best colleges in tennessee

Best Colleges in Tennessee – Introduction

For those interested in attending a southern school, the best colleges in Tennessee are great universities to explore. TN best colleges each provide students with exciting opportunities to pursue a degree in a unique college setting. So, let’s learn more about why students choose to attend top colleges in Tennessee.

Tennessee is recognized as the birthplace of country, bluegrass, blues, southern gospel, and rock ‘n’ roll. You’ll also find amazing food, including pulled pork and hot chicken, desserts like moon pies or stack cake, ramps (wild leeks), and fried pickles. Students who attend TN best colleges can also explore Tennessee’s natural beauty by rock climbing, hiking, waterskiing, or visiting the Great Smoky Mountains.

Overall, Tennessee is a great college location, and top colleges in Tennessee offer students plenty of options. If you’re interested in going to school in Tennessee, you may be wondering about TN best colleges. 

In our guide to the Best Colleges in Tennessee, we’ll discuss:

  • Our ranking of the 10 best colleges in Tennessee
  • Public and private colleges in Tennessee
  • Which Ivy League and HBCU schools are located in Tennessee
  • A map of top colleges in Tennessee
  • Community colleges in Tennessee
  • The best colleges in Tennessee for business, engineering, pre-med, and nursing
  • How to decide the best colleges in Tennessee for you, and more!

Before we dive into our complete list of the TN best colleges, let’s see which school tops the list.

What is the best university in Tennessee?

best colleges in tennessee

Based on national rankings, Vanderbilt is the best university in Tennessee. So, you won’t be surprised when you see Vanderbilt ranking highly across many college lists. 

According to U.S. News, the Vanderbilt ranking is #13 in National Universities (making it one of the best colleges in the US). It’s also ranked #8 in Best Value Schools, which accounts for both academic quality and overall cost. Approximately 65% of students receive financial aid, making Vanderbilt an affordable choice for many students.

Here’s another fun fact about one of the best colleges in Tennessee: the Vanderbilt ranking is #1 for students’ overall satisfaction. There’s a lot to love about Vanderbilt, including its beautiful Nashville campus. And, with 475 interest organizations and over 35 club and varsity teams, there’s something for everyone on campus.

Alumni achievement at Vanderbilt

As one of the best colleges in Tennessee, it’s no surprise that Vanderbilt has many accomplished alumni. Barney S. Graham (Ph.D. ’91) helped develop the first experimental COVID-19 vaccines. James Patterson (MA ’70) is a world-renowned author and the creator of the Patterson Fellowships, which brings distinguished scholars to Vanderbilt’s campus. Dr. Mildred T. Stahlman (BA’43, MD’46, HO’48) developed the first modern neonatal intensive care unit in the U.S. Like other top colleges in Tennessee, Vanderbilt has many distinguished alumni.

Considering its accolades and prestige, it’s no surprise Vanderbilt tops our list of best colleges in Tennessee. While Vanderbilt may be renowned among TN best colleges, there are many more top colleges in Tennessee.

Top 10 best colleges in Tennessee 

Now let’s take a look at some other top colleges in Tennessee. We’ll give an overview of each of our TN best colleges, including location, how they rank among the best colleges in the US, acceptance rates, and more.

Here are the top 10 colleges in Tennessee according to U.S. News:

Top 10 Tennessee Best Colleges

1. Vanderbilt University

best colleges in tennessee

As stated, Vanderbilt is located in Nashville, TN, and ranks #13 nationwide. With an acceptance rate of 7%, Vanderbilt is the most selective of our TN best colleges. Vanderbilt offers students a liberal arts curriculum with access to high-powered research facilities. Students can pursue over 70 majors at Vanderbilt’s undergraduate colleges. 

