Top Nursing Schools & BSN Programs in Knoxville, Tennessee

Public universities and private colleges near Knoxville offer distinct BSN experiences, from flagship research environments to faith-based programs with smaller cohorts. The Knoxville metro's major healthcare employers, UT Medical Center and Covenant Health, have fueled steady demand for baccalaureate-prepared nurses.

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville anchors local nursing education, but students also consider regional public schools like Tennessee Tech and Middle Tennessee State, or private options such as Lee University and Union University. Comparisons of cost, NCLEX pass rates, and salary outcomes clarify the practical differences. In a market where BSNs are increasingly the hiring standard, aligning a program's strengths with your long-term goals is essential.

Best BSN Programs in Knoxville, TN, Ranked

The Knoxville area offers access to a range of high-quality BSN programs, from the University of Tennessee’s flagship nursing school to respected private and public universities across the state. Our ranking highlights the top accredited programs based on graduation rates, net price, and NCLEX performance, with an emphasis on clinical opportunities and career outcomes. Whether you prefer an on-campus tradition or an accelerated path, these schools provide strong foundations for a nursing career.

Rank	School	Location	Net price	Best for
#1	The University of Tennessee-Knoxville	Knoxville, TN	~$19,000/yr (est.)	Knoxville-area students seeking research-driven BSN
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville combines a rigorous BSN curriculum with direct freshman admission and extensive clinical placements at UT Medical Center and other Knoxville providers. With state-of-the-art simulation labs, a BSN Scholars tuition assistance program, and NCLEX pass rates exceeding national averages, it is the leading research-driven nursing school in East Tennessee. Students benefit from interprofessional education with UT’s medical campus and a strong focus on community health. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Direct freshman admission pathway eliminates the need for a separate nursing application later. Competitive process with a 3.2 minimum GPA for admission. Extensive clinical rotations at Knoxville’s major hospitals, including UT Medical Center. State-of-the-art simulation labs with advanced technology for realistic training. BSN Scholars Program offers tuition assistance and special mentorship. Emphasis on leadership and critical thinking throughout the curriculum. Focus on holistic, patient-centered care across diverse community settings. Consistently exceeds national NCLEX-RN pass rates.
#2	Lipscomb University	Nashville, TN	$25,000/yr	Christian learners prioritizing mentorship and holistic care
Lipscomb University in Nashville offers a Christian-centered BSN with a striking 100% NCLEX pass rate and job placement for recent graduates. The program blends one-on-one faculty mentorship, a health simulation lab, and hundreds of clinical hours in top Middle Tennessee hospitals. Students can choose a traditional four-year path or a 16-month hybrid accelerated track for career changers, both embedded in a faith-based learning community. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Christian community focus with one-on-one faculty mentorship. State-of-the-art Health Simulation Laboratory for immersive training. 100% first-time NCLEX pass rate and 100% job placement record. Extensive clinical hours in Nashville’s top health systems. 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio for personalized instruction. Curriculum covers obstetrics, pediatrics, mental health, critical care, and med-surg. Traditional four-year path with the option to add an ABSN later. Strong emphasis on spiritual and holistic patient care. Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing — Hybrid Visit Website 16-month hybrid program combining online coursework and in-person labs. $899 per credit hour with financial aid available. Requires a prior bachelor’s degree and 3.0 GPA for admission. Background check and immunizations required for clinical placement. Focus on holistic, compassionate care in diverse healthcare settings. TN R-WIN initiative supports rural healthcare placements. Prepares students for NCLEX-RN and immediate entry into nursing. Full ACEN accreditation ensures program quality.
#3	Freed-Hardeman University	Henderson, TN	$22,000/yr (net price)	Christian environment with intensive hands-on clinicals
Freed-Hardeman University’s BSN in Henderson, TN, is built on small class sizes and 650+ hours of hands-on critical-care experience. The program integrates Christian values into a comprehensive nursing curriculum covering anatomy, microbiology, pharmacology, and leadership. CCNE-accredited and offering additional certifications, it prepares students for the NCLEX with a strong emphasis on ethical practice and real-world readiness. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Hands-on critical-care experience with 650+ clinical hours. Small student-to-teacher ratios for personalized learning. Additional certification opportunities (e.g., ACLS, PALS) available. Curriculum integrates Christian values and ethical practice. Faculty includes practicing nurses and nurse leaders. Comprehensive training in anatomy, microbiology, pharmacology, and more. Leadership and management coursework for career advancement. CCNE-accredited with strong NCLEX preparation.
#4	Tennessee Tech	Cookeville, TN	$10,000 – $15,000/yr
Tennessee Tech’s Whitson-Hester School of Nursing in Cookeville delivers a four-year BSN with a five-semester clinical sequence and first-time NCLEX pass rates above 95%. Students rotate through diverse Middle and East Tennessee healthcare settings, gaining practical skills in small cohorts. The program’s competitive clinical admission and focus on critical thinking make it a strong choice for Tennessee residents seeking a public university pathway. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website 4-year BSN with a 5-semester clinical sequence in the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing. First-time NCLEX pass rate exceeding 95%, consistently above state average. Diverse clinical placements across Middle and East Tennessee healthcare settings. Competitive admission into the clinical portion; prerequisites required. Emphasis on practical skills and critical thinking in nursing. Access to simulation labs and interprofessional education opportunities. Preparation for leadership roles and graduate nursing study. Small cohort sizes in upper-division nursing courses.
#5	Union University	Jackson, TN	~$27,000/yr (est.)
