Top Universities in Tennessee 2025: Rankings, Courses, Tuition & Admissions Guide
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If you’re searching for top-quality universities in the US, have you thought about studying in Tennessee? It’s a rising star for both domestic and international students, offering a great mix of academic excellence, hands-on learning, and real-world career prep. From Vanderbilt’s Ivy League-level prestige to affordable tech and healthcare programs at Tennessee Tech and ETSU, the state gives you plenty of solid options.
Whether you’re into engineering, business, music, education, or health sciences, Tennessee’s universities provide strong programs, generous scholarships, and supportive campus life. So, if you’re planning your next academic move in 2025, here’s a guide to help you explore the best universities in Tennessee—complete with rankings, tuition fees, top courses, and what makes each one special.
What Are the Top Universities in Tennessee for 2025?
Tennessee is home to a wide variety of universities that cater to both local and international students across different fields. Whether you’re aiming for Ivy-league-level private education, cutting-edge engineering and tech programs, or affordable public degrees with high ROI, this state has something for everyone. In 2025, Tennessee continues to attract students with its diverse academic offerings, strong graduate employability, and student-focused campuses.
From Vanderbilt’s nationally ranked research to Tennessee Tech’s STEM-driven success, each university offers unique strengths in academics, affordability, and student life. Many universities here also offer international student support services, merit-based scholarships, and access to internships and jobs in growing industries like healthcare, education, and IT. Here’s a quick breakdown of the top-ranked universities in Tennessee for 2025, including key highlights:
| University Name | Location & Key Highlights |
| Vanderbilt University | Nashville, TN #18 in U.S. News National Rankings 2025 15,000+ students Top programs: Medicine, Business, Engineering, Law 7% acceptance rate |
| University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) | Knoxville, TN #113 nationally 30,000+ students Member of AAU – strong in research & innovation Known for Business, Engineering, Agriculture |
| Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) | Murfreesboro, TN #252 nationally 20,000+ students Strong programs in Music, Aerospace, Business Affordable tuition for in-state & out-of-state |
| East Tennessee State University (ETSU) | Johnson City, TN #315 nationally 14,000+ students Health Sciences, Nursing & Public Health programs excel Friendly for international students |
| University of Memphis | Memphis, TN #807 nationally 21,000+ students Urban campus with internships in business, education & health sectors Strong graduate employability |
| Tennessee Technological University | Cookeville, TN #1220 globally 10,000+ students Engineering, Computer Science & Business majors popular Strong career placement support |
Why Should You Choose the University of Tennessee in 2025?
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is one of the most well-known public universities in the southeastern US. As the flagship campus of the University of Tennessee system, UTK is a great choice if you’re looking for a strong academic foundation, affordable tuition, and a fun, community-driven campus life. Founded in 1794, UTK offers over 300 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
It’s part of the prestigious Oak Ridge Innovation Institute, giving students access to hands-on research opportunities and tech-driven career paths. UTK is especially known for its top-tier programs in engineering, business, agriculture, health sciences, and education. In 2025, UTK is home to over 30,000 students, including more than 1,200 international students. Following are the key details of University of Tennessee:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Knoxville, Tennessee |
| Type | Public Research University (Flagship campus) |
| National Ranking (U.S. News) | #113 in National Universities (2025) |
| International Students | 1,200+ from 100+ countries |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 17:1 |
| Campus Size | 910 acres |
| Popular Programs | Engineering, Business, Education, Health Sciences, Agriculture |
| Research Collaborations | Oak Ridge National Laboratory, NASA, NIH |
| Acceptance Rate | ~68% |
| In-State Tuition Fees (2025) | ~$13,244 per year |
| Out-of-State Tuition Fees (2025) | ~$31,974 per year |
| Top Student Accommodation Near University of Tennessee | Slate at 901, TENN, Commons at Knoxville |
| Notable Alumni | Peyton Manning (NFL), Min Kao (Co-founder of Garmin), Candace Parker (WNBA) |
| Website | utk.edu |
Why Is Middle Tennessee State University a Good Choice in 2025?
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is one of the most student-friendly public universities in Tennessee, offering top-quality education at an affordable price. Located in Murfreesboro, just 30 miles from Nashville, MTSU continues to shine for its nationally recognized Recording Industry program, aerospace and aviation degrees, and strong business and education programs.