2. University of Tennessee Knoxville

best colleges in tennessee

The University of Tennessee Knoxville is one of the best public colleges in Tennessee. It is ranked #115 in National Universities and has a 75% acceptance rate. On the University of Tennessee Admissions page, you can learn about housing options, student services, and financial aid. Its Supply Chain Management/Logistics program is ranked #3 in the country. Other popular majors include business, marketing, engineering, journalism, and psychology. One of UTK’s unique traditions is Torch Night, where students pledge their loyalty to the school during orientation.

3. Belmont University

best colleges in tennessee

One of the best private colleges in Tennessee is Belmont University. Like other colleges in Tennessee, Belmont is located in Nashville. However, the Belmont University acceptance rate is higher: 88%. While the Belmont University acceptance rate is relatively high, Belmont is committed to providing their students with a rigorous, innovative, and engaging academic experience. Belmont’s mission is to be the leading Christ-centered university in the world, championing integrity, collaboration, inquiry, service, and humility. Communication, biomedical sciences, education, health professions, and visual and performing arts are some of Belmont’s most popular majors.

4. Union University

The next school on our list of TN best colleges is located in Jackson, TN. Union University ranked #194 nationally and has an acceptance rate of 53%. Like other top colleges in Tennessee, Union is a Christian university. Students can choose from over 107 majors, from chemical physics to commercial songwriting to organ performance. At Union, students will receive a faith-based education (similar to other schools on our list of top colleges in Tennessee).

5. Lipscomb University

best colleges in tennessee
Allen Arena – Lipscomb University Bisons” by SeeMidTN.com (aka Brent) | CC BY-NC 2.0.

Another great university in Nashville is Lipscomb University. Lipscomb has a 74% acceptance rate and is ranked #212 in National Universities. Like other private colleges in Tennessee, Lipscomb allows students to engage in challenging coursework while learning from innovative faculty members. Students will study within one of Lipscomb’s sixteen colleges & schools, like the College of Health Sciences and the Hazelip School of Theology. Some fun majors include animation, cybersecurity, music industry studies, and youth ministry.

6. University of Memphis

best colleges in tennessee

The first school on our list of top colleges in Tennessee located in Memphis is the University of Memphis. UofM is ranked #263 nationwide and has an 85% acceptance rate. Students can take advantage of UofM’s status as a Carnegie R1 research institution or cheer alongside their peers at Division I sporting events. In the classroom, students can explore majors across ten schools. Popular majors include sport & leisure management, real estate finance, and non-profit development and administration. 

7. Tennessee Tech University

best colleges in tennessee
Tennessee Tech University 08052011 64” by Larry Miller | CC BY-NC 2.0.

Another one of our TN best colleges for students looking for public colleges in Tennessee is Tennessee Tech. Students who live on campus in Cookeville can choose from several themed housing options and living-learning communities. Tennessee Tech has a 79% acceptance rate and is ranked #285 nationwide. As a top public research university, students can explore a wide variety of majors, from agriculture to engineering to wildlife and fisheries science.

8. Lincoln Memorial University

best colleges in tennessee

Another one of our top private colleges in Tennessee is Lincoln Memorial University. Lincoln Memorial is located in Harrogate, about 55 miles north of Knoxville in the Appalachian Mountains. It is ranked #299 in National Universities and has a 75% acceptance rate. The school, originally founded as a memorial to Abraham Lincoln, is home to 1,560 undergraduates who study across 10 LMU locations in Tennessee and Kentucky. Students can pursue either two- or four-year degree programs. 

9. Middle Tennessee State University

best colleges in tennessee

At #299 in National Universities, Middle Tennessee State University is tied with Lincoln Memorial. However, Middle Tennessee State University Admissions is slightly more selective with an acceptance rate of 68%. Students can choose from over 300+ programs at Middle Tennessee’s campus in Murfreesboro. They can also add University Honors College options to any degree, whether they choose to study aerospace, interior design, or social work. 

