2024 Best Colleges for Performing Arts in the Nashville Area

• 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

• Nashville, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  831 reviews

Sophomore: Lipscomb University is a school that fosters positive experiences, learning, and growth in not only academics, but also socially, spiritually, and mentally. I have sincerely enjoyed my experience at Lipscomb so far, which is primarily thanks to the effort the staff and professors put into the students. It is not hard to get what you need at Lipscomb, and it is easy to make friends and find your own community! The education department is phenomenal. They are knowledgeable and available to help with anything.... Read 831 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $26,614

• SAT range 1100-1270

• 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

• Nashville, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  1,773 reviews

Freshman: Belmont has really shown me that talent does not have a label which allows me to know that I can share my story that ignites what’s within. Talents range into different categories, but having inspiration always collaborates into something. Let it be from observing different random objects or a piece that holds meaning. To know a talent, I start with myself because without myself, there would be no talent. As I am to know that I must believe in myself and my work, collective criticism and options are a must. To know that there are many possible ways to make something more eye-catching and inclusive has been provided by many faculty, staff, and students mainly because they are passionate about the successes that are achieved; hoping to help one another rise to the top. In my spirituality and faith, Belmont has provided the fellowship of communion and worship that is needed to push through anything. The reminder that God has plans for you radiates throughout the campus!... Read 1,773 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $35,268

• SAT range 1150-1340

• Lebanon, TN•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  318 reviews

Senior: Cumberland University is now considered my home away from home! It's in the center of Lebanon, TN, and is within walking distance of every local business. I love the small town feel and the environment Cumberland creates to make its students feel like family. There are tons of organizations to be involved in whether greek or clubs. There are so many memories and relationships to be made here, that you will leave Cumberland with a refreshing mindset of the world. Thanks, Cumberland for making this experience a lesson that I will take with me for the rest of my life!... Read 318 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $28,459

• SAT range 910-1100

• 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

• Nashville, TN•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  4 reviews

Freshman: I haven’t even started enrollment…. I took a tour and I already welcome into the program and have everything that I would need for a successful career... Read 4 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $23,384

• SAT range —