Often referred to as the Volunteer State, Tennessee is the 16th ranked state in the USA by population with nearly seven million residents across 95 counties. Geographically, the state is situated between North Carolina, Missouri, Alabama, Georgia, Arkansas, and Mississippi. Given diversity and population base, it stands to reason the state of Tennessee would have exceptional colleges and universities for students. In fact, residents and non-residents have around 200 accredited universities to consider in the state. There are nearly two dozen community colleges in Tennessee from Memphis to Bristol and from Knoxville to Nashville.

2024 Best Community Colleges in Tennessee

About
Motlow State Community College, located in Tullahoma, Tennessee, was founded in 1969 and built on a 187 acre land grant provided by Senator Reagor Motlow. The school serves 11 counties through four locations, to over 540,000 citizens. MSCC is governed by the Tennessee Board of Regents, which operates 13 community colleges in the state. Motlow provides a quality education to its service communities, consistently doing well on national exams by its graduates.

Academics
Motlow State Community College offers over fifty programs of study. The programs are broken down into three categories, transfer, degree and certificate programs for career readiness, and personal enrichment and continuing education. Transfer programs fulfill the first two years of a four year education, allowing transfer to a college or university to complete a bachelor's degree upon completion of the program. Career programs prepare students by providing training in a particular field, imparting the skills and knowledge necessary to perform duties and functions at the entry level immediately after graduation. These programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree to demonstrate qualifications. Personal enrichment and continuing education courses allow individuals to take non credit courses for personal growth, or courses designed to refresh one's education and allow for renewal of certification or licensing as required by state law.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Students interested in enrollment at Motlow State Community College should complete and submit the application form along with the application fee, high school or GED transcripts, a signed Hepatitis B form, ACT or SAT scores, and if attending full time proof of MMR immunizations and two chicken pox immunizations. Once all the prerequisites are completed, students will register for courses prior to the start of the semester, with tuition due shortly thereafter.

The financial aid office will assist interested students in determining eligibility and which form of aid is right for them through a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which should be submitted prior to any financial aid deadline posted by the school in order to ensure that aid disbursements are given at the right time or at all. Students in need of aid will work with the financial aid office to ensure that information provided is accurate.

Enrollment

6,886

Student to Faculty Ratio

28:1

Roane State Community College in Tennessee is known for many accomplishments in its pursuit to accommodate a diverse learning experience to its many students. Not only are Roane State’s programs diverse in nature, but so is its student population. With 9 campuses and several distance learning options available, RSCC provides local students a "no barrier" learning opportunity. RSCC has an impressive list of innovative programs that it provides to its students. This includes Transfer Pathways, for students who wish to earn an Associate of Art or Science from Roane State. Career Pathways are available for students who wish to earn an Associate of Applied Science or Technical Certificate to quickly enter the workforce, and a number of online degrees can be attained through RSCC. Academic support is available to all students in need of assistance, whether you are looking for extra help in understanding assignments or you need help with course content. Roane State also provides free tutoring for all students regardless of GPA or financial status. RSCC’s tuition is very affordable, with in-state fees starting at $139, and out of state fees starting at $435. Roane State also offers financial aid assistance through scholarships, grants, work-study and loans. For more information on tuition costs, along with any additional fees, please visit RSCC’s student resource page. If you are interested in studying abroad, RSCC offers an International Education opportunity. This unique experience promises individual growth by promoting global interaction. For more information on studying abroad, please visit RSCC’s Office of International Education’s webpage. With over 6500 students currently enrolled, RSCC provides convenient class options, along with flexible scheduling, and ample help through student services. Overall, RSCC gives its students affordable tuition costs, several programs of study and plenty of student activities.  For more information on Roane State Community College, please visit their website or complete the form on this page to learn more.

