Most
Affordable Colleges in Tennessee in 2027

Business Administration

Studying a business administration program in Tennessee provides foundations in accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and data analytics. Students may build communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills through projects and internships. Popular options include the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; Vanderbilt University; Belmont University; Middle Tennessee State University; and Tennessee State University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as marketing coordinators, financial analysts, human resources specialists, operations supervisors, sales representatives, or management trainees across Tennessee industries today.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Tennessee can combine learning with research and community experience. Typical courses include developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, statistics, research methods, abnormal psychology, and social psychology. Students may study at Vanderbilt University, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Middle Tennessee State University, or University of Memphis. A bachelor's degree can prepare graduates for roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, or human resources assistant. Advanced study is needed for licensed counseling or clinical psychology careers.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Tennessee offers pathways at universities such as Vanderbilt University, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Middle Tennessee State University. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students build problem-solving and teamwork skills through coursework and projects. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, or database administrators, working in technology, healthcare, finance, and government organizations across the state.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Tennessee can prepare students for careers supporting individuals, families, and communities. Programs commonly cover counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, and techniques for group and family therapy. Popular options include Vanderbilt University, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, University of Memphis, Lipscomb University, and Tennessee State University. Graduates may work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, marriage and family therapists, behavioral health clinicians, or substance use counselors, subject to state licensing requirements.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Tennessee combines classroom learning with clinical experience in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Typical coursework includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, health assessment, and nursing fundamentals. Students develop communication, ethics, and patient-care skills. Popular choices include Vanderbilt University, the University of Tennessee Knoxville, Belmont University, East Tennessee State University, and the University of Memphis. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, schools, or public health agencies.

Best Colleges in Tennessee Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying across the ranked Tennessee colleges is $20,634, compared with $38,458 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $17,824.
• On average, 100% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 70.74% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 70.74%. Schools receive an average of 6,623.72 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 12,228.2 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 1,065, compared with 1,509 female applicants.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,131.78 and 23.4, respectively.
• Schools average 4,858.46 enrolled students. The averages reported for enrolled men and women are 378 and 491.84, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 49.6%, compared with 71.3% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 45% for men and 54.5% for women.
• Of the institutions counted, 35 offer associate's degrees, 50 offer bachelor's degrees, 41 offer master's degrees, and 21 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 50 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid alongside program offerings, admissions selectivity, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and graduation rates, while the reported aid percentage is lower; weigh these factors against your academic goals and circumstances.

How much does studying at a college in Tennessee cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Tennessee is $23,657.44. For students, that figure offers a starting point, but it should not automatically be read as the price of an entire multi-year degree: actual bills vary by school, program, residency status, and living arrangements. At the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Middle Tennessee State University, or Vanderbilt, compare each program's cost of attendance before deciding.

• Average tuition and fees: $23,719.55.
• Average room and board: $11,522.90.
• Average books and supplies: $1,231.79.
• These statewide category averages do not add up neatly to the reported total, so use them as separate budgeting references.

Your budget may differ if you live with family, commute, qualify for Tennessee grants, or start at a community college and transfer. Ask financial-aid offices about aid, fees, and program expenses; a clear estimate can make planning manageable and help you find a campus that fits your goals and finances.

How long does it take to finish college in Tennessee?

A bachelor's degree in Tennessee typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree generally takes two. At popular universities such as the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Vanderbilt University, and Middle Tennessee State University, completion time depends on your major, course availability, and study pace. Part-time enrollment or changing majors can extend your timeline, so planning early with an academic adviser can help you stay on track. The average graduation rate is 49.6%; among the top 10% of schools, the average is 71.3%. Average graduation rates are 46.45% for men and 52.27% for women.

You may be able to finish sooner by earning credits before or outside the regular academic year:

• Take Advanced Placement or dual-enrollment courses in high school and apply eligible credits toward your degree.
• Use summer terms or heavier course loads, after checking prerequisites and workload with an adviser.
• Ask whether prior college coursework can transfer, including credits earned at a Tennessee community college.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in Tennessee, the median alumni salary is about $44,602. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $57,547 - a promising benchmark if you're comparing where to study.

These figures describe alumni outcomes across school groups, not guaranteed starting salaries or earnings at any one institution. Your degree field, experience, location, and career path can all affect how much you earn. Tennessee students can explore options such as the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; Vanderbilt University; Middle Tennessee State University; Tennessee State University; and the University of Memphis, then compare programs and career opportunities that fit their goals.

People also ask

What college in Tennessee has the lowest tuition?

There isn't one reliable answer without specifying whether you mean in-state or out-of-state tuition, and whether fees and program costs are included. Tuition varies by school and course load. Tennessee's public community colleges and technical colleges are often affordable options, but compare each college's current tuition schedule for your residency and program before deciding.

What college in Tennessee has the lowest GPA requirement?

There may not be a single lowest-GPA college: some Tennessee community colleges use open-admission policies and do not set a minimum GPA for general admission, while requirements can differ for particular programs. That can make starting college feel more accessible. Check the admissions rules for your chosen program, since placement or course requirements may still apply.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Tennessee Ranking in 2026-2027

Tennessee State University is a public, historically Black university in Nashville, offering a distinctive campus experience in Tennessee's capital. It enrolls 5,365 students, making it the smallest institution in this group. Its 70% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking accessible admission, while its 34% graduation rate is worth considering alongside academic support and personal goals. Estimated total study cost is $21,168, and median alumni salary is $42,416. For Tennessee residents, compare aid and living expenses before choosing your college.

Middle Tennessee State University, located in Murfreesboro, is a large public university serving students in the central part of the state. Its enrollment of 20,488 offers a broad campus community and varied peer connections. The 69% acceptance rate indicates many applicants are admitted, while the 54% graduation rate provides another outcome to examine. Total study cost is $29,512, the highest listed here, and median alumni salary is $44,170. Tennessee students should weigh location, affordability, and their intended program before enrolling.

East Tennessee State University in Johnson City is a public university set in the Appalachian region, offering a different setting from Tennessee's larger metropolitan campuses. It enrolls 13,728 students and has the highest acceptance rate in this group, 86%. Its 53% graduation rate gives applicants a useful completion measure to consider. Total study cost is $11,630, the lowest reported, while median alumni salary is $46,228. For Tennessee students, affordability and regional fit may make ETSU worth exploring as a college option.

The University of Memphis is a public research university in Tennessee's largest city, giving students an urban setting and access to the region's cultural and professional activity. Enrollment is 19,652, and its 72% acceptance rate suggests a relatively accessible admissions pathway. Its graduation rate is 51%, a figure prospective students can consider with program-level information. Total study cost is $13,512, while median alumni salary reaches $45,279. For Tennesseans, Memphis may suit students seeking city life and an in-state college experience.

Tennessee Technological University, commonly called Tennessee Tech, is a public university in Cookeville known for its technology-focused identity. It enrolls 10,466 students, with a 76% acceptance rate offering many applicants a route to admission. Its 58% graduation rate is the strongest among these five schools. Total study cost is $14,190, and median alumni salary is $47,533, the highest listed. Tennessee students interested in a focused campus environment can compare Tech's outcomes, costs, and programs with their career plans and priorities.