Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Private colleges, unlike large public institutions, can be a great option for students wanting a more intimate campus experience, more personal attention from excellent professors, and more immediate access to support services. Here is our list of the best private colleges in Tennessee.
10 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee
- Vanderbilt University
- Fisk University
- Rhodes College
- Sewanee: The University of the South
- Belmont University
- Lincoln Memorial University
- Lipscomb University
- Bryan College
- Lee University
- Union University
- Vanderbilt University
- Fisk University
- Rhodes College
- Sewanee: The University of the South
- Belmont University
- Lipscomb University
- Cumberland University
- Lincoln Memorial University
- King University
- Union University
- LeMoyne–Owen College 98%
- Christian Brothers University 97%
- University of Tennessee Southern 92%
- Belmont University 88%
- Freed–Hardeman University 88%
- Lee University 83%
- Carson–Newman University 79%
- Trevecca Nazarene University 78%
- Tusculum University 77%
- Lipscomb University 74%
- Tusculum University 18 to 1
- Cumberland University 17 to 1
- Lane College 17 to 1
- Lee University 15 to 1
- Bethel University 15 to 1
- Lipscomb University 14 to 1
- Fisk University 14 to 1
- Belmont University 14 to 1
- Carson–Newman University 14 to 1
- University of Tennessee Southern 13 to 1
- Vanderbilt University $56,966
- Rhodes College $50,910
- Sewanee: The University of the South $49,418
- Belmont University $38,430
- Maryville College $37,016
- Lipscomb University $35,752
- Union University $35,510
- Christian Brothers University $34,820
- King University $32,838
- Carson–Newman University $31,320
- Vanderbilt University $51,600
- Rhodes College $50,600
- Belmont University $24,300
- Fisk University $21,238
- Tennessee Wesleyan University $20,870
- Lincoln Memorial University $19,654
- Sewanee: The University of the South $17,963
- Lipscomb University $17,100
- Lee University $14,850
- King University $14,207
- Daymar Institute
- Tusculum University
- Freed–Hardeman University
- University of Tennessee Southern
- LeMoyne–Owen College
- Bethel University
- Welch College
- Lane College
- Trevecca Nazarene University
- Tennessee Wesleyan University
- Daymar Institute
- Bethel University
- Freed–Hardeman University
- Welch College
- Tusculum University
- LeMoyne–Owen College
- Southern Adventist University
- Carson–Newman University
- Bryan College
- Tennessee Wesleyan University
- Vanderbilt University 7%
- Bethel University 50%
- Union University 53%
- Rhodes College 57%
- Cumberland University 58%
- Tennessee Wesleyan University 60%
- Sewanee: The University of the South 60%
- Fisk University 61%
- King University 66%
- Maryville College 68%
- Vanderbilt University 8 to 1
- Welch College 9 to 1
- Rhodes College 9 to 1
- Sewanee: The University of the South 10 to 1
- Daymar Institute 10 to 1
- Union University 10 to 1
- Christian Brothers University 11 to 1
- King University 11 to 1
- LeMoyne–Owen College 11 to 1
- Tennessee Wesleyan University 11 to 1
- University of Tennessee Southern $10,200
- Lane College $11,790
- LeMoyne–Owen College $12,076
- Bryan College $17,360
- Bethel University $17,482
- Welch College $19,582
- Lee University $20,500
- Daymar Institute $22,348
- Fisk University $22,906
- Southern Adventist University $23,210
- Tusculum University $7,200
- Cumberland University $7,500
- Welch College $8,100
- University of Tennessee Southern $8,910
- Carson–Newman University $9,432
- Bryan College $9,630
- Freed–Hardeman University $10,980
- Trevecca Nazarene University $11,235
- Union University $11,618
- Bethel University $11,723
Colleges and Universities in Tennessee
About one third of the higher learning institutes in Tennessee are public schools. Students who attend these schools can expect to pay anywhere between $4,000 to $13,000 in tuition and have the option to pursue degrees in fields such as economics, history, nursing, literature, education, and criminal justice. Tennessee’s largest public school, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, boasts some impressive alumni, including Oprah Winfrey, Kurt Vonnegut, and Cormac McCarthy. The private school alumni are equally as notable. For example, author James Patterson and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Muhammad Yunus both attended Vanderbilt University in Nashville.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
Tennessee also offers nearly 30 religiously affiliated schools, the largest being Belmont University in Nashville, located just blocks from the famous Music Row. Here, students can study a wide range of fields including Christian leadership, audio engineering technology, and biophysics. Additionally, Tennessee offers students several loan forgiveness programs. Math and science teachers, minority teachers, and registered nurses interested in becoming teachers or administrators who meet certain requirements may be eligible.
Tennessee is home to mouthwatering barbecues, electrified blues, and the sweeping majesty of the Smoky Mountains National Park. And with access to countless historic sites, unique museums, and lush green spaces, students attending one of the more than 60 colleges and universities in The Volunteer State will have plenty to do and see in their downtime.