Enrollment

5,688

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

About
Northeast State  Technical Community College, located in Blountville, Tennessee, was founded in 1966 when it was known as the Tri-State Area Vocational-Technical School. Within four years the schools focus was expanded to become a regional provider of vocational and technical training, expanding further in 1978 to offer one year certificates to graduates of the school's programs and associate degrees. The name of the school was changed to the Tri-State Area Technical Institute. By 1983 the school became part of the State University and Community College System of Tennessee, and was placed under the governance of the State Board of Tennessee. By 1990 the school implemented a university parallel program, changing its name to the current and becoming a full fledged community college.

Academics
Northeast State Technical Community College offers a large number of one year certificate programs and two year associate degree programs in a large number of fields to ensure that students attending the school may find the right program to suit their needs. Technical and vocational programs provide skill training and career oriented education, providing students with the necessary practical experience and knowledge necessary to enter the workforce immediately after graduation as qualified professionals. Individuals studying in such programs will earn a certificate or degree in a field of study typically in high demand in the community. Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education, assisting students in earning their bachelor's degree, which may be obtained through transfer to a four year institution. Applications for transfer may be submitted to any school, but graduates will find it easier to transfer to a school within the State University and Community College System of Tennessee due to agreements in place between member schools.

Programs offered include:

Additionally, continuing education and community service courses are available for individuals who are seeking professional or personal growth.

Admissions and Financial Aid
Northeast State Technical Community College is an open enrollment institution that requires students be high school graduates and to have fulfilled certain basic education requirements in order to be guaranteed admission. Students who meet admission requirements may apply for enrollment, supplying transcripts and standardized test scores in order to complete the process. Students who demonstrate deficiencies in their high school curriculum may  fulfill those requirements by taking a placement exam and scoring high enough to have those classes waived or by enrolling in equivalent courses to complete the requirement.

Financial aid is available in the form loans, grants, work study programs and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which in turn will provide the school with a student aid report used to determine a student's financial aid eligibility and awards. Scholarships, both from the school and externally, require separate applications which must be completed and submitted prior to their own posted deadlines.

Enrollment

6,139

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

Cleveland State Community College provides ample opportunities for learning for both credit and non – credit students. Students from a diverse ethnic and socioeconomic background come here year after year and leave with their future and careers secured. Quality education not only provides students with the right kind of knowledge to apply later - on job, but also gives these students the ability to live a quality life. Cleveland state Community College operates within the governance of Tennessee Board of Regents. This college believes in starting something great in life by building the best foundation – education.

Students have a wide variety of courses to select from and pursue a education path of their interest. Whether it is social sciences, or math and science or business and technology – every stream of education has course content that prepares students to select the right career and progress. Over all development of students is the focus here. Qualified staff of 70 numbers takes the responsibility to teach and educate students and help them shape their futures.

Cleveland state community college has 10 major buildings in their campus. Classrooms and laboratories have a modern look. This college houses a host of modern amenities for students to avail and take advantage of. These include an exceptionally great library, a computer laboratory and a multimedia center. Well, recreational activities are of equal importance too. And so there is also a tennis court, a gymnasium and an athletic field. So you can learn, relax and be future ready – on the right track!

Enrollment

3,264

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

About
Walters State Community College, located in Morristown, Tennessee, was founded 1970 through action by the Tennessee legislature to bring greater access to higher education to residents of the state. The school was named of United State Senator Herbert S. Walters, who represented Tennessee. The school serves 10 counties in East Tennessee through four campuses. The school maintain an annual enrollment of approximately 7000 per year. WSCC is dedicated to providing schools with the best education possible by reviewing and updating programs and services to meet the needs of the modern students.

Academics
Walters State Community College offers a variety of programs that allow students to choose the course of study and path that best fits their academic or economic needs. Academic transfer is accomplished by completing the first two years of a four year education at Walters State, followed by applying for transfer to a four year college or university to complete the final two years and earn a bachelor's degree. Transfer to public Tennessee institutions is facilitated through agreements in place between the schools that assist in and ease the requirements necessary for admission. Transfer to out of state or private schools may be more difficult due to more stringent requirements, and as a result should meet with a counselor to discuss curriculum when planning for transfer.