10. East Tennessee State University

best colleges in tennessee
East Tennessee State University” by jimmywayne | CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

The last school on our list of top colleges in Tennessee is East Tennessee State University. Located in Johnson City, East Tennessee State University admissions has an acceptance rate of 87% and a ranking of #317 nationally. Popular majors include nursing, psychology, computer and information science, and biology. Outside of the classroom, students can participate in 250+ student organizations or cheer on one of East Tennessee’s 19 DI athletic teams.

What Ivy League school is in Tennessee?

There are no Ivy League universities in Tennessee. Still, you’ll find plenty of great colleges in Tennessee, from public universities to private colleges. You can count on getting an excellent education at any of the top colleges in Tennessee. 

Known as a “southern Ivy,” Vanderbilt is universally recognized as one of the best universities in the nation. Students at Vanderbilt can expect to receive an education on par with the one they would receive from any Ivy League school.

Colleges in Tennessee Map

Now, just where are the TN best colleges? Let’s take a look at our colleges in Tennessee map. Our colleges in Tennessee map includes schools in Nashville, Knoxville, and other major cities in Tennessee. Many of our TN best colleges are located in Tennessee’s capital. 

In Nashville, you’ll find:

About 3 hours away from Nashville is the city of Knoxville. Located in eastern Tennessee, Knoxville is known for its food, music scene, natural beauty, and festivals. In Knoxville, you’ll find several of our TN best colleges, including the University of Tennessee, as well as Johnson University and Maryville College (not pictured on our map).

As you can see, TN best colleges are located throughout the state. Refer back to our colleges in Tennessee map to see which schools share the same college location.

How many colleges are in Tennessee?

There are a total of 105 public and private colleges in Tennessee. This includes:

  • 23 public institutions
  • 48 nonprofit private institutions
  • 34 for-profit private institutions

Some top public colleges in Tennessee include the University of Memphis, Tennessee Tech, The University of Tennessee, and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Martin. These are some of the best colleges in Tennessee for in-state students. 

Public colleges in Tennessee

Many of the public TN best colleges are part of the University of Tennessee System. The UT system is Tennessee’s oldest and largest public institution of higher education. It was formed in 1968 and enrolls close to 54,000 graduate and undergraduate students. The UT System includes many great colleges in Tennessee, including:

Top private colleges in Tennessee include Vanderbilt, Lipscomb University, Union University, and Lincoln Memorial. These are some of the best colleges in Tennessee for students who value smaller class sizes and a close-knit community.

Maybe, rather than looking at the best colleges in Tennessee, you’re only interested in colleges in a specific city. So, let’s look at TN best colleges in Nashville.

How many colleges are in Nashville?

best colleges in tennessee

According to the Nashville Chamber of Commerce, there are over 30 colleges and universities in the Nashville area. You can find art colleges, public colleges, and private colleges in Tennessee’s capital. Students interested in TN best colleges for art might want to check out Nossi College of Art & Design and the Watkins College of Art at Belmont University.

According to U.S. News, the best colleges in Nashville are:

  • Vanderbilt University
  • Belmont University
  • Lipscomb University
  • Middle Tennessee State University
  • Fisk University
  • Welch College
  • Cumberland University
  • Tennessee State University

Nashville, also known as Music City, is a dynamic place for students to attend college. While many are familiar with Nashville’s musical heritage, the city is also home to countless museums, performing arts venues, historic landmarks, art galleries, and more. Students who attend one of the TN best colleges in Nashville will find no shortage of attractions. 

Community Colleges in Tennessee

Tennessee also offers community colleges for students who aren’t ready to pursue a four-year degree. Students can also transfer from community colleges in Tennessee to many TN best colleges. 

Generally, community colleges in Tennessee will have a transfer center, which helps students navigate the transfer process. Now, let’s learn more about a few great community colleges in Tennessee.

