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Best Value Civil Engineering Colleges in Tennessee

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Tennessee's civil engineering programs show dramatic cost differences, with net prices ranging from $10,026 at Tennessee State University to $25,610 at Lipscomb University. Vanderbilt stands out with graduates earning $64,913 annually despite its $19,040 net cost. The state's growing infrastructure needs, driven by Nashville's rapid expansion and major automotive manufacturing facilities, create strong demand for civil engineers across Tennessee's urban centers.
8
Programs
$10,026 – $25,610
Net Price Range
$58,536
Avg. Program Earnings
60.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

8 Civil Engineering Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $10,026 $58,221 $8,568 33.0%
2 $12,817 $62,012 $10,144 53.1% 82.7%
3 $13,253 $55,964 $10,344 49.4% 94.6%
4 $14,207 $53,202 $10,084 54.2% 78.1%
5 $19,040 $64,913 $63,946 92.7% 6.7%
6 $18,109 $56,901 $13,484 73.5% 68.4%
7 $10,896 $37,300 56.0% 87.5%
8 $25,610 $38,824 68.7% 71.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Vanderbilt's civil engineering program worth the higher cost?

Vanderbilt graduates earn $64,913 annually, the highest among Tennessee programs, with a remarkable 92.7% graduation rate. The $19,040 net price reflects significant financial aid that brings costs well below the $63,946 sticker price.

How do Tennessee's public universities compare for civil engineering value?

UT Knoxville offers the strongest combination with $56,901 graduate earnings and 73.5% graduation rate at $18,109 net cost. Tennessee Tech provides the lowest public option at $14,207 but shows $53,202 earnings with a solid 54.2% graduation rate.

Does Tennessee State University provide good value despite lower earnings?

At just $10,026 net cost, Tennessee State offers the most affordable civil engineering education in the state. While graduate earnings average $58,221, the low cost and Nashville location near major infrastructure projects create strong value.

More Civil Engineering Rankings

Cheapest Civil Engineering in Tennessee Civil Engineering Under $20,000 in Tennessee

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.