Tennessee is home to a variety of private colleges and universities that offer high-quality education in diverse fields. These institutions include liberal arts colleges, research universities, and faith-based schools, providing students with unique academic experiences, smaller class sizes, and close-knit campus communities. Tennessee’s private institutions have long histories of producing leaders in fields such as business, education, medicine, and the arts.
Vanderbilt University
Overview
Vanderbilt University, located in Nashville, is one of the most prestigious private research universities in the United States. Founded in 1873, Vanderbilt is known for its rigorous academic programs, world-class research, and commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive campus community. The university’s highly selective admissions process and its reputation for excellence in fields like medicine, law, business, and education make it a top choice for students around the globe.
Academic Programs
Vanderbilt offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its 10 schools and colleges:
- College of Arts and Science: Offers programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
- School of Engineering: Known for its strong programs in biomedical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science.
- Owen Graduate School of Management: Provides MBA, executive education, and master’s programs in finance and marketing.
- School of Medicine: One of the top medical schools in the U.S., offering MD, PhD, and other health-related degrees.
- Peabody College of Education and Human Development: Offers degrees in education, psychology, and human organizational development.
Notable Programs:
- Medicine
- Business (Owen Graduate School of Management)
- Engineering
- Education (Peabody College)
- Law
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 13,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7:1, ensuring personalized attention and close mentorship from faculty.
- Athletics: The Vanderbilt Commodores compete in NCAA Division I as part of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), particularly excelling in baseball and basketball.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 500 student organizations, including academic societies, service organizations, and cultural groups.
Research and Innovation
Vanderbilt University is a leader in research and innovation, particularly in fields such as medicine, engineering, and public policy. The university houses multiple research centers and institutes, including the Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Engineering (VISE) and the Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC), both of which are internationally renowned. Vanderbilt’s commitment to interdisciplinary research ensures that students have access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities for hands-on learning.
Belmont University
Overview
Belmont University, located in Nashville, is a private Christian university known for its strong programs in music, business, and health sciences. Founded in 1890, Belmont has grown into one of the largest Christian universities in the nation, while maintaining its commitment to providing a personalized, student-centered education. Belmont’s location in Nashville, often referred to as “Music City,” offers students unique opportunities to engage with the entertainment industry, particularly in music and the arts.
Academic Programs
Belmont offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees through its colleges and schools:
- Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business: Offers degrees in music business, audio engineering, and songwriting.
- Jack C. Massey College of Business: Known for its programs in business administration, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
- College of Health Sciences and Nursing: Offers degrees in nursing, physical therapy, and public health.
- College of Visual and Performing Arts: Includes programs in theatre, music, and art.
- College of Pharmacy: Provides doctoral programs in pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences.
Notable Programs:
- Music Business
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Pharmacy
- Entertainment and Performing Arts
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 8,400 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1, promoting strong connections between students and faculty.
- Athletics: The Belmont Bruins compete in NCAA Division I athletics, with strong programs in basketball, soccer, and tennis.
- Extracurricular Activities: More than 160 student organizations, including music ensembles, business clubs, and faith-based groups.
Music and the Arts
Belmont’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business is one of the top programs of its kind in the country, offering students direct access to the music industry in Nashville. Belmont’s commitment to nurturing creativity extends beyond music to the visual and performing arts, with students frequently participating in performances, exhibitions, and collaborative projects. The university’s strong connection to the Nashville arts community gives students numerous opportunities for internships, networking, and real-world experience in entertainment and business.
Sewanee: The University of the South
Overview
Sewanee: The University of the South, located in Sewanee, Tennessee, is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Episcopal Church. Founded in 1857, Sewanee is known for its beautiful 13,000-acre campus, which provides a tranquil setting for academic study and outdoor exploration. Sewanee emphasizes intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a strong commitment to community, making it a top liberal arts institution in the South.
Academic Programs
Sewanee offers a range of undergraduate degrees in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as graduate programs in theology:
- College of Arts and Sciences: Offers majors in English, history, philosophy, biology, chemistry, and economics.
- School of Theology: Provides graduate degrees in divinity, Christian ministry, and theological studies.
- Environmental Studies: Sewanee has a unique focus on environmental science and sustainability, with interdisciplinary programs that encourage students to engage with nature and conservation.
Notable Programs:
- English and Creative Writing
- Environmental Studies
- History and Political Science
- Philosophy and Religion
- Divinity and Theological Studies
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 1,700 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1, fostering close collaboration between students and professors.
- Athletics: The Sewanee Tigers compete in NCAA Division III athletics, excelling in sports such as lacrosse, soccer, and cross-country.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 100 student organizations, including service groups, environmental clubs, and academic societies.
Environmental Focus and Outdoor Exploration
Sewanee’s expansive campus, known as “The Domain,” offers students unique opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and environmental research. The university’s environmental studies program is particularly strong, with a focus on sustainability, ecology, and conservation. Students are encouraged to engage in hands-on research and service projects that address environmental challenges. Sewanee’s commitment to stewardship and sustainability is reflected in both its academic programs and its campus life.
Rhodes College
Overview
Rhodes College, located in Memphis, is a private liberal arts college that emphasizes academic excellence, leadership development, and service to others. Founded in 1848, Rhodes is known for its rigorous academics, close-knit community, and strong commitment to civic engagement. The college’s small class sizes and emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving make it one of the top liberal arts colleges in the South.
Academic Programs
Rhodes offers undergraduate degrees in a variety of liberal arts and sciences disciplines, with strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences:
- Humanities: Includes majors in English, philosophy, history, and religious studies.