Union University in Jackson offers a distinctive Christian liberal arts BSN with traditional, accelerated, and RN-to-BSN pathways. The traditional track features a 4-year campus experience with state-of-the-art simulation and strong clinical rotations, while the 15-month accelerated option caters to career changers across three campuses. The fully online RN-BSN completes the ladder for working nurses, all supported by a 9:1 student-faculty ratio. Traditional BSN — On-Campus Visit Website Four-year campus-based program in Jackson, Germantown, or Hendersonville. Requires ACT 20+ and 3.0 GPA for progression into nursing courses. Christian liberal arts framework integrates faith and professional practice. State-of-the-art simulation technology and excellent clinical rotations. Holistic nursing approach emphasizing patient-centered care. Preparation for graduate study or entry-level RN positions. Strong faculty mentorship and small class sizes. 3.0 cumulative and science GPA required to maintain enrollment. Accelerated BSN — On-Campus Visit Website 15-month full-time program for non-nurses with a prior bachelor’s degree. Available on three campuses: Jackson, Germantown, Hendersonville. Rolling admission; requires a minimum GPA (typically 3.0) and prerequisites. Extensive clinical rotations across West Tennessee healthcare settings. Covers pharmacology, health assessment, leadership, and community nursing. Ages 24+ eligible; prepares for NCLEX and graduate school. Senior seminar and safe patient care focus are integral components. Financial aid available for qualified students. RN-BSN — Online Visit Website Fully online program with 18-month completion time for working RNs. $400 per credit hour; requires current RN licensure and 2.5 GPA. Rolling admissions; 27 credit hours of nursing coursework. Focus on leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice. Excludes general education requirements, which can be transferred in. Financial aid and flexible scheduling support working professionals.
#6	Middle Tennessee State University	Murfreesboro, TN	$13,000/yr
Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro provides a CCNE-accredited, four-year on-ground BSN with over 500 clinical hours. The program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership development, and compassionate care across diverse Middle Tennessee healthcare settings. Competitive admission and active student organizations enhance a well-rounded preparation for the NCLEX and immediate RN employment. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Four-year on-ground B.S.N. with over 500 clinical hours. CCNE-accredited; strong focus on critical thinking and leadership. Hands-on experience in diverse Middle Tennessee healthcare facilities. Emphasis on compassionate, patient-centered nursing care. Preparation for NCLEX-RN licensure and immediate employment. Interprofessional collaboration opportunities with other health disciplines. Competitive admission; holistic review of applicants. Active nursing student organizations and mentoring programs.
#7	Belmont University	Nashville, TN	$33,000/yr
Belmont University in Nashville offers a direct-admission BSN with a 100% first-time NCLEX pass rate and 98% job placement, built on a Christ-centered education and small clinical groups. The standard track starts nursing courses in the freshman year, while a community college bridge pathway serves transfer students with discounted tuition. Both benefit from a state-of-the-art simulation center and priority admission to Belmont’s DNP program. Nursing, B.S.N. — On-Campus Visit Website Direct admission as a freshman; nursing courses begin first semester. 100% first-time NCLEX pass rate and 98% employment within six months. Small class and clinical groups for individualized attention. State-of-the-art Simulation Center and interdisciplinary projects. Service learning, mission trips, and study abroad opportunities. 3.5 high school GPA required for freshmen; 3.25 for transfers. Priority admission to Belmont’s DNP program for BSN graduates. CCNE-accredited and designated a NLN Center of Excellence. Nursing, B.S.N. (Community College Bridge Program) — On-Campus Visit Website Seamless transfer pathway for students from partnering community colleges. Christ-centered nursing education with a 91% NCLEX pass rate. 98% employment rate; small class sizes and simulation training. Interdisciplinary learning and discounted tuition options available. Minimum 3.25 GPA required for admission into the nursing sequence. Preparation for diverse nursing roles in hospitals and community settings.
#8	East Tennessee State University	Johnson City, TN	~$16,000/yr (est.)
East Tennessee State University’s BSN in Johnson City is deeply rooted in rural and Appalachian health, with a 93% NCLEX pass rate and strong clinical partnerships across the region. Students train in simulation labs and nurse-managed clinics, gaining hands-on experience with underserved populations. The program’s focus on interprofessional care and a clear track to ETSU’s DNP and PhD programs appeals to those aiming for advanced practice. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website 93% first-time NCLEX pass rate, well above national average. State-of-the-art simulation labs and interprofessional training. Clinical rotations with leading East Tennessee healthcare providers. Hands-on experience in nurse-managed clinics and community health settings. Opportunity to continue into DNP or PhD programs at ETSU. Strong focus on rural and Appalachian health disparities. Campus-based program emphasizing critical thinking and clinical reasoning. Active partnerships with regional hospitals for diverse clinical placements.
#9	Lee University	Cleveland, TN	$19,000/yr
Lee University in Cleveland, TN, offers a competitive BSN with a fall-only start and no prerequisite courses required for freshmen, simplifying the enrollment path. The program centers on hands-on clinical learning in a Christian environment, preparing graduates for the NCLEX and careers in a variety of healthcare settings. Small cohorts and a supportive community define the student experience. Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Fall-only admission; freshmen, transfers, and internal applicants welcome. No prerequisite courses required for freshman admission, simplifying entry. Emphasis on hands-on clinical learning in small cohorts. Competitive admission with holistic review process. Christian environment that integrates faith and nursing practice. Preparation for NCLEX-RN and careers across diverse healthcare settings.
#10	The University of Tennessee-Martin	Martin, TN	$11,000/yr (net price)
The University of Tennessee-Martin’s pre-licensure BSN emphasizes evidence-based practice and patient-centered care, with high NCLEX pass rates and clinical experiences in West Tennessee facilities. ACEN-accredited and requiring a 2.75 GPA and ACT 21 for admission, it offers a practical, affordable entry into nursing with a strong focus on rural health and community engagement. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — On-Campus Visit Website Pre-licensure BSN with consistently high NCLEX-RN pass rates. Hands-on clinical experiences in West Tennessee healthcare facilities. Minimum 2.75 GPA and ACT 21 required for consideration. ACEN-accredited program emphasizing evidence-based practice. Patient-centered care focus across diverse clinical settings. Real-world practical training with experienced nursing faculty. Preparation for immediate RN licensure and graduate study. Strong emphasis on rural health and community engagement.

