The Top Nursing Schools in Tennessee
Tennessee is home to various job opportunities in the nursing sector. Uncover details about the leading nursing institutions in the state and what individuals can expect when pursuing a career in the Volunteer State. For those within the nursing field aspiring to work in a region that provides an excellent quality of life, Tennessee offers numerous advantages. Besides the abundance of job prospects and an affordable living environment, the state is known for its friendly population and the attractions found in Nashville, famously referred to as the “Music City.”
This extensive guide provides crucial information about entering the nursing profession. It presents details on the top nursing schools in Tennessee catering to both registered nurses (RNs) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Furthermore, it addresses elements such as salary statistics, employment prospects, and the steps involved in becoming a nurse in the Volunteer State. Keep reading to gain valuable insights into starting a nursing career in Tennessee, or directly navigate to our compilation of the finest nursing schools in the state or the best nurse practitioner (NP) programs available.
Struggling to meet your deadline?
Get your assignment on The Top Nursing Schools in Tennessee done by certified MDs and PhDs in the USA. ORDER NOW!
The Best Nursing Schools in Tennessee
The state of Tennessee showcases a diverse array of colleges and universities, including those within the University of Tennessee system and various private establishments. Below, we highlight some of the most exceptional nursing programs offered in the state.
Our Methodology: We employ a data-driven approach to rank the top nursing schools in Tennessee, streamlining your search for a program that aligns with your preferences. Our methodology relies on essential metrics such as academic excellence, affordability, reputation, and program diversity, all deemed vital for students. We utilize publicly accessible provisional data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the rankings for these schools. All information is accurate as of the article’s publication date, and specific program details may vary.
The Top Nursing Schools in Tennessee
#1 Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Vanderbilt University is home to one of the preeminent nursing schools in Tennessee. The university’s graduate-level nursing programs lead to a master of science in nursing, a doctor of nursing practice, a Ph.D. in nursing science, and a post-master’s certificate.
Specialization options encompass midwifery, nursing and healthcare leadership, and nursing informatics. Additionally, learners have the opportunity to delve into nurse practitioner areas, including adult-gerontology, emergency, family, neonatal, and pediatrics.
Programs: MSN, DNP, Ph.D., post-master’s certificate
Campus: Nashville, Tennessee
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $1,793 per credit hour (MSN, DNP, post-master’s certificate), $2,150 (Ph.D.)
Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in nursing, MSN, or RN license (depending on program); minimum 3.0-3.5 GPA; prerequisite coursework; advanced practice certification for DNP
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $52,781
– Out-of-state: $52,781
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $50,082
– Out-of-state: $50,082
Retention Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 12%
Students Enrolled: 13,537
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 83%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Nursing Educational Options in Tennessee
#2 Belmont University
Nashville, TN
4 years
Campus
Belmont University offers some of the foremost nursing programs in Tennessee. Belmont’s nursing school welcomes high school graduates, registered nurses, and individuals with nursing degrees.
The bachelor of science in nursing program provides both traditional and accelerated tracks. Those enrolled in the master of science in nursing program concentrate on family nurse practice. The university also presents DNP programs for BSN and MSN degree-holders.
Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP
Campus: Nashville, Tennessee
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $1,430 per credit hour (undergraduate), $1,500-$1,600 per credit hour (graduate)
Admission Requirements: High school diploma, nursing degree, RN license, or advanced practice certification (depending on program); ACT or SAT scores for BSN; minimum 3.0-3.5 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 16 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 76% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,026 for bachelor’s graduates and $84,653 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $35,310
– Out-of-state: $35,310
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $23,400
– Out-of-state: $23,400
Retention Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 83%
Students Enrolled: 8,204
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 62%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Freed-Hardeman University
Henderson, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Freed-Hardeman University, a Christian institution, offers a bachelor of science in nursing program. The 126-credit, two-part curriculum includes coursework in the arts and sciences, along with Bible-based general education classes.
The BSN program integrates nursing coursework, clinical experiences, and simulation and skills labs. Enrollees engage in community and patient population practicums and complete a nursing capstone.