Tennessee Community Colleges

best colleges in tennessee

Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Nashville

One of the best community colleges in Tennessee is Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Nashville. Students can be part-time or full-time and take either day or night classes. Courses are designed to give students applicable, real-world skills in popular industries like automotive, cosmetology, and construction. The college is accredited by the Council of Occupational Education, so students can expect to build valuable skills at a low cost.

In addition to taking classes, students can join various organizations. Skills USA provides education experiences to help build leadership and teamwork skills. The National Technical Honor Society recognizes high-achieving students who are then eligible to receive NTHS scholarships and letters of recommendation for future endeavors.

Walters State Community College

If you’re looking for community colleges in Tennessee farther east, check out Walters State Community College in Morristown. Students can explore over 150 programs of study in six different class formats, including:

  • Conventional Classes (CON)
  • WS Web-Based Courses (ONLINE)
  • Hybrid Courses (HYB)
  • Video Streaming Courses (TWY)
  • Desktop Video Courses (DVC)
  • TN eCampus Courses (RD1 Web-Based/Online)

Additionally, they offer workforce training, which puts students into real-world training solutions in areas like healthcare and patient care, youth programs, and eLearning.

Jackson State Community College

Jackson State is another great option for students looking for community colleges in Tennessee. Students can choose from different divisions including business and industry, health sciences, computer information technology, nursing, humanities and social sciences, mathematics, and natural sciences. Jackson State offers Distance Education, which allows students to take classes with flexible course structures. Students are also eligible for JSCC Foundation Scholarships, which you can learn more about on the Financial Aid website.

Some community colleges in Tennessee, like Jackson State, are part of the Tennessee Board of Regents. This group includes 13 community colleges, each with a specific service area.

The other colleges in the Tennessee Board of Regents system are:

  • Chattanooga State
  • Cleveland State
  • Columbia State
  • Dyersburg State
  • Motlow State
  • Nashville State
  • Northeast State
  • Pellissippi State
  • Roane State
  • Southwest Tennessee
  • Volunteer State
  • Walters State

Community colleges in Tennessee are a great option for in-state students looking for affordable and flexible education. 

While community colleges in Tennessee can be more cost-friendly than other four-year universities, they aren’t free. Next, let’s talk about what it costs to attend colleges in Tennessee and review options to help make colleges in Tennessee more affordable.

Is college free in Tennessee?

best colleges in tennessee

No, colleges in Tennessee are not free. At most major universities and colleges in Tennessee, students will pay similar amounts in tuition and fees that they would pay in other states. However, under the Tennessee Promise, students can attend community colleges in Tennessee free of charge. 

Tennessee Promise

In addition to covering tuition and fees for students, Tennessee Promise also pairs participants with a mentor who will help them through the college admissions process. No matter which of the many colleges in Tennessee students choose, they must complete eight hours of community service each term and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA to receive their scholarship.

HOPE Scholarship

The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship can also help students fund the cost of attending college in Tennessee. In order to be eligible for the HOPE scholarship, students must:

  • Be a resident of Tennessee
  • Graduate from an eligible TN high school
  • Enroll in one of Tennessee’s public or private colleges or universities within 16 months following high school graduation
  • Achieve a minimum of 21 ACT or 1060 SAT
  • Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA

If students are selected for the HOPE scholarship, they’ll receive:

  • Up to $2,250/semester as a full-time freshman and sophomore; then up to $2,850/semester as a junior and senior (at 4-year institutions and 2-year institutions with on-campus housing)
  • Up to $1,600/semester as a freshman and sophomore (at 2-year institutions)

Awards are also available for summer enrollment. Students can expect to receive their scholarship until they earn their baccalaureate degree or five years have passed from their initial date of enrollment.

How many HBCU are in Tennessee? 

There are 7 HBCU schools in Tennessee. HBCU are some of the best colleges in Tennessee for students looking for a supportive faculty and community. The HBCU in Tennessee each offer a unique experience. Many students choose to attend HBCU for their inclusivity, legacy, and values.