Cost Comparison: Knoxville BSN Tuition & Net Price

Comparing sticker prices and net costs reveals substantial differences among nursing programs near Knoxville. The net price shown is the institution-wide average for first-time, full-time undergraduates after grants and scholarships, your actual cost will depend on your financial aid package. Community college ADN pathways like Roane State offer the lowest net cost at $4,270, while university BSN programs range up to $13,359.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rates by Knoxville BSN Program

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville posted a flawless 100% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate in 2025,¹ cementing its reputation as one of the strongest nursing programs in the region.

UT Knoxville BSN: Perfect Performance

According to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville College of Nursing's latest data, all 2025 graduates of UT Knoxville's traditional BSN track passed the NCLEX on their first attempt.¹ This perfect score reflects the program's rigorous clinical preparation and comprehensive curriculum.

How Knoxville Compares to State and National Averages

Tennessee's baccalaureate and higher-degree nursing programs collectively achieved a 90.94% first-time pass rate in 2025.² The national average for BSN graduates was 86.71% during the same testing cycle.² UT Knoxville's 100% rate not only outpaces these benchmarks but also places it well above the state standard. While other Knoxville-area BSN programs may have varying results, UT Knoxville's outcome demonstrates a clear alignment with licensure readiness.

Why Pass Rates Matter

NCLEX first-time pass rates are a key indicator of program effectiveness. A high rate suggests that a program adequately prepares students for entry-level nursing practice, while a low rate may signal gaps in clinical training or academic support. The Tennessee Board of Nursing requires programs to maintain an aggregate pass rate of 85% or higher. UT Knoxville's perfect record positions it as a low-risk choice for students investing in their nursing education.

