Rankings / By State

Best Colleges in Tennessee

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 49 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$47,688

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

47%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$15,607

Avg. Net Price

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When considering colleges in Tennessee, prospective students and their families have a wealth of options. With 49 institutions on the list, ranging from large research universities to smaller liberal arts colleges, there's something to fit diverse needs and aspirations. Understanding how these schools stack up against each other can help in making informed choices about the future.

The most important factors in evaluating these schools are graduation rates, post-graduation earnings, student debt, and mobility. For instance, Vanderbilt University leads the pack with an impressive graduation rate of 93% and average earnings of $91,565 — both well above state averages. In contrast, Christian Brothers University shows a lower graduation rate of 55% and higher debt levels, which could impact long-term financial stability for graduates.

Consider the differences between the University of Tennessee-Knoxville and Rhodes College. While UT-Knoxville has a lower graduation rate at 74%, it offers a net price of $18,976 and a higher average earning potential of $60,249. In contrast, Rhodes College has a higher graduation rate at 83%, but its net price is significantly higher at $28,585. These factors highlight the trade-offs students must weigh as they explore their options.

Key Findings

Vanderbilt University graduates earn an average of $91,565, the highest in Tennessee.

The average graduation rate for these 49 colleges is just 47%.

Christian Brothers University has a graduation rate of only 55% but a net price of $9,854.

Rhodes College students carry an average debt of $21,761, a significant financial consideration.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 49

Avg. earnings at 10yr $47,688

Avg. graduation rate 47%

Avg. net price $15,607

Avg. median debt $19,880

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions in Tennessee

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN

Graduation93%

Earnings$91,565

Net Price$15,846

View full profile →

The University of the South

Sewanee, TN

Graduation81%

Earnings$64,911

Net Price$27,872

View full profile →

Rhodes College

Memphis, TN

Graduation83%

Earnings$66,651

Net Price$28,585

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, is a place where academic rigor meets vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 93%, students are not just enrolled; they’re thriving, contributing to a community known for its commitment to excellence.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

The University of the South

Sewanee, TN · 1,607 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Sewanee, TN, The University of the South offers a unique blend of a liberal arts education and a stunning natural campus. With an 81% graduation rate, it reflects a commitment to student success and engagement in a collaborative learning environment.

57% accepted 81% graduate $64,911 earnings

Rhodes College

Memphis, TN · 1,836 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Memphis, Rhodes College is a private nonprofit with a vibrant community of 1,836 students. The school has an impressive 83% graduation rate, which indicates a strong commitment to student success and support throughout the academic journey. Graduates can expect to earn a median of $66,651 after ten years, reflecting the quality of education and the value of a Rhodes degree in the job market.

50% accepted 83% graduate $66,651 earnings

Rhodes's full profile

Christian Brothers University

Memphis, TN · 905 students · Private nonprofit

Christian Brothers University in Memphis, TN, fosters a close-knit community with a focus on personal attention and support. With a smaller student body of 905, the university's 55% graduation rate highlights both challenges and the opportunity for individualized guidance along the way.

87% accepted 55% graduate $57,478 earnings

Christian's full profile

Tennessee Technological University

Cookeville, TN · 8,698 students · Public

Tennessee Technological University, located in Cookeville, welcomes nearly 8,700 students into its dynamic learning environment. The school has a graduation rate of 56%, demonstrating a commitment to helping students achieve their degrees. Graduates can expect a median income of $48,501 after a decade, reflecting the strong job prospects for those with a degree from this institution.

76% accepted 56% graduate $48,501 earnings

Tennessee's full profile

Middle Tennessee State University

Murfreesboro, TN · 16,301 students · Public

Middle Tennessee State University is a bustling public institution in Murfreesboro, home to over 16,300 students. The graduation rate is 54%, a figure that reflects ongoing efforts to support student completion and success. Graduates can look forward to a median earning of $48,541 after ten years, which highlights the potential financial benefits of earning a degree from MTSU.

