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Today’s Best Online Colleges in Tennessee

Today’s Best Online Colleges in Tennessee

Tennessee college students are enrolling in online degrees in growing numbers, and that trend is expected to continue. If you’re looking for an entirely online or a hybrid program in Tennessee, learn about your top options in this guide.

Whether you’re an undergrad preparing to take your first college class or an experienced professional looking to advance your career, enrolling in an online college program in Tennessee can give you the flexibility, affordability, and student-centered education you desire. Colleges across Tennessee are embracing online learning, including the Tennessee Reconnect program that aims to help adult learners get that degree.

When you’re looking for an accredited online program in Tennessee, take into consideration your career goals, learning style, and schedule. As you weigh your options, we’ll guide you with a list of the best online colleges in Tennessee, discuss the different types of ways you can earn your degree, and provide other helpful resources. Continue reading to find the program and college that best fit your needs. 

2024’s Top Online Colleges in Tennessee

When you put the time, effort, and financial resources into a college degree, you want to make sure you’re getting a quality education. That’s where our rankings list can help. We’ve done the research and put together a comprehensive ranking list of the best online colleges in Tennessee. Schools that made our ranking put students first by offering tuition costs they can afford, financial aid solutions, student support and career placement services, and an excellent selection of online programs to choose from.

Get started now on finding the schools that will help you achieve your academic and career goals, whether through solely online programs or a hybrid/blended option. 

    or

    Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings

    1. Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs

    To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

    • Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
    • At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
    1. Assign Weightings

    After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.

    Online Program Availability

    • Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
    • For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.

    Affordability

    • Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
    • Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.

    Support Services

    • Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
    • Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.

    About Our Data

    OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024

  • Jackson, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$$$

    Union University’s online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees were all designed specifically to meet the needs of busy working professionals. At Union, students find uncompromising academic standards applied to flexible online course formats. As a Christian university, Union is dedicated to integrating the fundamentals of the faith into all programs of study, including online courses. Notably, the school’s affordable tuition is often less expensive than what students might find at a comparable state school. All of Union’s online courses are taught by distinguished on-campus faculty members who are dedicated to education, research, and mentoring online students as they study for their degrees.

    Program Highlights:

    Bachelor of Science in Christian Leadership

    • Credits: 128
    • Length: 4 years
    • Cost: $495/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC

    Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)

    • Credits: 31
    • Length: 18 months
    • Cost: $505/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: CCNE

    Master of Social Work

    • Credits: 60
    • Length: 2-3 years
    • Cost: $685/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: CSWE
  • Memphis, Tennessee
    Public $$

    The University of Memphis (U of M) has provided online education for over 20 years. Now, their undergraduate and graduate programs assist students in earning an online degree that meets the demands of their busy lives. With over 60 online programs available, you can achieve the degree you want without pausing your career or compromising your family and career priorities. As a student of U of M, you’ll also have access to comprehensive online student services, including 24/7 tutoring, academic support, and a dedicated admissions team. Each student also receives one-on-one help from an academic advisor as they plan the path to a degree.

    Program Highlights:

    Bachelor’s of Business Administration

    • Credits: 120
    • Length: 4 years
    • Cost: $419/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: AACSB

    Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations

    • Credits: 120
    • Length: 4 years
    • Cost: $419/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: ACEJMC

    Executive Master of Health Administration

    • Credits: 45
    • Length: 24 months
    • Cost: $606/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: CAHME
  • Dayton, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$$

    Whether you’re starting out with a bachelor’s degree or ready for doctoral studies, you can earn your degree online with Bryan College-Dayton. These programs were designed to meet the needs of nontraditional students who might not otherwise be able to make room in their lives to pursue a degree. If you’re returning to education after taking a break, pursuing new career goals with an advanced degree, or just need the flexibility to study off campus, Bryan’s online degrees might be the solution for you. As a student, you’ll receive support from a dedicated academic advisor on resolving scheduling issues, choosing programs that meet your interests, and coping with academic challenges.

