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Many of Tennessee’s colleges and universities offer distance education programs.
Knoxville’s Johnson University has 22 online undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, while Bethel University has 17 bachelor’s and master’s programs. Several schools offer specialized online programs, such as Lee University’s online master’s degree in marriage and family studies and Carson–Newman’s online bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership. The Tennessee eCampus website helps students search for online courses and degrees at public colleges and universities in the state and provides them with more information about online learning.
Students enrolled at online colleges in Tennessee enjoy the increased flexibility and affordability that comes with online learning. Distance learners often save money on college expenses like transportation and commuting, housing, and other fees associated with living on campus. Students who attend online schools in Tennessee can also enjoy completing coursework on their own schedules. With many online learning options, as well as affordable tuition and financial aid opportunities, Tennessee has a lot to offer undergraduate and graduate students.
The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
University of Memphis
Memphis, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to further your undergraduate education through flexible online study? At the University of Memphis, students can learn at their own pace. To date, the school offers 58 online programs.
The programs grant students the necessary skill set needed to succeed in their field. While completing coursework, students can customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations. Students can further their learning through faculty-led research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities. These endeavors prepare students for the demands of careers. Online students benefit from a supportive virtual learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and success-centered resource offices.
Of all applicants, 85% are admitted. To discuss enrollment requirements, prospective students can meet with an admissions counselor. Students seeking to defray educational expenses can explore internal and external funding opportunities through the college. On average, 97% of all enrollees receive financial aid.
#2 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
King University
Bristol, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Are you looking to learn at your own pace? Consider King University's online bachelor's degree programs. The private college boasts 22 online programs, reaching 1,402 remote students globally.
The school provides students with a well-rounded education. Enrollees complete coursework and can further customize their studies by modifying classes and declaring minors and degree concentrations. Students looking to learn beyond the classroom can pursue internships, research projects, and other experiential learning opportunities. These endeavors prepare students for the demands of the workforce. During their program, students can access institutional resources such as career services and academic advising.
Prospective students should know that 62% of all applicants are admitted. Learners can meet with an admissions counselor to discuss enrollment requirements. Eligible students can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other funding during their studies.
#3 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Johnson University
Knoxville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a rigorous education that meets your scheduling needs? Consider Johnson University. The private college supports 21 online programs from its main campus in Knoxville, Tennessee.
The programs feature rigorous curricula. All students complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to choose electives and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can pursue experiential learning opportunities such as research and internships throughout the duration of their program. These features prepare students for the demands of their field. Throughout the duration of their program, students benefit from a supportive online learning environment and success-centered resources like career services.
Since the application process is selective, 53% of applicants gain admission. Before applying, prospective enrollees can meet with an admissions counselor to discuss enrollment requirements. Students seeking to defray educational expenses can explore internal and external funding opportunities through the college.
#4 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Lee University
Cleveland, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a rigorous education that meets your scheduling needs? Consider one of Lee University's flexible online undergraduate degree programs. The Cleveland-based school supports 14 online programs, reaching 736 distance learners worldwide.
Students benefit from robust, rigorous program curricula. Throughout their studies, enrollees complete coursework and attend industry-specific lectures. Students can further their learning through faculty-led research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities. These opportunities equip students with the knowledge and skill set needed for the workforce. While enrolled, students benefit from institutional resources geared towards student success and learn alongside supportive peers and faculty.
Prospective students should know that 82% of all applicants are admitted. Prospective students can meet with the Office of Admissions to discuss application and admission requirements. The college makes generous financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, available to its students.
#5 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Austin Peay State University
Clarksville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a premier undergraduate education with options for flexible study? Consider Austin Peay State University's online degree programs. The public college supports distance learners across 37 online programs.
The institution's programs offer robust curricula. Enrollees complete field-specific and general education classes, gaining knowledge and skills necessary for careers. Enrollees can pursue experiential learning opportunities such as research and internships throughout the duration of their program. These features prepare students for the demands of the workforce. Online students benefit from a supportive virtual learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and success-centered resource offices.
Of all applicants, 95% are admitted. Interested applicants can learn more about the admissions process by meeting with the Office of Admissions. Eligible degree-seekers benefit from generous financial aid opportunities available through the institution. At the college, 99% of all incoming students receive financial aid awards.
#6 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Trevecca Nazarene University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn your bachelor's degree at your own pace? At Trevecca Nazarene University, students can learn remotely. The private college boasts 37 online programs, reaching 1,759 remote students globally.
The programs offer robust curricula. Throughout their studies, enrollees complete coursework and attend industry-specific lectures. Students can further their learning through faculty-led research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities. These opportunities prepare students for the rigor of the workforce. Distance learners receive guidance throughout their studies, through career services and academic advising.
The school admits 62% of all applicants. To learn more about the admissions process, schedule an appointment with the Office of Admissions. Eligible students can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other funding during their studies.