69% accepted 54% graduate $48,541 earnings

Middle's full profile

Austin Peay State University

Clarksville, TN · 7,560 students · Public

Austin Peay State University, located in Clarksville, has a welcoming atmosphere for diverse learners, with a large student body of over 7,500. The public university prioritizes accessibility, reflected in its high acceptance rate of 96%, making it an appealing choice for students seeking a supportive environment to pursue their academic goals.

96% accepted 42% graduate $44,301 earnings

Austin's full profile

Trevecca Nazarene University

Nashville, TN · 1,737 students · Private nonprofit

Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville has a strong commitment to community and faith-based learning, attracting a diverse student population of 1,737. The university's focus on personal growth and development is evident in its higher graduation rate of 54%, providing an environment where students can succeed academically and personally.

69% accepted 54% graduate $49,378 earnings

Trevecca's full profile

Lipscomb University

Nashville, TN · 2,997 students · Private nonprofit

Nashville is more than just music; it’s also home to Lipscomb University, where students can build a strong foundation in a supportive community. With a graduation rate of 70%, Lipscomb encourages a focus on student success, preparing graduates for a future where the median earnings reach $55,541 within a decade of graduation.

68% accepted 70% graduate $55,541 earnings

Lipscomb's full profile

#10

Tennessee Wesleyan University

Athens, TN · 846 students · Private nonprofit

In Athens, Tennessee Wesleyan University offers a close-knit community for its 846 students, emphasizing both personal growth and academic success. With a graduation rate of 46% and median earnings of $45,989 a decade after graduation, students can see a promising return on their investment in education, though there’s room for improvement in completion rates.

69% accepted 46% graduate $45,989 earnings

Tennessee's full profile

#11

Union University

Jackson, TN · 1,607 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Jackson, Union University stands out for its strong graduation rate of 68%. This private nonprofit school emphasizes a supportive environment, ideal for students looking for a close-knit community as they pursue their degrees.

60% accepted 68% graduate $53,990 earnings

East Tennessee State University

Johnson City, TN · 10,004 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 86%, East Tennessee State University in Johnson City is an accessible option for many students. The campus fosters a vibrant community, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a blend of academic and social opportunities.

86% accepted 52% graduate $44,859 earnings

Southern Adventist University

Collegedale, TN · 2,773 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $53,723 at ten years post-graduation, Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, TN, is an appealing choice for students looking to connect faith with academics. The school’s 50% graduation rate indicates that students can thrive here, though some may face challenges in completing their degrees.

66% accepted 50% graduate $53,723 earnings

Southern's full profile

#14

Columbia State Community College

Columbia, TN · 3,897 students · Public

Columbia State Community College serves a large student population of 3,897, providing accessible education in the heart of Tennessee. With a graduation rate of 30%, students here often benefit from smaller class sizes and dedicated faculty, though the college is still working to improve completion rates. Graduates can expect median earnings of $40,256 after ten years, which is a solid return on investment for those entering the workforce sooner.

30% graduate $40,256 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#15

Belmont University

Nashville, TN · 7,137 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Nashville, TN, Belmont University has a vibrant campus life that attracts students from various backgrounds. With a graduation rate of 71%, it shows a solid commitment to helping students complete their degrees. The university's location in a bustling city adds to the opportunities for internships and networking in diverse fields.

95% accepted 71% graduate $55,930 earnings

Belmont's full profile

#16

Bethel University

McKenzie, TN · 1,547 students · Private nonprofit

Bethel University in McKenzie, TN, is an inviting choice for students looking for a personalized educational experience. While the graduation rate sits at 35%, the supportive atmosphere often encourages students to push through challenges and achieve their goals, reflected in the median earnings of $47,482 ten years after graduation.

60% accepted 35% graduate $47,482 earnings

Bethel's full profile

#17

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN · 12,701 students · Public

At the University of Memphis, located in a vibrant city, students can engage with a diverse array of programs while benefiting from a strong urban environment. With 12,701 students and a commitment to inclusivity, the university fosters a dynamic campus life that encourages both academic and personal growth.

72% accepted 50% graduate $48,458 earnings

University's full profile

#18

Maryville College

Maryville, TN · 1,005 students · Private nonprofit

Maryville College, found in Maryville, TN, presents an interesting combination of a lower graduation rate at 49% but relatively high median earnings of $49,279 ten years post-graduation. This suggests that while not all students complete their degrees, those who do may find considerable success in their careers, which could be an appealing factor for prospective students.

