Best
Value Colleges in Nashville in 2027

Business Administration

Studying a business administration program in Nashville, Tennessee, can combine classroom learning with exposure to the city's healthcare, music, and hospitality industries. Typical coursework includes accounting, marketing, management, finance, economics, business law, and organizational behavior. Popular local options include Belmont University, Lipscomb University, Tennessee State University, and Trevecca Nazarene University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, sales representative, or business analyst, with opportunities varying by experience and specialization.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Nashville, TN offers opportunities to explore human behavior through coursework in developmental psychology, social psychology, research methods, statistics, cognition, and abnormal psychology. Students can pursue psychology degrees at Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Lipscomb University, Tennessee State University, and Trevecca Nazarene University. Programs build valuable, transferable skills. Graduates may find work in social services, human resources, community outreach, case management, or research assistance; clinical practice often requires further graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Nashville, TN, offers access to universities, technology employers, and a growing professional community. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build practical skills through projects, internships, and assignments. Popular options include Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, Lipscomb University, and Nashville State Community College. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT consultants.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Nashville, TN, can prepare students to support individuals, families, and communities. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised fieldwork. Graduates pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, case managers, or behavioral health specialists, depending on their degree and licensure. Nashville options include Vanderbilt University, Tennessee State University, Lipscomb University, and Trevecca Nazarene University, with offerings and admissions requirements varying by program.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Nashville, TN, offers pathways from associate to doctoral degrees. Courses typically include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical rotations in hospitals and community settings. Popular options include Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, and Nashville State Community College. Graduates may work as registered nurses, nurse educators, public health nurses, clinical research coordinators, or advanced practice nurses, depending on degree level, licensure, and experience.

Best Colleges in Nashville, TN Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 20,634.0, compared with 40,250.0 at schools in the top 10%, a difference of 19,616.0.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 64.89% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 64.89%. Schools receive an average of 9,194.56 applicants overall, while top-10% schools average 18,218.6. The median number of applicants is 1,637.0 for men and 2,624.0 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,218.0 on the SAT and 26.4 on the ACT.
• Schools average 3,383.33 enrolled students, including averages of 254.11 men and 383.44 women.
• The average graduation rate is 51.5% overall and 74.2% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 37.0% for men and 56.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 10 offer associate's degrees, 11 offer bachelor's degrees, 8 offer master's degrees, and 6 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 12 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and applicant volumes, but also higher average graduation rates; students should weigh these differences against their own academic goals and financial circumstances.

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

The average total cost of studying for a degree in Nashville, TN, is $25,453.75, making that a useful starting point for planning your education. Your actual bill can vary by college, degree, residency status, and whether you live on campus. Nashville offers options such as Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, and Lipscomb University, so you can compare campus experiences while building a budget that fits your goals.

• Average tuition and fees: $25,853.50.
• Average room and board: $13,444.62.
• Average books and supplies: $1,217.50.

These figures are best treated as broad planning benchmarks, not a guaranteed price or a clear bill for every student; the reported tuition-and-fees average is higher than the total-cost average. Ask each Nashville school for a personalized cost-of-attendance estimate, then check scholarships, grants, and housing choices, too. A little comparison can make an exciting degree feel more manageable and help you choose confidently.

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

In Nashville, TN, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree, about two. A master's degree often takes another one or two years. Timelines vary by major, course availability, and personal commitments. At Vanderbilt, Belmont, Tennessee State, or Lipscomb, review your degree map early to plan a manageable route.

You may finish faster by:

• Earning accepted AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits
• Transferring eligible college coursework
• Taking summer classes or choosing an accelerated schedule
• Meeting an adviser to confirm credits count toward your major

Graduation rates underline the value of support: the average rate is 51.5%, while the top 10% of schools average 74.2%. Rates average 43.6% for men and 57.1% for women. They show that not every student finishes, so use Nashville campuses' advising, tutoring, and course-planning resources to stay on track and make progress toward your goal with greater confidence.

Salary

After graduating from college in Nashville, TN, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $44,470. Graduates of schools in the top 10% earn a median of approximately $65,688 - an encouraging sign that a degree may open the door to stronger earning potential, though your results will depend on your field, experience, and career choices.

Nashville offers a range of colleges and universities, including Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, and Lipscomb University. Your earnings may differ depending on what you study and where you work after graduation, so it can help to compare programs and career paths as you plan your next step.

• Median alumni salary: $44,470
• Median salary for graduates of top 10% schools: $65,688

People also ask

How many universities are there in Nashville?

There is no single official count, because sources may include colleges, specialized schools, and branch campuses alongside universities. Using a narrow definition - four-year institutions in Nashville that are universities - the count is six: Belmont, Fisk, Lipscomb, Tennessee State, Trevecca Nazarene, and Vanderbilt. The total is higher if you include other kinds of colleges and schools.

What is the largest university in Nashville?

Vanderbilt University is generally the largest Nashville university by total student enrollment, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. Its broad range of programs and active campus community can offer students many ways to explore interests and meet people. "Largest" can mean different things, though; this answer refers to enrollment, not campus acreage.

How many universities are there in Nashville?

For the same narrow count, Nashville has six universities. The number can vary if you mean all higher-education institutions rather than universities specifically: colleges, medical schools, and campuses of institutions based elsewhere may also be included. If you're comparing places to study, checking each school's programs and campus location can make the count more useful.

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

Vanderbilt University is a private research university in Nashville, known for its strong academics, medical center, and vibrant campus near Music Row. With 13,575 students, it reports a 94% graduation rate and a selective 6% acceptance rate. Annual total study cost is $65,008, while median alumni salary is $65,688. For Nashville-based students seeking a degree, it offers an urban setting, extensive research opportunities, and access to the city's cultural and professional networks. Compare aid and living expenses when assessing affordability.

Fisk University is a historically Black private university in Nashville, celebrated for its legacy, liberal arts education, and Fisk Jubilee Singers. It enrolls 1,059 students; graduation rate is 30%, and acceptance rate is 37%. Total study cost is $23,880, with median alumni salary of $39,800. For Nashville residents, Fisk offers a campus and a community rooted in Black history and culture. Its smaller enrollment may appeal to students seeking an intimate college environment while pursuing study in the city.

Tennessee State University is a public, historically Black land-grant institution in Nashville, offering programs across fields such as business, engineering, health, and the sciences. Its 5,365 students experience a 34% graduation rate and 70% acceptance rate. Total cost of study is $21,168, and median alumni salary is $42,416. Nashville students may value the university's public-campus setting, broad academic choices, and community connections. Its comparatively accessible admissions rate and cost make it worth considering alongside financial aid and program-specific outcomes carefully.

Lipscomb University is a private Christian university in Nashville, with a campus in the Green Hills area and programs spanning liberal arts, business, education, and health. It enrolls 5,008 students, with a 72% graduation rate and 68% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $37,460, and median alumni salary is $51,427. For students in Nashville, Lipscomb offers access to campus life and the city's internships and employers. Consider its faith-centered environment, program fit, and financial aid package when comparing degree options.

American Baptist College is a small private historically Black Christian college in Nashville, known for preparing students for ministry, leadership, and service. It enrolls 46 students, and its graduation rate is 39%. Acceptance rate and median alumni salary are not available in the supplied data. The total cost of study is $12,000, the lowest among these five schools. For Nashville students, its compact scale and faith-based mission may suit goals; contact admissions to confirm current programs, costs, and student support.