Best
Value Colleges in Memphis in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Memphis, Tennessee, typically combines coursework in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and data analysis. Students may also study entrepreneurship and organizational behavior, applying concepts through projects or internships. Memphis options include the University of Memphis, Christian Brothers University, and Rhodes College. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, accountant, operations supervisor, or management analyst. The degree can prepare students for industries from healthcare to logistics.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Memphis offers coursework in cognitive, developmental, social, and abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics. Students can explore human behavior through labs, internships, and community placements. Popular options include the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, Christian Brothers University, and LeMoyne-Owen College. A psychology bachelor's degree can support roles such as case management aide, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, or research assistant. Clinical counseling and psychologist careers typically require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Memphis, Tennessee, offers opportunities at the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, and Christian Brothers University. Programs commonly cover programming, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, software engineering, cybersecurity, and mathematics. Students build technical skills through projects, labs, and internships while exploring areas such as artificial intelligence and web development. Graduates often pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, web developers, database administrators, cybersecurity analysts, or data analysts locally and across Tennessee.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Memphis, Tennessee, combines psychology coursework, supervised practice, and ethical training. Courses often include counseling theories, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, crisis intervention, and research methods. Students may pursue programs at the University of Memphis or Christian Brothers University, which offer counseling-related study. Graduates commonly work as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance use counselors, case managers, or career counselors. Licensure requirements vary by role and usually involve supervised experience.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Memphis, TN, offers pathways from associate and bachelor's degrees. Typical coursework includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and clinical care. Students build skills in medication administration, teamwork, and evidence-based practice. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, care facilities, or health settings. Memphis options include the University of Memphis Loewenberg College of Nursing, Baptist Health Sciences University, Southwest Tennessee Community College, and University of Tennessee Health Science Center.

Best Colleges in Memphis, TN Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $13,725 overall, compared with $41,996 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% substantially more expensive by this measure.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100% of students overall, compared with 74% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 74%. Schools receive an average of 3,387.71 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 9,852.6 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 109 men and 330 women.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,122.25 and 21.6, respectively.
• The average number of enrolled students is 3,571.75; averages for enrolled men and women are 165 and 270.33, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 42.62%, compared with 67.5% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 42% for men and 45% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, nine offer bachelor's degrees, eight offer master's degrees, and three offer doctor's degrees.
• There are eight coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with the availability of financial aid, and weigh those factors alongside admissions selectivity, applicant and enrollment figures, test-score averages, graduation rates, and the degree options available. In particular, the higher cost at top 10% schools should be considered alongside their higher average graduation rate and applicant volume.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Memphis, Tennessee, is $22,211.44. For a prospective student, that offers a useful starting point, but your actual yearly bill will depend on the college, program, housing choice, and financial aid. The reported average for tuition and fees is $22,093.56, while room and board averages $8,964.14 and books and supplies average $1,115.80. Because these figures are separate averages, check each school's cost of attendance before budgeting rather than simply adding them together.

Memphis colleges include the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, Christian Brothers University, and Southwest Tennessee Community College, each with distinct costs. Compare annual cost estimates and ask about grants, scholarships, work-study, and transfer credits, which can lower your bill. Living at home may reduce your housing expenses compared with the room-and-board average. Remember transportation and program-specific costs, too. Planning ahead helps you choose confidently.

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

In Memphis, TN, a traditional bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree generally takes two. At the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, or Southwest Tennessee Community College, your timeline depends on program requirements, course availability, and how many credits you take each term. Graduation-rate figures offer a useful sense of completion: the average is 42.62%, compared with 67.5% among the top 10% of schools. Average rates are 41.12% for men and 42.38% for women. These figures describe outcomes, not how long an individual student will need.

Memphis students can finish sooner by transferring credits, applying AP or dual-enrollment credit, taking summer classes, or choosing heavier course loads. Ask an adviser to map prerequisites and verify which credits count. Accelerated or online courses may help you balance school with work and family. With a clear plan and support, an earlier finish can feel achievable.

Salary

College graduates in Memphis, TN, earn a median salary of about $46,198. For graduates of top-performing schools, the median is about $69,687 - a promising earning potential as you plan your next step.

Your results can vary depending on your degree, career, experience, and school. Memphis students can explore options at the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, Christian Brothers University, and Southwest Tennessee Community College, then compare programs with the careers they hope to pursue.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Memphis?

There is no single count that applies to every definition of "university." Counting the four major institutions based in Memphis whose names include "University" gives four: the University of Memphis, Christian Brothers University, Baptist Health Sciences University, and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Counts may differ if satellite campuses or colleges are included.

What is the largest university in Memphis?

The University of Memphis is the city's largest university by student enrollment, with roughly 20,000 students. Its broad selection of undergraduate and graduate programs, research opportunities, and campus activities can make it a lively place to study while staying connected to the Memphis community.

How many universities are there in Memphis?

If you mean the broader range of local higher-education options, the number is higher than the university-only count: Memphis also has colleges such as Rhodes College and LeMoyne-Owen College. For a prospective student, it's useful to compare schools by programs, campus experience, and location - not just by whether "university" appears in the name.

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

University of Memphis is a public research university in Memphis, offering undergraduate and graduate programs. With 19,652 enrolled students, it is the largest school on this list and an urban option for students who want to study close to home. Its 72% acceptance rate may make admission comparatively accessible. The reported graduation rate is 51%; total annual study cost is $13,512, and median alumni salary is $45,279. For Memphis residents, its local setting can support familiar routines and community connections.

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center is a Memphis-based health institution focused on educating health professionals and advancing medical research. Its 3,101 students make it a smaller, specialized choice than the city's broad-based universities. Acceptance and graduation rates are not available in the supplied data, so compare programs when evaluating admission and outcomes. The listed total cost is $22,454, while median alumni salary is $74,728. For Memphis students drawn to healthcare, its location offers study in a medical hub.

Rhodes College is a private liberal arts college in Memphis, known for its historic campus and academic setting. With 1,757 students, its 85% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools. Its 50% acceptance rate makes admission selective relative to this group. Total cost is $56,300, the highest listed, so students should assess aid and their budget. Median alumni salary is $41,338. For students seeking a smaller college experience, Rhodes offers an intimate campus community and liberal arts study.

Baptist Health Sciences University is a private, Memphis-based institution specializing in health professions education, with programs designed for students preparing for clinical and allied-health careers. Its 891 enrolled students make it the second-smallest school in this comparison. The 82% acceptance rate is the highest listed, while the graduation rate is 40%. Total study cost is $12,216, and median alumni salary is $67,527. For Memphis residents, staying in the city can keep healthcare-focused education close to home and strengthen local connections.

Le Moyne-Owen College is a private historically Black college in Memphis, offering a liberal arts education and a community-centered campus experience. Enrollment is 1,267, and its 27% graduation rate is the lowest among the five schools. Its 99% acceptance rate is the highest listed, and total cost is $10,776, the lowest listed. Median alumni salary is $46,282. For Memphis students seeking a local college, its small enrollment may offer a community, while applicants should compare graduation outcomes and support services.