Now, let’s take a look at the top HBCU in Tennessee. We’ll include info on a variety of schools and key details about them, like the Fisk University ranking or the Tennessee State University acceptance rate.

HBCU in Tennessee

No list of TN best colleges would be complete without highlighting the HBCU in Tennessee. Here are the HBCU schools in Tennessee:

Tennessee HBCUs

American Baptist College

best colleges in tennessee

This Christian college emphasizes a liberal arts education, preparing students for leadership, service, and excellence in their chosen field. ABC offers both 2-year associate and 4-year bachelor’s degrees.

Fisk University

best colleges in tennessee
Cravath Hall – Fisk University” by SeeMidTN.com (aka Brent) | CC BY-NC 2.0.

Fisk is another university with a liberal arts curriculum whose core values are diversity, excellence, teamwork, accountability, integrity, leadership, and service. The Fisk University ranking is #11 in HBCUs and the Fisk University ranking in National Liberal arts Colleges is #151. 

Knoxville College

best colleges in tennessee
2019–The campus of Knoxville College, which is now abandoned #1” by LittleRoamingChief | CC BY 2.0.

Knoxville, a private Christian college, is the only HBCU in East Tennessee. KC provides students of all races, cultures, and backgrounds with a well-rounded liberal arts education. 

Lane College

Lane College was founded by the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in 1882. On Lane’s campus in Jackson, TN, students are part of a vibrant social life, including many student groups.

LeMoyne Owen College

best colleges in tennessee
LeMoyne-Owen College – Steele Hall (Memphis, Tennessee)” by cmh2315fl | CC BY-NC 2.0.

LeMoyne offers 22 unique majors across six academic divisions. Like other HBCU in Tennessee, this college has a liberal arts core curriculum, which prepares students to succeed by instilling communication and critical thinking skills.

Meharry Medical College

best colleges in tennessee
Meharry Medical College – Nashville” by SeeMidTN.com (aka Brent) | CC BY-NC 2.0.

Located in Nashville, Meharry is one of the country’s oldest historically black health science academic institutions. Meharry only offers graduate degrees.

Tennessee State University

best colleges in tennessee
T-38 Talon at Tennessee State University” by SeeMidTN.com (aka Brent) | CC BY-NC 2.0.

Tennessee State is an urban, co-ed, land-grant university that offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. Tennessee State University admissions has a 56% acceptance rate and is ranked #34 in HBCU nationally.

Now that we’ve looked at HBCU TN best colleges, let’s keep learning about the best colleges in Tennessee. First, we’ll take a look at the largest university in Tennessee. Then, we’ll look at top colleges in Tennessee by major.

What is the largest university in Tennessee?

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is the largest university in Tennessee. 

As a large university, UT Knoxville offers students a wide selection of majors and resources for career development. Students can choose from over 360 programs of study across nine colleges. For students who aren’t sure which major or career they want to pursue, the Division of Student Success has a Center for Career Development & Academic Exploration.

University of Tennessee Admissions accepts applications through the Common App. However, students will also need to create a Go Vols account. There, you’ll register for campus tours and apply for Honors & Scholars programs and cohort programs. For students who want to learn more about attending one of TN best colleges, University of Tennessee admissions offers the opportunity to chat virtually with students and faculty.

Best Colleges in Tennessee – By Major

If you already know what you want to study in college, you may be curious about the best colleges in Tennessee by major. Up next, we’ll look at the best colleges in Tennessee for engineering, business, pre-med, and nursing.

While a list of top colleges in Tennessee can be a great place to start your college search, they won’t necessarily reflect your particular needs. Looking at TN best colleges related to your chosen field can help you find the best colleges in Tennessee for you.

Best Colleges in Tennessee for Engineering

There is no definitive ranking for the best undergraduate engineering colleges in Tennessee. So, this data comes from the U.S. News graduate rankings. Here is our list of the best colleges in Tennessee for engineering:

Best Engineering Colleges in Tennessee

best colleges in tennessee

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt is ranked #42 in Best Engineering Schools. Students can specialize in biomedical, civil, chemical, environmental, electrical, and mechanical engineering.

