10 Most Popular Online Colleges in Tennessee

Key Takeaways

• Tennessee’s average in-state tuition at public four-year institutions is $10,397, slightly above the national average of $9,750.
• Austin Peay State University and Tennessee State University remain the most affordable options, both costing under $9,000 per year for in-state students.
• The University of Tennessee–Knoxville offers 70+ fully online programs, 35 years of distance education experience, and an 89% retention rate.
• The University of Memphis provides 93 online programs, ranks #32 nationally for online learning, and gives fully online out-of-state students in-state tuition rates.
• Tennessee expects strong job growth through 2030 in fields like nurse practitioners (5% at $103,083), statisticians (5% at $78,976), and information security analysts (4% at $95,737).
• State initiatives like Drive to 55 and Tennessee Promise (which has supported 150,000+ students) expand access to affordable online education statewide.

Tennessee has built a strong and flexible online education system that lets you earn a degree from anywhere in the state, whether you live in the Smoky Mountains, Nashville, Memphis, or Chattanooga. You get access to respected bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs without relocation or housing costs, which is especially helpful in Tennessee’s major metro areas.

You also get a wide range of options. Public universities like the University of Tennessee–Knoxville and the University of Memphis offer more than 160 online programs combined, while Austin Peay State and Tennessee State keep in-state tuition under $9,000 per year. Private and faith-based universities add more choices in business, psychology, education, ministry, and technology.

Affordability remains a key advantage. Tennessee’s average in-state tuition is $10,397, only slightly higher than the national average of $9,750. Online formats remove housing and commuting costs, and statewide initiatives expand access even further. Drive to 55 aims for 55% of residents to hold a college degree, Tennessee Promise has already helped more than 150,000 high school seniors attend college tuition-free, and TN eCampus supports learning across 13 community colleges and 27 Colleges of Applied Technology.

If you are looking for flexible learning, competitive pricing, and programs aligned with Tennessee’s workforce needs, the state’s online colleges offer a strong and practical pathway forward.

10 Most Popular Online Colleges in Tennessee

Tennessee’s online colleges include major public universities, private institutions, and Christian colleges. These ten schools attract the state’s highest online enrollment and offer a strong variety of programs, affordability, and flexible pathways.

The University of Tennessee–Knoxville

The University of Tennessee–Knoxville is the state’s flagship public research institution and one of Tennessee’s most established online providers, offering more than 35 years of distance education experience and a broad catalog of fully online programs.

Main Online Programs

UT Knoxville offers more than 70 fully online degrees and certificates across 77 areas of interest, including agriculture, early childhood education, health and human sciences, applied data analytics, information sciences, business administration, nursing, and extensive graduate programs.

Pros

• 35 years of distance education experience
• 70+ fully online programs
• 17 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio

Cons

• Higher nonresident tuition costs
• Some programs include synchronous sessions
• In-state tuition of $11,332 is higher than that of some peers

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$11,332

University of Memphis

The University of Memphis is a major public research university offering Tennessee’s largest selection of online programs, supported by more than 20 years of online teaching experience and strong national rankings.

Main Online Programs

Memphis offers 93 fully online programs, including 29 bachelor’s, 22 master’s, 7 doctoral degrees, and 35 certificates. Fully online out-of-state students pay in-state tuition rates.

Pros

• 20+ years of online learning experience
• Largest online catalog in Tennessee
• In-state tuition for fully online nonresidents

Cons

• Some programs require short on-campus components
• Out-of-state tuition is listed at $14,784, though online students pay in-state tuition.
• A broad selection may feel overwhelming

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$10,344

Bryan College–Dayton

Bryan College–Dayton is a Christian institution in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, offering flexible, affordable online programs for adults seeking a faith-based learning environment.

Main Online Programs

Bryan provides more than 30 online degrees and certificates in business, psychology, education, religious studies, philosophy, and multiple degree-completion pathways.

Pros

• Flat $395 per-credit rate
• 30+ online degree and certificate options
• Christian-centered academic approach
• Around 95% of students receive financial aid

Cons

• A Christian mission may not suit all learners
• Standard 120-credit requirement
• Small institution with about 1,450 students

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$16,900

Lipscomb University

Lipscomb University is a private Christian university in Nashville known for academic rigor, personalized learning, and exceptionally strong post-graduation career outcomes.

Main Online Programs

Lipscomb offers fully online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, including business administration, psychology, public administration, data analytics, supply chain management, technology management, hospitality management, and integrated studies.

Pros

• Low 14 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
• Strong academic and career reputation
• Wide selection of fully online programs

Cons

• High annual tuition at $33,012
• A Christian focus may not appeal to all students
• Some bachelor’s degrees require 126 credits

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$33,012

Lee University

Lee University is a Christian institution in Cleveland known for adult education support, personalized instruction, and the lowest student-to-faculty ratio among Tennessee’s most popular online colleges.