#7 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn a degree at your own pace? The University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers flexible online degree programs for learners from all walks of life. The school supports 24 online programs, reaching 10,526 distance learners worldwide.
Learners gain a well-rounded education through rigorous study. Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to select electives and modify courses to suit their career trajectory. Degree-seekers can supplement their learning with experiential learning opportunities, like internships or research projects. Through these endeavors, students gain preparation for the demands of a career. Enrollees can access institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services, during the program.
Prospective students should know that 79% of all applicants are accepted. Interested students can meet with an admissions counselor to discuss application materials. The college makes generous financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, available to its students. The university reports that 91% of all enrollees receive financial aid awards.
#8 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Carson-Newman University
Jefferson City, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to further your undergraduate education through flexible online study? At Carson-Newman University, students can learn at their own pace. The private college supports distance learners across 15 online programs.
The programs feature rigorous curricula. During their program, students complete foundational and advanced classes. They can choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations. Degree-seekers can supplement their learning with experiential learning opportunities, like internships and research projects. These opportunities prepare students for the rigor of the workforce. While enrolled, students benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
For the school's programs, 69% of all applicants are admitted. Prospective students can meet with an admissions counselor to discuss enrollment requirements. To reduce educational expenses, students can pursue scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities.
#9 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a rigorous education that meets your scheduling needs? Consider one of East Tennessee State University's online bachelor's degree programs. The public Johnson City-based college supports five online undergraduate programs, boasting an online student body of 7,986 enrollees.
Students benefit from robust, rigorous program curricula. During their program, students complete foundational and advanced classes and can choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations. To supplement their learning, students can pursue internships and research projects. Through these opportunities, learners gain a well-rounded education. While enrolled, students benefit from institutional resources geared towards student success, and they learn alongside supportive peers and faculty.
Since the application process is selective, 86% of applicants gain admission. Interested applicants can learn more about the admissions process by meeting with the Office of Admissions. To offset the cost of education, students can apply for internal and external funding through the college. The school notes that 95% of all incoming degree-seekers are awarded aid.
#10 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Bryan College
Dayton, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a rigorous education that meets your scheduling needs? Consider one of Bryan College's flexible online undergraduate degree programs. The Dayton-based school supports 10 online programs, reaching 630 distance learners worldwide.
The programs offer robust program curricula. Students complete coursework and can further customize their studies by modifying classes and declaring minors and degree concentrations. Students can further their learning through faculty-led research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities. Through these opportunities, students gain a well-rounded education. Distance learners can access institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout their studies.
Out of all applicants, 51% receive acceptance. Before applying, prospective enrollees can meet with an admissions counselor to discuss enrollment requirements. To offset the cost of education, students can apply for internal and external funding through the college.
#11 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for flexible online study options? Consider one of Middle Tennessee State University's flexible online degree programs. From its main campus in Murfreesboro, the public college supports 11 online programs.
The school grants students the necessary skill set needed to succeed in their field. Students complete coursework throughout their program and can customize their degree to suit career and professional goals. Enrollees can pursue experiential learning opportunities such as research and internships throughout the duration of their program. Through these endeavors, students gain preparation for the demands of a career in their field. Throughout the duration of their program, students benefit from a supportive online learning environment and success-centered resources like career services.
Applicants should know that 94% of all applicants are accepted. To discuss enrollment requirements, prospective students can meet with an admissions counselor. Eligible enrollees can explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Interested students should consider that 96% of all degree-seekers are awarded financial aid.
#12 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Bethel University
McKenzie, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Are you looking to learn at your own pace? Consider Bethel University’s online programs. To date, the McKenzie-based school offers 16 online programs.
Students gain a well-rounded education through rigorous study. Learners complete coursework throughout their studies and can customize their degree to suit career and professional goals. Students have the option to further their learning with internships, research projects, and other experiential learning opportunities. Students gain a well-rounded education, preparing them for the demands of a career in their field. Enrollees can access institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services, during their program.
The college admits 90% of all applicants. To discuss enrollment requirements, prospective students can meet with an admissions counselor. The college makes generous financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, available to its students.
#13 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
The University of Tennessee at Martin
Martin, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn a degree at your own pace? Consider one of The University of Tennessee at Martin's online bachelor's degree programs. The public college supports 12 online programs from its main campus.
The online programs offer robust curricula. While completing coursework, students can customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations. Students can further their learning through faculty-led research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities. Through these opportunities, students gain a well-rounded education. Distance learners benefit from institutional resources such as career services and academic advising, along with a welcoming online learning community made up of motivated colleagues and premier faculty members.
Prospective students should know that 64% of all applicants are admitted. To discuss application requirements and the admissions process, applicants can meet with the Office of Admissions. The college offers numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid, for eligible students. At the college, 98% of all incoming students receive financial aid awards.
