In recent years, online education has gained momentum as an accessible and flexible alternative to on-campus programs. Online colleges in Tennessee are no exception.
Online students can save money on commuting costs, on-campus housing, and meal plans. They can also keep working while pursuing their degrees, maintaining their income, and reducing the financial burden of a college education. The total cost of college in Tennessee at public and private institutions is also lower than the national average.
We've ranked the top online colleges in Tennessee for you to explore, as well as researched fast-growing jobs, potential career paths, and cost-saving opportunities. Let's dive deeper into what these schools have to offer.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Tennessee Online Colleges
Price Check
The tuition price of a four-year public college education was lower during the 2022-2023 school year than it was before. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), average tuition and fees were $9,800 vs. $10,300 in 2021-2022.
5 Fast-Growing Jobs in Tennessee
Computing jobs requiring a college degree include data scientists and information security analysts. Job projections from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development show steady growth over the next decade for medical and health services managers.
| Job | Projected Growth (2022-2032) | Annual Mean Wage in TN (May 2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Data Scientists | 59.2% | $97,710 |
| Information Security Analysts | 49.2% | $110,140 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 43% | $124,190 |
| Software Developers | 43% | $113,410 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | 34.7% | $149,200 |
Majors to Consider for Tennessee's Job Market
Students can increase their chances of finding a rewarding career by choosing a major that aligns with the fastest-growing jobs. You can pick a major with a direct link to an in-demand job, such as data science. Or, you can major in a related field to open up more career doors.
Data Science
Majoring in data science teaches you statistics, programming, and data analysis, which are necessary for data science careers. You'll gain practical experience and a solid understanding of the theory behind it.
Cybersecurity
A cybersecurity major focuses on protecting digital systems from cyber threats. It covers topics like network security, cryptography, and risk management, which are key for information security analyst roles.Healthcare Administration
Health administration majors show you how to manage the field of healthcare. You'll learn about money, policies, leadership, and other skills needed for management-level roles, such as a medical and health services manager.Computer Science
Majoring in computer science teaches you how to program, create algorithms, and develop software. These versatile skills can be applied to various computing jobs, such as software developer or computer and information systems manager.
What Is the Cost of College in Tennessee?
While students at Tennessee's private colleges and out-of-state learners pay less than the national average tuition, residents of the Volunteer State pay higher-than-average costs at in-state public colleges. Studying online can offset the price of higher education by reducing living expenses and allowing you to live at home and work while going to college.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition and Required Fees in TN | Average Tuition and Required Fees in the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Public Four-Year (In-State) | $10,437 | $9,750 |
| Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $24,920 | $28,297 |
| Private Four-Year | $31,885 | $35,248 |
Scholarships and Cost Savings for Online Colleges in TN
Attending an online college in Tennessee — or anywhere, for that matter — can be a substantial financial investment. However, many scholarships and cost-saving opportunities are available. Combined, they can help make your education more affordable. The following are scholarships, grants, and potential cost savings to help with financial aid in Tennessee.
Tennessee Hope Scholarship
The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship is awarded to entering full-time first-year students who enroll at an eligible postsecondary institution within 16 months of graduating from a Tennessee-eligible high school.
Tennessee Reconnect Grant
Students classified as independent on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can access the Tennessee Reconnect Grant. This grant will cover the remaining balance of tuition and mandatory fees after applying other state and federal financial aid.
Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship
High school graduates with intellectual disabilities can use the Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship to enroll in a personalized program of study at an eligible postsecondary institution.
Helping Heroes Grant
The state lottery establishes and funds the Helping Heroes Grant, which awards U.S. veterans who've been honorably discharged or are former or current members of a reserve or Tennessee National Guard unit with the net proceeds.
Tennessee Promise Scholarship
The Tennessee Promise Scholarship goes to residents who graduate from an eligible high school, homeschool, or earn a GED/HISET certificate before their 19th birthday and enroll at an eligible postsecondary institution. The award covers tuition and mandatory fees after all other gift aid.
Tuition Reciprocity Benefits for Out-of-State Students in Tennessee
Tennessee offers tuition reciprocity benefits through programs like the Academic Common Market (ACM) and the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB). ACM and SREB allow out-of-state students to attend participating Tennessee colleges at in-state or reduced rates for specific programs not available in their home states.
Residents of 15 other states can qualify for in-state tuition in Tennessee: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in TN
The cost of online college varies. Factors such as your institution, the degree you're pursuing, and the amount of financial aid can affect the total cost.
The average total cost of an online bachelor's degree is about $23,023 a year, according to NCES. An online master's degree costs about $22,763 a year, while an online associate degree program costs about $12,104 a year.