University of Tennessee Knoxville

UT Knoxville is ranked #55 in Best Engineering Schools. The Tickle College of Engineering offers 12 different BS degrees in aerospace, biosystems, and industrial engineering.

University of Memphis

The University of Memphis is ranked #152 in Best Engineering Schools. The Herff College of Engineering offers 20 degree programs and opportunities to do research in engineering technology and biomedical, civil, electrical & computer, and mechanical engineering.

University of Tennessee Chattanooga

UT Chattanooga is ranked #173 in Best Engineering Schools. The College of Engineering and Computer Science offers degrees in mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical engineering, among other fields.

Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Tech is ranked #182 in Best Engineering Schools. The College of Engineering is home to engineers, computer scientists, and engineering technologists.

Any of these schools would be great options for engineering colleges in Tennessee. Next, let’s look at the best colleges in Tennessee for business.

Best Colleges in Tennessee for Business

Once again, the most reliable rankings for the best colleges in Tennessee for business come from these schools’ graduate-level programs. However, these schools will all have strong faculties and course structures at the undergraduate level as well. 

Here is our list of the best colleges in Tennessee for business:

Best Business Colleges in Tennessee

best colleges in tennessee

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt’s Owen Graduate School of Management is ranked #27 in Best Business Schools. Undergraduates can pursue a business minor, which allows students to take courses in business fundamentals at the graduate school.

University of Tennessee Knoxville

UT Knoxville is ranked #55 in Best Business Schools. The Haslam School of Business offers 9 undergraduate majors, which will move through general education, pre-business core, business core, and major requirements.

Lipscomb University

Lipscomb’s College of Business is ranked #212 in Best Business Schools. The college is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

Belmont University

The Jack C Massey Graduate School of Business is ranked #129 in Best Business Schools. The Belmont University acceptance rate is 88%.

Up next, we’ve got even more great colleges in Tennessee. Let’s take a look at TN best colleges for pre-med.

Best Colleges in Tennessee for Pre-med

Since pre-med is not technically a major, we’ve compiled schools with strong programs in pre-med-related fields (like biology or chemistry). Here is our list of the best colleges in Tennessee for pre-med:

Best Pre-med Colleges in Tennessee

best colleges in tennessee

Vanderbilt University

Ranked at #5 in medical research and #82 in primary care, it’s no surprise Vanderbilt is one of the best colleges in Tennessee for pre-med. Undergraduates can join the Alpha Epsilon Delta Pre-Health Society, which connects students with guest speaker presentations, special events, and volunteer opportunities.

University of the South

Sewanee’s undergraduate pre-health programs include pre-medical, dental, psychical therapy, physician assistant, veterinary, nursing, pharmacy, and public health. The Hippocrates Fellowship Program, Sewanee’s pre-medical honors program, prepares students for medical internships and beyond. 

Rhodes College

Rhodes’ pre-professional programs in health include clinical psychology, dentistry, medicine, and other specializations. Depending on your career aspirations, Rhodes will recommend students pursue research opportunities, hone specific skills, have clinical experience, and more.

Lipscomb University

Lipscomb’s College of Liberal Arts & Sciences houses its pre-medical program, which prepares students to successfully apply to medical school. Their Health Professions Advisory Committee (HPAC) helps students navigate prerequisite requirements, networking opportunities, and interview preparation. It also awards both need- and merit-based supplemental aid.

University of Tennessee Knoxville

Students whose goal is to study at the UT Health Science Center in Memphis can pursue either a three- or four-year bachelor’s degree in UT Knoxville’s pre-med concentration. To help you prepare for medical school, UT Knoxville will help you build your course schedule around required, highly recommended, and additional courses.