With over 300 academic programs, the university serves over 21,500 students, including nearly 400 international students from around the world. Students enjoy a vibrant campus life with more than 300 student organizations, NCAA Division I sports, and on-campus housing options. Following are the key details of Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU):
| Category | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1911 |
| Type | Public University |
| National Ranking (U.S. News) | #252 in National Universities (2025) |
| International Students | 380+ from 60+ countries |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 17:1 |
| Campus Size | 500 acres |
| Popular Programs | Recording Industry, Aerospace, Business, Education, Psychology |
| Tuition Fees (In-State) | ~$10,396 per year |
| Tuition Fees (Out-of-State) | ~$32,050 per year |
| Notable Alumni | Hillary Scott (Lady A), James M. Buchanan (Nobel Laureate), Chris Young |
| Top Student Accommodation Near Middle Tennessee State University | The Grove |
| Website | mtsu.edu |
Why Is Vanderbilt University a Top Pick for Students in 2025?
Vanderbilt University, located in Nashville, is one of the most prestigious private research universities in the United States. Ranked #18 nationally by U.S. News & World Report (2025), Vanderbilt is well known for its academic excellence, low student-to-faculty ratio, and highly competitive admissions. Founded in 1873, Vanderbilt is home to over 13,700 students, including 1,600+ international students from 100+ countries.
The university offers 70+ majors across its 10 schools and colleges, including world-renowned programs in medicine, law, business, engineering, education, and the arts. What makes Vanderbilt truly stand out is its strong undergraduate research culture, top-tier faculty, and $1.2 billion endowment supporting scholarships, campus facilities, and innovation. Following are the key details of Vanderbilt University:
| Category | Details |
| Type | Private Research University |
| National Ranking (U.S. News) | #18 in National Universities (2025) |
| Total Enrollment | 6,989 undergrad, 6,807 grad |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 7:1 |
| Campus Size | 333 acres |
| Popular Programs | Medicine, Business, Engineering, Law, Education, Neuroscience |
| 1st Year Tuition Fees | ~$67,498 (undergraduate, 2025) |
| Placement Rate | ~95% employed or in graduate school within 6 months |
| Campus Life | 30+ dining spots, 475+ student clubs, D1 athletics, residential colleges |
| Notable Alumni | Al Gore (Former U.S. VP), Dinah Shore, Lamar Alexander, Rosanne Cash |
| Top Student Accommodation Near Vanderbilt University | Kenect Nashville |
| Website | vanderbilt.edu |
Why Should You Consider East Tennessee State University in 2025?
East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is a public research university located in Johnson City. Known for its student-centered approach and affordable tuition, ETSU offers a supportive environment with over 140 undergraduate and graduate programs. Founded in 1911, ETSU is home to over 13,000 students, including 500+ international students from 60+ countries.
The university places a strong focus on community engagement, applied research, and rural healthcare initiatives, especially through its Quillen College of Medicine and College of Public Health. Students benefit from a close-knit campus community, small class sizes, and access to hands-on experiences through clinics, internships, and service-learning programs. Following are the key details of East Tennessee State University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Johnson City, Tennessee |
| Type | Public Research University |
| National Ranking (U.S. News) | #315 in National Universities (2025) |
| Campus Size | 366 acres |
| Popular Programs | Nursing, Public Health, Business, Education, Psychology, Allied Health |
| In-State Tuition Fees | ~$9,259 per year |
| Out-of-State Tuition Fees | ~$25,904 per year |
| Placement Rate | ~92% employed or continuing education within 6 months |
| Campus Facilities | ETSU Health Sciences Building, Center for Global Engagement, Charles C. Sherrod Library |
| Notable Alumni | Kenny Chesney (musician), Mary B. Martin, NFL players, educators |
| Top Student Accommodation Near East Tennessee State University | Student Quarters Johnson City |
| Website | etsu.edu |
Why Is the University of Memphis a Great Option for Students in 2025?
The University of Memphis (UofM) is a major urban public research university located in the heart of Tennessee’s second-largest city. Founded in 1912, UofM currently enrolls over 21,000 students, including more than 500 international students from across the globe. The university is especially strong in business, engineering, health sciences, education, and music, and it’s also recognized for its online degree programs through UofM Global.
