Compare accredited BSN programs by cost, NCLEX pass rates, and career outcomes. Find your ideal nursing school in Tennessee.
Nursing education in Tennessee is evolving as employers increasingly prefer BSN-prepared nurses, and the state’s Nurse Licensure Compact status allows multi-state practice without extra paperwork. Tennessee expects to add over 3,400 RN positions annually through 2030, with hospital expansions in Nashville and Memphis. Prospective students can choose from four-year university BSNs, two-year community college ADN-to-BSN bridges, and 12-month accelerated tracks for career changers. In-state public tuition starts below $6,000.
With first-year RN salaries averaging around $52,000 and program net prices spanning a $30,000 range, the financial equation demands careful consideration of graduation rates and NCLEX performance, not just the school’s name.
Tennessee combines a lower-than-average cost of living with a surging demand for nurses, creating a uniquely favorable environment for both nursing students and working RNs.
Stretching a nursing salary starts with where you live. Tennessee's overall cost of living runs below the national average, with housing, transportation, and daily expenses all leaning more affordable in much of the state. That means a new RN salary goes further: you can afford a comfortable lifestyle, pay down student loans faster, or build savings sooner than in many higher-cost regions.
Tennessee's need for registered nurses is projected to grow by 18.9 percent through 2026, significantly outpacing many other states. Major health systems fuel this demand. Vanderbilt Health, headquartered in Nashville, leads a network that includes the region's only Level 1 trauma center and a nationally ranked children's hospital. HCA Healthcare, one of the largest hospital operators in the country, runs multiple facilities across the state, while Ballad Health serves a broad swath of Appalachia. These organizations offer new graduates thousands of job openings each year, from urban academic medical centers to community hospitals.
Tennessee is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which lets RNs practice in person or via telehealth across more than three dozen participating states without obtaining additional licenses. That portability opens doors for travel nursing assignments, remote roles, or a simple relocation without licensing delays, making a Tennessee nursing license especially versatile.
Nursing schools across the state have responded to growing demand with a wide range of formats. Traditional campus BSN programs remain common, but many schools now offer online RN-to-BSN bridges for working ADN holders, accelerated second-degree options for career changers, and hybrid models that blend digital coursework with local clinical rotations. That breadth means you can find a pathway that fits your schedule, location, and career timeline.
This guide highlights 10 Tennessee BSN programs that pair rigorous nursing coursework with extensive clinical training and strong regional employer ties. Options range from lower-cost public universities to private campuses with accelerated and online pathways.
| Rank | School | Location | Net price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | Knoxville, TN | ~$19,000/yr (est.) | Tennessee residents seeking research university training | |
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville combines public flagship resources with a BSN that emphasizes clinical reasoning, leadership and community care. Students train in technology-enhanced classrooms and a simulation lab with clinical placements at major hospitals and health departments across the region. Direct freshman admission, a nursing living-learning community and ROTC pathways add distinctive entry routes, and NCLEX results exceed state and national averages. CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #2 | Union University | Jackson, TN | ~$27,000/yr (est.) | Working RNs needing multi-campus flexible pathways | |
Union University offers campus-based traditional and accelerated BSN tracks plus an online RN-BSN, making it a flexible option for students at different stages. The traditional BSN combines liberal arts and nursing coursework over eight semesters, with clinical placements and simulation technology. The accelerated track provides a 15-month full-time pathway, while the RN-BSN serves working nurses through rolling admissions and online delivery. Admission is selective, typically requiring a 3.0 GPA for the traditional track and an entrance exam. CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #3 | Lipscomb University | Nashville, TN | ~$25,000/yr (est.) | Nashville career changers pursuing hybrid training | |
Lipscomb University uses Nashville's major health systems to give BSN students 32 credit hours of clinical experience across obstetrics, pediatrics, mental health, critical care and medical-surgical nursing. The traditional BSN reports a 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate and job placement rate, supported by an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio. A hybrid accelerated BSN is available for students who already hold a bachelor's degree, combining online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals in Middle Tennessee.
