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Cheapest Accounting and Related Services Colleges in Tennessee

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Le Moyne-Owen College offers Tennessee's most affordable accounting program at just $8,992 net cost, while some private institutions charge more than double that amount. The state's 15 accounting programs show dramatic cost variations, with net prices ranging from under $9,000 to nearly $18,000. Tennessee's lack of state income tax creates unique opportunities for accounting graduates, as the state's growing healthcare sector through HCA Healthcare and automotive manufacturing plants require skilled financial professionals. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with Tennessee State University following closely at $10,026 and UT-Martin at $10,299. Graduates from these programs earn between $36,848 and $44,933 annually, with UT-Martin accounting majors reaching the higher end at $44,933. The graduation rates vary significantly across institutions, from Le Moyne-Owen's 24.7% to Christian Brothers University's 56%. Tennessee's business-friendly environment and major corporate headquarters make it an attractive location for accounting professionals seeking career growth without state income tax burden.
28
Programs
$8,992 – $32,096
Net Price Range
$44,800
Avg. Program Earnings
51.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

28 Accounting and Related Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $8,992 $12,076 24.7% 99.6%
2 $10,026 $8,568 33.0%
3 $10,299 $10,208 54.8% 88.4%
4 $10,896 $37,300 56.0% 87.5%
5 $12,599 $9,506 54.0% 72.5%
6 $12,817 $10,144 53.1% 82.7%
7 $13,253 $10,344 49.4% 94.6%
8 $14,207 $10,084 54.2% 78.1%
9 $14,459 $29,790 54.8% 70.9%
10 $14,846 $8,675 44.5% 93.8%
11 $14,879 $29,264 43.6% 60.7%
12 $15,133 $10,506 35.7% 80.3%
13 $15,794 $9,950 49.9% 85.3%
14 $17,182 $17,935 36.7%
15 $17,999 $26,150 53.9% 78.5%
16 $18,109 $13,484 73.5% 68.4%
17 $18,292 $27,840 47.0% 66.2%
18 $18,466 $13,920
19 $18,661 $34,700 46.4% 79.8%
20 $20,082 $25,000 68.4% 91.2%
21 $20,399 $22,690 60.7% 72.6%
22 $20,986 $38,514 47.2% 69.5%
23 $21,131 $39,350 60.3% 66.7%
24 $21,803 $18,168 34.9% 88.8%
25 $24,334 $25,590 51.4% 65.8%
26 $25,610 $38,824 68.7% 71.1%
27 $26,815 $38,450 70.9% 52.6%
28 $32,096 $41,320 71.7% 96.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Le Moyne-Owen College's accounting program so affordable compared to other Tennessee schools?

Le Moyne-Owen College charges just $8,992 in net costs, making it Tennessee's cheapest accounting program by over $1,000. The Memphis-based private college accepts 99.56% of applicants, providing broad access to accounting education. However, students should note the 24.7% graduation rate when considering this option. The school's low costs come partly from its mission to serve underrepresented students in the Memphis area.

How do public versus private accounting programs compare in Tennessee pricing?

Public universities offer significantly lower costs, with Tennessee State University at $10,026 and UT-Martin at $10,299 leading the affordable options. Private schools like Christian Brothers University cost $10,896 net but charge $37,300 in sticker price. The gap widens further with schools like Lincoln Memorial University reaching $17,999 net cost. Public institutions provide better value while maintaining graduation rates above 33%.

Where do Tennessee accounting graduates typically find the highest-paying positions?

UT-Martin accounting graduates earn the most at $44,933 annually, followed closely by Middle Tennessee State graduates at $44,765. These earnings reflect opportunities in Tennessee's major metropolitan areas and corporate centers. The state's lack of income tax means graduates keep more of their earnings compared to other states. East Tennessee State graduates start lower at $36,848 but benefit from the region's growing business sector.

Does graduation rate correlate with program cost in Tennessee accounting programs?

Higher-cost private programs generally show better graduation rates, with Christian Brothers University achieving 56% compared to Le Moyne-Owen's 24.7%. However, public universities like UT-Martin maintain strong 54.8% graduation rates at much lower costs. Middle Tennessee State balances affordability at $12,599 with solid 54% graduation rates. The data suggests institutional support matters more than price alone for student success.

What role does student debt play in choosing Tennessee accounting programs?

Tennessee Tech graduates carry the lowest debt at $15,500, while maintaining solid earning potential at $39,729. East Tennessee State follows closely with $16,250 in debt and Middle Tennessee State at $19,500. Private schools like Christian Brothers University require $22,750 in debt despite higher net costs. Tennessee's strong job market helps graduates manage debt loads effectively across most programs.

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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.