Program: BSN
Campus: Henderson, Tennessee
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $24,300 per year
Admission Requirements: Minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA, minimum 2.5 science GPA, at least a 52.1% TEAS score, fewer than 12 general education classes remaining
Minimum Time Commitment: 48 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $55,061 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $22,950
– Out-of-state: $22,950
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $10,980
– Out-of-state: $10,980
Retention Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 81%
Students Enrolled: 2,188
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 31%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, offers some of the finest nursing programs in Tennessee. UT Knoxville’s programs emphasize education, practice, research, and technology.
Recent high school graduates and registered nurses can pursue a bachelor of science in nursing. The university provides graduate programs conferring a DNP, a Ph.D, a nurse practitioner degree, and a nonclinical graduate certificate.
Programs: BSN, DNP, Ph.D., post-master’s and postdoctoral certificates
Campus: Knoxville, Tennessee
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $13,244 per year (in-state undergraduate), $31,664 per year (out-of-state undergraduate), $13,380 per year (in-state graduate), $31,798 per
year (out-of-state graduate)
Admission Requirements: ACT or SAT for BSN program, prerequisite coursework, 2.7-3.3 GPA, BSN for graduate programs
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $52,584 for bachelor’s graduates and $91,502 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $11,332
– Out-of-state: $28,522
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $11,468
– Out-of-state: $29,656
Retention Rate: 89%
Admission Rate: 78%
Students Enrolled: 30,559
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 41%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Tennessee Technological University
Cookeville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Tennessee Technological University offers doctoral, master’s, and bachelor’s degrees. Registered nurses and students pursuing a second bachelor’s degree can undertake Tennessee Tech’s BSN program.
The university presents an online MSN program and an RN-to-MSN track. Graduate specialization options encompass family nurse practitioner, psychiatric mental health, nursing administration, and nursing education.
Programs: BSN, MSN, Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Campus: Cookeville, Tennessee
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $325 per credit hour (in-state undergraduate), $573 per credit hour (out-of-state undergraduate), $524 per credit hour (in-state graduate), $772-$879 per credit hour (out-of-state graduate)
Admission Requirements: HESI A2 pre-nursing exam for traditional BSN; prerequisites in chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology for second bachelor’s BSN; associate degree in nursing for RN-to-BSN; RN license, 3.0 GPA, and ADN, BSN, MSN, or advanced practice certification (depending on program) for MSN and DNP
Minimum Time Commitment: 3 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes (some programs available fully online)
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $51,907 for bachelor’s graduates and $84,284 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $8,358
– Out-of-state: $18,390
Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $10,280
– Out-of-state: $19,220
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Rate: 80%
Students Enrolled: 10,177
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 79%
Accreditation: Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Union University
Jackson, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Union University, a Christian institution, provides nursing programs in Tennessee catering to both undergraduate and graduate learners. The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in traditional and accelerated formats, and registered nurses have the option to pursue the RN-to-BSN program.
At the graduate level, Union University offers an online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Learners can choose from various postgraduate and endorsement specialty tracks to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals.
Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP, postgraduate certificate, nursing endorsement
Campus: Jackson, Tennessee
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $1,150 per credit hour (undergraduate), $660 per credit hour (accelerated BSN), $505 per credit hour (RN-to-BSN), $665 per credit hour (MSN), $995 per credit hour (DNP)
Admission Requirements: Two of the following for traditional BSN: 22 ACT, 1100 SAT, or 72 Classic Learning Test scores, minimum 2.5 GPA, or top 50% class rank; minimum 3.0 GPA and TEAS exam scores for accelerated BSN; RN license and nursing degree for RN-to-BSN and graduate programs
Minimum Time Commitment: 15 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes (some programs available fully online)
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $58,673 for bachelor’s graduates and $90,412 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $22,080
– Out-of-state: $22,080
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $10,625
– Out-of-state: $10,625
Retention Rate: 87%
Admission Rate: 58%
Students Enrolled: 3,071
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 46%
Accreditation: Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Milligan University
Milligan, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Milligan University, with a Christian affiliation, grants a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The institution also facilitates an RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses seeking to advance their education.
In the BSN program, students engage in liberal arts courses before progressing to nursing classes and clinical experiences. Milligan University extends the convenience of online learning for the RN-to-BSN program, accommodating working nurses.
