2024 Best Colleges for Middle-Class Students in Tennessee

• Nashville, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,339 reviews

Alum: I graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University in 2021 with a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience. I primarily chose to attend Vandy for its academic prowess, and it definitely lived up to that reputation. In retrospect, I loved the majority of my STEM classes, and I find that my education was well-rounded because of my required liberal arts classes. The campus is beautiful, the food is relatively good, and on-campus housing is average. Admittedly, I was excited to live off-campus for my last two years (but beware - living in Nashville is not cheap). Socially, I had a great time at Vandy, especially thanks to the liveliness of Nashville, but sadly not due to Vanderbilt sports - this is not their strong suit. I met lifelong friends at this school! Realistically, however, many students do come from wealthy backgrounds, which can be off-putting at times. Ultimately, while undeniably expensive, Vanderbilt is a great school that will certainly work to your advantage after graduation.... Read 1,339 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $27,553

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Elizabethton, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.14 out of 5  7 reviews

Graduate Student: Going to this school to obtain my LPN was an amazing experience. All of my professors were willing to help in any way they could. They were always offering suggestions on how to study, organize my work, and graduate with honors! All of the staff were helpful in finding rooms, or people that I needed to talk to. I would highly recommend going here!... Read 7 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,183

• SAT range —

• Martin, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  995 reviews

Alum: I love how UT Martin is such a safe environment. There’s not that many distractions out, so you can focus on your work easier. I enjoyed the activities the students are given. The Chancellor is always involved. The only change I would like to see is more help with after graduation jobs and guidance. Overall, I had an amazing experience. The staff is helpful and always wear a smile!... Read 995 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $11,646

• SAT range 1010-1170

• Newbern, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.25 out of 5  12 reviews

Freshman: I overall like the experience at TCAT. The staff is very helpful and understanding and they work with you if you’re having needs .... Read 12 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,499

• SAT range —

• Murfreesboro, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,463 reviews

Sophomore: Middle Tennessee State University is a brilliant university for students wanting to truly succeed in their careers. They have helped me tremendously with my path to becoming a pilot by not only ensuring top notch education, but also ensuring I make connections with people who are already within the career field of my choice. The Professors create an atmosphere that motivates the students to learn and get excited about learning. Overall, MTSU has been one of the best decisions I have made for my education!... Read 3,463 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $12,617

• SAT range 1010-1210

• Dickson, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  11 reviews

Alum: I am a recent graduate of the Mecatronics program, instructed by Salvatore Evangalista and am a current student of the Computer Information Technology program instructed by Sean Dorsey. Both programs are taught at the Clarksville, TN campus. Both instructors are extremely knowledgeable in their respective areas and were employed in their respective industries prior to teaching. They bring a wealth of practical knowledge to everything they teach in their classrooms.... Read 11 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,788

• SAT range —

• Chattanooga, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  1,598 reviews

Freshman: I am starting college at UTC as a freshman, and overall my experience has been really good. I have already made a few friends and am enjoying my college schedule. I was impressed with the amount of resources at my school and how helpful my advisor is. I also am in love with downtown Chatt and all the structures on campus (I am thinking about an interior architecture major). I would like their main website to be more straight forward to people new to school, but overall my beginning experiences have been great!... Read 1,598 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $13,552

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Athens, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  202 reviews

Junior: I am a transfer student with an Associates in Fine Arts ; my transfer was extremely effortless as well as campus housing . Wesleyan University is very welcoming you feel right at home. They are still working on my 504 accommodations that process seems slow even though that paperwork was delivered 5mths ago. Disability services needs an update, probably more people in that department to insure a good paper trail to students information especially with personal information. Hopefully my issue will be resolved before classes start 08/14.... Read 202 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $15,072

• SAT range 930-1180

• Nashville, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  22 reviews

Freshman: I'm incredibly impressed with the amount of help the financial aid provides, and the patience they have to answer all questions... Read 22 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,348

• SAT range —

• Hohenwald, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Junior: Its a really great school. what i wish it would change is the grade average its near a limit that could be a problem with other students that have trouble making a GPA on their scores. I would also like to see more healthy items in the vending machines. I love a good doughnut once and awhile but too much would make me a little to unhealthy.... Read 1 review