    Program Highlights:

    Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology

    • Credits: 120
    • Length: 4 years
    • Cost: $395/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC

    Master of Education-Christian School Administration

    • Credits: 36
    • Length: 14 months
    • Cost: $475/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC

    Doctorate of Business Administration

    • Credits: 60
    • Length: 3 years
    • Cost: $600/credit
    • Mode: Hybrid
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC
  • Nashville, Tennessee
    Public $$

    Tennessee State University (TSU) created its online learning department to make it possible for students to learn anytime, anywhere. Depending on a student’s course of study, distance education courses are available in fully online or hybrid formats. No matter the delivery method, program curricula are designed to align with the stipulations and regulations of each participating academic unit. TSU online students can also count on additional online support through tutoring, counseling, a tech help desk, and career services. One outstanding aspect of TSU’s tuition policy is that out-of-state students enrolled exclusively in online programs may be eligible for e-rate tuition, which is much lower than standard out-of-state tuition rates.

    Program Highlights:

    Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies

    • Credits: 120
    • Length: 4 years
    • Cost: $283-$530/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC

    Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

    • Credits: 120
    • Length: 4 years
    • Cost: $283-$530/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC

    Master of Public Administration

    • Credits: 36-42
    • Length: 2-2.5 years
    • Cost: $523-$749/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: NASPAA
  • Johnson City, Tennessee
    Public $$

    Whether your goal is a bachelor’s degree to help you reach your educational goals or a master’s program to support career advancement, you can earn an online degree from East Tennessee State University. These online degree programs employ advanced learning tools to encourage an active digital learning environment that enables and inspires every student’s participation and success. With several on-demand courses available, you’re in control of when and where you learn as you work toward your degree. If you need additional goal-setting and planning support or counseling services, dedicated undergraduate and graduate student success specialists are available to assist all online students.

    Program Highlights:

    Bachelor of Science in Human Services

    • Credits: 120
    • Length: 4 years
    • Cost: $322-$449/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: CSHSE

    Master of Business Administration

    • Credits: 36
    • Length: 1-3 years
    • Cost: $610-$1,451/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: AACSB

    Master of Science in Information Systems

    • Credits: 33
    • Length: 2-3 years
    • Cost: $610-$1,451/credit
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC
  • Murfreesboro, Tennessee
    Public $$
  • McKenzie, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$
  • Knoxville, Tennessee
    Public $$$
  • Martin, Tennessee
    Public $$
  • Chattanooga, Tennessee
    Public $$
  • Knoxville, Tennessee
    Private for-profit $$$$
  • Cookeville, Tennessee
    Public $$
  • Nashville, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$$$
  • Memphis, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$
  • Harrogate, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$$$
  • Cleveland, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$$
  • Gallatin, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$$
  • Collegedale, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$$$
  • Lebanon, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$$$
  • Nashville, Tennessee
    Private for-profit $$$$$
  • Memphis, Tennessee
    Private not-for-profit $$$$
  • Clarksville, Tennessee
    Private for-profit $$$$

    or

    Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings

    1. Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs

    To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

    • Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
    • At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
    1. Assign Weightings

    After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.

    Online Program Availability

    • Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
    • For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.

    Affordability

    • Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
    • Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.

    Support Services

    • Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
    • Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.

    About Our Data

    OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024

  • Chattanooga, Tennessee
    Public $

    Whether you’re interested in studying business, fine arts, social sciences, or mathematics, Chattanooga State Community College has a degree or certificate program that you can complete entirely online. The school offers over 30 programs that are delivered through its Academic Resources Center, or ARC, where students can gain access to their coursework and use tools such as email and discussion forums. In addition, the ARC provides training for professors to help them become effective online instructors—which benefits teachers and students alike. Students can receive technical assistance if they need help working in the online system, so they’re best positioned to be successful in their studies.

    Program Highlights:

    Associate of Applied Science in Nuclear Medicine Technology

    • Credits: 69
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $11,390.05/program in state; $15,765.55/program out of state
    • Mode: Partially online
    • Accreditation: Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology

    Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice

    • Credits: 60
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $224/credit in state; $304/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

    Associate of Science in Teaching

    • Credits: 63
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $171/credit in state; $534/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Morristown, Tennessee
    Public $

    If you’re a prospective online student who is able to work well on your own and you need the flexibility that virtual learning provides, then Walters State Community College is a good choice to meet your education and career needs. The distance education offered by Walters State Community College is delivered through the TBR TN eCampus learning management system, where you’re able to access the school’s web-based courses, as well as the online elements of hybrid classes. In addition, if you need assistance with your classwork, you can access online tutoring services through the NetTutor platform where you can speak to someone live or get feedback on an assignment that you drop off in the system.

