At $14,207/yr net price, Tennessee Technological University graduates earn $48,501/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $14,501/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $14,207 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $56,828 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $48,501/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$14,501/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 54.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,650 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $9,641/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $11,325/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,405/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $17,795/yr |
| $110,001+ | $18,329/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $84,284 | $28,090 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $70,296 | $19,367 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Bachelor | $66,355 | $19,000 |
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $63,005 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $62,579 | $19,050 |
| Engineering Technology, General. | Bachelor | $60,256 | $22,087 |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $59,688 | $17,855 |
| Chemical Engineering. | Bachelor | $59,576 | $13,500 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $53,775 | $23,143 |
| Civil Engineering. | Bachelor | $53,202 | $20,770 |
The Risk Factor
54.2% of students at Tennessee Technological University graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Tennessee Tech delivers solid financial returns for engineering and nursing majors, but weak outcomes for many other programs. The $14,207 annual net price is reasonable for a public university, yet the 54% graduation rate means nearly half of students never finish their degree.
Your best financial bets are nursing at $84,284 median earnings and engineering programs ranging from $63,000 to $70,000. These programs justify their higher debt loads because graduates command strong salaries in Tennessee's manufacturing and healthcare sectors. Business administration also performs well at $62,579, offering good value with moderate debt.
The school's biggest financial risk is its low graduation rate. If you struggle academically or lack clear career direction, you face real chances of leaving with debt but no degree. The 77% retention rate suggests academic support could be stronger.
Tennessee Tech works best for motivated students pursuing technical fields who can handle the academic rigor. The engineering programs have strong regional employer connections, while nursing graduates find ready employment in Tennessee's growing healthcare market.
Avoid this school if you're uncertain about your major or need extensive academic support. The relatively low percentage receiving aid (31%) suggests limited need-based assistance, though merit scholarships exist for high-achieving students in STEM fields.
The median debt of $15,650 is manageable, but only if you graduate. Focus on programs with clear career paths and strong earnings potential. Liberal arts and social science majors should consider other options given the weak regional job market for these fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tennessee Technological University worth the cost?
Tennessee Tech offers solid value with a low net price of $14,207 and reasonable debt levels at $15,650 median. However, the 10-year earnings of $48,501 and 54% graduation rate suggest mixed outcomes depending on your program choice.
What are the best paying majors at Tennessee Technological University?
Engineering programs at Tennessee Tech deliver strong returns, with electrical engineering graduates earning $70,296 and mechanical engineering at $66,355. Nursing also pays well at $84,284, making these programs worth the investment.
How much debt do Tennessee Technological University graduates have?
Tennessee Tech graduates carry a median debt of $15,650, which is manageable compared to many schools. The low net price of $14,207 per year helps keep borrowing reasonable for most students.
What is the graduation rate at Tennessee Technological University?
Only 54% of students graduate from Tennessee Tech, which is below average and raises concerns about completing your degree. This lower completion rate could impact the school's overall value proposition despite affordable costs.