As a metropolitan research university, UofM gives students direct access to internships, co-op programs, and job placements in local industries, hospitals, public schools, and Fortune 500 companies like FedEx. Students benefit from 15:1 class ratio, excellent research labs, and supportive services for international students including visa guidance and scholarship opportunities. Following are the key details of University of Memphis:
| Category | Details |
| Type | Public Metropolitan Research University |
| National Ranking (U.S. News) | #807 in National Universities (2025) |
| Total Enrollment | ~21,000+ students |
| International Students | 500+ from 80+ countries |
| Campus Size | 1,160 acres |
| Popular Programs | Business, Engineering, Education, Nursing, Music, Computer Science |
| In-State Tuition Fees (2025) | ~$10,728 per year |
| Out-of-State Tuition Fees (2025) | ~$18,762 per year |
| Placement Rate | ~90% employed or in grad school within 6 months |
| Notable Alumni | Kemmons Wilson (founder of Holiday Inn), Dexter Shouse, Fred Jones Jr. |
| Campus Life | 250+ student clubs, athletics (NCAA Division I), on-campus housing |
| Top Student Accommodation Near University of Memphis | Yugo Memphis Southern, Annex of Memphis |
| Website | memphis.edu |
What Makes Tennessee Technological University a Strong Choice in 2025?
Tennessee Technological University (Tennessee Tech) is one of the best value-for-money universities in Tennessee, especially for students interested in engineering, computer science, and applied sciences. Located in the safe and friendly town of Cookeville, founded in 1915, Tennessee Tech enrolls around 10,000 students, including more than 300 international students from over 50 countries.
It offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong reputation in STEM, business, and education. Its College of Engineering is particularly respected, with graduates landing jobs at major companies like Nissan, NASA, and Oak Ridge National Lab. The university also provides personalized support, affordable tuition, and great return on investment, consistently ranking among the top public universities in the South for starting salaries. Following are the key details of Tennessee Technological University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Cookeville, Tennessee |
| Type | Public University |
| National Ranking (U.S. News) | #1220 globally / #331 in National Universities (2025) |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 18:1 |
| Campus Size | 265 acres |
| Popular Programs | Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Business, Education |
| In-State Tuition Fees (2025) | ~$10,830 per year |
| Out-of-State Tuition Fees (2025) | ~$19,834 per year |
| Placement Rate | ~94% employed or in graduate school within 6 months |
| Campus Life | 200+ clubs, student design teams, esports arena, on-campus housing |
| Notable Alumni | Barry Wilmore (NASA astronaut), Roger Crouch, entrepreneurs and engineers |
| Website | tntech.edu |
Conclusion
No matter what your goals are—getting into a top-ranked college, studying a practical degree with strong job prospects, or saving money while earning a quality education—Tennessee has a university that fits your plan. While you are at it, don’t forget to book your student accommodation near the university of your choice.
Check out University Living—a trusted global platform that helps students find safe, modern, and budget-friendly housing near the top universities in Tennessee. Whether you want to live close to campus or enjoy the freedom of off-campus life, they’ve got the perfect home waiting for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tennessee a good state for international students to study in 2025?
Yes, Tennessee is a great state for international students in 2025. It offers a mix of affordable tuition, quality education, and strong career opportunities—especially in fields like business, engineering, nursing, and technology. Most universities provide international student support, scholarships, and visa guidance to help students adjust smoothly.
What are the most affordable universities in Tennessee for international students in 2025?
If you’re looking for cheap universities in Tennessee for international students, you’ll find several public institutions with tuition fees starting around $9,000 to $11,000 per year. These universities also offer scholarships, on-campus jobs, and assistantship programs to help reduce your overall expenses.
How much does it cost to study in Tennessee for international students in 2025?
The cost of studying in Tennessee for international students typically ranges from $9,000 to $32,000 per year depending on the university and program. Public universities are more affordable than private ones. You should also budget for housing, food, books, and transportation—averaging around $10,000 to $15,000 annually.
Can international students work while studying in Tennessee?
Yes, international students in Tennessee can work part-time during their studies. Under an F-1 visa, you’re allowed to work up to 20 hours per week on campus. Some students also qualify for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to gain real-world experience in their field.
Which courses are most popular among students in Tennessee?
Some of the most popular courses in Tennessee include:
1. Nursing and Healthcare
2. Business Administration
3. Engineering (especially Mechanical and Civil)
4. Computer Science and IT
5. Education and Psychology
6. Music and Performing Arts (especially in Nashville)
These programs are well-known for strong faculty, internship options, and career placement.