Programs: BSN
Campus: Elizabethton, Tennessee
Type: Private
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $1,123 per credit hour (full-time undergraduate), $335 per credit hour (RN-to-BSN)
Admission Requirements: Prerequisites; 2.0-2.5 GPA; Tennessee RN license, RN employment, and nursing diploma or associate degree for RN-to-BSN
Minimum Time Commitment: 5 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $34,150
– Out-of-state: $34,150
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $8,755
– Out-of-state: $8,755
Retention Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 99%
Students Enrolled: 1,338
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 35%
Accreditation: Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Lincoln Memorial University
Harrogate, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) offers a range of nursing degrees, including associate, bachelor’s, and doctoral programs. It stands out among the best nursing programs in Tennessee, catering to recent high school graduates, licensed practical nurses, and registered nurses.
For those pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), LMU provides specialized tracks in family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, nursing administration, or nurse anesthesia.
Programs: ASN, BSN, MSN, DNP
Campus: Harrogate, Tennessee
Type: Private
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $1,030 per credit hour (undergraduate), $720 per credit hour (MSN in nurse practitioner), $10,950 per semester (MSN in nurse anesthesia), $550 per credit hour (MSN in nursing administration), $735 per credit hour (DNP)
Admission Requirements: LMU admission, official transcripts, prerequisite coursework, nursing degree or RN license (some tracks)
Minimum Time Commitment: 3 semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes (some programs available fully online)
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $51,077 for associate graduates, $47,863 for bachelor’s graduates, and $98,403 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $23,040
– Out-of-state: $23,040
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $20,705
– Out-of-state: $20,705
Retention Rate: 76%
Admission Rate: 69%
Students Enrolled: 4,885
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 10%
Accreditation: Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Southern Adventist University
Collegedale, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Southern Adventist University offers both Associate of Science and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees. The university’s graduate programs include a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, an RN-to-MSN program, and an MSN/MBA dual degree.
Graduate students at Southern Adventist University can also pursue a post-master’s certificate and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with entry points for both bachelor’s and master’s degree-holders.
Programs: BSN, MSN, post-master’s certificate, DNP
Campus: Collegedale, Tennessee
Type: Private
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $735-$960 per credit hour (undergraduate), $660 per credit hour (master’s), $875 per credit hour (doctorate)
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate and TEAS exam scores for AS and BSN; RN license for RN-to-BSN; minimum 3.0 GPA, college statistics,
BSN, RN license for graduate study (plus two years of nursing with critical care experience for some tracks)
Minimum Time Commitment: Two semesters
On-Campus Requirements: Yes (some programs available fully online)
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90% first
-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $53,579 for bachelor’s graduates and $92,277 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $22,060
– Out-of-state: $22,060
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $11,700
– Out-of-state: $11,700
Retention Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 74%
Students Enrolled: 2,730
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 43%
Accreditation: Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Carson-Newman University
Jefferson City, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Carson-Newman University, a Christian institution, stands as a provider of some of the finest nursing programs in Tennessee. Learners can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
The university also extends the option of a post-master’s family nurse practitioner certificate. Individuals pursuing an MSN or post-master’s certificate can choose to study on campus or online, providing flexibility to accommodate various learning preferences.
Programs: BSN, MSN, DNP, post-master’s certificate
Campus: Jefferson City, Tennessee
Type: Private
Accreditations(s): Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $15,650 per semester (full-time undergraduate), $650 per credit hour (MSN and certificate), $850 per credit hour (DNP)
Admission Requirements: High school diploma, ACT or SAT scores, nursing degree or advanced practice certification (depending on degree level), 3.0 GPA, RN licenses for graduate study
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes (some programs available fully online)
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $50,499 for bachelor’s graduates and $85,760 for master’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
– In-state: $28,200
– Out-of-state: $28,200
Average Graduate Tuition
– In-state: $9,387
– Out-of-state: $9,387
Retention Rate: 69%
Admission Rate: 79%
Students Enrolled: 2,911
Institution Type: Private
Percent Online Enrollment: 59%
Accreditation: Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
How to Select a Nursing Program in Tennessee
Choosing the right nursing program in Tennessee is a crucial initial step in your journey to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). Your selection should align with your specific career aspirations, financial considerations, and life circumstances. For instance, you may require a program offering online classes to accommodate work or family commitments, along with opportunities for clinical rotations in local hospitals.