Career training and technical programs offer students the opportunity to receive an education in a specific field that provides the skills and abilities necessary to enter the workforce as a qualified professional. Programs include a mixture of classroom and practical education, with the practical portion offering supervised training to perfect techniques and methods necessary for employment. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a certificate or degree that demonstrates competency in one's chosen field. As part of the school's dedication to workforce development, many of the programs offered are reflective of the needs of the community.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Walters State Community College is a public, two year, open enrollment that admits any individuals that meet the minimum requirements for admission, submit an application and pay all fees. Students are asked to supply transcripts and standardized test scores if available, and may be required to take a placement exam prior to registration. The school also encourages participation in new student orientation and recommends meeting with a counselor to discuss goals, program enrollment and curriculum.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information from which is used by the school to determine the extent of a student's financial needs and aid program eligibility when constructing his or her financial aid packet. Aid must be reapplied for prior to each academic year.

Enrollment

6,144

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Whatever kind of student you are, Columbia State Community College is the great place to start with.

Columbia State is a 2-year college with five campuses located in Columbia, Lawrenceburg, Lewisburg, Franklin and Clifton. It is a member of the sixth largest higher education system, the Tennessee Board of Regents serving the southern Middle Tennessee area.

The school has a variety of educational options offering over 50 areas of study for all. If you are a degree-seeking student, choose from the 2-year degree programs and follow it by either immediately getting a job or going on to a 4-year university. If you are skill-seeking student, earn a certificate or improve your professional skills from its programs. Working students may take advantage of its distance education or online classes for flexibility. Temporary students may enroll at its evening programs for transfer or other purposes and take non-credit classes for fun or developing new skills. High School students have the option to earn college credit while they are still in high school.

Columbia State takes pride of their expert faculty and friendly staff who will make sure you have great college experience and assist you in reaching goals. Be active and be involved in many of their extracurricular learning.

It also organizes cultural events, extended services and opportunities for the 9 counties it serves. It is giving back to the community which has been supportive of the school.

With these excellent academic offerings and student services, Columbia State Community College is indeed the great place to start with.

Enrollment

6,221

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

About
Pellissippi State Community College, located in Knoxville Tennessee, was founded in 1974 as the State Technical Institute at Knoxville. The school was founded to meet the needs for technical education in the area, and when it first opened its doors it was to a total enrollment of 45 students. Over the year the school grew in size and scope, and in 1988 began offering academic transfer programs resulting in the change of focus from strictly technical institute to a community college. In response to the new focus, the school changed its name to Pellissippi State Community College. After this change the school grew rapidly, adding a total of four new campuses, and becoming one of the largest post-secondary institutions in the state.

Academics
Pellissippi State Community College offers a large number of programs that allow students to choose the one that best suits their career and technical goals. Career programs provide the skills and training in a particular field required to enter the workforce as a professional. Such programs usually take between one and two years to complete, providing a certificate or associate degree which demonstrates competency in the area of study. Having gained the experience and knowledge required through practical and classroom courses, graduates may pursue employment immediately.

Academic programs encourage transfer to four year institutions through the completion of the freshman and sophomore years of a four year education. Transfer to a four year college or university is generally easier to publicly funded institutions in the state of Tennessee, though transfer may be pursued at other colleges though requirements may vary, and as a result, students wishing to transfer to private or out of state schools are encouraged to meet with a counselor to develop a curriculum and plan that best suits the desired school or schools requirements.


Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
As a two year open enrollment institution, individuals wishing to enroll at Pellissippi State Community College will be admitted if they meet the minimum requirements for admission. Students are asked to supply transcripts and standardized test scores. Students may also be required to take a placement exam, determining which general education classes they will enroll in. Participation in orientation and meeting with a counselor to discuss goals and program curriculum are encouraged. Registration for classes takes place prior to the start of each semester, with fees due shortly thereafter.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the resulting student aid report (SAR) from which will be used to determine financial needs, program eligibility, and monetary awards. Students may also be eligible for state funding and aid programs. Additional financial documentation may be requested by the school to ensure that the information on the SAR is accurate. Financial aid must be reapplied for every year, prior to the start of the academic year.