    Program Highlights:

    Associate of Arts in General Studies

    • Credits: 60
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $171/credit in state; $705/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

    Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice

    • Credits: 60
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $171/credit in state; $705/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

    Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology

    • Credits: 67
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $171/credit in state; $705/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Harriman, Tennessee
    Public $

    Roane State Community College offers online associate’s degrees in areas such as criminal justice, health information management and education, as well as undergraduate certificate programs in geographic information systems and computer information technology. Online courses are provided through the school’s Momentum learning management system, which houses tests, discussion boards, and course materials. In addition, you also have access to the syllabus for each program you enroll in, as well as the grades for completed classes. The school offers tutorials to help students learn about the system and if they need additional assistance, there is a helpline that students can call.

    Program Highlights:

    Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Management

    • Credits: 66
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $171/credit in state; $705/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education

    Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice

    • Credits: 60
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $171/credit in state; $705/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

    Associate of Applied Science in Geographic Information Systems

    • Credits: 63
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $171/credit in state; $705/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Cleveland, Tennessee
    Public $

    Are you interested in earning your degree online? Do you have enough technical proficiency to participate in online classes and discussion boards, as well as hand in assignments and tests in a distance learning management system? If so, you are a good match for the online degree programs at Cleveland State Community College. The school offers a variety of associate’s degrees, such as programs in sociology, finance, marketing, history, and education. These degrees can be earned entirely online, so you have the flexibility to complete your studies as you work full-time and handle your personal responsibilities at home.

    Program Highlights:

    Associate of Applied Science in Computers and Information Systems – Business

    • Credits: 63
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $171/credit in state; $705/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

    Associate of Science in Marketing

    • Credits: 60
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $171/credit in state; $705/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

    Associate of Applied Science in Medical Informatics

    • Credits: 61
    • Length: Two years
    • Cost: $171/credit in state; $705/credit out of state
    • Mode: Fully online
    • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

From Asynchronous to Hybrid: Explore Online College Learning in Tennessee

There are several different ways to earn a degree online in Tennessee, and the mode you choose will depend on how, when, and where you learn best. When narrowing down your program options, think about your preferences regarding a fully online vs. hybrid/blended option. You’ll also want to consider synchronous vs. asynchronous programs and whether you’re looking for a part-time or full-time course load. Read on to learn about the differences.

Fully Online vs. Hybrid/Blended

Online colleges in Tennessee offer a range of program types. Some programs are fully online while others are hybrid or blended. Although these terms are often used in place of each other, in blended programs, online components such as quizzes and group work are meant to supplement in-person learning. With hybrid programs, the online elements replace in-person instruction either fully or partially. For example, in a hybrid program, half of the students may be in person while the other half might be online. Some students like occasional in-person interaction while others prefer to learn at their own pace. The type of program you choose will depend on your learning preferences, goals, and schedule. 

Take an inside look into the different program types offered by online colleges in Tennessee to see what each is like, and find the one that best suits your learning style.

Master of Arts Degree in Counseling at Johnson University (Hybrid)

Whether you’re looking to be a mental health counselor or want to work in a school guidance office, a Master of Arts in counseling opens doors to a number of careers. The master’s degree in counseling from Johnson University is offered at its Tennessee campus and combines different teaching tools including in-person lectures and discussion, hands-on internships (either on or off campus), and interactive online learning. In general, these graduate level courses require students to be on campus two weekends per course per term for in-person meetings. The university offers a bevy of online resources covering topics like study skills and time management. For further assistance, students can schedule an online coaching session to discuss specific academic issues.

The hybrid M.A. in counseling program at Johnson University costs $575 per credit hour and requires 63 hours total. On average, it will take between 2 1/2 to 5 years to complete.

Bachelor of Arts Degree at King College (Fully Online)

If you love to read and write, a degree in English is something worth considering. The online English degree program at King College in Tennessee focuses on an in-depth understanding of language and literature. This degree prepares graduates for a wide array of careers in education, publishing, government, public relations, and more. 