61% accepted 49% graduate $49,279 earnings

Maryville's full profile

#19

Lee University

Cleveland, TN · 2,617 students · Private nonprofit

Lee University, situated in Cleveland, TN, is home to over 2,600 students and showcases a commitment to student success with a graduation rate of 62%. The median earnings of $43,222 after ten years illustrate that graduates are moving into solid job markets, which might be comforting for families considering this investment in education.

71% accepted 62% graduate $43,222 earnings

Johnson University

Knoxville, TN · 743 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 59%, Johnson University in Knoxville offers a supportive environment for its students. Here, 39% of the student body receives Pell Grants, reflecting a commitment to accessibility for those from lower-income backgrounds. The median earnings of graduates reach $40,596 within ten years, suggesting that students can find solid opportunities post-graduation.

65% accepted 59% graduate $40,596 earnings

Johnson's full profile

#21

Cumberland University

Lebanon, TN · 2,104 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $57,687 a decade after graduation, Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN, presents a compelling case for students focused on post-college success. Though the overall graduation rate is 46%, the supportive environment here may help students who thrive with personalized attention and guidance as they navigate their studies.

67% accepted 46% graduate $57,687 earnings

Cumberland's full profile

#22

Volunteer State Community College

Gallatin, TN · 5,339 students · Public

Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin is an inviting choice for students looking to start their higher education journey. With a graduation rate of just 26%, it may seem daunting, but the college's support systems aim to help students succeed, and the median earnings of $41,150 at ten years show the potential for economic growth.

26% graduate $41,150 earnings

Volunteer's full profile

#23

Pellissippi State Community College

Knoxville, TN · 6,715 students · Public

Pellissippi State Community College is a gateway for students looking to gain a quality education without breaking the bank. With 6,715 students, this public institution offers a diverse environment, and its median earnings of $38,440 at ten years post-graduation reflect the potential for economic mobility, even with a graduation rate of 30%.

30% graduate $38,440 earnings

Pellissippi's full profile

#24

Lincoln Memorial University

Harrogate, TN · 1,572 students · Private nonprofit

Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, TN, presents a strong option for students looking for a blend of academic support and career opportunities. With a graduation rate of 52% and a median earning of $49,956 at ten years, students can expect a solid return on their investment as they transition into the workforce.

63% accepted 52% graduate $49,956 earnings

Lincoln's full profile

#25

Milligan University

Milligan, TN · 818 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings figure of $46,641 at ten years after graduation, Milligan University reflects a strong return on investment for its students. Located in Milligan, TN, this small private nonprofit institution has a 62% graduation rate, indicating that many students find success in completing their degrees and moving into the workforce prepared for meaningful careers.

72% accepted 62% graduate $46,641 earnings

Milligan's full profile

#26

Roane State Community College

Harriman, TN · 3,250 students · Public

Roane State Community College is a welcoming hub for 3,250 students, emphasizing community and personal growth in a supportive environment. With a graduation rate of 34%, the college is dedicated to helping students succeed through personalized attention and a strong sense of belonging.

34% graduate $39,407 earnings

Dyersburg State Community College

Dyersburg, TN · 2,103 students · Public

Dyersburg State Community College serves as a vital resource for the 2,103 students who seek affordable education with practical outcomes. With a graduation rate of just 31%, the college focuses on supporting students at various stages of their educational journey, creating pathways tailored to individual needs.

31% graduate $36,132 earnings

Dyersburg's full profile

#28

Northeast State Community College

Blountville, TN · 4,404 students · Public

Northeast State Community College in Blountville is an excellent starting point for students seeking affordable education. With a low net price of just $6,864, it’s particularly appealing for those looking to jumpstart their careers or transfer to a four-year institution without incurring significant debt.

33% graduate $34,553 earnings

Northeast's full profile

#29

Chattanooga State Community College

Chattanooga, TN · 5,284 students · Public

Chattanooga State Community College provides an accessible entry point to higher education, serving over 5,000 students in the heart of Chattanooga, TN. Despite a graduation rate of only 24%, the college supports many students in gaining valuable skills and credentials that can lead to immediate employment opportunities.

