Best
Colleges in Nashville in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Nashville, TN, offers access to a business community and internships. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, human resources, and entrepreneurship. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations manager, or entrepreneur. Nashville colleges offering business administration programs include Belmont University, Tennessee State University, Lipscomb University, and Nashville State Community College. Programs combine classroom learning with practical projects and preparation.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Nashville, TN, offers coursework in developmental psychology, cognitive processes, research methods, statistics, abnormal psychology, and social behavior. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and data analysis through research opportunities. Choices include Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, Lipscomb University, and Trevecca Nazarene University. Graduates pursue roles as human resources assistants, behavioral health technicians, case managers, market researchers, or community service coordinators; advanced clinical careers typically require further graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Nashville, TN, offers access to university programs and a growing technology community. Students typically study programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Popular local options include Vanderbilt University, Tennessee State University, Belmont University, and Lipscomb University. Coursework builds problem-solving and teamwork skills through projects and internships. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, or IT consultants across Nashville's employers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Nashville can prepare you to support people through emotional, behavioral, and relationship challenges. Typical courses include counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural counseling, and supervised practicum. Popular options include Vanderbilt University, Lipscomb University, and Trevecca Nazarene University. Graduates commonly pursue work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, or behavioral health case managers. Some roles require graduate licensure, supervised experience, and state credentials, so check program requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Nashville, Tennessee, combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse aides, or, with further education, nurse educators or advanced practice nurses. Nashville options include Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, Lipscomb University, and Nashville State Community College. Program lengths vary widely.

Best Colleges in Nashville, TN Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 20,634.0, compared with 40,250.0 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% group substantially more expensive.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100.0% 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; the average at top 10% schools is higher, at 18,218.6. The median number of male applicants is 1,637.0, compared with 2,624.0 female applicants.
• The average SAT score is 1,218.0, and the average ACT score is 26.4.
• Average enrollment is 3,383.33 students, including averages of 254.11 men and 383.44 women.
• The average graduation rate is 51.5%, compared with 74.2% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 37.0% for men and 56.0% for women.
• Among the institutions represented, 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 total costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, academic offerings, and student outcomes. Consider how each school's SAT and ACT averages align with your academic profile, and compare overall and gender-specific graduation rates as you assess which institution best fits your goals.

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

For a student in Nashville, TN, the reported average total cost of studying is $25,453.75. Treat this as a reported study-cost benchmark, not the price of an entire multi-year degree: your actual bill depends on the college, program, residency status, and how many years you attend. Nashville options such as Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, and Lipscomb University can differ substantially, so compare each school's current cost of attendance before choosing.

The reported averages for individual expenses are:

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

Because these expense averages do not add up to the reported total, use them as separate benchmarks rather than combining them into a personal budget. For your Nashville budget, request a current, itemized estimate from schools you're considering and ask about grants, scholarships, housing, and commuting; aid can make an otherwise daunting price feel more manageable.

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

In Nashville, TN, most full-time students finish a bachelor's degree in about four years, while an associate degree typically takes two. Actual timing depends on major, course availability, work or family commitments, and whether you study part-time. At Vanderbilt, Belmont, Tennessee State University, or Nashville State Community College, check the program sequence early so required classes fit your schedule.

You may be able to graduate sooner by bringing in AP/IB or dual-enrollment credits, transferring college credits, taking summer courses, or choosing an accelerated or competency-based program where offered. Meet with an academic adviser before enrolling in extra classes: confirming that credits satisfy degree requirements can save time and tuition - and make your finish line feel closer.

Graduation rates offer context, though they do not predict your outcome: the average rate is 51.5%, compared with 74.2% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 43.6% for men and 57.1% for women.

Salary

College graduates in Nashville, TN, earn a median alumni salary of $44,470. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median rises to $65,688 - a difference of $21,218. These figures offer a helpful benchmark as you compare local programs and think about the career opportunities a degree could open up.

Nashville students can explore a range of institutions, including Vanderbilt University, Belmont University, Tennessee State University, and Lipscomb University. Earnings vary by field, experience, and employer, so consider how each school's programs align with the work you hope to do in the city.

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

People also ask

How many colleges are in Nashville

Nashville has more than 20 colleges and universities, though the exact count depends on whether nearby campuses and specialized institutions are included. Options range from large universities to community colleges and historically Black colleges and universities. That variety gives students a broad mix of academic programs and campus experiences to explore.

What is the main college in Nashville?

There is no official "main" college, but Vanderbilt University is often the city's best-known university nationally. Nashville also has other major institutions, including Tennessee State University, a public historically Black university, and Belmont University. Which feels like the right fit depends on your preferred subject, campus culture, and student community.

Where do college students go in Nashville?

Students spend time around their campuses and in neighborhoods such as Hillsboro Village, Midtown, 12 South, and East Nashville, where cafés, restaurants, and shops offer plenty to explore. Centennial Park is a popular outdoor spot, while Broadway is known for live music. The city's variety makes it easy to find a favorite hangout.

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

Vanderbilt University, located in Nashville, offers a selective, research-focused college experience in the city. It enrolls 13,575 students, reports a 94% graduation rate, and admits 6% of applicants. The listed total study cost is $65,008, while median alumni salary is $65,688. For a Nashville-based student, studying locally can mean access to the city's cultural and professional opportunities without relocating. Vanderbilt may suit applicants seeking a large academic community, strong completion outcomes, and who can plan carefully for its substantial cost.

Fisk University is a historically Black university in Nashville, offering students a small-campus setting and a place in the city's educational history. Its 1,059 enrolled students, 37% acceptance rate, and 30% graduation rate provide points for comparing fit and outcomes. The listed total cost is $23,880, and median alumni salary is $39,800. For a local student, Fisk makes it possible to pursue a degree in Nashville while weighing affordability, campus scale, and the academic support needed to complete a program.

Tennessee State University (TSU), a public historically Black university, gives Nashville students an option with a mid-sized enrollment. The school reports 5,365 students, a 70% acceptance rate, and a 34% graduation rate. Its listed total study cost is $21,168, and median alumni salary is $42,416. Students can remain close to Nashville's neighborhoods, employers, and cultural life while pursuing a degree. TSU may appeal to applicants seeking a public-university setting and an accessible admissions profile while considering completion outcomes and costs.

Lipscomb University is a private university in Nashville, offering students a campus-based setting within the city. It enrolls 5,008 students, has a 68% acceptance rate, and reports a 72% graduation rate. The listed total cost is $37,460, while median alumni salary is $51,427. A Nashville resident can compare its campus environment and outcomes with local institutions without moving away. Lipscomb may be worth exploring for applicants seeking a private-college experience and who want to balance cost, completion rates, and earnings.

American Baptist College is a historically Black college in Nashville with a faith-centered identity. It enrolls 46 students, and its listed total study cost is $12,000. Acceptance-rate and median-alumni-salary figures are unavailable, so applicants should seek details from the college before comparing admissions chances or earnings. Its reported graduation rate is 39%. For Nashville residents, location offers the possibility of studying close to home. Prospective students should confirm available academic programs, support services, and current costs as part of their decision.