A Complete Guide to Colleges in Nashville: Explore Top Schools in Music City
Nashville isn’t just famous for country music and hot chicken — it’s also one of the fastest-growing college cities in the U.S. Whether you’re looking for a liberal arts education, a top-tier research institution, or a creative arts program, Nashville has something for everyone.
This complete guide to colleges in Nashville breaks down the city’s best schools, academic strengths, student life, and tips for choosing the right fit — all in one place.
Why Study in Nashville?
Nicknamed “Music City,” Nashville offers a unique mix of Southern charm, cultural diversity, and career opportunities. Here’s why students love it:
- Vibrant student life with live music, festivals, and food
- Booming job market in healthcare, tech, business, and entertainment
- Top-ranked universities with nationally recognized programs
- Mild weather, friendly communities, and affordable living
Whether you’re from Tennessee or coming from across the country, Nashville provides a perfect balance of academics and lifestyle.
Top Colleges and Universities in Nashville
Here’s a look at the most notable colleges in Nashville, from large research universities to private liberal arts schools and specialized institutions.
📊 Nashville Colleges at a Glance
| College Name | Type | Avg. Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vanderbilt University | Private, Research | 13,700 | Medicine, Law, Business, Education |
| Belmont University | Private | 8,300 | Music Business, Health Sciences |
| Tennessee State University | Public, HBCU | 6,700 | Agriculture, Education, Business |
| Lipscomb University | Private, Christian | 4,700 | Health Sciences, Education, Theology |
| Fisk University | Private, HBCU | 1,000 | Liberal Arts, STEM, History |
| Nashville State Community College | Public | 7,200 | Associate Degrees, Transfer Programs |
| Trevecca Nazarene University | Private, Christian | 3,000 | Ministry, Business, Counseling |
| Watkins College of Art | Private, Arts | Under 500 | Fine Arts, Film, Graphic Design |
1. Vanderbilt University
Type: Private Research University
Founded: 1873
Vanderbilt is Nashville’s most prestigious institution and consistently ranks among the top 20 national universities. It offers over 70 undergraduate majors and renowned graduate programs in law, business, education, and medicine.
Why Choose Vanderbilt?
- Ivy League-level academics
- Research-focused faculty
- Beautiful 330-acre campus in the heart of the city
- Strong financial aid support
Popular Majors: Biomedical Engineering, Economics, Psychology, Neuroscience
2. Belmont University
Type: Private Christian University
Known For: Music Business, Nursing, and Entrepreneurship
Located near downtown, Belmont is a favorite for students in the arts and healthcare. Its connection to Nashville’s music scene is unmatched — many alumni work in entertainment, audio production, or music management.
Student Life:
- Division I athletics
- Modern dorms and facilities
- Internships with Nashville’s music labels and hospitals
3. Tennessee State University (TSU)
Type: Public Historically Black College and University (HBCU)
Founded: 1912
TSU is a vibrant public HBCU offering strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and teacher education. Its location and affordability make it a popular choice for both in-state and out-of-state students.
Standout Features:
- Strong legacy and community involvement
- NCAA Division I athletics
- Extensive graduate school offerings
4. Lipscomb University
Type: Private Christian University
Founded: 1891
Lipscomb combines academic excellence with spiritual development. Students benefit from small class sizes, leadership programs, and strong healthcare partnerships in Nashville.
Programs to Explore:
- Pharmacy
- Accounting
- Pre-Med and Nursing
- Youth Ministry
5. Fisk University
Type: Private HBCU
Founded: 1866
Fisk is one of the oldest HBCUs in the U.S. and is known for producing strong leaders, scientists, and artists. It’s ideal for students seeking a liberal arts education grounded in social justice and history.
Notable Alumni:
W.E.B. Du Bois, Nikki Giovanni, John Lewis
6. Nashville State Community College
Type: Public Community College
Best For: Affordable education, career training, and transfer programs
Nashville State offers associate degrees, certificates, and university transfer pathways at a lower cost than four-year schools. It’s a smart choice for students who want to save money and still earn a top-notch education.
Popular Programs: Business, Computer Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Nursing
7. Trevecca Nazarene University
Type: Private Christian University
Founded: 1901
Trevecca offers a faith-based education with a focus on leadership and service. Students here pursue degrees in ministry, psychology, education, and more, all within a tight-knit community.
8. Watkins College of Art (now part of Belmont University)
Focus: Fine Arts, Design, Film
Watkins was one of Nashville’s premier visual arts colleges and is now integrated with Belmont. Students continue to enjoy small studio classes and hands-on creative experience.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Nashville College
Choosing a college is about more than just rankings. Ask yourself:
- What’s my ideal class size?
- Am I looking for a religious or secular experience?
- Do I want to live on-campus or commute?
- Is affordability a top priority?
- Are internships and job placement important to me?
Nashville’s diverse education options mean there’s a school to match every personality and goal.
Is Nashville Right for You?
With its strong mix of academic options, career opportunities, and vibrant culture, Nashville is more than just a great college city — it’s a smart investment in your future. Whether you’re seeking a high-powered research school like Vanderbilt, a creative haven like Belmont, or a supportive community like Lipscomb or TSU, you’ll find it in Music City.