24% graduate $37,598 earnings

Chattanooga's full profile

#30

King University

Bristol, TN · 908 students · Private nonprofit

King University in Bristol has a welcoming 100% acceptance rate, making it an accessible choice for a diverse range of students. The median earnings of graduates at $59,831 after ten years reflect the university’s strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers. This school is particularly appealing to those who want to enter the workforce with competitive credentials right out of college.

100% accepted 47% graduate $59,831 earnings

Tusculum University

Greeneville, TN · 785 students · Private nonprofit

Tusculum University in Greeneville has a unique history as Tennessee's oldest institution of higher education, which adds a sense of tradition and pride for its students. Despite a lower graduation rate of 28%, the university attracts a diverse student body, with 46% of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to affordability and inclusion. The median earnings of graduates, at $44,367 ten years post-graduation, provide a glimpse into potential career pathways available to students.

72% accepted 28% graduate $44,367 earnings

Tusculum's full profile

#32

Nashville State Community College

Nashville, TN · 5,653 students · Public

Nashville State Community College provides an affordable entry point for students looking to jumpstart their education. With a net price of only $6,777, it is an appealing option for those who want to minimize debt while exploring their academic and career interests, despite a graduation rate of just 18%.

18% graduate $38,519 earnings

Nashville's full profile

#33

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Knoxville, TN · 30,418 students · Public

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville welcomes over 30,000 students into a diverse environment filled with opportunities for both personal and academic growth. With a graduation rate of 74%, it strikes a balance between accessibility and achievement, making higher education attainable for many.

42% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Tennessee State University

Nashville, TN · 4,848 students · Public

Tennessee State University in Nashville is a vibrant institution with a diverse student body of nearly 5,000 students. It has a significant focus on inclusivity, as evidenced by its 51% Pell Grant recipient rate, indicating a strong commitment to supporting lower-income students in their educational journeys.

70% accepted 33% graduate $42,730 earnings

Tennessee's full profile

#35

Baptist Health Sciences University

Memphis, TN · 770 students · Private nonprofit

In Memphis, Baptist Health Sciences University focuses on healthcare fields, attracting students who are passionate about making a difference in patient care. With a manageable student population of 770, this private nonprofit institution fosters a close-knit community where personal attention is a priority, helping students thrive in their academic journeys.

82% accepted 46% graduate $72,529 earnings

Baptist's full profile

#36

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN · 10,074 students · Public

Situated in picturesque Chattanooga, the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga attracts over 10,000 students with its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs. The public university emphasizes student engagement, which is reflected in its graduation rate of 52%, indicating a supportive environment that can help students reach their goals.

81% accepted 52% graduate $51,151 earnings

The University of Tennessee Southern

Pulaski, TN · 864 students · Public

The University of Tennessee Southern, located in Pulaski, offers a welcoming environment with an acceptance rate of 87%. With a small student body of 864, students can expect personalized attention and support throughout their academic journey.

87% accepted 36% graduate $38,924 earnings

The University of Tennessee-Martin

Martin, TN · 4,866 students · Public

The University of Tennessee-Martin has a welcoming community of about 4,866 students, emphasizing a balance between academics and student life. With a graduation rate of 54%, many students find their path to success through personalized support and strong faculty engagement.

88% accepted 54% graduate $44,213 earnings

Walters State Community College

Morristown, TN · 3,591 students · Public

Located in Morristown, TN, Walters State Community College serves over 3,500 students and focuses on providing an accessible education with a commitment to student support. With 30% of students receiving Pell Grants, this school caters particularly well to those who may need financial assistance while pursuing their academic goals.

35% graduate $37,085 earnings

Walters's full profile

#40

Freed-Hardeman University

Henderson, TN · 1,212 students · Private nonprofit

Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, TN, is known for its supportive environment, evidenced by a 70% graduation rate. With 1,212 students, it cultivates a close-knit community where personal connections can flourish, helping students navigate their educational journeys.

