Most
Affordable Colleges in Memphis in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Memphis, TN, offers preparation for leadership across organizations. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, human resources, and data analysis. Students often build skills through internships with local employers and projects. Graduates pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, operations supervisor, human-resources specialist, sales representative, or business analyst. Memphis-area options include the University of Memphis, Christian Brothers University, and LeMoyne-Owen College, offering pathways to business education and career growth.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Memphis, TN, combines coursework in research methods, statistics, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students explore counseling and neuroscience while gaining skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis. Popular options include University of Memphis, Rhodes College, Christian Brothers University, and LeMoyne-Owen College. Graduates pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, research assistant, or community support worker. Advanced study is required for licensed psychologist positions.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Memphis, TN, offers access to programs at the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, and Christian Brothers University. Courses typically include programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students build problem-solving skills through projects and internships with local employers. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, or IT support professionals. Program choices vary in curriculum and available concentrations across schools.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Memphis, Tennessee can prepare you to support individuals, families, and communities. Programs commonly cover counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised clinical work. Memphis options include the University of Memphis, which offers graduate counseling study, and Memphis Theological Seminary for counseling-related preparation. Graduates may work as school counselors, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, college advisors, or program coordinators, depending on their degree and licensure requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Memphis, Tennessee, offers pathways from associate to bachelor's and advanced degrees. Students typically take courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical practice. Local options include the University of Memphis, Baptist Health Sciences University, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and Southwest Tennessee Community College. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, or community health settings, providing patient care and education services.

Best Colleges in Memphis, TN Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 13,725.0, compared with 41,996.0 at schools in the top 10%. Average financial aid coverage is 100.0% overall and 74.0% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 74.0%. Schools receive an average of 3,387.71 applicants overall, while top-10% schools average 9,852.6 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 109.0, compared with 330.0 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,122.25 on the SAT and 21.6 on the ACT. The average number of enrolled students is 3,571.75; averages for enrolled men and women are 165.0 and 270.33, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 42.62%, compared with 67.5% for top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 42.0% for men and 45.0% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, nine offer bachelor's degrees, seven 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 available financial aid rather than relying on cost alone. Also consider acceptance rates, applicant competition, test-score averages, graduation outcomes, enrollment figures, and the degree types offered. The top-10% figures show higher median costs and applicant averages, but also higher financial aid coverage and graduation rates than the overall averages.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Memphis, TN, is $22,211.44. For a local student, that figure offers a useful starting point, but it should not be treated as a guaranteed full-degree price: actual costs depend on the college, program, enrollment, and how long you study.

• Tuition and fees average $22,093.56.
• Room and board average $8,964.14.
• Books and supplies average $1,115.80.

Memphis students can compare options such as the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, Christian Brothers University, and Southwest Tennessee Community College. Their tuition, campus housing, and program fees can differ substantially, so check each school's current estimate and whether it fits your plans.

Because these averages do not necessarily represent identical student budgets, use them as separate planning benchmarks rather than adding them together. Asking about scholarships, commuting, and transfer pathways can make a Memphis degree feel more manageable before deciding where to enroll or how to budget.

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

In Memphis, TN, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. Work, family responsibilities, course availability, or changing majors can extend that timeline in practice, so planning a manageable course load matters.

University of Memphis, Rhodes College, and Christian Brothers University offer bachelor's pathways; Southwest Tennessee Community College is an option for associate study and transfer planning. To finish sooner, Memphis students can explore AP or dual-enrollment credit, transfer-eligible courses, summer classes, exam-based credit, and accelerated or online schedules. Confirm credit acceptance and degree requirements with an adviser before enrolling.

Graduation rates show the average rate is 42.62%, compared with 67.5% for the top 10% of schools. The averages are 41.12% for men and 42.38% for women. These figures show completion takes planning, but steady progress and smart credit choices can help you reach your goal.

Salary

Graduates in Memphis, TN, can use a median alumni salary of about $46,198 as a helpful benchmark. Your own earnings may be higher or lower depending on your field, experience, and employer, but this gives you a practical starting point as you consider college.

For comparison, graduates of schools in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $69,687. That figure is a broader comparison, not a guaranteed salary for graduates of any particular Memphis college.

Memphis students can explore options such as the University of Memphis, Rhodes College, and Christian Brothers University. When comparing programs, look at the kinds of careers they prepare you for and how those careers align with your interests and salary goals. It can be encouraging to see that a degree may open paths to a wide range of earnings, while your choice of major and career will help shape your personal outcome.

People also ask

How much does it cost to go to college in Memphis?

Costs depend on the school, residency, program, and living arrangements. As a broad tuition-and-fees estimate, a Tennessee resident might pay roughly $4,000-$5,000 a year at a community college or around $10,000 or more at a public four-year university. Housing, meals, books, transportation, and personal expenses can add substantially; check each college's current cost-of-attendance estimate.

What college in Memphis has the lowest tuition?

Southwest Tennessee Community College is a strong place to start if you're looking for low-cost tuition as a Tennessee resident. Its tuition is generally lower than that of four-year universities, though the amount depends on credits, fees, and program. Compare current rates and financial-aid offers before deciding; grants and scholarships can change what you actually pay.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Memphis, TN Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Memphis, TN, the University of Memphis is the city's major public university, offering students a broad campus environment and many academic pathways. It enrolls 19,652 students, with a 72% acceptance rate and a 51% graduation rate. Reported total study cost is $13,512, while median alumni salary is $45,279. For a Memphis-based student, staying nearby may reduce relocation demands and keep local connections accessible. Compare program offerings, fees, and financial aid before deciding whether this option fits your goals.

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center is a Memphis-based public academic health institution focused on preparing students for health professions and related fields. It enrolls 3,101 students. The reported total cost of study is $22,454, and median alumni salary is $74,728; graduation and acceptance rates are unavailable in the supplied data. Its location can be practical for Memphis residents seeking health-focused education near regional clinical and research settings. Review program requirements, tuition details, and aid options before applying.

Le Moyne-Owen College is a private historically Black liberal arts college in Memphis, offering a smaller campus experience than the city's largest university. Enrollment is 1,267, with a 99% acceptance rate and a 27% graduation rate. The reported total study cost is $10,776, and median alumni salary is $46,282. Its Memphis location may suit students who want to pursue a degree while remaining close to family, community, and local opportunities. Explore majors, student support, and financial aid to assess fit.

Mid-South Christian College is a Christian institution in Memphis, appealing to students seeking faith-informed education in a close-knit setting. Its enrollment is 38, making it the smallest school in this group. The acceptance rate is 100%, graduation rate is 60%, and total study cost is $10,500. Median alumni salary is not available in the supplied data. For interested Memphis-area students, its compact scale may offer a campus atmosphere; contact the college to confirm programs, costs, and support services before applying.

Baptist Health Sciences University is a Memphis-based institution centered on health sciences education, making it a relevant local option for students pursuing healthcare careers. It enrolls 891 students and reports an 82% acceptance rate and a 40% graduation rate. Total study cost is $12,216, while median alumni salary is $67,527. Staying in Memphis may help students remain near home and area healthcare employers. Compare programs, clinical opportunities, and financial aid to determine whether its training aligns with your career plans.