Clubs and Organizations
Students at Pellissippi State Community College are encouraged to join one or more of the many approved clubs and organizations on campus. These groups provide students the opportunity to explore interests covering academics, social issues, extracurricular activities, and other such interests. Clubs and organizations provide a forum for discourse and a meeting area allowing individuals with similar interests to congregate and pursue personal and social development. Students who do not find a club or organization that is related to their interests may pursue the founding of one through the process outlined by the school.

Clubs and organizations include:

  • Creative Writing Club
  • Drama Club
  • Fencing Club
  • Kendo
  • Short Film Club

Enrollment

10,894

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

About
Dyersburg State Community College, located in Dyersburg, Tennessee, was founded in 1969 and currently offers courses through its main campus or two education centers in Covington and Trenton. The school serves seven counties in West Tennessee and provides post secondary education opportunities to assist in development of the region. The school  is dedicated to providing quality service to ensure that the needs of current and future students are met.

Academics
DSCC is a comprehensive community college that allows students to pursue transfer or career training opportunities. Transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education, followed by applying for transfer to a four year institution to complete the final two years and earn a bachelor's degree. Career training programs provide an education in a high demand field or industry that allow students to pursue a long term employment upon completion. Programs take between one and two years to complete, resulting in a degree or certificate upon completion.

Programs offered include:

Admissions and Financial Aid
Dyersburg State Community College is an open enrollment institution that allows any student who is interested to enroll through the completion of the application and payment of fees. Students should also provide transcripts and test scores, and may be asked to take a placement exam prior to registration. The school also encourages new students to participate in orientation and meet with a counselor prior to their first semester. Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships and is awarded based on need as determined through the information provided by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Enrollment

2,977

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

Volunteer State Community College, located in northern Middle Tennessee, offers a variety of programs that allow students to obtain their Associate Degree, certificates or just continue with education. Vol State serves students from Metro Nashville to the Cumberland Plateau. Besides Gallatin, Vol States main campus, the college offers satellite campuses across the region. This includes campuses specifically for evening classes, high school dual-enrolment and other programs like Health and Business.

Vol State has a very diverse and large variety of clubs and organization, which provides great opportunities to its students to learn and later serve the community. Free tutoring and low tuition has made VSCC a top choice for returning and new students in the area. Students wanting to complete a bachelor’s degree can take advantage of Vol States’ Tennessee Transfer Pathway Program

Cost to attend is $139 per semester hour for in-state students, and $574 for out of state students. For more information on tuition and fees, including maintenance fees, please visit Vol States tuition information page.

VSCC provides assistance to students who need to apply for financial aid and apply for fee waivers. Grants, along with Scholarships are also available for students to take advantage of. 

There are currently more than 8,000 students enrolled at VSCC, and the college prides itself on being culturally diverse. Vol State provides a healthy learning environment to its students, and offers many tools and resources to ensure a quality education. You can visit Vol State’s webpage for a more detailed look at the college.

Enrollment

9,154

Student to Faculty Ratio

23:1

Want to learn in an energetic diverse learning community? Then you should go to Jackson State Community College.

The 97-acre main campus with open land, wooded areas, walkways, a pond and performance area is located in Jackson, Tennessee. It also maintains 3 centers in Humboldt, Lexington and Savannah.

Jackson State improves the lives of its students, strengthen the workforce and empower the communities it serve by offering over 40 traditional and modern associate degrees, certificates, continuing education and enrichment as well as college preparatory classes at an affordable rates.