60% accepted 70% graduate $47,485 earnings

Freed-Hardeman's full profile

#41

Carson-Newman University

Jefferson City, TN · 1,387 students · Private nonprofit

In Jefferson City, TN, Carson-Newman University has a unique position with a 50% graduation rate and median earnings of $48,382 a decade after graduation. The balance here suggests a supportive academic environment where students can thrive despite the challenges that come with completing a degree.

90% accepted 50% graduate $48,382 earnings

Carson-Newman's full profile

#42

Motlow State Community College

Tullahoma, TN · 3,962 students · Public

Motlow State Community College sits in Tullahoma, TN, and serves nearly 4,000 students with a focus on community and workforce readiness. The college's commitment to accessibility is reflected in the 28% of students receiving Pell Grants, making it an attractive option for those in need of financial support.

31% graduate $40,397 earnings

Motlow's full profile

#43

Bryan College-Dayton

Dayton, TN · 814 students · Private nonprofit

At Bryan College in Dayton, the combination of a 53% graduation rate and median earnings of $54,434 a decade after graduation showcases the institution's dedication to student success. With a focus on small class sizes and personal attention, it provides a nurturing environment for students pursuing a liberal arts education. The college emphasizes strong values and character development, which resonates with many prospective students and families.

53% graduate $54,434 earnings

Fisk University

Nashville, TN · 1,035 students · Private nonprofit

Fisk University, located in Nashville, has a rich history and a commitment to serving its community, with 52% of its students receiving Pell Grants. Although the graduation rate is 35%, the school provides a unique cultural experience that many students find enriching and transformative during their college years.

37% accepted 35% graduate $45,454 earnings

Le Moyne-Owen College

Memphis, TN · 581 students · Private nonprofit

Le Moyne-Owen College, a private nonprofit institution in Memphis, serves a tight-knit community of about 581 students. It stands out for its 99% acceptance rate, which makes it an inviting option for students from various backgrounds, especially those who may have faced challenges in their academic journeys.

99% accepted 26% graduate $35,594 earnings

Jackson State Community College

Jackson, TN · 2,511 students · Public

Jackson State Community College serves as an accessible entry point for many students, offering a public education option in Jackson with a student body of 2,511. However, the graduation rate is only 23%, which suggests that many students may struggle to complete their programs in a timely manner.

23% graduate $35,224 earnings

Jackson's full profile

#47

Lane College

Jackson, TN · 736 students · Private nonprofit

Lane College in Jackson is home to a diverse student population, with 79% of students receiving Pell Grants. However, the school has a low graduation rate of just 18%, which raises questions about the challenges students face in completing their degrees and the support systems in place to help them succeed.

18% graduate $31,670 earnings

Southwest Tennessee Community College

Memphis, TN · 5,047 students · Public

With a student body of over 5,000 in Memphis, Southwest Tennessee Community College plays a significant role in the local community. The school serves a diverse population, with 41% of students receiving Pell Grants, which highlights its commitment to accessible education for those who need it most. The college's focus on practical skills training aligns well with the needs of the local economy, making it a solid choice for students looking to enter the workforce quickly.

19% graduate $34,071 earnings

Southwest's full profile

#49

Welch College

Gallatin, TN · 226 students · Private nonprofit

With a small student body of 226, Welch College fosters a tight-knit community where students can receive personalized attention and support. The school is located in Gallatin, Tennessee, and has a graduation rate of 57%, indicating that a majority of students are successfully completing their degrees.

57% graduate $42,198 earnings

Looking at the data, Vanderbilt University outperforms other institutions with its combination of high earnings and graduation rates. In contrast, Christian Brothers University struggles with a graduation rate of 55% and higher average debt of $27,000, highlighting the importance of considering both financial and academic outcomes when making a choice.

After reviewing the list, think about what matters most for you or your family. If a lower net price is a priority, schools like Christian Brothers University might seem appealing, but weigh that against their graduation rates and post-graduation earnings. Each student's situation is unique, so consider how location, program fit, and financial circumstances align with these metrics.

The transition from college to a stable life often hinges on these outcomes. A solid education can lead to meaningful job opportunities and financial independence. Families facing this decision must carefully assess all available data to choose a path that aligns with their goals and values.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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