Most
Affordable Colleges in Nashville in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Nashville, Tennessee, combines coursework in accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and entrepreneurship. Students build skills in leadership, communication, data analysis, and strategic planning through projects and internships. Nashville-area options include Belmont University, Lipscomb University, and Tennessee State University, with business degree pathways. Graduates pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations manager, or small-business owner across healthcare, entertainment, finance, and technology sectors.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Nashville, TN, combines foundations with opportunities to explore human behavior and mental health. Typical courses include introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, cognitive and social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Popular colleges include Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, and Lipscomb University. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, market researcher, or social services coordinator. Clinical and counseling careers require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Nashville, TN offers access to universities such as Vanderbilt University, Tennessee State University, Belmont University, and Lipscomb University. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, computer networks, cybersecurity, and software engineering, alongside mathematics and project work. Graduates may pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, web developers, or IT support professionals. Nashville's healthcare, finance, education, and entertainment sectors also provide internship and employment opportunities.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Nashville typically combines psychology and hands-on training. Common courses include counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum. Graduates may pursue work as school counselors, licensed mental health counselors, substance-use counselors, or career advisors, depending on degree and licensure requirements. Nashville options include Vanderbilt University, Lipscomb University, Trevecca Nazarene University, and Belmont University, which offer related graduate counseling or psychology programs with varying specializations and admissions requirements by program.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Nashville, TN, combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses typically cover anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, health assessment, and medical-surgical, pediatric, and psychiatric nursing. Graduates may become registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, or nursing assistants, depending on their credential and licensure. Popular local options include Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, and Nashville State Community College, which offer nursing pathways at different degree levels.

Best Colleges in Nashville, TN Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $20,634, compared with $40,250 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $19,616.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100% of students overall, versus 64.89% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 64.89%. Schools receive an average of 9,194.56 applicants, compared with 18,218.6 applicants at top-10% schools.
• The median number of applicants is 1,637 men and 2,624 women.
• Average test scores are 1,218 on the SAT and 26.4 on the ACT.
• Schools enroll an average of 3,383.33 students, including an average of 254.11 men and 383.44 women.
• The average graduation rate is 51.5%, compared with 74.2% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 37% for men and 56% for women.
• Ten institutions offer associate's degrees, 11 offer bachelor's degrees, 7 offer master's degrees, and 5 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 12 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, weigh the median cost against the availability of financial aid, and consider how acceptance rates, applicant volume, test scores, enrollment, and graduation outcomes align with your needs. Compare overall graduation rates with those of top-10% schools, and review the differences in outcomes by gender alongside the degree options available.

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

The average reported total cost of studying in Nashville, TN, is $25,453.75. Treat that as a typical cost estimate, not the price of an entire degree: your total depends on the college, program, and how many years you attend. Nashville students can compare options such as Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, and Lipscomb University.

• Tuition and fees: $25,853.50.
• Room and board: $13,444.62.
• Books and supplies: $1,217.50.
• Total cost: $25,453.75.

Because the reported category averages do not add up to the reported total, use them as separate planning benchmarks rather than assuming they form one bill. Ask each school for its cost of attendance and financial-aid package; scholarships, grants, commuting from home, or choosing shared housing may lower what you pay. Comparing net prices across Nashville campuses can make pursuing a degree feel more manageable and help you find an academic fit without overlooking expenses.

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

In Nashville, TN, a full-time bachelor's degree typically takes four years, while an associate degree usually takes two. Your timeline depends on your major, course availability, transfer credits, and how many classes you can balance with work or family responsibilities.

Across the schools represented in the data, the average graduation rate is 51.5%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 74.2%. Average rates are 43.6% for men and 57.1% for women - useful context when comparing colleges, but not a prediction of your own outcome.

At Nashville State, Tennessee State, Belmont, or Vanderbilt, ask an advisor which options your intended program accepts. Credit rules vary, so confirm them before enrolling; a clear plan can make finishing sooner feel achievable.

• Apply eligible AP, IB, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits.
• Take summer courses or a heavier semester load when available.
• Explore credit-by-examination, online classes, or accelerated degree-completion options.

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% reach a median of about $65,688, offering an encouraging example of the earning potential a degree may help you pursue.

Your actual pay can vary with your field, experience, and employer. Whether you study at Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, or Tennessee State University, comparing programs and career opportunities can help you choose a path that fits your goals and Nashville's job market.

People also ask

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

Costs depend on the school, your residency, program, and financial aid. As a rough guide, Nashville State Community College may cost around $4,000-$5,000 a year in tuition and fees for an in-state student taking a typical full-time course load. Public four-year universities generally cost more, while private colleges can charge tens of thousands of dollars annually. Housing, books, and transportation add to the total. Grants and programs such as Tennessee Promise may significantly reduce what you pay.

What college in Nashville has the lowest tuition?

Nashville State Community College is generally among the lowest-tuition options in Nashville, especially for Tennessee residents pursuing an associate degree or completing general education courses. Its community-college tuition is typically much lower than that of four-year and private schools. Your actual bill depends on credits, fees, and eligibility for aid; Tennessee Promise may cover tuition and mandatory fees for qualifying students, making this an encouraging place to start comparing options.

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

Tennessee State University is a public university in Nashville, offering a local option for students who want to earn a degree without leaving the city. It enrolls 5,365 students, making it the largest institution in this group. Its 34% graduation rate and 70% acceptance rate offer useful context when comparing admissions and completion. The reported total study cost is $21,168, while median alumni salary is $42,416. For Nashville students, consider how campus life and costs fit your goals and priorities.

American Baptist College is a small Nashville college, with 46 enrolled students in the supplied figures. Its close-knit scale may appeal to students seeking a smaller learning environment while pursuing a degree in the city. The reported graduation rate is 39%; acceptance-rate and median-alumni-salary figures are unavailable, so compare those details directly with the college. Total study cost is listed as $12,000. For a Nashville-based applicant, its location offers a way to study locally and assess affordability alongside academic fit.

Fisk University is a historically Black university in Nashville, giving students an option to study in the city at an institution with a distinct academic identity. Enrollment is 1,059, and the reported graduation rate is 30%. Its acceptance rate is 37%, a useful figure for applicants weighing selectivity. Total study cost is listed as $23,880, with median alumni salary of $39,800. Nashville residents can compare these figures with personal budgets, program choices, and the advantages of remaining close to home.

Nossi College of Art and Design is a Nashville-area choice for students interested in creative study and a focused art-and-design environment. It enrolls 247 students, with a reported graduation rate of 42% and acceptance rate of 46%. The listed total study cost is $20,100, and median alumni salary is $28,652. These figures can help prospective students evaluate access, completion, and outcomes. Studying in Nashville may also suit applicants who want to build their education while staying in Nashville's creative community.

Herzing University-Nashville gives local students another route to a degree while remaining in Nashville. The supplied enrollment is 201, indicating a relatively small student population in this comparison. Its acceptance rate is 93%, while graduation-rate information is unavailable; applicants should confirm current program-specific details with the university. Total study cost is listed as $12,360, and median alumni salary is $56,969. For students choosing among Nashville options, these figures provide a starting point for comparing affordability, access, and reported career outcomes.