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Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) in Tennessee

6 schools in Tennessee. See our methodology.

Tennessee's six HBCUs span from Memphis to Nashville, with costs ranging dramatically from Le Moyne-Owen College's $8,992 net price to Fisk University's $26,135. This 190% price difference reflects varying institutional approaches across the state. Fisk leads graduation rates at 43.5%, nearly triple Lane College's 17%. Nashville claims four of these institutions, creating a significant concentration in the state capital where healthcare giant HCA Healthcare offers career pathways for graduates. Tennessee State University enrolls 6,498 students, making it the largest by far, while American Baptist College serves just 48 students with a focused mission. Graduates earn between $31,670 and $45,454 annually, positioning them well for Tennessee's growing healthcare and automotive sectors. The state's lack of income tax means graduates keep more of their earnings compared to neighboring states. Le Moyne-Owen's 99.6% acceptance rate provides accessible entry points, while these institutions collectively prepare students for Tennessee's evolving job market in music, healthcare, and manufacturing.
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Schools
$15,788
Avg. Net Price
$39,333
Avg. Earnings
30.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) in Tennessee

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Median Earnings
1 6,498 $10,026 33.0% $42,730
2 48 $19,294 33.3% $41,216
3 950 $26,135 43.5% $45,454
4 822 $14,494 17.0% $31,670
5 571 $8,992 24.7% $35,594
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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Nashville such a center for Tennessee's HBCUs?

Nashville houses four of Tennessee's six HBCUs: Tennessee State University, American Baptist College, Fisk University, and Meharry Medical College. This concentration creates academic synergies while connecting 8,496 total students to the city's healthcare industry, including HCA Healthcare headquarters, plus music industry opportunities.

How do graduation rates compare across Tennessee's HBCUs?

Graduation rates span from 17% at Lane College to 43.5% at Fisk University. American Baptist College and Tennessee State both achieve 33% rates. These variations reflect different institutional missions, with smaller schools like American Baptist's 48 students often providing more personalized attention.

Is Tennessee State University significantly larger than other HBCUs in the state?

Yes, Tennessee State University's 6,498 enrollment dwarfs other Tennessee HBCUs. Fisk University follows with 950 students, then Lane College at 822. The size difference means Tennessee State offers more program variety while smaller institutions provide closer student-faculty relationships.

Does the Tennessee Promise program benefit HBCU students?

Tennessee Promise covers community college tuition, allowing students to complete prerequisites affordably before transferring to HBCUs. This pathway particularly benefits those considering costlier options like Fisk University at $26,135 net price, helping reduce overall degree costs through strategic course planning.

Where do Tennessee HBCU graduates typically find employment?

Graduates earning $31,670 to $45,454 annually often join Tennessee's major industries. Healthcare employers like HCA Healthcare recruit heavily, while automotive companies in middle Tennessee and Memphis logistics firms provide career paths. The state's zero income tax policy increases take-home pay significantly.

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.