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,502

• SAT range —

• Dyersburg, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  190 reviews

Sophomore: My college experience so far had been pretty good. Although I am not a very socially person, they help bring me out of my shell more. The advisors are so very sweet and help you figure out what you want to do in the future. The professors are very understanding even though it is college. Activities like bingo, volleyball, and homecoming court have all allowed me to be apart of something. These allow you to have fun and to take a load off of your feet even if you may be stressed out. I’m so sad to leave very soon, but it has been a great college to begin with right after high school.... Read 190 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,447

• SAT range —

• Knoxville, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  16 reviews

Freshman: I moved from Traverse City, MI in order to attend this school for their surgical technology program. It has been a very seamless transition. The college staff are clear about what they require for applying and are quite helpful with solving problems. I love that the college starts their programs multiple times a year. Also the cost is amazingly lower than most other schools. Even though I just started the program this past February, I have confidence that this college will prepare me to be a safe and dependable certified surgical technologist.... Read 16 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,893

• SAT range —

• Nashville, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  435 reviews

Freshman: Trevecca Nazarene University is a Christian university located in Nashville TN. Trevecca Nazarene University is ranked as one of the 100 best colleges and universities in America, according to Forbes magazine. This Christian institution offers undergraduate and graduate level studies through its college of business and liberal arts, a university center that leads to bachelor's degrees in biblical studies (BSB), early childhood education (ECE), English language and literature (ELP), English as a second language concentration (ESE) and technical education services. In addition to an array of academic programs and degrees, Trevecca Nazarene offers career-focused programs like the American Society for Training and Development's Certified Advertising Educator Program (CATEP) and Certified Hospitality & Restaurant Manager Certification Program (CHRM).... Read 435 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $15,795

• SAT range 1040-1290

• Morristown, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  477 reviews

Sophomore: First, I love that you can get your Associates degree completely free! That is super helpful for students like me who are having to pay for college out of their own pocket! Second, the education curriculum and textbooks are very very similar to that of a University’s, meaning you are not losing ANY educational lessons! Finally, the staff and teachers are so helpful! Just about all the teachers there are wanting you to succeed and are super lieutenant when it comes to assignments, deadlines, and grading! The staff are the nicest people ever and will help answer any of your questions! The college building itself is built beautifully, and for students who are fresh out of high school and are planning to transfer to a 4-year college later, WS is a wonderful jump to introduce you to college without the overwhelming thirty thousand students and twenty buildings. Definitely recommend this community college!... Read 477 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,048

• SAT range —

• Chattanooga, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  565 reviews

Graduate Student: I could say a multitude of wonderful things about Chattanooga State Community College, but if I had to choose one thing to share, it would be how amazing the staff is. Chatt State's staff goes above and beyond to ensure every student’s needs are met; whether physical, emotional, or mental. From the lunch ladies, janitors, and security team, to the ladies in the bursar's office, professors, and presidential staff. Because Chattanooga State is a two-year community college, I would like to see more opportunities for students to practice skills in the environment of their field/major. Other schools may have higher academic scores or even a more "exciting" athletic department, but no one else could possibly have a greater staff. These workers put everything into making sure students have all the tools they need to continue on to higher education or head straight into the workforce. What more could you ask for? Choose Chattanooga State Community College to be a part of your success story!... Read 565 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,027

• SAT range —

• Tullahoma, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  495 reviews

Sophomore: All of my professors make themselves very available to students with questions (with an exception of one that I had this past semester). This was a huge help! Especially English Professor James Stringfield. He was an exceptional professor! I quite enjoyed a Geology class & Music class I took there as well. The new building they built on the Smyrna campus is very beautiful and roomy on the inside. Parking lot isn’t usually full in the back, so there is some room to walk in between classes. Tuition was around $1,100 for 2 classes this past semester (I was part time). Overall a pleasant experience.... Read 495 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,272

