Best
Private Colleges in Memphis in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Memphis, TN, combines coursework in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and organizational behavior. Students develop skills in leadership, communication, analytics, and strategic planning through projects and internships. Popular local options include the University of Memphis, Christian Brothers University, and LeMoyne-Owen College. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as management analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations supervisor, or entrepreneur across industries including healthcare, logistics, retail, finance, and hospitality.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Memphis, Tennessee, combines coursework on human development, cognitive processes, social behavior, research methods, statistics, and psychological disorders. Students may gain practical experience through labs, internships, or community placements. Popular local options include the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, Christian Brothers University, and LeMoyne-Owen College. A bachelor's degree can prepare graduates for roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources assistant, or research coordinator; clinical psychologist positions generally require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Memphis, Tennessee, combines programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. The University of Memphis, Rhodes College, and Christian Brothers University offer opportunities to pursue computer science degrees in the city. Students build practical skills through projects, labs, and internships with employers. Graduates commonly work as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, data analysts, or IT support professionals across technology, healthcare, finance, and logistics.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Memphis, Tennessee, combines psychology, skills, and supervised fieldwork. Courses cover counseling theories, human development, assessment, ethics, group counseling, multicultural practice, and crisis intervention. Memphis options include the University of Memphis and Christian Brothers University, both offering counseling-related graduate study. Depending on the degree and licensure, graduates may work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, career counselors, or community agency practitioners, supporting individuals and families in many professional settings.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Memphis, Tennessee, combines learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, patient-care coordinators, or public-health nurses, depending on their degree and licensure. Memphis options include the University of Memphis Loewenberg College of Nursing, Baptist University of Health Sciences, and Southwest Tennessee Community College.

Best Colleges in Memphis, TN Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 13,725.0, compared with 45,572.0 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 31,847.0.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid overall, compared with 74.33% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 74.33%. Schools receive an average of 1,438.33 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 3,934.5 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 90.5 men and 240.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,122.25 on the SAT and 21.6 on the ACT.
• Average enrollment is 970.17 students, including averages of 57.83 enrolled men and 93.8 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 41.43%, compared with 70.0% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 38.0% for men and 40.0% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, six offer master's degrees, and one offers a doctor's degree.
• There are six coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside graduation rates, admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, and available degree levels. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and average graduation rates, but a lower average share of students receiving aid, so weigh those factors against your academic goals and finances.

How much does studying at a college in Memphis, TN cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Memphis is about $23,419.57, a useful estimate for one year - not the full price of a degree. Your overall cost depends on your college, program length, and financial aid.

Local options include the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, Christian Brothers University, and Southwest Tennessee Community College. Compare each school's net price and financial aid options.

• Average tuition and fees: $24,953.57
• Average room and board: $8,515.83
• Average books and supplies: $1,164.75

These are averages and may reflect different schools or calculations; tuition and fees exceed the total, so don't add the figures as a precise bill. For your chosen Memphis campus, carefully check annual mandatory fees, housing, meal plans, and course materials; subtract grants and scholarships to estimate out-of-pocket cost. Ask about FAFSA, payment plans, and transfer pathways. Comparing options can make planning manageable and help you find a degree route that fits your budget and goals.

How long does it take to finish college in Memphis, TN?

In Memphis, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at Southwest Tennessee Community College takes about two. At the University of Memphis or Rhodes College, timing varies by major, course availability, transfer credits, and part-time enrollment.

Graduation figures show that finishing takes planning: the average graduation rate is 41.43%, compared with 70% for the top 10% of schools. The averages are 40.43% for men and 40.57% for women. Your own progress depends on your circumstances, but advising and a realistic course plan can help you stay on track.

You can make progress faster:

• Use accepted AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits to reduce remaining requirements.
• Take summer classes or fuller course load if your schedule and finances allow.
• Ask your Memphis college about accelerated options, credit for prior learning, and year-round advising.
• Meet regularly with academic advisers to avoid missed prerequisites and registration delays.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Memphis, TN, have a median alumni salary of $46,198. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is $62,016.50 - a promising benchmark if you're weighing how college could support your career goals.

In Memphis, you can explore institutions such as the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, Christian Brothers University, and Southwest Tennessee Community College. These figures are broad benchmarks, not guaranteed starting salaries; what you earn can vary by your degree, career field, experience, and employer.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Memphis?

Beauty is subjective, but Rhodes College is often considered one of Memphis's prettiest campuses. Its Collegiate Gothic buildings, leafy grounds, and walkable layout create a distinctive, peaceful setting in the heart of the city. If you're choosing where to study, visiting in person can help you decide whether its historic atmosphere feels like home.

What is the most selective college in Memphis?

Rhodes College is generally regarded as one of the most selective colleges in Memphis, though admission rates change from year to year and depend on the applicant pool. It considers more than grades alone, so a strong application should also show your interests, activities, and personal perspective. Check the latest admissions data before applying.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Memphis, TN Ranking in 2026-2027

Rhodes College is a private liberal arts college in Memphis, Tennessee, offering a small campus community with 1,757 enrolled students. Its 85% graduation rate and 50% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking a selective but accessible undergraduate experience. The listed total study cost is $56,300, while median alumni salary is $41,338. For students already in Memphis, studying locally can keep them near the city's cultural and professional opportunities while pursuing a broad liberal arts education and campus involvement.

Christian Brothers University (CBU) is a private Catholic university in Memphis, Tennessee, with 1,772 enrolled students and an educational identity shaped by its Lasallian tradition. Its 55% graduation rate and 87% acceptance rate provide context for outcomes and access. The listed total cost of studying is $38,420, and median alumni salary is $46,114. For Memphis-based applicants, CBU provides the option of earning a degree without leaving the city while engaging with a university community rooted in faith and service locally.

Baptist Health Sciences University is a health-focused institution in Memphis, Tennessee, serving 891 enrolled students. Its specialized emphasis on health sciences distinguishes it from broad-based colleges and may suit applicants considering healthcare-related study. The reported graduation rate is 40%, and acceptance rate is 82%. Listed total study cost is $12,216, while median alumni salary is $67,527. For prospective students already in Memphis, the local setting offers a practical way to pursue focused healthcare study nearby and prepare for related careers.

Le Moyne-Owen College is a historically Black college in Memphis, Tennessee, enrolling 1,267 students. Its city roots offer Memphis-area students a locally grounded college experience. The graduation rate is 27%, and the acceptance rate is 99%. The listed total cost of studying is $10,776, while median alumni salary is $46,282. For applicants hoping to remain near home, studying here can preserve local connections and provide access to undergraduate education within Memphis. To decide whether this setting suits their degree plans.

Visible Music College is a specialized music college in Memphis, Tennessee, with 96 enrolled students. Its small enrollment may appeal to students seeking a focused creative community and a degree path connected to music. The acceptance rate is 28%, while the graduation rate is 23%. Listed total study cost is $22,000, and median alumni salary is $30,380. For Memphis students interested in music, studying locally offers a chance to build skills while staying close to the city's musical culture and scene.