At $15,133/yr net price, The University of Tennessee Southern graduates earn $38,924/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $4,924/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $15,133 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $60,532 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $38,924/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$4,924/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 12.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 35.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $10,377/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $13,291/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $15,701/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $18,790/yr |
| $110,001+ | $18,352/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. | Bachelor | $47,650 | $23,425 |
The Risk Factor
35.7% of students at The University of Tennessee Southern graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
The University of Tennessee Southern delivers weak financial returns that put graduates at a significant disadvantage in the job market. With median earnings of just $38,924 ten years after graduation, you'll earn roughly $10,000 less annually than typical college graduates nationwide.
Nursing stands out as the only program worth your investment, with graduates earning $47,650 and manageable debt of $23,425. This program provides the clearest path to financial stability at UT Southern. All other majors struggle to generate sufficient income to justify college costs, particularly given the school's troubling 35.7% graduation rate.
The biggest financial risk here is dropping out. With nearly two-thirds of students leaving without degrees, you face serious odds of accumulating debt with no credential to show for it. The low retention rate signals academic support issues that could derail your progress.
UT Southern makes financial sense only if you're pursuing nursing or need an extremely affordable option with the $15,133 annual net price. The school works for local students who can live at home and minimize additional costs. You should look elsewhere if you're considering any major outside nursing or if you need strong career services and alumni networks to land well-paying jobs.
Financial aid reaches just 33% of students, suggesting limited institutional support beyond the low sticker price. Focus on completing your degree quickly to minimize total costs, and seriously consider whether a nursing program at a higher-performing institution might deliver better long-term returns despite higher upfront costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The University of Tennessee Southern worth the cost?
The University of Tennessee Southern offers mixed value with a relatively low net price of $15,133 per year but concerning outcomes including a 36% graduation rate and median earnings of $38,924 after 10 years. The nursing programs provide better returns with graduates earning around $47,650, but other programs may not justify the investment.
What is the return on investment for The University of Tennessee Southern graduates?
Most graduates earn $38,924 ten years after enrollment, which is below average for college graduates. With median debt of $21,500, the payback period is reasonable, but the low graduation rate means many students take on debt without completing their degree.
Which programs at The University of Tennessee Southern have the best job prospects?
Nursing programs at The University of Tennessee Southern offer the strongest career outcomes, with graduates earning around $47,650 annually. Other programs show significantly lower earning potential, making nursing the clear standout for return on investment.
What are the biggest financial risks of attending The University of Tennessee Southern?
The primary risk is the 36% graduation rate, meaning nearly two-thirds of students leave without a degree while potentially carrying student debt. Students outside of nursing programs face particularly weak earning prospects relative to their educational investment.