Main Online Programs

Lee offers 34 online bachelor’s degrees in areas such as Christian studies, criminal justice, Bible and theology, and ministry leadership, along with core general education and religion requirements.

Pros

• Very low 13 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio
• 52 total majors available
• Strong focus on adult learners
• Online tuition is lower than on-campus tuition

Cons

• The highest per-credit cost among these institutions
• Only 20% of students are enrolled online
• Religion-based core may not suit all students
• Standard 120-credit requirement

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$19,800

Johnson University

Johnson University is a Christian university located along the French Broad River near Knoxville. It is known for faith-centered academics, practical training through internships, and a range of online programs designed to prepare graduates for service-oriented and global careers.

Main Online Programs

Johnson offers online bachelor’s degrees across seven schools, including applied linguistics, business administration, intercultural commerce, intercultural studies, ministry leadership, pastoral care and counseling, psychology, and additional specialized programs such as visual media production and design.

Pros

• Diverse online programs across seven academic schools
• Unique majors such as intercultural commerce and visual media production
• Most bachelor’s degrees include internship experiences
• Flat $475 per-credit tuition regardless of residency

Cons

• A Christian integrated curriculum may not suit all students
• Private tuition at $17,384 annually
• Standard 120-credit program length

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$17,384

Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University, a Nashville-based public HBCU, offers some of the most affordable online programs in Tennessee. It provides flexible pathways for students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees, with strengths in business, social sciences, education, data science, and public health.

Main Online Programs

TSU offers seven online bachelor’s degrees and 16 graduate and post-graduate programs, including psychology, criminal justice, sociology, business administration, education, data science, and public health.

Pros

• HBCU environment offering culturally rich learning
• Undergraduate and graduate online options
• Flexible seven or 15-week course formats
• Graduate programs in high-demand fields such as data science and public health
• Eligible for Tennessee Promise and other state-specific aid

Cons

• Limited publicly available data on online student percentages
• Smaller online catalog than UT Knoxville or Memphis
• Fewer student support services compared to larger universities

Average Annual In-State Tuition

Under $9,000

Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay State University is a public university in Clarksville known for offering Tennessee’s most affordable online tuition. With one of the state’s widest undergraduate selections, it attracts working adults, first-generation students, and military-connected learners.

Main Online Programs

Austin Peay offers more than 125 undergraduate and over 50 graduate degree programs online, making it one of the most comprehensive online catalogs in Tennessee.

Pros

• 125+ online undergraduate programs
• 50+ online graduate programs
• Eligible for the Tennessee Promise for first-time bachelor’s students
• Tennessee National Guard members may receive coverage for up to 120 credit hours

Cons

• Limited published data on retention and graduation rates for online students
• Some programs may have larger class sizes due to high enrollment
• Fewer details on online-specific support services

Average Annual In-State Tuition

Under $9,000

King University

King University is a private university in Bristol known for strong online enrollment, accelerated degree-completion pathways, and the highest graduation rate among Tennessee’s most popular online colleges.

Main Online Programs

King offers a wide online catalog featuring undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as accelerated bachelor’s completion programs. 

Pros

• 92% of degree-seeking students receive financial aid
• Accelerated options support faster completion
• Credit for prior learning and work experience

Cons

• Private tuition is higher than public options
• Limited program details are available publicly
• Some programs require short on-campus residencies

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$19,500

Middle Tennessee State University

Middle Tennessee State University is a large public institution in Murfreesboro offering a wide range of online degree options supported by strong academic advising, career services, and online counseling resources.

Main Online Programs

MTSU offers online degrees in business administration, communication, psychology, political science, and various liberal arts and professional fields.

Pros

• Affordable in-state tuition at $9,232
• Strong academic advising and career support
• Online counseling services for mental health and well-being
• Broad mix of programs across social sciences, business, and professional fields

Cons

• Large tuition gap for nonresidents at $28,264
• Average cost of attendance rises to $21,922, including expenses

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$9,232

Tuition and mandatory fee amounts change regularly and can vary by program, course load, credit amount, and delivery format. The figures listed here reflect the latest numbers available and are intended for comparison only. Always confirm the current annual tuition and required fees on the university’s official website before applying.

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Most Popular Online Colleges in Tennessee

Enrolling in Tennessee’s leading online colleges means you’ll need to complete several key steps. These ensure eligibility, help you secure in-state tuition when possible, and let you take advantage of state-specific financial aid programs.

Complete Online Application Process

You’ll fill out an online application through the school’s portal. Admission standards vary: selective schools like University of Tennessee–Knoxville admit around 79 % of applicants, while more accessible public schools like Austin Peay State University and Tennessee State University have higher rates. Many offer rolling admissions and adult-learner pathways.

Submit Official Transcripts and Test Scores

You’ll need to provide high-school transcripts, GED documentation, or college transcripts if transferring. Some programs, especially at the flagship or graduate levels, require letters of recommendation, essays, or professional experience. Faith-based institutions may include character or mission-fit components, and degree-completion tracks may ask for prior credits.