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Salary & Career Outcomes for Knoxville BSN Graduates

Program-level earnings shortly after graduation are not yet published for most Knoxville-area nursing programs, but federal data on long-term outcomes and regional salary benchmarks paints a positive picture. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that registered nurses in the Knoxville metropolitan area earn a median annual wage of $63,580, with the top 10% exceeding $93,000. Among BSN programs tracked by the College Scorecard, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville stands out for low median debt ($20,500) and strong 10-year median earnings ($60,249), signaling a healthy return on investment.

Online Vs. On-Campus BSN Options in Knoxville

Nursing students in Knoxville can choose between campus-based BSN programs that integrate hands-on clinicals and simulation labs, or RN-to-BSN and accelerated tracks designed with working professionals in mind. The right format depends on your current credentials, schedule, and learning preferences.

How to Choose the Right Knoxville Nursing Program

Selectivity can signal program rigor and cohort quality, but it's only one piece of the puzzle. The University of Tennessee-Knoxville BSN admits about 42% of applicants, making it notably competitive among local options, while other Knoxville-area programs may have more open enrollment pathways. A lower acceptance rate doesn't automatically mean a better education for your goals, so weigh it alongside other factors.

Verify Accreditation Status

Accreditation ensures your degree meets national standards for licensure and graduate study. All three major Knoxville BSN providers, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Tennessee Wesleyan University Fort Sanders, and South College Knoxville, hold programmatic accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Always confirm a program's accreditation through the CCNE or Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) directories, and be wary of any school that can't produce current documentation. State board approval alone does not guarantee credits will transfer or that you can sit for the NCLEX in another state later.

Compare Net Price, Not Just Tuition

Sticker tuition can be misleading. The cost comparison table earlier in this article shows that while in-state tuition at UTK is around $13,800, the average net price after federal, state, and institutional aid drops to roughly $19,000. Private and smaller programs may appear more expensive at first glance, but their aid packages can narrow the gap. Gather a net price estimate from each school's financial aid office before making a decision, and factor in additional costs like uniforms, lab fees, and commuting to clinical sites.

Investigate Clinical Placement Quality

Strong clinical partnerships give you hands-on experience in diverse settings. In Knoxville, UTK and South College students rotate through major facilities such as UT Medical Center, Covenant Health, and East Tennessee Children's Hospital. Tennessee Wesleyan's Fort Sanders program emphasizes placements at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center and Covenant Health sites. Ask each program about the variety of units you'll encounter, how placements are assigned, and whether there are opportunities in specialties like pediatrics, critical care, or community health. A school that limits clinical exposure to a single site or nursing home may leave you less prepared for a broad first job.

Match Admission Requirements to Your Profile

Requirements vary, so align your strengths with program expectations. UTK expects a 3.2 minimum GPA and no entrance exam. Tennessee Wesleyan Fort Sanders asks for a 2.75 GPA and the TEAS test. South College has a 2.5 GPA threshold and also uses the TEAS. If your GPA is borderline, a program with a lower minimum and a test component might give you a path to demonstrate readiness. Confirm whether prerequisite courses can be transferred in, and check for any residency or background check requirements unique to Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Questions About Knoxville Nursing Schools

Below are common questions students ask when evaluating nursing programs in the Knoxville area. The answers reflect the rankings, cost comparisons, and NCLEX pass rates discussed earlier.

Does UT Knoxville have a good nursing program?

Yes. The UT Knoxville College of Nursing is highly regarded, ranking 18th among public BSN programs and 28th overall in the 2026 U.S. News rankings. Niche rates it the number one nursing school in Tennessee. The program is direct-entry, and progression requires a minimum 3.2 GPA, reflecting its competitive standards.

What are the best nursing schools in Knoxville, TN?

UT Knoxville is the standout BSN program in the city, thanks to its national rankings and strong reputation. If you expand your search to a 75-mile radius, you will find additional accredited options in the region. The ranking section above compares all featured programs side by side.

How much does a BSN program cost in Knoxville?

BSN tuition depends on residency status and the institution. In-state students at public universities like UT Knoxville generally pay lower rates than out-of-state or private-school attendees. The cost comparison table earlier in the article breaks down estimated tuition and net price for each program.

Are there online RN-to-BSN programs available in Knoxville?

Yes. Several schools in the Knoxville area offer online RN-to-BSN pathways designed for working nurses. These programs typically require an active RN license and allow you to complete coursework remotely. The online versus on-campus section earlier in the article outlines key benefits and considerations.

What NCLEX pass rates do Knoxville nursing schools have?

First-time NCLEX-RN pass rates are a critical quality measure, and Knoxville-area programs post competitive results. UT Knoxville graduates historically perform well on the exam. For the most current pass rates by school, refer to the NCLEX-RN Pass Rates section earlier in this article.