Best
Private Colleges in Tennessee in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Tennessee combines coursework in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and organizational behavior. Programs often emphasize communication, data analysis, entrepreneurship, and practical projects. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations supervisor, or project coordinator. Tennessee colleges offering degrees include the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; Tennessee State University; Belmont University; Middle Tennessee State University; and the University of Memphis. Curricula vary considerably.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Tennessee offers options at public and private colleges, including Vanderbilt University, University of Tennessee Knoxville, Belmont University, Middle Tennessee State University, and University of Memphis. Typical coursework includes introductory psychology, abnormal psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, statistics, and research methods. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, human resources specialist, behavioral health technician, or social services worker. Many clinical and counseling positions typically require graduate education and state licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Tennessee combines foundational theory with practical skills through courses such as programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students can explore specialties through projects, internships, and research at universities including Vanderbilt University, University of Tennessee Knoxville, Tennessee State University, and Middle Tennessee State University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, web developers, or IT consultants. Communication and problem-solving skills matter.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Tennessee combines classroom learning with supervised practice. Courses commonly cover counseling theories, ethics, lifespan development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group counseling, and career guidance. Popular options include Vanderbilt University, University of Memphis, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Lipscomb University. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, rehabilitation counselors, or college advisors, depending on degree level, licensure, and specialization. Programs often require internships or practicum experiences before graduation.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Tennessee prepares students to deliver compassionate care in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Coursework commonly includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, pediatrics, and mental health nursing, with supervised clinical rotations. Popular options include Vanderbilt University, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, University of Memphis, Belmont University, and East Tennessee State University. Graduates may become registered nurses, emergency nurses, pediatric nurses, public health nurses, or patient care coordinators statewide.

Best Colleges in Tennessee Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 22,000, compared with 39,152 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 17,152.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid, compared with 68.69% at top-10% schools. The average acceptance rate is 68.69%.
• Schools receive an average of 3,916.48 applicants, while those in the top 10% average 6,925. The median applicant counts are 709 men and 863 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,135.59 and the average ACT score is 23.52.
• Average enrollment is 2,495.74 students, including an average of 166.31 men and 219.18 women.
• The average graduation rate is 49.39%, compared with 71.3% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 45% for men and 53.5% for women.
• There are 32 institutions offering associate's degrees, 39 offering bachelor's degrees, 35 offering master's degrees, and 15 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 39 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside admissions figures, test scores, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. In particular, consider how the higher costs at top-10% schools relate to their higher average graduation rate, and weigh those figures against your own academic and financial priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Tennessee cost?

The average total cost of studying in Tennessee is $25,273.49. This is a benchmark, not a guaranteed full-degree price: what you pay depends on your college, program, residency status, and living arrangements.

At a Tennessee campus, tuition and fees average $27,190.05, while room and board average $11,436.72, and books and supplies average $1,188.91. These figures can help you plan, but they should not be added together as though they necessarily form the stated total; colleges calculate costs differently.

You might compare options such as the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Middle Tennessee State University, Tennessee State University, or Vanderbilt University. Check each school's cost estimate and financial aid offer, since grants and scholarships may lower your out-of-pocket amount.

Living with family or choosing a more affordable housing option can also make studying in Tennessee feel more manageable. With a budget, there's a path to a degree and greater confidence as you plan ahead.

How long does it take to finish college in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree typically takes two. At the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Vanderbilt University, or Middle Tennessee State University, your timeline can depend on your major, course availability, work schedule, and transfer credits. Studying part time or changing majors may add semesters, but planning ahead can help you stay on track.

Graduation-rate figures show that completing a degree is not automatic: the average graduation rate is 49.39%, compared with 71.3% for the top 10% of schools. The average rate is 46.73% for men and 51.82% for women.

You may be able to finish sooner by:

• Taking summer or winter courses to earn credits outside the regular academic year.
• Using eligible AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits, including credits from a Tennessee community college.
• Meeting with an academic adviser early to plan prerequisites and avoid delaying required courses.

These options can make an earlier finish feel achievable, especially when your course plan fits your goals and daily commitments.

Salary

After graduating from college in Tennessee, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $44,470. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $57,739, offering a sense of the earning potential a strong college outcome may bring.

Whether you're considering the University of Tennessee, Vanderbilt University, Middle Tennessee State University, or Tennessee State University, your own earnings will depend on factors such as your degree, career field, experience, and location. These figures provide a useful starting point as you explore programs and plan for life after graduation.

• Median alumni salary: $44,470
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: $57,739.40

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Tennessee?

Beauty is subjective, but the University of the South in Sewanee is often celebrated for its striking campus. Set on the Cumberland Plateau, it features historic Gothic-style buildings, leafy paths, and expansive views. If you enjoy a scenic, close-knit college setting, Sewanee's distinctive landscape may make it especially appealing.

What is the most selective college in Tennessee?

Vanderbilt University in Nashville is generally considered Tennessee's most selective college, based on its very low admission rate compared with other colleges in the state. Admission is highly competitive, so applicants should build a balanced college list and make sure their applications show their individual strengths, interests, and accomplishments.

What is the richest university in Tennessee?

Vanderbilt University is Tennessee's wealthiest university when measured by endowment. Its endowment is valued in the billions of dollars, giving the university substantial resources to support teaching, research, student aid, and campus programs. That financial strength can help create opportunities, though a university's endowment does not by itself determine a student's experience.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Tennessee Ranking in 2026-2027

Vanderbilt University, located in Nashville, is a recognized private research university with a vibrant campus and strong academic resources. For Tennessee-based students, studying here means access to the state's largest city, internships, healthcare institutions, and cultural life. It enrolls 13,575 students and reports a 94% graduation rate alongside a selective 6% acceptance rate. Listed total study cost: $65,008; median alumni salary: $65,688. This may suit students seeking an ambitious university experience in Tennessee with broad opportunities and a close-knit community.

Fisk University, a historically Black university in Nashville, brings a close-knit setting and a distinguished tradition in liberal arts and leadership. Tennessee students can study in the state's capital while connecting with its music, civic, and professional communities. Fisk enrolls 1,059 students, with a 30% graduation rate and 37% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost is $23,880, and median alumni salary is $39,800. The smaller enrollment may appeal to learners who value personal engagement and a campus in Tennessee.

The University of the South, commonly called Sewanee, is a liberal arts university in Tennessee's scenic Cumberland Plateau. Its residential campus offers a distinctive small-community experience, with outdoor surroundings and close faculty interaction. It enrolls 1,681 students and has an 80% graduation rate and 57% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $55,822, while median alumni salary is $39,478. Tennessee residents seeking a focused undergraduate education may appreciate its intimate scale, campus identity, and setting away from major cities.

Union University, based in Jackson, is a private Christian university with a faith-centered campus. For Tennessee students, its West Tennessee location provides an alternative to studying in Nashville or Knoxville while keeping regional communities within reach. Union enrolls 2,624 students, with a 66% graduation rate and 60% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost is $36,005, and median alumni salary is $56,034. Students seeking an accessible mid-sized university may find Union a fitting choice in Tennessee with a close community.

Rhodes College, located in Memphis, is a residential liberal arts college known for its historic Gothic architecture and close-knit academic environment. Tennessee students can pair a small-campus experience with access to the cultural institutions, employers, and community organizations of a major city. Rhodes enrolls 1,757 students, with an 85% graduation rate and 50% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost is $56,300, and median alumni salary is $41,338. It may suit undergraduates seeking rigorous study and city connections in Tennessee.