| |||||
| #4 | Freed-Hardeman University | Henderson, TN | $22,000/yr (est. net price) | ||
Freed-Hardeman University's BSN is grounded in a Christian mission and rural West Tennessee focus, with nearly 650 hours of direct patient care in settings such as neonatal ICU, pediatrics and cardiac care. Small classes allow students to work closely with faculty who are practicing nurses. The program includes a capstone and faith-based community nursing component, preparing graduates for NCLEX-RN and careers in rural and small-town Tennessee. CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #5 | Belmont University | Nashville, TN | ~$33,000/yr (est.) | ||
Belmont University offers a direct-entry BSN with clinical experiences starting sophomore year and placement across Nashville systems including HCA Healthcare and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The program reports a 98% first-time NCLEX pass rate and is designated a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence. A community college bridge track gives Tennessee associate-level graduates a two-year route to the BSN with discounted tuition and small clinical groups. CCNE accredited
CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #6 | Tennessee Tech | Cookeville, TN | $10,000 – $15,000/yr (est.) | ||
Tennessee Tech University provides a four-year campus BSN through the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing in Cookeville. The clinical sequence spans five semesters and includes placements in mental health, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics and other specialties across Middle and East Tennessee. The program reports a first-time NCLEX pass rate above 95% and offers in-state tuition that makes it a cost-conscious public option. CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #7 | Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro, TN | ~$13,000/yr (est.) | ||
Middle Tennessee State University's four-year BSN combines 200 hours of simulation lab practice with more than 500 clinical hours at community partners including Vanderbilt and Ascension Saint Thomas. The curriculum emphasizes communication, critical thinking, leadership, the nursing process and professional relationships. Its Murfreesboro location and Middle Tennessee clinical network make it a practical choice for students who want to remain in the Nashville area after graduation. CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #8 | Lee University | Cleveland, TN | ~$19,000/yr (est.) | ||
Lee University's campus BSN opens with pre-nursing status and requires admission to the nursing major after prerequisite coursework. Students begin nursing coursework in the fall, and space is limited, making early academic performance important. The program is housed in the School of Nursing and serves Southeast Tennessee, with clinical placements in Cleveland, Chattanooga and regional hospitals. CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #9 | East Tennessee State University | Johnson City, TN | ~$16,000/yr (est.) | ||
East Tennessee State University's BSN emphasizes rural and Appalachian health, with hands-on training at six nurse-managed clinics and simulation facilities in Johnson City. The program partners with Ballad Health and other regional providers, and reports a 93% NCLEX pass rate in 2024. ETSU's College of Nursing also creates an in-state pathway to DNP and PhD study for graduates who want advanced practice or academic roles. CCNE accredited
| |||||
| #10 | Milligan University | Milligan, TN | ~$21,000/yr (est.) | ||
Milligan University's BSN blends nursing science with a liberal arts foundation and starts clinical rotations sophomore year at medical centers, rural hospitals and community clinics. The program reports high NCLEX pass rates and near 100% employment at graduation, with no waiting list for entry. CCNE accreditation and faculty advising support students through licensure and job placement in East Tennessee. CCNE accredited
| |||||
Rankings like this one are built by comparing nursing programs across several practical measures that reflect cost, completion, and career outcomes. We focus on metrics that are publicly reported, verifiable, and directly relevant to prospective students.
Nursing programs also report NCLEX pass rates to state boards of nursing, and those are a crucial indicator of program quality. Since that data comes directly from Tennessee's board and not from the federal sources we use here, we cover NCLEX rates in a separate section dedicated to licensure exam performance.
The numbers behind these rankings are drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the College Scorecard, supplemented with program-specific details gathered through additional research. Whenever possible, we verify figures against official institutional disclosures.