#14 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Union University
Jackson, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Want to learn at your own pace, through flexible online study? Consider one of Union University's convenient online degree programs. The private college supports distance learners across 15 online programs.
The remote programs feature robust program curricula. Students complete coursework and can customize their program by modifying classes and declaring minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can supplement their learning by pursuing internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students gain a well-rounded education, preparing them for the demands of future careers. Enrollees can access institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services, during their program.
The college admits 53% of all applicants. An admissions counselor can provide prospective students with enrollment requirements and other information. To defray the cost of study, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.
#15 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Tennessee Technological University
Cookeville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Want to learn at your own pace? Consider one of Tennessee Technological University's online bachelor's degree programs. The public college boasts five online programs, reaching 7,149 remote students globally.
The programs grant students the necessary skill set needed to succeed in their field. Students in the online programs complete general and field-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Students also have the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships. These features prepare students for the demands of their field. Distance learners receive guidance throughout their studies, through career services and academic advising.
For the program, 79% of all applicants are admitted. Students interested in applying can schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor to learn more. To defray the cost of study, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Learners at the college benefit from financial aid opportunities, with 98% of all enrollees receiving aid.
#16 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Tennessee State University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn your bachelor's degree at your own pace? Consider one of Tennessee State University's flexible online undergraduate degree programs. The Nashville-based college reaches 1,889 distance learners through its 20 online programs.
Enrollees gain a well-rounded education through rigorous study. Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to select electives and modify courses to suit their career trajectory. Students looking to learn beyond the classroom can pursue internships, research projects, and other experiential learning opportunities. These endeavors prepare students for the demands of their field. Enrollees can access institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services, during the program.
To discuss enrollment requirements, prospective students can meet with an admissions counselor. Eligible degree-seekers benefit from generous financial aid opportunities available through the institution. The college boasts 91% of its enrollees receive financial aid awards.
#17 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Lincoln Memorial University
Harrogate, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn your bachelor's degree at your own pace? Consider Lincoln Memorial University's online bachelor's degree programs. The private college supports distance learners across 16 online programs.
Students in the online programs gain a well-rounded education through rigorous, focused study. Learners complete general and field-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Students can also explore learning opportunities beyond the classroom, such as research projects and internships. These learning endeavors prepare students for the demands of their field. Enrollees can access institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services, during the program.
The college admits 50% of all applicants. Interested applicants can learn more about the admissions process by meeting with the Office of Admissions. The college makes generous financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, available to its students.
#18 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Cumberland University
Lebanon, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for flexible online study options? Consider one of Cumberland University's flexible online degree programs. The Lebanon-based college reaches 59 distance learners through its three online programs.
The online programs feature rigorous curricula. While completing coursework, students can customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations. Students looking to learn beyond the classroom can pursue internships, research projects, and other experiential learning opportunities. Through these opportunities, students gain skills and knowledge needed for their field. Throughout the duration of their program, students benefit from a supportive online learning environment and success-centered resources like career services.
The program admits 61% of all applicants. Before applying, prospective enrollees can meet with an admissions counselor to discuss enrollment requirements. Eligible enrollees can explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.
#19 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
Tennessee Wesleyan University
Athens, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn your bachelor's degree at your own pace? Tennessee Wesleyan University offers flexible online degree programs for learners from all walks of life. The private college supports three online programs from its main campus in Athens.
The online programs feature rigorous curricula. Students complete foundational and advanced classes and can choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations. Enrollees can pursue experiential learning opportunities such as research and internships throughout the duration of their program. These opportunities equip students with the knowledge and skill set needed for the workforce. Distance learners receive guidance throughout their studies, through career services and academic advising.
Prospective students should know that 61% of all applicants are admitted. Interested applicants can learn more about the admissions process by meeting with the Office of Admissions. Eligible degree-seekers benefit from generous financial aid opportunities available through the institution.
#20 The Best Online Colleges in Tennessee
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Chattanooga, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a premier undergraduate education with options for flexible study? Consider one of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's flexible online undergraduate degree programs. The school boasts four online programs, reaching 6,054 distance learners worldwide.
Learners gain a well-rounded education through rigorous study. Enrollees complete field-specific and general education classes, gaining knowledge and skills necessary for a career in their field. Students looking to learn beyond the classroom can pursue internships, research projects, and other experiential learning opportunities. These features prepare students for the demands of the workforce. While enrolled, students benefit from a supportive online learning community and can access institutional resources such as career services and academic advising.
Since the application process is selective, 82% of applicants gain admission to the program. To discuss application requirements and the admissions process, applicants can meet with the Office of Admissions. Students seeking to defray educational expenses can explore internal and external funding opportunities through the college. According to the school, 97% of all incoming enrollees receive financial aid to offset the cost of their education.
Online Colleges in Tennessee Ranking Guidelines
We selected the online schools in Tennessee based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, and faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.
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