Discover more about the top programs and higher education learning opportunities available in Tennessee.
What are Tennessee’s Colleges & Universities?
- 14 Research Universities
- 21 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 14 Graduate Schools
- 9 Public Colleges & Universities
- 26 Private Colleges & Universities
- 21 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 24 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 15 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 13 Community Colleges
- 21 Online Colleges
Tennessee’s Best Overall
What is the difference between public and private colleges?
Public and private colleges and universities operate under different business models. Public colleges and universities are owned by the state and receive both state and federal funding to operate. Private colleges and universities are private companies with private funding. If you’re looking at the pros and cons of private vs. public colleges, consider that many public colleges provide diverse course offerings, influential professors, and an excellent return on your investment.
Public colleges are schools that receive most of their funding from tax revenues. As a result, the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a public university is often lower than the equivalent cost at a private college — especially for students attending a public school in their home state. Attending a college in-state is usually the cheapest option. Private universities and colleges can be very competitive with their funding opportunities, so do not simply believe that private colleges are always going to be more expensive. According to National Center for Educational Statistics, the average annual cost (tuition, fees, room and board for full-time students) at a public university was slightly over $20,000. In contrast, private universities cost, on average, nearly $43,000 annually. But in the end, the cost of college comes down to each student’s academic and financial situation.
This list is composed entirely of private colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 26 private universities in Tennessee. To be included in the list below of the best private universities in Tennessee, schools must be fully accredited, private, non-profit institution, and must offer a broad range of bachelor’s degrees.
Best Private Colleges in Tennessee
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
- #9 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #7 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Master's in Management
- #18 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$57K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
93%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1520/34
Career Outlook for degree at Vanderbilt University
Cost of Degree: $60,348Expenses: $24,064Starting Salary: $86,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Vanderbilt University known for?
Vanderbilt University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #4 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$23K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
46%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1100/23
Career Outlook for degree at Fisk University
Cost of Degree: $23,578Expenses: $16,700Starting Salary: $36,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Fisk University known for?
Fisk University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #22 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024
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: $52,310Expenses: $16,040Starting Salary: $64,800Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Rhodes College known for?
Rhodes College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Political Science
- History
- Religious Studies
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Economics
- Biology
Most Influential Alumni
- #24 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024
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: $51,135Expenses: $17,558Starting Salary: $51,700Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Sewanee: The University of the South known for?
Sewanee: The University of the South’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Literature
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- Business
- History
- Economics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
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: $39,850Expenses: $20,630Starting Salary: $51,500Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Belmont University known for?
Belmont University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2024 #3 Best Online MBA in Operations Management Ranked for Students in 2024
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: $25,180Expenses: $16,540Starting Salary: $41,600Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lincoln Memorial University known for?
Lincoln Memorial University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Lincoln Memorial University’s Online Degrees
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #19 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #5 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Counseling Degree Programs for 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Tennessee
- #7 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students
- #11 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #14 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #18 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
71%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1195/25
Career Outlook for degree at Lipscomb University
Cost of Degree: $37,152Expenses: $19,536Starting Salary: $51,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lipscomb University known for?
Lipscomb University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Nursing
- Religious Studies
- Business
- Education
- Medical
- Political Science
- History
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
Lipscomb University’s Online Degrees
BA/BS in Customer Experience
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Data Analytics
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Entertainment Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Psychology
Degree Concentrations
- Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC)
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Integrated Studies
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Psychology
Degree Concentrations
- Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC)
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 33-60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Business Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Organizational Communication
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Customer Experience
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Data Analytics
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Entertainment Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Integrated Studies
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Public Administration
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Strategic Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Supply Chain and Operations Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Technology Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Public Administration
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Studies in Organizational Communication
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Strategic Leadership
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Supply Chain and Operations Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Technology Management
- Required Credits: 126
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #5 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$17K
Graduation
58%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Bryan College
Cost of Degree: $17,900Expenses: $12,960Starting Salary: $44,500Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bryan College known for?
Bryan College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Engineering
- Education
- Business
- Biology
- Literature
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Political Science
- Communications
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
- #6 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024
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: $21,730Expenses: $14,070Starting Salary: $37,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lee University known for?
Lee University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Religious Studies
- Psychology
- Education
- Social Work
- History
- Literature
- Communications
- Business
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 Best Online Associate in Human Services #4 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2024
- #8 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee
- #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
- #12 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #14 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #18 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
53%
Graduation
68%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1200/26
Career Outlook for degree at Union University
Cost of Degree: $19,363Expenses: $19,460Starting Salary: $49,600Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Union University known for?
Union University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Religious Studies
- Economics
- Communications
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Education
- History
- Physics
- Medical
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
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #9 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2024
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
- #11 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #24 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
- #24 Best Online Associate in General Studies
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
66%
Graduation
46%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1055/22
Career Outlook for degree at King University
Cost of Degree: $33,784Expenses: $15,026Starting Salary: $50,300Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is King University known for?
