16 to 1
  1. Vanderbilt University $56,966
  2. Rhodes College $50,910
  3. Sewanee: The University of the South $49,418
  4. Belmont University $38,430
  5. Maryville College $37,016
  6. Lipscomb University $35,752
  7. Union University $35,510
  8. Christian Brothers University $34,820
  9. King University $32,838
  10. Carson–Newman University $31,320
  1. Vanderbilt University $51,600
  2. Rhodes College $50,600
  3. Belmont University $24,300
  4. Fisk University $21,238
  5. Tennessee Wesleyan University $20,870
  6. Lincoln Memorial University $19,654
  7. Sewanee: The University of the South $17,963
  8. Lipscomb University $17,100
  9. Lee University $14,850
  10. King University $14,207
  1. Daymar Institute
  2. Tusculum University
  3. Freed–Hardeman University
  4. University of Tennessee Southern
  5. LeMoyne–Owen College
  6. Bethel University
  7. Welch College
  8. Lane College
  9. Trevecca Nazarene University
  10. Tennessee Wesleyan University
  1. Daymar Institute
  2. Bethel University
  3. Freed–Hardeman University
  4. Welch College
  5. Tusculum University
  6. LeMoyne–Owen College
  7. Southern Adventist University
  8. Carson–Newman University
  9. Bryan College
  10. Tennessee Wesleyan University
  1. Vanderbilt University 7%
  2. Bethel University 50%
  3. Union University 53%
  4. Rhodes College 57%
  5. Cumberland University 58%
  6. Tennessee Wesleyan University 60%
  7. Sewanee: The University of the South 60%
  8. Fisk University 61%
  9. King University 66%
  10. Middle Tennessee State University 68%
  1. Vanderbilt University 8 to 1
  2. Welch College 9 to 1
  3. Rhodes College 9 to 1
  4. Sewanee: The University of the South 10 to 1
  5. Daymar Institute 10 to 1
  6. Union University 10 to 1
  7. Christian Brothers University 11 to 1
  8. King University 11 to 1
  9. LeMoyne–Owen College 11 to 1
  10. Tennessee Wesleyan University 11 to 1
  1. Austin Peay State University $6,816
  2. Tennessee State University $7,128
  3. Middle Tennessee State University $7,344
  4. East Tennessee State University $7,486
  5. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga $7,992
  6. University of Memphis $8,352
  7. University of Tennessee at Martin $8,378
  8. Tennessee Tech $8,520
  9. University of Tennessee Southern $10,200
  10. University of Tennessee $11,332
  1. Tusculum University $7,200
  2. Cumberland University $7,500
  3. Welch College $8,100
  4. Austin Peay State University $8,226
  5. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga $8,618
  6. East Tennessee State University $8,784
  7. University of Tennessee Southern $8,910
  8. University of Tennessee at Martin $9,278
  9. University of Memphis $9,378
  10. Middle Tennessee State University $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 2023

  1. #1

    Vanderbilt University

    Nashville , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $57K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Vanderbilt University

    Cost of Degree: $60,348
    Expenses: $24,064
    Starting Salary: $86,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  2. #3

    University of Memphis

    Memphis , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/22

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Memphis

    Cost of Degree: $10,056
    Expenses: $18,080
    Starting Salary: $43,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  3. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Middle Tennessee State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,232
    Expenses: $15,322
    Starting Salary: $44,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  4. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    30%

    Student body

    8K

    Career Outlook for degree at Tennessee State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,336
    Expenses: $15,556
    Starting Salary: $39,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  5. #7

    Rhodes College

    Memphis , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $51K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1310/29

    Career Outlook for degree at Rhodes College

    Cost of Degree: $52,310
    Expenses: $16,040
    Starting Salary: $64,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  6. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $49K

    Acceptance

    60%

    Graduation

    80%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1250/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Sewanee: The University of the South

    Cost of Degree: $51,135
    Expenses: $17,558
    Starting Salary: $51,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  7. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    51%

    Student body

    16K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/23

    Career Outlook for degree at East Tennessee State University

    Cost of Degree: $9,438
    Expenses: $17,323
    Starting Salary: $40,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  8. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/23

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

    Cost of Degree: $9,848
    Expenses: $14,950
    Starting Salary: $42,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s Online Degrees

    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
  9. #11

    Belmont University

    Nashville , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1210/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Belmont University

