A Complete Guide to Colleges in Tennessee (2025-2026)
Tennessee isn’t just known for its music, mountains, and southern charm — it’s also home to some of the most respected colleges and universities in the country. From vibrant urban campuses in Nashville and Memphis to peaceful rural colleges nestled in the Appalachian foothills, the Volunteer State offers something for every kind of student.
Whether you’re a Tennessee native or an out-of-state student exploring new academic opportunities, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about colleges in Tennessee — including top schools, financial aid, campus life, and tips for choosing the right program.
Why Choose a College in Tennessee?
There are many reasons students choose to pursue higher education in Tennessee:
- Affordable tuition: Tennessee offers many public institutions with competitive tuition and generous state aid programs, including the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship and Tennessee Promise.
- Strong academic programs: From engineering and healthcare to music and business, Tennessee schools offer diverse, high-quality programs.
- Cultural and geographic diversity: Urban campuses, small-town colleges, scenic mountains, and lively cities — Tennessee has it all.
- Growing industries: Nashville and other cities are hubs for healthcare, music, tech, and education, giving students access to internships and job opportunities.
Top Colleges and Universities in Tennessee
Here’s a breakdown of some of the best colleges in Tennessee for 2025, along with key details:
Public Universities
| University | Location | Undergraduate Enrollment | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Tennessee, Knoxville | Knoxville | 24,000+ | Engineering, Business, Athletics |
| Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro | 19,000+ | Aerospace, Recording Industry, Education |
| East Tennessee State University | Johnson City | 10,000+ | Health Sciences, Nursing, Public Health |
| Tennessee Tech University | Cookeville | 9,000+ | STEM Programs, Engineering, Agriculture |
| University of Memphis | Memphis | 15,000+ | Law, Business, Urban Studies |
Private Colleges
| College Name | Location | Enrollment Size | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vanderbilt University | Nashville | ~7,000 | Ivy-league level academics, Research, Medicine |
| Belmont University | Nashville | ~8,000 | Music Business, Nursing, Entrepreneurship |
| Lipscomb University | Nashville | ~4,600 | Christian Values, Education, Health Science |
| Rhodes College | Memphis | ~2,000 | Liberal Arts, Pre-Med, Law Preparation |
| Union University | Jackson | ~3,300 | Christian Studies, Nursing, Education |
Specialized and Community Colleges
Tennessee also offers excellent options for students seeking specific training or associate degrees:
- Nashville State Community College – Affordable, flexible programs in nursing, business, and IT.
- Pellissippi State Community College – Great for transfer students and those pursuing technical careers.
- Chattanooga State – Offers strong health science programs and associate degrees.
- Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) – Statewide campuses that focus on hands-on vocational training.
Popular College Majors in Tennessee
- Health Sciences & Nursing
- Business Administration
- Education & Teaching
- Engineering & Technology
- Music Industry (especially in Nashville!)
- Criminal Justice & Law
- Environmental Science & Agriculture
These programs are aligned with Tennessee’s economy and job market, making graduates highly employable within the state and beyond.
Scholarships and Financial Aid in Tennessee
Tennessee offers a range of financial aid options, especially for in-state students:
- Tennessee HOPE Scholarship – For students who meet GPA and ACT/SAT requirements.
- Tennessee Promise – Covers tuition at community colleges and TCATs for new high school graduates.
- TSAA Grant – Need-based financial aid for eligible Tennessee residents.
- Institutional Aid – Many private colleges like Belmont, Lipscomb, and Rhodes offer merit scholarships.
Federal aid like Pell Grants and student loans are also available by completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
Campus Life in Tennessee
Urban Campuses
Nashville and Memphis provide a vibrant social and professional environment. You’ll find everything from live music and great food to internship opportunities and job networks.
Small-Town Vibes
Schools like Tennessee Tech and Union University offer a quieter, more tight-knit college experience with strong campus communities.
Outdoor Adventures
Love hiking, kayaking, or mountain biking? East Tennessee has access to the Smoky Mountains and countless outdoor activities.
Tips for Choosing the Right Tennessee College
- Decide on public vs. private: Public universities tend to be more affordable for in-state students, while private colleges may offer more generous scholarships.
- Visit the campus: A tour can help you feel whether the culture and environment are right for you.
- Look at retention and graduation rates: This shows how successful the school is in supporting students to complete their degrees.
- Consider transfer pathways: If you’re starting at a community college, choose one with clear pathways to four-year universities.
- Think long-term: Consider internship access, alumni networks, and job placement support.
Tennessee offers a diverse, affordable, and opportunity-rich environment for college students. Whether you’re looking for a big university experience, a faith-based college, or a hands-on technical program, there’s a Tennessee school that fits your goals.