Tennessee nursing programs span a wide cost range, with in-state tuition starting at $4,762 at Cleveland State Community College and reaching $38,420 at Christian Brothers University. Public community colleges offer the most affordable paths, while net price after aid can dramatically reduce costs; for instance, Christian Brothers' sticker price drops to a net price just under $10,000. Net price is an institution-wide average and individual aid packages vary, so prospective students should check their specific financial aid offers.
| School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Net Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleveland State Community College | $4,762 | $17,746 | $6,384 |
| Northeast State Community College | $4,782 | $17,766 | $6,864 |
| Roane State Community College | $4,998 | $18,630 | $4,270 |
| Austin Peay State University | $9,006 | $14,766 | $9,735 |
| East Tennessee State University | $10,216 | $13,726 | $15,983 |
| Middle Tennessee State University | $10,266 | $31,574 | $13,359 |
| The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | $10,448 | $18,512 | $14,265 |
| The University of Tennessee-Martin | $10,560 | $16,600 | $10,701 |
| University of Memphis | $10,728 | $15,384 | $12,397 |
| The University of Tennessee Southern | $10,924 | $10,924 | $12,798 |
| Tennessee Tech | $11,376 | $15,576 | $14,246 |
| Baptist Health Sciences University | $13,796 | $13,796 | $11,212 |
| Tennessee Wesleyan University | $30,814 | $30,814 | $14,836 |
| Trevecca Nazarene University | $31,300 | $31,300 | $16,813 |
| Christian Brothers University | $38,420 | $38,420 | $9,854 |
Putting too much weight on a school’s NCLEX pass rate can blind you to other important factors, yet ignoring the numbers altogether means missing a clear signal of program effectiveness. A balanced view uses pass rates as one datapoint among several when comparing nursing schools.
Tennessee nursing programs consistently outperform the national average. In 2024, the state’s overall first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate was 94.89% across all program types (associate, bachelor’s, and diploma), exceeding the national figure of 91.16%. The trend held in 2025, with Tennessee posting 90.94% compared to 86.71% nationally. That gap remained even as pass rates dipped nationwide following the NCLEX’s updated test plan. For aspiring nurses, this means Tennessee schools are delivering preparation that stands up to the licensing exam’s demands.
Within the state, bachelor’s-level programs posted even stronger results. In 2024, first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates for Tennessee BSN graduates ranged from 96.8% to 98.1%. Middle Tennessee State University exemplifies this high performance: its BSN graduates achieved a 97.6% first-time pass rate in 2024 and a perfect 100% in 2025. Union University’s BSN program reported a 98.3% pass rate for the 2023–2024 cycle. These figures place Tennessee’s top BSN programs well above state and national benchmarks, indicating deep alignment with NCLEX content and critical-thinking expectations.
NCLEX pass rates offer a window into how well a program prepares students for licensure. A high, sustained pass rate suggests a curriculum that reinforces clinical reasoning, test-taking skills, and nursing knowledge under pressure. Programs with low or erratic pass rates may struggle with instruction, student support, or admissions standards. However, pass rates alone don’t tell the whole story. A school’s culture, clinical placement variety, faculty mentorship, and graduate employment outcomes all shape your education and career. Some programs admit smaller cohorts and invest in intensive NCLEX prep, which can inflate pass rates without reflecting a broader quality advantage. Use pass rates as a gauge, but also consider cost, location, and specializations when choosing where to enroll.
Getting accepted into a nursing program in Tennessee requires careful planning and a clear picture of what schools expect. While each institution sets its own standards, most follow a similar pattern. Start early, meet or exceed the minimums, and be prepared for a competitive pool of applicants.
A strong foundation in science and general education courses is non-negotiable for BSN admission. Most programs expect you to complete the following prerequisites with a grade of C or better before applying.1 - Anatomy & Physiology I and II - Microbiology - Chemistry - English Composition - Developmental Psychology - Statistics - Nutrition
These courses build the baseline knowledge you will rely on in clinical rotations. Some schools also require sociology or lifespan development. Check specific program sheets, because missing a single course can delay your application by a full semester.