King University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Religious Studies
- Criminal Justice
- Literature
- Social Work
- Communications
- Business
- Education
- Philosophy
- History
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
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #10 Best Small Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #15 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024 #19 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$25K
Acceptance
58%
Graduation
52%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Cumberland University
Cost of Degree: $26,400Expenses: $16,280Starting Salary: $43,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Cumberland University known for?
Cumberland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- History
- Political Science
- Mathematics
- Education
- Biology
- Business
- Criminal Justice
- Literature
- Medical
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
Cumberland University’s Online Degrees
BSN in Nursing
Degree Concentrations
- Nursing
- Required Credits: 125
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024 #17 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
97%
Graduation
59%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Christian Brothers University
Cost of Degree: $35,520Expenses: $13,574Starting Salary: $50,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Christian Brothers University known for?
Christian Brothers University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Christian Brothers University’s Online Degrees
BA in Professional Psychology
Degree Concentrations
- Criminal Justice
- Organizational Psychology
- Public Health
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Psychology; Organizational Psychology
Degree Concentrations
- Business Law
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Organization and Management
- International Business
- Human Resources Management
- Marketing
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Professional Psychology; Public Health
Degree Concentrations
- Principles of Epidemiology
- Health Policy and Management
- Global Public Health
- Public Health of Mental Illness
- Social and Behavioral Public Health
- Social Determinants of Health and Well-being
- Public Health Research Methods
- Program Planning and Evaluation
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #10 Best Christian Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #10 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #16 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
57%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1040/22
Career Outlook for degree at Carson–Newman University
Cost of Degree: $33,000Expenses: $14,964Starting Salary: $41,300Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Carson–Newman University known for?
Carson–Newman University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Carson–Newman University’s Online Degrees
BBA in Business
Degree Concentrations
- Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
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: $37,758Expenses: $16,800Starting Salary: $44,000Cost Recoup Time: 18 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
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: $23,870Expenses: $13,730Starting Salary: $46,300Cost Recoup Time: 14 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
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
- #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #16 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #18 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$27K
Acceptance
60%
Graduation
52%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
955/22
Career Outlook for degree at Tennessee Wesleyan University
Cost of Degree: $27,350Expenses: $12,500Starting Salary: $43,700Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Tennessee Wesleyan University known for?
Tennessee Wesleyan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tennessee Wesleyan University’s Online Degrees
BS in Management
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #7 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2024 #7 Best Online Associate in Human Services #9 Best Online MBA in Data Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024 #10 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies
Other Rankings
- #10 Best Online Master's in Theology
- #11 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee
- #11 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
- #13 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
- #14 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #19 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
- #19 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies
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: $28,500Expenses: $12,410Starting Salary: $49,000Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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: 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
Tuition + fees
$12K
Graduation
24%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Lane College
Cost of Degree: $11,790Expenses: $11,890Starting Salary: $27,500Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
- #8 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2024 #13 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry #21 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$20K
Graduation
62%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Welch College
Cost of Degree: $20,170Expenses: $16,870Starting Salary: $31,000Cost Recoup Time: 18 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
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA #13 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #14 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2024 #20 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024
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: $16,871Expenses: $15,846Starting Salary: $43,100Cost Recoup Time: 14 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
- 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
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
98%
Graduation
18%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at LeMoyne–Owen College
Cost of Degree: $12,076Expenses: $8,100Starting Salary: $30,200Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is LeMoyne–Owen College known for?
LeMoyne–Owen College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Social Work
- Literature
- Biology
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
- History
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
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: $10,200Expenses: $17,600Starting Salary: $36,300Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Tennessee Southern known for?
University of Tennessee Southern’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- #14 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #18 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs #22 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
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: $24,300Expenses: $13,000Starting Salary: $41,100Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
- #15 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #15 Best Online Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #16 Best Online Associate Degrees in Tennessee 2024 #22 Best Online Associate in English
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: $27,208Expenses: $17,914Starting Salary: $42,500Cost Recoup Time: 17 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
- Education
- Psychology
- Political Science
- History
- Business
- Criminal Justice
- Nursing
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
Tuition + fees
$22K
Graduation
69%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Daymar Institute
Cost of Degree: $22,225Starting Salary: $25,700What is Daymar Institute known for?
Daymar Institute’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tennessee’s Best Private Colleges in Your Area 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.
- Vanderbilt University
- Rhodes College
- Sewanee: The University of the South
- Fisk University
- Bryan College
- Southern Adventist University
- Lincoln Memorial University
- Maryville College
- Carson–Newman University
- King University
- Tusculum University
- Lipscomb University
- Lee University
- Cumberland University
- Union University
- Christian Brothers University
- Trevecca Nazarene University
- Freed–Hardeman University
- Tennessee Wesleyan University
- Belmont University
Check out our directory of private colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top private schools in every state.