Most
Popular Colleges in Tennessee in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Tennessee combines foundational coursework in accounting, economics, finance, marketing, management, business law, and data analytics. Programs often include internships or projects with local employers. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, or financial associate. Popular Tennessee options include the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; Vanderbilt University in Nashville; Belmont University; Middle Tennessee State University; and the University of Memphis. Compare curricula, costs, and accreditation.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Tennessee offers coursework in research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, cognition, and abnormal psychology. Students can explore human behavior through labs, internships, and projects. Popular options include Vanderbilt University, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Middle Tennessee State University, and University of Memphis. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral technician, human resources assistant, market research analyst, or social services coordinator. Clinical and counseling careers generally require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Tennessee combines programming fundamentals with hands-on problem-solving and access to a growing technology economy. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular choices include Vanderbilt University, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee Technological University, Middle Tennessee State University, and the University of Memphis. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity analysts, data scientists, or network administrators across many local industries.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Tennessee combines coursework with supervised practice. Typical classes cover counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural issues, and trauma-informed care; many programs include internships or practicums. Graduates may work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or case managers. Tennessee colleges with counseling-related programs include Vanderbilt University, the University of Tennessee Knoxville, the University of Memphis, and Lipscomb University. Clinical roles require state licensure.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Tennessee combines learning with supervised clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nutrition, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and medical-surgical, pediatric, and mental health nursing. Graduates may work as registered nurses, clinical nurses, school nurses, or nurse case managers, depending on degree level and licensure. Popular Tennessee options include Vanderbilt University, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Belmont University, and East Tennessee State University.

Best Colleges in Tennessee Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $23,880, compared with $39,152 at schools in the top 10%. The average percentage of students receiving financial aid is 100% overall and 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 applicants is 1,065 men and 1,509 women.
• Average test scores are 1,131.78 on the SAT and 23.4 on the ACT. The average number of enrolled students is 5,584.92, including averages of 378 men and 491.84 women.
• The average graduation rate is 52.58%, compared with 72.6% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 46.5% for men and 55.5% for women.
• Among the institutions counted, 24 offer associate's degrees, 38 offer bachelor's degrees, 35 offer master's degrees, and 19 offer doctoral degrees.
• There are 38 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, applicant and enrollment figures, and SAT or ACT averages. Consider graduation rates, including the differences between overall rates and those for men and women, and check that the available degree levels match your goals.

How much does studying at a college in Tennessee cost?

For a student in Tennessee, the reported average total cost of studying is $25,880.08, while average tuition and fees are $26,158.90. These are separate reported averages, so they should not be added together or treated as a guaranteed bill; your price depends on the college, program, and living arrangements. The average room and board cost is $11,660.65, and books and supplies average $1,250.31. Together, those figures help you plan for expenses beyond classes, from housing near campus to textbooks and course materials.

Popular Tennessee choices include the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Vanderbilt University, Middle Tennessee State University, and Tennessee State University. Compare net prices and financial aid, because scholarships, commuting, and campus housing affect your bill. A student living at home may spend differently from someone renting near campus. Use these averages as a starting point, then ask colleges about aid early and plan a budget that fits your goals.

How long does it take to finish college in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree takes two. At schools such as the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Vanderbilt, and Middle Tennessee State University, your pace depends on major requirements, course availability, and whether you attend full time. Part-time study may take longer, so plan terms with an adviser.

To finish sooner, explore these options:

• Earn credit through AP, CLEP, or dual-enrollment courses before or during college.
• Take summer classes or heavier course loads when manageable, and ask whether your school offers accelerated pathways.
• Transfer eligible credits from a community college, confirming requirements first.

Graduation outcomes provide context: Tennessee's average graduation rate is 52.58%, compared with 72.6% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 47.39% for men and 55.92% for women. These figures show completion varies, but careful course planning and support can make your goal feel more achievable.

Salary

After graduating from college in Tennessee, the median alumni salary is about $44,741. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $56,315. These figures are useful benchmarks - not guaranteed starting salaries - and your earnings can vary with your degree, career, experience, and location.

Whether you study at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Vanderbilt University, Middle Tennessee State University, or another Tennessee college, your choice of program and the career path you pursue can shape your earning potential. A degree aligned with your interests and goals can be an exciting first step toward building a career in the state.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Tennessee?

By total campus enrollment, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is generally Tennessee's largest university. It enrolled more than 36,000 students in fall 2024. For students who want a big-campus experience, that scale can mean a wide range of majors, student organizations, and opportunities to meet people from across the state and beyond.

What is the most popular school in Tennessee?

There is no single official measure of "most popular," but the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is a strong answer if you mean broad appeal and visibility among students. Its flagship status, spirited campus culture, and prominent athletics make it a familiar choice for many Tennessee families. Popularity does not necessarily mean it is the right fit for everyone.

What is the most famous university in Tennessee?

Vanderbilt University is arguably Tennessee's best-known university nationally, particularly for its research, academic reputation, and medical center. Located in Nashville, it also gives students access to a lively city and its cultural scene. The University of Tennessee is also widely recognized, especially for its statewide presence and traditions, so "most famous" depends somewhat on the audience.

What is the hardest university to get into in Tennessee?

Vanderbilt is generally considered Tennessee's most selective university. Its recent undergraduate acceptance rates have been around 5%, meaning admission is highly competitive and strong grades alone may not be enough. Applicants should build a thoughtful application that reflects their interests and experiences - and keep in mind that many excellent Tennessee colleges offer rewarding paths to their goals.

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

Vanderbilt University, a prestigious private research university in Nashville, enrolls 13,575 students and combines a major city setting with broad academic opportunities. Its 94% graduation rate is the highest among these five Tennessee choices, while its 6% acceptance rate makes admission exceptionally selective. Listed total study cost is $65,008, and median alumni salary is $65,688. For a Tennessee student, staying in state can mean access to Nashville internships, healthcare institutions, and cultural life, though affordability and admission deserve careful consideration.

Fisk University is a historically Black university in Nashville, known for its longstanding role in higher education and its connection to Black cultural history. It enrolls 1,059 students, with a 30% graduation rate and a 37% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost of $23,880 is the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $39,800. For Tennessee students, Fisk offers an urban, in state college experience, small classes, and access to Nashville's arts and community organizations.

The University of Tennessee Knoxville is the state's large public flagship, with 40,421 students and a lively campus in the foothills near downtown Knoxville. Its 74% graduation rate and 42% acceptance rate offer useful context for applicants comparing outcomes and selectivity. The listed total cost is $30,704, and median alumni salary is $50,802. For a Tennessee student, it provides an in state public university option, substantial campus scale, and proximity to outdoor recreation, regional employers, and strong statewide alumni networks.

Rhodes College is a private liberal arts college in Memphis, offering a smaller community and a campus in one of Tennessee's largest cities. Its 1,757 students experience an 85% graduation rate, while its 50% acceptance rate indicates a selective admissions process. The listed total study cost is $56,300, and median alumni salary is $41,338. For a Tennessee student, Rhodes combines focused undergraduate study with access to Memphis hospitals, businesses, nonprofits, music, and civic life, but its cost merits close comparison.

The University of the South, commonly called Sewanee, is a private liberal arts university on a mountain campus in southern Tennessee. It enrolls 1,681 students, posts an 80% graduation rate, and has a 57% acceptance rate. Listed total study cost is $55,822, while median alumni salary is $39,478. For Tennessee students, Sewanee offers a close knit campus community, outdoor surroundings, and a focused undergraduate experience. Its cost and rural location are worth weighing against options in Nashville, Memphis, or Knoxville.