Tennessee State University

Nashville, TN

publicDoctoral Universities: High Research Activity (R2)

Safety

B

ROI

B+

Tennessee State University is a mid-size public R2 doctoral research university located in Nashville, Tennessee, with an undergraduate enrollment of 4,848. Classified as a doctoral research university, it supports graduate programs in select disciplines and allocates significant resources to faculty research activity alongside its undergraduate mission. As a public institution primarily funded through state appropriations and federal grants, it operates within the broader Tennessee postsecondary education landscape and is regionally accredited, making its credits and degrees eligible for federal financial aid. With a 70% acceptance rate, admission is broadly accessible. With a 70% acceptance rate, the institution is broadly accessible while maintaining academic standards. Net price for families earning \$48,001–$75,000 averages $15,579 per year. The highest program-level earnings outcomes are in CIP 00 — 10-year median earnings among aid recipients in these fields reach $69,414. The 4-year graduation rate is 33%, 12 percentage points below the national average of 45%. Among students who received federal financial aid, 10-year median earnings are $42,730.

Acceptance Rate

70.1%

Avg Net Price

$15,796

6-yr Grad Rate

39.0%

Earnings 10yr

$42,730

The Numbers

Admissions

Acceptance Rate
70.1%
SAT Range
880–1050
ACT Range
16–21
Enrollment
4,848
Student:Faculty
13:1

Costs & Outcomes

In-State Tuition
$8,616
Out-of-State Tuition
$22,416
Room & Board
$11,150
Students Receiving Aid
51.1%
Median Debt at Grad

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Data from U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS, College Scorecard, Clery Act), Bureau of Labor Statistics, and FIRE. Updated annually. Not affiliated with Tennessee State University.