Now that we’ve learned a bit about the best colleges in Tennessee for pre-med, let’s take a look at some colleges in Tennessee for nursing.

Colleges in Tennessee for Nursing

There is no definitive undergraduate ranking for the best colleges in Tennessee for nursing. However, U.S. News ranks the best master’s programs for students pursuing an advanced nursing degree. 

Here is our list of the best colleges in Tennessee for nursing:

Nursing Colleges in Tennessee

best colleges in tennessee

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt does not have an undergraduate nursing program, but the Vanderbilt MS nursing program’s ranking is #6 in the country. Undergraduates at Vanderbilt will need to complete pre-nursing requirements to apply to the MSN program.

East Tennessee State University

East Tennessee does have an undergraduate nursing program, where students can earn a BS in nursing. Once they’ve completed their degree, students can then take the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become registered nurses and enter the healthcare industry.

Belmont University

Belmont offers a BA, Master’s, post-graduate APRN, and Doctor of Nursing degrees. In the traditional undergraduate track, students will complete general education and introductory coursework during their first two years, then move into foundational and experiential coursework.

Union University

Students can pursue over 27 different education tracks in Union’s BSN, MSN, post-graduate, and DNP programs. Their traditional BSN program allows students to pursue a nursing degree within a liberal arts framework. To start the nursing curriculum, students must complete their core courses with a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA.

Southern Adventist University

Southern Adventist’s BSN program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing. Like other top colleges in Tennessee for nursing, their program prepares students to take the RN licensure exam and other certification exams.

As you can see, there are many great colleges in Tennessee for nursing and other popular majors that you can find on our list of best colleges in Tennessee. So, how do you decide which TN best colleges to apply to? 

Best college in Tennessee for you!

It may be tempting to apply to schools on our list of top colleges in Tennessee. However, they won’t all necessarily be a great fit for you. All of these colleges in Tennessee have programs and qualities that make them unique. So, finding the best colleges in Tennessee for you will require some research. 

College size and setting

First off, you might want to consider college size. Generally, schools can be categorized as small, medium, or large universities. For example, there’s a big difference between a school with an undergraduate population of 7,111, like Vanderbilt, and 25,067, like the University of Tennessee – Knoxville. Smaller schools tend to have tighter-knit communities, whereas larger schools often have opportunities to be a part of a diverse student body.

You’ll also want to take into account the college setting. The top colleges in Tennessee are located in different types of cities that will impact your college experience. Think about whether you want a more urban or rural setting. Rural areas often have beautiful natural landscapes for hikers, runners, and outdoorsy people. A more urban college location, by contrast, can mean more exciting cultural experiences and opportunities for jobs and internships in various fields.

Educational differences

While you can expect to receive a strong education at all of the best colleges in the US, colleges in Tennessee will each have a unique approach. You may benefit from a more specialized, narrowed concentration in your chosen field. Or, you may want a liberal arts education with a more interdisciplinary curriculum. While the best colleges in Tennessee are all great schools, be sure to check out your specific major’s department and see if their offerings align with your interests.

You’ll also want to consider whether you’re open to both public and private colleges in Tennessee. Public colleges can be more affordable for in-state students, whereas private colleges often offer more need-based financial aid. All of the TN best colleges have financial aid websites where you can learn more about specific costs.

Best Colleges in Tennessee Takeaways

After reviewing this guide, we hope you see how many great colleges in Tennessee there are. We discussed private and public colleges in Tennessee and the benefits of each. Additionally, we highlighted the HBCU in Tennessee and three community colleges in Tennessee. Finally, we talked about college settings and showed you where you can find colleges in Tennessee, Nashville, Knoxville, and other cities.

Choosing between colleges in Tennessee can be challenging. If you need help deciding which colleges in Tennessee are right for you, CollegeAdvisor is here to help. Click here to schedule a meeting with our team.


best colleges in tennessee

This article was written by Stefanie Tedards. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.