It is essential to compare program graduation and NCLEX pass rates. Higher rates signify adequate support for students, ensuring program completion and providing a quality education for nursing practice preparation.
Financial considerations are also pivotal. Compare program tuition rates, considering available financial aid options. Many schools, including those in Tennessee, offer assistance programs. For instance, the Graduate Nursing Loan Forgiveness Program benefits RNs who opt to teach at Tennessee nursing programs.
Accreditation is a critical factor. Nursing license applicants must graduate from a program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing. Accreditation ensures that the nursing program adequately prepares graduates for nursing practice, impacting eligibility for financial aid, licensure, employment, and acceptance into graduate nursing education programs.
Reasons to Pursue a Nursing Career in Tennessee
Nurses in Tennessee have the opportunity to work in some of the nation’s premier hospitals, such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis.
Tennessee’s status as a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state means that a Tennessee nursing license is valid in 33 other NLC states. Additionally, Tennessee’s right-to-work status means nurses are not obligated to join a union for employment, although many choose to be part of the Tennessee Nurses Association.
While Tennessee may not be the highest-paying state for nurses, the combination of a low cost of living and favorable tax laws ensures that nurses earn competitive salaries compared to other states. The state consistently ranks among the best places to live, offering a mild climate, excellent educational systems, and abundant outdoor and cultural activities, including the vibrant Nashville music scene.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Tennessee
Although nurses in Tennessee earn less than the national median, the absence of state income tax and a low cost of living mitigate the difference. The demand for nursing professionals in Tennessee is high, with a projected growth rate of 12.3% for RNs between 2018 and 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The demand for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in Tennessee is slightly below the national average but still places the state among the top ten in terms of demand.
Here are the five highest-paying metropolitan areas for nurses in Tennessee, with Memphis leading the list:
| Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Median Salary for RNs |
|---|---|
| Memphis | $66,660 |
| Nashville-Davidson—Murfreesboro—Franklin | $65,300 |
| Clarksville | $65,200 |
| Johnson City | $61,710 |
| Chattanooga | $59,680 |
Source: BLS
Steps to Pursue a Nursing Career in Tennessee
The process of becoming a nurse in Tennessee follows a standard path, involving earning a degree and passing the NCLEX exam for licensure. The Tennessee Board of Nursing issues licenses without an initial fee.
RN Requirements
Candidates for RN licensure in Tennessee must complete either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program and pass the NCLEX exam. Additionally, applicants undergo a criminal background check and submit applications to the Tennessee Board of Nursing, with application reviews taking up to six weeks.
APRN Requirements
Aspiring Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Tennessee need a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), a valid nursing license, and certification in their practice area. Applicants also complete the mandatory Practitioner Profile Questionnaire, with the application process typically taking up to six weeks.
Other Top Nursing Programs in Tennessee
Explore various nursing programs in Tennessee, including RN to MSN programs, Nurse Anesthetist programs, and LPN training programs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Tennessee
Is Tennessee a good state for nurses?
Tennessee offers nurses benefits such as no income tax, a low cost of living, and opportunities to work in top-tier hospitals. The state’s projected high demand for nurses makes it an excellent place to start or continue a nursing career.
Is there a nursing shortage in Tennessee?
Like many states, Tennessee is experiencing a nursing shortage, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This creates numerous opportunities for nurses, with hospitals offering incentives like sign-on bonuses and educational aid.
What is a nurse’s starting salary in Tennessee?
According to PayScale, the median starting annual salary for RNs in Nashville is $64,430, while NPs earn a median starting salary of around $91,690.
How do I transfer my nursing license to Tennessee?
If moving from another NLC state, your existing license is valid in Tennessee. For those coming from non-NLC states, applying for a license by endorsement is necessary, authorizing practice in the state.
Dont wait until the last minute.
Provide your requirements and let our native nursing writers deliver your assignments ASAP.