Admissions committees look for a competitive academic profile that goes beyond simple minimums. The stated minimum GPA for Tennessee BSN programs typically falls between 2.5 and 3.01, but a GPA of 3.0 or higher gives you a realistic shot at a seat. Many schools publish a recommended or competitive minimum, often 3.0, because admitted cohorts routinely average well above the bare floor. If your GPA sits at the bottom of the range, a standout TEAS score can tip the scales.
Regarding the Test of Essential Academic Skills, nearly every nursing school in Tennessee requires it. Scores in the mid-60s may satisfy a few programs, but a 70 or above is a safer target.1 Competitive programs look for scores in the high 70s to low 80s. Since TEAS retake policies vary, aim to hit your target on the first attempt after a focused study plan.
Beyond transcripts and test scores, your application must include several administrative items. All accredited schools require a criminal background check and drug screening, typically after provisional acceptance.1 Immunization records are also mandatory, including proof of COVID-19 vaccination at many institutions, so keep your titer tests and vaccination documents organized.
Some programs expect a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential or direct patient care experience. While not universal, having that certification can strengthen an application and may be required for certain community college-based BSN tracks. Check each program’s clinical readiness checklist early.
Second-degree accelerated BSN programs cater to career changers who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. These fast-track programs, often 12 to 18 months long2, maintain tighter admission standards. You must graduate from a regionally accredited institution with your prior degree, and the prerequisite GPA floor usually sits higher, frequently a 3.0 or above. Because seats are limited and the pace is intense, accelerated programs may also require a dedicated personal statement and an interview. Treat the prerequisites list the same way, but plan to finish all science courses within a certain recency window, typically five years.
By tackling prerequisites early, aiming above published minimums, and lining up your documentation, you position yourself as a strong candidate across Tennessee’s nursing landscape.
Several Tennessee nursing schools offer accelerated BSN tracks that can be completed in as few as 12 months, making them a fast option for career changers who hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. These programs pack intensive coursework and clinical rotations into a condensed schedule, typically requiring full-time study with no breaks.
Accelerated BSN programs in Tennessee are designed for students who already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. They build on existing credits and focus solely on nursing coursework, letting you earn a BSN in 12 to 18 months. Here is a snapshot of some programs:
Most programs admit students once or twice a year and use a cohort model, so you progress with the same group of peers. Admissions are competitive, and prerequisites like anatomy, physiology, and microbiology are typically required.
For licensed RNs looking to advance their education, many Tennessee nursing schools offer online or hybrid RN-to-BSN completion programs. These are tailored for working nurses, with asynchronous coursework and flexible scheduling. While specific offerings vary, programs from schools like the University of Memphis and East Tennessee State University can often be completed in as little as 12 months of part-time study. Because RN-to-BSN programs build on your existing nursing knowledge, clinical requirements are usually focused on community health or leadership projects, reducing the need for repeated bedside rotations.
Clinical experience is a crucial part of any nursing program, and Tennessee nursing schools have strong ties to regional healthcare systems. Hybrid and on-campus accelerated programs arrange clinical rotations at partner hospitals and clinics across the state. For example, Marian University’s ABSN students train at Ascension Saint Thomas in Nashville. Other schools maintain partnerships with HCA Healthcare’s TriStar division, Erlanger Health System, and numerous community hospitals, ensuring students gain diverse hands-on experience in settings from large urban medical centers to rural clinics. Even in online RN-to-BSN programs, students often complete a capstone project or community health rotation at a site near their home, coordinated by the school.
Tennessee is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, so an RN license issued here lets you practice in over 30 other states without additional applications. Most graduates move from BSN completion to their first nursing job within 3-6 months.
Navigating nursing school options can be overwhelming. Below we answer the most common questions about BSN programs, costs, and licensure in Tennessee to help you make an informed decision.
The schools below offer additional nursing pathways across Tennessee, from public universities to private colleges. Average net prices are included to help you compare costs, but aid packages vary, so request information from several schools and review financial aid offers side by side.