Verify Tennessee Residency Documentation

If you’re an in-state student, proving Tennessee residency can make a big difference in tuition and aid eligibility. For example, UT Knoxville charges about $11,332 in-state vs. $29,552 out-of-state, and Middle Tennessee State charges about $9,232 in-state vs. $28,264 out-of-state. Residency also determines eligibility for programs such as Tennessee Promise and the Tennessee Reimbursement Act for National Guard members.

Meet Program-Specific Requirements

For competitive programs, such as nursing, health sciences, or education, you may face prerequisites, minimum GPAs, or required prior coursework. Some online programs include brief in-person components or internship experiences. Faith-based colleges may ask for mission statements or ministry involvement. Always check the specific program’s requirements.

Verify Technology Requirements

Online learning demands adequate technology: reliable internet access, a computer that meets specs, and familiarity with platforms like Canvas or Blackboard. Some courses are asynchronous; others include scheduled synchronous sessions. Time-management skills are essential, especially when programs offer terms of eight or 16 weeks.

Submit Financial Aid Applications

Complete the FAFSA to access federal aid, and explore Tennessee-specific programs. Tennessee Promise offers free tuition for eligible students at participating institutions. The Tennessee Reimbursement Act covers up to 120 credit hours for Guard members. State employees receive course fee waivers, and children of state employees and teachers receive 25% tuition discounts. Private colleges often provide substantial financial aid grants as well.

How Do Tennessee Online College Costs Compare to National Averages?

Online colleges in Tennessee offer strong value compared with national averages. For in-state students attending public four-year institutions, the average tuition is approximately $10,397 per year, slightly above the national average of $9,750. Some Tennessee schools, like Austin Peay and Tennessee State, offer in-state tuition under $9,000, which is below the national average.

Out-of-state tuition at Tennessee public institutions averages roughly $24,381, which is lower than the national out-of-state average of about $28,297. Private colleges in Tennessee average around $30,734 annually, compared to the national private college average of $35,248, resulting in a tuition savings of approximately $4,500 per year. Online formats eliminate costs for housing, commuting, and campus fees, especially relevant in high-cost metro areas like Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Some schools (for example, the University of Memphis) even offer in-state online rates to out-of-state students.

How Does University Of The People Compare With The Most Popular Online Colleges In Tennessee

University of the People does not charge traditional tuition. Instead, you pay a $60 application fee and a $160 assessment fee per course for undergraduate programs. A typical bachelor’s degree totals about $6,400, plus a graduation fee. This cost is significantly lower than Tennessee’s in-state public options over four years and far cheaper than private universities.

UoPeople is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and is also recognized by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). Tennessee’s public and private universities hold regional accreditation from SACSCOC, which supports in-state transfer pathways and state-funded aid programs. If you want a fully online study with predictable costs and no residency requirements, UoPeople offers an affordable alternative to consider alongside Tennessee’s most popular online colleges.

Ready To Choose The Most Popular Online College In Tennessee?

Choosing the right online college in Tennessee starts with understanding what you need most from your program. You might prioritize affordability, which makes public options like Austin Peay State University and Tennessee State University appealing at under $9,000 per year. If you want a wide range of majors or strong research credentials, schools such as the University of Tennessee–Knoxville or the University of Memphis offer some of the state’s most extensive online catalogs.

Support and learning style also matter. Middle Tennessee State University provides strong advising and career services for online learners, while several Christian institutions, including Lipscomb, Lee, Bryan, and Johnson, offer faith-centered instruction. Graduation and retention rates can also help you compare options, with schools like King University showing strong student outcomes.

As you weigh these choices, look closely at tuition, financial aid, program availability, and whether you prefer a public, private, or faith-based environment. Tennessee gives you a wide range of respected online colleges to choose from, and you can find an option that fits your goals, budget, and schedule.

FAQs

What Is The Average Tuition At Tennessee Online Colleges?

Public four-year institutions in Tennessee charge an average of about $10,397 per year for in-state tuition. Costs vary widely, ranging from under $9,000 at the most affordable schools to over $30,000 at private institutions.

What Is The Cheapest Online College In Tennessee?

Austin Peay State University and Tennessee State University are among the most affordable options, both offering in-state tuition under $9,000 per year.

Can You Attend College for Free in Tennessee?

Yes. Eligible students can attend tuition-free at qualifying institutions through Tennessee Promise, which covers associate degree programs at approved colleges.

What Is The Easiest Online College To Get Into In Tennessee?

Public institutions such as Austin Peay State University, Tennessee State University, and Middle Tennessee State University generally offer the broadest access through higher acceptance rates and flexible admission pathways.

What Is The Most Popular College In Tennessee?

The University of Tennessee–Knoxville is widely regarded as the top public institution in the state, offering strong academics, an extensive online program catalog, and high student success rates.