Students in this program learn at their own pace and take as much time as they need with the material. Plus, the flexible start dates make it easy to stay on track – students aren’t tied to the traditional fall and spring semesters. Students in the online program are taught by the same faculty and are held to the same rigorous academic standards as their in-person counterparts. King College offers students a success coach, an academic professional who becomes familiar with the student’s area of study and helps them stay on track and navigate any issues that come up. 

On average, major coursework for this program takes 16 months with a single course lasting five weeks. This is in addition to the general education courses or transfer credits required to graduate. The cost is $305 per credit hour, and a total of 124 hours are required for the degree.

Asynchronous vs. Synchronous

Generally, online coursework is presented as either asynchronous or synchronous. In an asynchronous class, there is no set lecture time each week. Students work through the material at their own pace. A synchronous course will likely have live video lectures and more closely resemble a traditional format, but remotely. Synchronous programs tend to be more common with blended or hybrid courses. Many online college programs tend to follow an asynchronous format, but both types of courses are offered at Tennessee colleges. If you’re a highly motivated independent learner, you may prefer asynchronous coursework, but if you enjoy interacting with other students or need some external motivation, synchronous coursework may be better suited for you. For an in depth look at the two different course styles, read on below.

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Program at Trevecca Nazarene University (Asynchronous)

The criminal justice bachelor’s program at Trevecca Nazarene University is geared toward adults currently working in the field who are interested in career advancement. Intended for students who already have some college credits, this is a degree completion program that can be taken while also working full-time. 

The program’s asynchronous classes are flexible, and you can do the work when and where it fits into your schedule. While the courses are asynchronous, the experienced faculty and a cohort of classmates will ensure you feel connected and supported. Depending on how many credits you have at the start, this program can be completed in as few as 18 months. The program costs $395 per credit hour for 36 hours total.

University at Tennessee Knoxville Master of Business Administration (Synchronous)

The MBA program at the University of Tennessee Knoxville is fully online, meaning you won’t have to relocate and can take the courses from anywhere. Despite this being a primarily remote program, there’s plenty of opportunity for engagement and connection. Students participate in a three day on-campus orientation before their first semester, and there are opportunities to attend optional in-person events throughout the year. Once classes start, students attend interactive live lectures and can pop in to remote office hours. This type of interaction is key for asking questions and clarifying concepts. Most students enroll in this program take classes on a part-time basis and finish in about 32-36 months, on average. The 48-credit program costs $1,200 per credit hour.

Part-Time vs. Full-Time

One of the best things about pursuing an online degree is the flexibility. With a few exceptions, most online degrees can be pursued either full or part time. If you’re a highly motivated learner and not currently working a full-time job, you may prefer to work through your degree as quickly as possible. On the flip side, if you are planning to work full-time or have family obligations, a part-time program may be preferable. Read on for an inside look at how full-time and part-time programs operate. 

Union University Master of Science in Nursing RN to MSN (Part-Time)

The RN to MSN program at Union University is intended for students who already have an associate degree in nursing or a bachelor’s degree in another area (plus required pre-requisites). Most of the courses are completely online, however there are some required in-person clinical hours. Students have the option of enrolling in the program full time and completing it in 16 months or enrolling part time and finishing in about 2 1/2 years. Part-time students take between one and three courses per semester and most work at least part-time. The cost is $635 per credit hour plus $32 per credit hour in student fees. The program requires 41 credit hours and 340 clinical hours.

The University of Memphis Global Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting (Full-time)

Located within the Fogelman College of Business and Economics, the BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) degree with a major in accounting is highly regarded and accredited by the AACSB. The coursework in this program will prepare students if they want to take the certified public accountant (CPA) exam. Because the programs at The University of Memphis Global are fully online, there are several resources available to help students navigate the technology. Before enrolling in a course, you can preview it on Canva, the online course platform. Students can also access 24/7 online tutoring as well as robust internet technology assistance. The cost for Tennessee residents is $419 per credit hour, and 120 hours are required to complete the program.

Understanding Accreditation for Online Colleges in Tennessee

As you learn more about potential degree programs, be sure to check the school’s accreditation status. To earn accreditation, higher education institutions are reviewed by independent organizations. In the state of Tennessee, the regional accrediting body is the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSOC). Accreditation ensures quality control across schools and is important for credit transfers and licensure. Most academically rigorous two- and four-year schools strive for regional accreditation, while technical and for-profit schools are more likely to be nationally accredited.