Being a diverse campus, it understands the unique needs of each student. That is why classes are offered in 4 campuses where you can choose the place that is conveniently close to you. There are online, evening and accelerated class programs that will fit to your busy schedule. High school students can fast-track their college career through the Dual Enrollment program where they can earn college credits while still in high school.

JSCC is proud of its highly accomplished and accessible professors, and relatively small class sizes.  This allow for a more enriching and personal learning environment. And unlike in big universities, the faculty and staff have ample time to devote and can attend to your concerns immediately.

Having educational quality similar to state universities in Tennessee, JSCC transfer pathways programs are successful in transferring its students to any state university with all their credits at a lower cost.

Take that leap and enroll here at Jackson State Community College. You will surely see it is the obvious choice.

Enrollment

4,862

Student to Faculty Ratio

23:1

College life transforms the lives of students. Truly oriented towards preparing them to be independent, knowledgeable and productive contributors to society, Chattanooga State Community College provides students with educational opportunities of diverse interests. This college is committed towards student success, not only in academics but also in life and aims to see all students in prominent job roles. Developing the potential of individual students and helping them maximize their potential is an important role that the staff of this college takes up as a task every year.

Chattanooga State community College also provides students with lots of courses to select from. You can select degree programs, honors or even online courses. One option that has drawn attention is - career programs, which are designed for those advancing in their careers. Also, if attending college physically is not feasible, students have an option to select online courses where in you can earn an education outside the traditional class room.

A powerful learning experience is when students share knowledge and engage in discussions to communicate and help educate each other. Degree express offered by Chattanooga State Community College is one such learning community. This college also offers diploma programs and certificate programs that are conducted with dedicated full time faculty.

Moreover this college provides students with ample information online - right from admission process to course selection and campus details, faculty details and much more. Choosing the right course and the right education path is just a matter of interest.

Enrollment

8,241

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Nashville State Technical Community College is a two-year college that offers over 80 programs of study, and provides higher learning with affordable tuition. NSCC provides a stepping stone for students who want to pursue a four-year degree or prepare to enter the workforce. Students can prepare to move on to a four-year school, and earn associate’s degrees along with technical certificates. NSCC’s mission is to bring higher education to middle Tennessee and serves the area with five campuses, which includes the main campus on White Bridge Road. Additional campuses include Cookville, Humphreys County, Southeast Campus, Dixon and Clarksville. Students who wish to enter the job market quickly can rely on NSCC because they offer a one-year technical certificate. The technical programs provide students with the knowledge they need through hands on experience. Nashville state is well known for its affordable tuition costs, with in state fees starting at $139 per credit hour, and out of state starting at $574 per credit hour. Financial aid is available, along with a variety of federal, state and local financial programs as well. Please visit Nashville States Financial Services page for more information. For more information on tuition costs and any additional fees at NSCC, please follow the link. NSCC provides student resources that include a Testing Center, on campus Bookstore and a Computer Open Lab, allowing students to work at their leisure. Nashville States Career Services Office offers help with student grades, transferring credits and eventual employment. There is no shortage of social and professional clubs at NSCC, and all students are encouraged to participate as much as possible. There are over 9,000 students currently enrolled at Nashville State Community College, and the school offers distance learning as well. For more information on the opportunities available through NSCC, please visit their website.

Enrollment

8,284

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

With an extensive range of degree and certificate programs, Southwest Tennessee Community College is committed to students and the community in providing a supportive learning environment. STCC offers accessibility through its many campuses, student centers, and distance learning. Southwest Tennessee Community College is a public two-year college and a great starting point for those who wish to transfer to a four-year institution. Specialty programs like Criminal Justice, Nursing, and Engineering Technologies are available at STCC. Those wishing to enhance their careers may also find STCC the perfect choice, with many opportunities offered through continuing education and Corporate Training programs. Tuition costs at STCC are $139 per credit hour for in-state students, and $574 for out of state students. Those needing financial aid, may apply for several different loan types, scholarships; and for those who qualify, a Federal Work-Study Program. For more information on STCC’s tuition, additional fees and financial aid assistance please follow the link. Southwest Tennessee Community College also offers a Partnership Enrollment Program (PEP), and partners with the University of Memphis. This program guarantees admission to the university to any student who successfully completes their associate’s degree. This program is very beneficial to students and helps significantly reduce the costs associated with higher learning. There are currently over 13,000 students enrolled at STCC. The college provides a number of student activities and resources that includes child care, career services and student advising. STCC offers flexible scheduling with evening and weekend classes for students who work. For more information on all that Southwest Tennessee Community College has to offer, please visit their website.

