PublicR2 Research UniversityQuestionable

Is Tennessee State University Worth It?

Nashville, TN · Large city · 4,848 students · Data: College Scorecard, June 2026 release

Tennessee State University is a R2 Research University located in large city in Nashville, TN. It enrolls approximately 4,848 students. The acceptance rate is 70%, making it broadly accessible. 34% of students finish within 6 years (150% of normal time) — low, which is a red flag worth researching before enrolling. Median earnings of $42,730 vs. $27,000 in median debt means median debt equals about 8 months of gross pay (estimate). Only 31% of borrowers are making progress on their loans 3 years after leaving school — a warning sign about post-graduation outcomes.

WHERE THIS CAMPUS STANDS

No published FIRE survey data for this school, so we don't rate its politics. See surveyed campuses →

Source: FIRE 2027 College Free Speech Rankings (student survey fielded 2026 by College Pulse)

Avg Net Price / Year
$15,796
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
Median Earnings (10yr)
$42,730
Acceptance Rate
70%
4-yr Grad Rate
34%
Tuition (In-State)
$8,616
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$22,416
3-yr Loan Repayment
31%

⚠️ At this debt load, median debt equals ~8 months of full gross earnings (estimate).

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