Tennessee State University is located in Nashville, Tennessee. There is an additional branch campus (the Avon Williams Campus) located in downtown Nashville; the main campus is in a residential area. Tennessee State University was founded in 1912 as an African-American normal school, became a 4-year school in 1922, and received university status in 1958. The final step in establishing its reputation was to receive “university status” approval from the State Board of Education. The institution as it is known today was the result of a 1979 merger between Tennessee State University and the University of Tennessee at Nashville. The University now awards bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tennessee State University defines its mission in part as one of “provid[ing] quality academic programs which are broadly comprehensive at the baccalaureate and masters levels.” It defines itself as an urban university, and still has a predominantly black student body.
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Tennessee State University
Academics
The University offers 40 bachelor’s degrees. Tennessee State proudly proclaims that it “prepares students for the workforce.” The University’s most popular majors include Business Administration, Nursing, Statistics, and Biology. Corporate partnerships give students the experience and contacts that come in useful upon graduation when students are seeking employment.
The University is composed of a number of different schools and colleges: the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Engineering, Technology & Computer Science, the College of Health Sciences, the School of Agriculture & Consumer Science, and the School of Nursing. There is also a School of Graduate Studies and Research, and the Institute of Government.
Bachelor’s degrees are awarded in a number of different disciplines, including Africana studies, art, biology, criminal justice, music education, business administration, hospitality and tourism administration, psychology, aeronautical and industrial technology, engineering, dental hygiene, occupational therapy, agricultural sciences, family and consumer sciences, and nursing.
Master’s degrees are awarded in biology, chemistry, criminal justice, English, mathematical sciences, business administration (MBA), education, computer information systems engineering, physical therapy, agricultural sciences, nursing, and public administration, among others. Some departments offer courses on the graduate level but do not offer a master’s level degree.
The school awards six doctoral degrees, in biological sciences, educational administration and supervision, psychology, curriculum and instruction, computer information systems engineering, and public administration. Some of these programs have various concentrations available within them.
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Most Popular Fields of Study
The top 5 fields of study completed at Tennessee State University.
The division of Aerospace Studies includes the Air Force ROTC program. Together they prepare students for service to the country as aerospace experts and technicians, and as leaders in the greater community.
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Tennessee State University
Admissions
Applicants must also present proof of measles vaccination to gain admission. Transcripts and supporting documentation are requested immediately following high school graduation. For Advanced Placement Examination credit, students must have the testing agency submit test results directly to the Tennessee State office of admissions. A non-refundable fee of $15 is required for each application.
In-state students must demonstrate a score of 19 or better on the ACT or 900 or better on the SAT, and must pass the Tennessee Proficiency Exam. In-state applicants must have a GPA above 2.25.
Out-of-state students must demonstrate a score of 19 or better on the ACT or 900 or better on the SAT, and must have completed 14 High School State Board of Regents requirements. Out-of-state applicants must also have a GPA above 2.5.
Admission by Exception can be granted to students with no more than two high school units and a minimum ACT score of 21 or an ACT score of 19 and a high school GPA of 2.5.
Prior course requirements include four years of English, one year of visual and or performing arts, two years of algebra and one year of geometry, two years of the natural or physical sciences, one year of social studies, one year of United States history, and two years of a single foreign language. An additional unit of the arts and mathematics or in a foreign language is recommended. Tennessee students must pass the Tennessee proficiency examination. Students must provide proof of immunity to measles prior to registration.
Admissions criteria vary, with different test scores or grade point averages required for out-of-state students. Tennessee students must have a minimum ACT score of 19 or SAT score of 900, or a grade point average of at least 2.25.
Graduate students must provide the following for admissions to the graduate school: application, fee, and transcripts. Most programs also require test scores, and some require supplemental applications. Students should consult individual programs to see what additional materials are required. A graduate application has an application fee of $25.
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Financial Aid
Financial need is the most influential factor in determining eligibility for aid, though the University encourages all students to apply. The University uses a simple formula to determine a students’ necessary aid, subtracting anticipated family contributions from total cost of tuition. Among other loan programs, the University participated in the Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. The Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation is available for Tennessee residents for up to eight semesters.
In-state tuition and fees for undergraduate students were $2019 per semester in 2004-2005. Students applying from out of state and graduate students will have different costs.
Financial aid is available with a combination of grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs.
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Student Financial Aid Details
How many students use Financial Aid, and how much do they use?
Tennessee State University 863rd for the average student loan amount.
Secrets to getting the best Tennessee scholarships and financial aid
Student life includes eleven different student organizations, including ROTC, Advertising Club, Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletics.
In addition to the numerous classroom, dormitory, and administration buildings, Tennessee State University has an amphitheater, an on-campus park, and a performing arts center.
The Tennessee State University Library offers electronic catalogs and on-line databases, in additional to physical volumes stored on site. It also includes a “smart classroom,” an Art Corner, and archives and manuscripts.