Enrollment

9,347

Student to Faculty Ratio

32:1

Where to Find Top Community Colleges in Tennessee

Top ranked community colleges found in Tennessee start with Columbia State Community College, Nashville State Technical College, Roane State Community College, Virginia Highlands Community College, and Hopkinsville Community College. Enrollment at Tennessee community colleges and technical colleges range from around two-thousand to over 10,000 across a range of college-towns and cities.

Why Attend a Tennessee Community College

Technical colleges and community colleges are public institutions that serve millions of students every year. Their primary focus is on foundational skills which result in certificates or degrees. Degrees and certificates can be considered direct-entry tools to help students acquire necessary knowledge and skills to enter the workforce after completion. Associate degrees can also be earned as a means to transfer to a 4-year college and continue schooling. In either case, it is important to find colleges that support, encourage, and motivate you. Surrounding yourself with positive forces will help you achieve your goals and make the ride far more enjoyable. Focus on your goals, strive to attain those goals, and help others reach their full potential.

The following link may provide helpful information about community colleges in Tennessee:

The following link may provide helpful information about community colleges in Tennessee:

Metro Area Links for Community Colleges in Tennessee

Community Colleges in Memphis

We have ranked the community colleges in the Memphis area by the percent of students who either completed their degree or transferred to a 4-year institution. Pearl River Community College in Senatobia, MS ranked as the #1 community college in this area. Visit their official website at http://www.prcc.edu

Pearl River Community College Highlights
  • Serving students from Senatobia and surrounding areas
  • 60% of students either graduated or transferred to a 4-year college/university
  • Tuition & fees are about $3,700 per year for state residents ($6,200 for out of state)
Top Community Colleges in Memphis
Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
60%Pearl River Community CollegeSenatobia, MS5,000
40%Arkansas Northeastern CollegeWest Memphis, AR1,000

Community Colleges in Kingsport, Bristol, Bristol

We have ranked the community colleges in the Kingsport, Bristol, and Bristol area by the percent of students who either completed their degree or transferred to a 4-year institution. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Abingdon, VA ranked as the #1 community college in this area. Visit their official website at http://WWW.VT.EDU

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Highlights
  • Serving students from Abingdon and surrounding areas
  • 86% of students either graduated or transferred to a 4-year college/university
  • Tuition & fees are about $14,400 per year for state residents ($34,500 for out of state)
Top Community Colleges in Kingsport, Bristol, and Bristol
Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
86%Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityAbingdon, VA35,000
41%Tusculum CollegeBlountville, TN2,000

Other Community Colleges in Tennessee

The table below lists all the other community colleges in Tennessee that do not belong to any large metropolitan or urban concentrated area. The table also displays the "Rate" column, which is the percent of students completing course work.

Rate Institution Name Location Enrollment
83%Christian Brothers UniversityChattanooga, TN2,000
76%Southern Adventist UniversityKnoxville, TN3,000
73%East Tennessee State UniversityDyersburg, TN14,000
45%Jefferson Community and Technical CollegeHopkinsville, KY12,000
43%Walters State Community CollegeGallatin, TN6,000
37%Columbia State Community CollegeCleveland, TN6,000

The tuition information displayed is an estimate, which we calculated based on historical data and should be solely used for informational purposes only. Please contact the respective school for information about the current school year.

Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.

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