    Cost of Degree: $39,850
    Expenses: $20,630
    Starting Salary: $51,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  10. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $24K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Lincoln Memorial University

    Cost of Degree: $25,180
    Expenses: $16,540
    Starting Salary: $41,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  11. #13

    Tennessee Tech

    Cookeville , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1150/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Tennessee Tech

    Cost of Degree: $9,802
    Expenses: $17,182
    Starting Salary: $46,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  12. #14

    Lipscomb University

    Nashville , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1195/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Lipscomb University

    Cost of Degree: $37,152
    Expenses: $19,536
    Starting Salary: $51,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  13. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    8K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee at Martin

    Cost of Degree: $9,912
    Expenses: $12,260
    Starting Salary: $40,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  14. #16

    Bryan College

    Dayton , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Bryan College

    Cost of Degree: $17,900
    Expenses: $12,960
    Starting Salary: $44,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  15. #17

    Austin Peay State University

    Clarksville , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    93%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1053/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Austin Peay State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,431
    Expenses: $22,434
    Starting Salary: $38,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  16. #18

    Lee University

    Cleveland , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $21K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1085/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Lee University

    Cost of Degree: $21,730
    Expenses: $14,070
    Starting Salary: $37,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  17. #19

    Union University

    Jackson , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    53%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1200/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Union University

    Cost of Degree: $19,363
    Expenses: $19,460
    Starting Salary: $49,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  18. #20

    King University

    Bristol , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    46%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/22

    Career Outlook for degree at King University

    Cost of Degree: $33,784
    Expenses: $15,026
    Starting Salary: $50,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  19. #21

    Cumberland University

    Lebanon , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $25K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Cumberland University

    Cost of Degree: $26,400
    Expenses: $16,280
    Starting Salary: $43,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  20. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Christian Brothers University

    Cost of Degree: $35,520
    Expenses: $13,574
    Starting Salary: $50,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  21. #23

    Carson–Newman University

    Jefferson City , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1040/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Carson–Newman University

    Cost of Degree: $33,000
    Expenses: $14,964
    Starting Salary: $41,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  22. #24

    Maryville College

    Maryville , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    56%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1020/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Maryville College

    Cost of Degree: $37,758
    Expenses: $16,800
    Starting Salary: $44,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  23. Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    74%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Southern Adventist University

    Cost of Degree: $23,870
    Expenses: $13,730
    Starting Salary: $46,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  24. Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    60%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    955/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Tennessee Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $27,350
    Expenses: $12,500
    Starting Salary: $43,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What 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
  25. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1146/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Trevecca Nazarene University

    Cost of Degree: $28,500
    Expenses: $12,410
    Starting Salary: $49,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  26. #28

    Lane College

    Jackson , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Graduation

    24%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lane College

    Cost of Degree: $11,790
    Expenses: $11,890
    Starting Salary: $27,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Lane College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

  27. #29

    Welch College

    Gallatin , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Welch College

    Cost of Degree: $20,170
    Expenses: $16,870
    Starting Salary: $31,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  28. #30

    Bethel University

    McKenzie , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    50%

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    987/18

    Career Outlook for degree at Bethel University

    Cost of Degree: $16,871
    Expenses: $15,846
    Starting Salary: $43,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What 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
    • 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
  29. #31

    LeMoyne–Owen College

    Memphis , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    98%

    Graduation

    18%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at LeMoyne–Owen College

    Cost of Degree: $12,076
    Expenses: $8,100
    Starting Salary: $30,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is LeMoyne–Owen College known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

  30. Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    34%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1017/20

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Tennessee Southern

    Cost of Degree: $10,200
    Expenses: $17,600
    Starting Salary: $36,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Tennessee Southern known for?

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

  31. Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Freed–Hardeman University

    Cost of Degree: $24,300
    Expenses: $13,000
    Starting Salary: $41,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Freed–Hardeman University known for?

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

    Most Influential Alumni

  32. #34

    Tusculum University

    Greeneville , TN
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    41%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1002/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Tusculum University

    Cost of Degree: $27,208
    Expenses: $17,914
    Starting Salary: $42,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    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
  33. #35

    Daymar Institute

    Nashville , TN

    Tuition + fees

    $22K

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Daymar Institute

    Cost of Degree: $22,225
    Starting Salary: $25,700
    What is Daymar Institute known for?

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

Back to Top

Tennesee’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest

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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