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Rural Colleges in Tennessee

5 schools in Tennessee. See our methodology.

The University of the South stands apart from Tennessee's rural college market with an 82.4% graduation rate and $64,911 median earnings, commanding a $27,498 net price that reflects its academic strength. Meanwhile, Northeast State Community College serves 4,214 students at just $5,959 annually, benefiting from Tennessee Promise funding that covers community college tuition statewide. These five rural institutions span from small Christian universities like Johnson University with 703 students to larger community colleges preparing workers for Tennessee's major employers including HCA Healthcare and automotive manufacturers. The earnings gap tells a clear story, with graduates ranging from $34,553 to nearly $65,000 annually, reflecting Tennessee's economy where healthcare management, music production, and manufacturing create different career trajectories. Rural students here access both affordable pathways through community colleges and specialized programs, all while avoiding state income tax on their future earnings.
5
Schools
$16,045
Avg. Net Price
$45,114
Avg. Earnings
51.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Rural Colleges in Tennessee

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Rural-Distant 1,598 $27,498 82.4%
2 Rural-Fringe 703 $20,303 62.2%
3 Rural-Fringe 4,055 $10,421 28.7%
4 Rural-Fringe 4,214 $5,959 32.2%
5 Rural-Fringe

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes rural Tennessee colleges affordable compared to urban options?

Tennessee Promise covers full community college tuition, making schools like Northeast State cost just $5,959 after aid. Even private Johnson University averages $20,303 net price, while Tennessee's lack of state income tax helps graduates keep more of their $34,553 to $64,911 median earnings throughout their careers.

How do graduation rates vary among Tennessee's rural colleges?

The University of the South achieves an 82.4% graduation rate, significantly higher than community colleges like Motlow State at 28.7%. This reflects different student populations and programs, with four-year institutions serving traditional students while community colleges often enroll working adults and transfer students.

Where do graduates from rural Tennessee colleges find employment?

Tennessee's major employers like HCA Healthcare, automotive manufacturers, and music industry companies actively recruit from these programs. Graduates earning $40,000 to $65,000 annually often stay in-state, benefiting from no state income tax and lower living costs in rural areas.

Does enrollment size affect the college experience in rural Tennessee?

Schools range from intimate 703-student Johnson University to larger 4,214-student Northeast State. Smaller enrollments typically mean lower student-faculty ratios and closer community connections, while larger community colleges offer more program variety and evening classes for working students.

Is acceptance competitive at rural Tennessee colleges?

Acceptance rates between 52.3% and 63.2% indicate moderate selectivity, with The University of the South being most selective at 52.3%. These rates suggest rural colleges balance accessibility with academic standards, particularly important for first-generation college students common in rural areas.

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.