Nashville, Tennessee is well-known for its enriched cultural heritage and dynamic music scene.  Apart from that, the scenic city also provides plenty of options for students. There are a variety of academic courses and career aspirations. These courses are catered through a diverse array of colleges and universities.

best colleges & universities in nashville tennessee

Let’s explore the Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Nashville with annual costs. These universities offer diverse programs and vibrant campus life in 2024. 

1. Belmont University:

Belmont University is a private mid-sized institution established in 1890 in Nashville, Tennessee. Unlike other universities in Nashville, Belmont University is a student-centric Christian community. It empowers students to transform the world through disciplined intelligence.

It is one of the fastest-growing Christian Universities in the nation. Belmont University offers more than 180+ UG, PG, certified, and professional programs.

Average Annual Cost:

• Before Aid: $60,480
• After Aid: $31,519

2. Lipscomb University:

Lipscomb University is a private Christian university. It is known for its programs in liberal arts, business, and health sciences. Founded in 1891, The university is affiliated with the churches of Christ. 

Unlike other Nashville colleges and universities, the 132-year-old Lipscomb University is committed to delivering exceptional academics to students with an average of a professor for 14 students.

Average Annual Cost:

• Before Aid: $56,688
• After Aid: $24,627

3. Tennessee State University (TSU):

Looking for colleges and universities near Nashville, Tennessee, with a TSU that is one of the nation’s largest historically black colleges and universities? Tennessee State University (TSU) is the best option. TSU is a midsize institution. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

TSU is one of the popular Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Nashville, located in the heart of Tennessee, with a campus size of over 500 acres. Established in 1912, TSU is Tennessee’s most recognized public school. TSU offers 45 bachelor’s degree programs, 20+ master’s degree programs, doctoral programs, etc.

Average Annual Cost:

• Before Aid: $23,892
• After Aid: $12,494

4. Trevecca Nazarene University:

One of the Top Colleges in Nashville, Trevecca offers 20 associate degrees. That includes 80+ UGs, 25+ Master and 3 doctoral programs. The Trevecca’s Christian faculty helps students to identify, embrace, and live in their mission.

Average Annual Cost:

• Before Aid: $40,610
• After Aid: $13,848

5. Fisk University:

Fisk University is a private arts college in Nashville with a historical background. Established in 1866, Fisk maximizes students’ investment by partnering with various firms. These firms are from different verticals like technology, law, healthcare, etc.

Fisk is another HBCU, known for its strong academic programs in arts and sciences. It offers more than 20+ UG and 5+ graduate programs.

Average Annual Cost:

• Before Aid: $40,278
• After Aid: $23,136

6. Nashville State Community College:

Nashville State Community College (NSCC) is a small institution in Nashville, TN. It offers a wide range of associate degrees and certificates. It’s courses and programs help students to prepare for entry-level careers. It also works for those who want to transfer to universities to pursue 4-year academics.

The NSCC campus would be the best place for students offering a flexible option for academics. NSCC stands out with its industry-driven programs among many colleges in Nashville.NSCC offers flexible access to education to its students.

Average Annual Cost:

• Before Aid: $22,628
• After Aid: $6,304

7. Meharry Medical College:

Meharry Medical College is one of the oldest and Best Colleges in Nashville. The college offers various academic programs in health science dedicated to educating physicians, dentists, researchers, and health policy experts.

It is a private Methodist graduate college in Nashville. Meharry Medical College offers 5 on-campus-only graduate programs. Meharry College’s campus life offers a great opportunity for students to pursue their higher studies.

Average Annual Cost:

• Before Aid: $67,105
• After Aid: $27,750

8. Aquinas College:

Aquinas College is a small community college. It offers dynamic academic programs in the catholic environment. Although it has changed its program offerings in recent years, it contributed to nursing fields in Nashville.

The beautiful campus and friendly staff will make students feel like they are at home away from home. It is one of the Best Colleges in Tennessee for students to pursue higher studies.

Average Annual Cost:

• Before Aid: $51,092
• After Aid: $26,451

9. Vanderbilt University:

Vanderbilt is one of the prestigious private research universities in Nashville, TN. It has strong programs in medicine, education, and law. Vanderbilt University has a beautiful 340-acre campus in Nashville, TN. Vanderbilt University’s vibrant campus life and academic excellence attract talented students worldwide.

Established 150 years ago, Vanderbilt University manages to grab high ranks in national and global rankings. Due to its excellent social life, this university ranks 2nd for the happiest campus and 1st for athletic facilities.

Average Annual Cost:

• Before Aid: $84,412
• After Aid: $22,204

10. Nossi College of Art and Design:

Nossi College of Art & Design is the only private art college in Southeast, Tennessee. Since 1973, Nossi has become the epicenter of culture and creativity in Nashville. Nossi College offers a range of creative degrees in graphic design, videos & films, and so forth.

Started by Ms. Nossi, The Art College is one of the Best Colleges in the Nashville Area. It lets your creative mind run wild to create interactive designs in various fields. Nossi’s design and editing labs mimic professional-level labs. It is also equipped with industry-standard software. Moreover, Nossi boasts a spectacular instructional photography studio, the largest in the region.

Average Annual Cost:

• Before Aid: $29,650
• After Aid: $23,109

Bottom Line

Tennessee gives you plenty of options to start your school career in the Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Nashville. Above listed colleges and universities are the best places to start your higher education in Nashville in 2024. Check those and pick the best one Nashville University that offers more academic options and exciting campus life for your future growth.