• SAT range —

• Jackson, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  326 reviews

Graduate Student: As an online student who graduated with an Associate’s degree from JCSS, the professors, staff, and students were wonderful! Due to my busy schedule, I wasn’t always able to make it to campus. Even so, most things were conveniently done through technology. I started school during the rise of the pandemic and found that the online route suited my lifestyle throughout my two years of attending the college. Many of my professors not only cared about the material they were teaching, but they also cared about how they taught it. If I had doubts or questions about anything, they were quick to answer my emails. My advisors were also helpful in leading me down the path to graduation. E-mails and notifications about upcoming events and student opportunities were sent nearly every day. I am more than satisfied with Jackson State experience!... Read 326 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,607

• SAT range —

• Blountville, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  457 reviews

Sophomore: At Northeast state, the professors and the staff were very helpful and polite, online and in person; they were able to help me find the information that I needed and put me in the right direction anytime I was lost. The students there were great to work with, I enjoyed reading what they had to say in the online discussions, and I enjoyed the conversations that would follow sometimes too. In person classes were nice too. Being surrounded by people helps when you need the opinion or advise of someone who is pretty much in the same boat with you. There would always be someone in a class who would say good morning and ask how someone else was, and whether it was directed at me or not, it still made me feel happy that someone took the time to talk to someone else. My experience at Northeast State Community College was pleasant and helped me get to where I am today.... Read 457 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,322

• SAT range —

• Harriman, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  509 reviews

Freshman: Roane State is an excellent college for anyone who wants to complete an associate degree without spending a fortunate for the first two years. This is a college in a small town that is all inclusive and offers a wide variety of clubs and events to participate in. The staff is extremely helpful and are truly there to help every student to his or her best ability. The coaches and advisors do an exceptional job on making sure that each student has the right schedule, especially those who plan on transferring to another university. I experienced this myself in my first semester here. I had a course that was not being picked up by financial aid, and my success coach was quick to help me alter my classes in order to transfer to Tennessee Tech University after my time at Roane State. The professors are easy to work with and I honestly couldn't ask for a better first-year college to attend.... Read 509 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,853

• SAT range —

• Memphis, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  439 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at Christian Brothers University so far has been meaningful and very memorable. The tight-knit community that surrounds the institution encourages each Indvidual to embrace their identity and be themselves around campus. They are lots of experiences and opportunities for students to express themselves and grow in their image. Faculty and staff take time to know the students which helps the students excel in their college no matter what major they are in. The success network that is provided for each student is a great system for the school. Though the campus is not large even for a private school, everyone around campus makes the most of it with inclusive events and a hard-working community.... Read 439 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $18,997

• SAT range 1030-1280

• Memphis, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  231 reviews

Junior: My experience at baptist has been beyond great. The people at baptist is very genuine and kind. Ever since I've transferred here this school has completely helped me grow and has changed my life. There's no other college i'd rather be at but here. This school cares very much about your success and fails to see anyone fall behind. I can say I've never felt excluded or mistreated here at all. Everyone here is so helpful and hands on.... Read 231 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 35%

• Net price $6,305

• SAT range 990-1090

• Paris, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  11 reviews

Graduate Student: Great staff, quick education. Great clinical experience with multiple learning opportunities. Excellent structure as well as profession of courses.... Read 11 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,458

• SAT range —

• Ripley, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3 out of 5  1 review

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,423

• SAT range —

• Jacksboro, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Freshman: Super friendly staff! Made me feel welcome my very first day of dropping off paper work , and coming to take tests!... Read 1 review

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,502

• SAT range —

• Gallatin, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.45 out of 5  137 reviews

Freshman: One of the things I love most at Welch college is the community of fellowship and friendship that surrounds you everywhere. Almost everything around you is geared towards helping you deepen your relationship to Christ, while also providing you with with quality education. What I like about the curriculum is that it's set up in a way to prepare you for real life which other institutions often fail at achieving. Even the upperclassmen and especially the professors genuinely care about you and future. They all strive in helping you in the pursuit of achieving your goals and making it through the college years intact. All in all, I believe deciding to attend this college will be one of the best decisions you will ever make. It certainly was mine!... Read 137 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $18,917

• SAT range —