There are also some national accreditors that review and grant accreditation to specific programs. For example, in a field like nursing where there are rigorous licensure requirements, you’d want to make sure your specific nursing program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation is important in determining the quality of a program, but it also ensures you’ll be eligible for financial aid. To receive federal financial aid, you must attend a school that is either regionally or nationally accredited.

Finding the Best Value of Online Degrees in Pennsylvania

Earning an online degree can be cheaper than attending class in person. Online learners still benefit from rigorous instruction and experienced faculty, but they can often save on traditional in-person expenses. For example, a fully online college will likely be focused primarily on academics rather than a broad range of student activities such as athletics and social events. Online students can also live at home and save on the expense of on-campus housing and dining.

Sometimes Tennessee students can benefit from in-state tuition, regardless of whether they are learning on campus or remotely. The pricing depends on the specific institution, so it’s a good idea to research a variety of programs and their costs before settling on an option. For reference, the average cost for in-state tuition and fees for a public college in Tennessee was $10,271 for the 2020-2021 academic year. Below, we’ve broken down the costs for three Tennessee colleges and what they’ll charge you whether you take classes on campus or remotely and whether you’re an in-state student or not.

School NameOn-Campus
In-State
On-Campus
Out-of-State
Online
In-State
Online
Out-of-State
The University of Memphis Global$419 / credit hour$595 / credit hour$419 / credit hour $419 / credit hour
University of Tennessee Knoxville$473 / credit hour$1245 / credit hour$439 / credit hour$513 / credit hour
Union University$1,202 / credit hour$1,202 / credit hour$495 / credit hour$495 / credit hour

* Costs include tuition and required fees of undergraduate programs.

Financial Aid Available to Online Students in Tennessee

Once you’ve found a program that meets your academic needs and professional goals, you might be wondering how you’re going to pay for everything. Fortunately, there are quite a few sources for federal, state, private, and institution-based financial aid options for students in Tennessee. 

Most students begin their search for financial aid by filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will determine eligibility for federal and state grants and loans as well as institution-based aid. Once you’ve determined what loans and grants you’re eligible for, you can begin applying for other sources of aid such as scholarships. The state also offers a number of financial aid programs specifically for Tennessee residents such as the Tennessee HOPE scholarship, the Tennessee Promise scholarship, and the Tennessee Reconnect grant. The Tennessee Reconnect grant program allows residents without an associate or bachelor’s degree to attend community college or technical school tuition free.

Tennessee’s Fastest-Growing College-Level Careers

Still undecided on your future career path? If you’re still figuring out what to study, sometimes knowing what college-level careers will be in the highest demand can help you decide. The table below outlines what careers are expected to see the fastest growth in Tennessee over the next decade. And to make sure the salary aligns with your personal and professional goals, we’ve also listed the most recent annual mean wage. 

CareerJob Growth (2020-2030)Annual Mean Wage (2021)
Nurse Practitioners57.2%$95,120
Statisticians54.5%$86,270
Software Developers52.8%$99,680
Logisticians50.5%$66,220
Information Security Analysts47.3%$95,350
Nursing Instructors and Teachers43.1%$74,050
Sound Engineering Technicians42.9%$52,380
Medical and Health Services Managers42.8%$111,680
Proofreaders and Copy Markers40%$31,720
Operations Research Analysts 38.5%$61,190

Sources: Bureau of Labor StatisticsProjections Central

Online Resources for Tennessee College Students

College for TN

College for TN is a free online resource for college and career information in the state of Tennessee. Take the career finder quiz, find info on financial aid, or use the calculator to figure out the true cost of a semester.

College Pays TN

This government site compiles a list of financial aid resources for Tennessee students. There’s information on financial aid, scholarships, and the TN Stars savings program.

Union University Student Resources

This comprehensive resource page from Union University has everything from an assignment calculator (plug in your due date and it will break the project into chunks) to reading comprehension tips. Consider this your one-stop-shop for college success.

Purdue University Online Writing Lab

Once you’re enrolled in a program and the assignments start rolling in, this site will be a great resource for writing papers. Whether you need help citing references or want to avoid plagiarism, the folks at Purdue have you covered.