- Social Sciences: Offers programs in political science, sociology, economics, and psychology.
- Natural Sciences: Includes biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
- Interdisciplinary Programs: Offers interdisciplinary majors in fields such as urban studies, international relations, and environmental studies.
Notable Programs:
- Political Science and International Relations
- Biology and Pre-Med
- English and Creative Writing
- Economics
- Psychology
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1, ensuring personalized mentorship and academic support.
- Athletics: The Rhodes Lynx compete in NCAA Division III athletics, excelling in track and field, soccer, and tennis.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 100 student organizations, such as academic clubs, service organizations, and Greek life.
Service and Civic Engagement
Rhodes College has a strong tradition of service and community engagement. The college’s Kinney Program encourages students to participate in local and global service projects, addressing issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare. Rhodes students are also involved in internships and service-learning programs that connect academic learning with real-world experience. The college’s close relationship with the city of Memphis provides students with unique opportunities to engage in internships, cultural events, and community service projects.
Lipscomb University
Overview
Lipscomb University, located in Nashville, is a private Christian university affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Founded in 1891, Lipscomb is known for its commitment to faith-based education, academic excellence, and service to others. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on integrating Christian values into every aspect of campus life.
Academic Programs
Lipscomb offers degrees through its several colleges and schools, emphasizing both liberal arts education and professional preparation:
- College of Arts and Sciences: Includes programs in biology, chemistry, English, history, and theology.
- College of Business: Known for its programs in business administration, finance, and marketing.
- College of Education: Offers degrees in elementary and secondary education, as well as special education.
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences: Provides degrees in pharmacy, nursing, and healthcare management.
- College of Engineering: Offers programs in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, and computer science.
Notable Programs:
- Pharmacy and Health Sciences
- Business Administration
- Education
- Engineering
- Theology and Ministry
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 4,600 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1, ensuring a close-knit and supportive learning environment.
- Athletics: The Lipscomb Bisons compete in NCAA Division I athletics, with strong programs in basketball, volleyball, and soccer.
- Extracurricular Activities: Over 70 student organizations, including academic societies, service clubs, and Greek life.
Faith-Based Education and Service
Lipscomb University emphasizes the integration of faith and learning, encouraging students to apply Christian principles to both their academic and personal lives. The university’s Salt Program focuses on servant leadership, preparing students to make a positive impact in their communities through service and ethical leadership. Lipscomb’s strong emphasis on healthcare and education programs aligns with its mission to serve others, particularly through its commitment to training professionals who will contribute to society in meaningful ways.
Christian Brothers University
Overview
Christian Brothers University (CBU), located in Memphis, is a private Catholic university founded in 1871 by the De La Salle Christian Brothers. The university is dedicated to providing a values-based education that emphasizes academic excellence, ethical leadership, and community service. CBU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts, business, engineering, and healthcare, with a focus on preparing students for successful careers and lives of service.
Academic Programs
CBU offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across four academic schools:
- School of Arts: Includes programs in English, history, psychology, and religion.
- School of Business: Provides degrees in accounting, finance, management, and marketing.
- School of Engineering: Offers degrees in mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering.
- School of Sciences: Includes programs in biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
- School of Nursing and Health Sciences: Provides degrees in nursing, healthcare management, and public health.
Notable Programs:
- Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, and Electrical)
- Business Administration
- Nursing and Health Sciences
- Psychology
- Biology and Pre-Med
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 1,800 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1, fostering a close, supportive community.
- Athletics: The CBU Buccaneers compete in NCAA Division II athletics, excelling in basketball, soccer, and baseball.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 50 student organizations, such as service clubs, academic societies, and Greek life.
Values-Based Education and Service
Christian Brothers University is committed to providing an education that promotes ethical leadership, social responsibility, and community engagement. The university’s Lasallian tradition emphasizes service to others, particularly the underserved, and encourages students to develop a strong sense of social justice. Through service-learning programs, internships, and leadership development opportunities, CBU prepares students to become compassionate leaders in their fields.
Trevecca Nazarene University
Overview
Trevecca Nazarene University, located in Nashville, is a private Christian university affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. Founded in 1901, Trevecca offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a focus on faith-based education, leadership, and service. The university’s mission is to integrate academic excellence with spiritual growth, preparing students to lead and serve in their professions and communities.
Academic Programs
Trevecca offers degrees in various fields through its schools and colleges:
- School of Arts and Sciences: Includes programs in English, history, biology, and chemistry.
- School of Business and Technology: Offers degrees in business administration, marketing, and information technology.
- School of Education: Provides degrees in elementary, secondary, and special education, as well as educational leadership.
- School of Graduate and Continuing Studies: Offers graduate degrees in counseling, leadership, and education.
- School of Music and Worship Arts: Provides degrees in music performance, worship arts, and music business.
Notable Programs:
- Education and Educational Leadership
- Business Administration
- Counseling and Psychology
- Music and Worship Arts
- Information Technology
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 3,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship.
- Athletics: The Trevecca Trojans compete in NCAA Division II athletics, with strong programs in baseball, soccer, and cross-country.
- Extracurricular Activities: More than 40 student organizations, including faith-based groups, service clubs, and academic societies.
Faith and Leadership
Trevecca Nazarene University emphasizes the development of ethical leaders who are grounded in Christian values. The university’s Center for Leadership, Calling, and Service helps students explore their vocational calling and develop leadership skills that are aligned with their faith. Trevecca’s focus on service is reflected in its commitment to community engagement, with students participating in local and global service projects that address issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare.