Online Schools and Colleges in Tennessee

According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, more than 62,000 first-time Tennessee undergraduates sought four-year degrees or certificates in 2016. Of these, 16,700 learners enrolled exclusively in distance education courses, equaling 5.4 percent of all students. That number rose to 55,100, or 17.7 percent, when including students enrolled in both online and on-campus courses. In response to this growing popularity, many colleges and universities are expanding their blended and online learning options. But with so many opportunities available now and in the future, how do students find the best one for them? Read on to learn the ins and outs of online colleges and universities in Tennessee.

In 2001, the TN eCampus program pioneered online education in the state. Distance learners can choose from more than 500 online programs at 13 community colleges and six state schools. An increasing number of students at public and private schools enroll in online courses. Nationwide, 33.7% of students took some distance learning courses in the fall of 2017, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Online learning is a key factor in Tennessee’s Drive to 55 plan, which aims for 55% of state residents to hold a college degree or certificate by 2025. This guide provides information about state initiatives and funding opportunities that support learners attending online schools and colleges in Tennessee.

As the fourth largest city in Tennessee, Chattanooga is home to approximately 171,000 residents. The city attracts visitors and potential students from nearby Knoxville and even from the neighboring state of Georgia. Chattanooga colleges and universities offer a wide range of degrees and subjects, as well as technical, career-oriented training and partnerships with local industry. Student to faculty ratio at some of the schools is as low as 18:1. Distance learning is available at individual schools and also through Tennessee’s Regents Online Degree Program, which offers students the chance to gain fully online degrees in certain disciplines.

Memphis, situated on the Mississippi River, is a railway hub in the South and is crossed by Interstate Highways I-40 and I-55, making it a prime economic center for transportation and commerce. The city’s medical centers and international shipping/transportation firms also attract workers, while Memphis’ 187 parks, 11 golf courses and historical museums lure residents and tourists alike. On top of that, the city is home to ten colleges, universities, private schools and online colleges, offering students a wide selection of educational opportunities.

Tennessee schools offer many online programs, and prospective students should consider their career goals when choosing the best option. To narrow down your list of prospective schools, look for institutions that offer your desired degree program, and only consider accredited schools.

You can search the TN eCampus website from the College System of Tennessee to learn about online degree and certificate programs. You can also click the link below for details about online schools and colleges in Tennessee.

College graduates typically have more employment opportunities than individuals without a degree. Workers aged 25 to 35 who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher enjoy an 86% employment rate, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Earning potential also increases with degree level. Bachelor’s degree-holders in the state earn an average of $67,426 a year, according to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The table below illustrates the nationwide correlation between salary and educational attainment.

Source:BLS

Tuition at online schools and colleges in Tennessee costs less than the national average. The Tennessee Promise program offers free tuition at state community colleges and technical centers for students who meet income requirements. However, participating students must pay for housing, textbooks, and other education-related expenses. The following table compares average in-state and out-of-state tuition rates in Tennessee to the national averages.

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

The figures above do not include additional expenses. Although distance learners often save money on costs such as housing and transportation, many schools charge online students additional fees. Below are a few cost considerations for learners attending online schools and colleges in Tennessee.

Requirements to qualify for in-state residency can vary by school. However, to qualify for residency, learners must typically show proof of having lived in Tennessee for at least 12 consecutive months preceding the first day of school. Adequate sources of proof typically include a driver’s license, proof of employment, and voter registration.

Some online schools and colleges in Tennessee charge all distance learners in-state tuition rates, regardless of residency. Additionally, reciprocity agreements can enable students from participating states to qualify for discounted tuition rates at out-of-state schools. Learners should research all applicable requirements and agreements before applying.

Although average tuition rates in Tennessee are lower than the national averages, most students still need assistance paying for college. Scholarships and grants are ideal forms of funding since they do not require repayment, and can help learners pay for tuition and educational expenses — such as textbooks and supplies. The grants and scholarships below are available to learners attending online schools and colleges in Tennessee.

Who Can Apply: Students with at least a 3.0 GPA and attend an accredited college can apply for this scholarship. Applicants submit a 600-word essay about their career aspirations and an optional YouTube video.

Amount: $1,000

Who Can Apply: Funded through the state lottery, this scholarship supplements the HOPE Scholarship for college freshmen. Applicants must have a minimum 3.75 GPA and at least a 29 ACT score or 1330 SAT score.

Amount: $1,500

Who Can Apply: The HOPE scholarship, funded through the state lottery, supports learners entering a two-year or four-year school. Applicants must enroll in a postsecondary institution within 16 months of graduating high school. Adult learners can access a similar scholarship.

Amount: $1,750 to $2,250

Who Can Apply: The Horatio Alger Foundation offers funds to high school students who demonstrate financial need and integrity and who have overcome hardships. The foundation delivers more than 70 scholarships.

Amount: Varies

Who Can Apply: This scholarship supports students with intellectual disabilities. Applicants must have graduated from a Tennessee high school and must maintain residency to reapply each year.

Amount: $1,750 to $2,250

Who Can Apply: This need-based grant supports graduates of eligible high schools. Applicants must reside in Tennessee and have graduated from high school during the previous 16 months. Applicants must have at least a 2.75 GPA and a minimum 18 ACT score or 960 SAT score.

Amount: $875 to $1,250

Who Can Apply: Former children of the foster care system can apply for this grant. Applicants must meet qualifications for the HOPE Scholarship or the HOPE Access Grant.

Amount: Varies

Who Can Apply: This grant helps state residents pay for tuition at a Tennessee College of Applied Technology. Applicants must be pursuing a certificate or diploma.

Amount: Varies

Who Can Apply: Students can apply this grant toward tuition and expenses at a community college or technical college. Recipients can also apply the grant to tuition at some four-year colleges.

Amount: Varies

Who Can Apply: This grant supports students pursuing a degree or diploma at a Tennessee College of Applied Technology. Applicants must have lived in Tennessee for at least one year. Prior recipients cannot reapply.

Amount: Up to $2,000

Accreditation demonstrates that a school’s curricula meet set standards of quality. The accreditation process involves evaluation by an independent agency.

In addition to assuring students of their education’s quality, accreditation ensures that employers and other institutions will recognize credits and degrees earned from the school. Many types of financial aid, including federal and state aid, are only available to learners at accredited institutions. The sections below explore the importance of choosing from accredited online schools and colleges in Tennessee.

The state of Tennessee offers grants and maintains initiatives to help adult learners achieve their academic goals. Online schools and colleges in Tennessee help improve access to higher education for busy students with personal and professional obligations. The sections below include information and resources for adult learners in the state.

Students attending online schools and colleges in Tennessee can access online resources for academic and career support. The resources below can help Tennessee students excel in college.