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Student Enrollment Demographics
How many students are enrolled at Tennessee State University?
The Tennessee State Tigers compete in the Ohio Valley Conference of the NCAA’s Division I. Intercollegiate sports include football, softball, volleyball, and men’s and women’s basketball, golf, tennis, and track/cross country. The school colors are royal blue and white.
The University’s athletics department explicitly identifies its own activities within the academic mission of the overall institution, while also recognizing its role in developing young leaders and generating revenue. In support of its athletic teams, the University is also home to the Big Blue Booster Club, a cheerleading squad, and the Aristocrat of Bands.
The Tiger football team earned back-to-back Ohio Valley championships in 1998 and 1999. At the end of the 1999 season the Tigers were ranked number on in NCAA Division I-AA. In 1982 the University also claimed the National Black College Championship.
Each year, the football team designates one of its matches as the John Meritt classic. The purpose of the classic is raise scholarship funds.
Athletic facilities include a stadium, a football practice field, a field house, a track, and an athletic building.
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Local Community
Nashville is known as the country music capital of the world. Visitors and students alike can take in some of the oldest and the newest country hits at numerous venues throughout the city, including the historic Grand Ol’ Opry. Nashville is also home to the Country Music Hall of Fame, home to a new $37 million facility honoring the greatest starts of country music. Country icon Loretta Lynn offers visitors as stay at her private ranch just 65 miles outside of Nashville. And visitors can see the latest performers—from all genres—at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. The city is also home to the world’s only full scale replica of the Parthenon. The latest census lists the Nashville population at just under 570,000.
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Feel free to add comments or additional information regarding Tennessee State University, or discuss this school in the University Discussion Forum
about 1 year agoL Petty (looking for a school for my son to attend) mandlpet ((at)) hotmail dot com
Once I read all these comments, I understood why colleges and universities require testing and placement into remedial courses. School administrators keep up the good work and do not become complacent in requiring these tests!!
about 2 years agorita j
Hello, i am a graduate of Tennessee State University class of 2007. Tennessee State University has done nothing for me career wise. My major was communications and that department misadvised me, and lost one of my final exams. The school removed a class from my transcript which i consider that fraudulent and made me repeat the class. Yes to you all out-of-towners, TSU might be a dream university to attend but please beware of the financial aid scam and fraud that happens there. My friend was defrauded out of her scholarship money and someone pocketed that money. I don't want to bash my alma matter which i refuse to claim and it is a lot of alumnis that feel the same way i do, as they find themselves working at the mall, or local walmarts, and krogers after graduation. I am one of the lucky one but it took prayers and luck for me to land a position in corporate America. So to all of you students that would love to attend TSU please do your research and interview students before you make a decision you could regret.
almost 3 years agobryan branch
Hello..Hello....My name is Bryan Branch and I am a 1997 graduate with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Tennessee State. My experience at TSU was one that I will never forget. I met so many people that I now call "friend" from all over the United States. As a native Memphian, I was always surrounded by familiar faces, but I found that meeting people from other cities and cultures made the experience more fulfilling. The staff was very helpful, despite the school's transition in the 90's into the state of the art campus that it is now. I return ever so often for visits and I am amazed at how much the school has changed, yet I still feel like I am a part of it, and it will forever be a part of me.
about 3 years agoMs.Norma cameron254 ((at)) excite dot com
Greetings: I am a Nashville native that attended Tennessse State, transfering,in the 60's for Detroit,MI where I continued my education at the University of Michigan.I returned home yearly, during homecoming,but for the last 10 years,I come during the Spring with students on the Historically Black College Tour sponsored by my sorority,Delta Sigma Theta Inc. The school has become one of our greatest draws and many of the students who attend,the tour,do so because of this experience. The Detroit area has a very large Alumni Association and has events to foster and promote TSU .
I can't begin to relate the experiences at the school that prepared me for the University of MI but a future of service and dedication to the principles of education made the years spent there(U of MI) much more enjoyable.
Reading some of the comments, from prospective students,as a retired high school and community college educator,I am concerned about the quality of the English and composition used in these letters. There are grammmatical and syntax errors that are unacceptable from students planning to attend college.Is it a lack of knowledge of the rules or non use of SPELL CHECK ON THE COMPUTOR? Either way,if any of these students are accepted into the school,I hope they will be afforded the opportunity to correct some of these deficiences and go on and have a successful educational experience.
over 3 years agoRaGean rayjeanzpink09 ((at)) aol dot com
Hello, my name is RaGean and I'm currently a senior in Ohio. While searching for universities and colleges via internet, I came across Tennessee State University. After viewing this school, I instantly fell in love- this has been the school I've been looking for! It has my major,(dental hygiene), a great location, reasonable tuition, and so much more. I more than hope to get into this school.... I pray unceasingly! (lol) Make sure I'm in your prayers and wish me luck on getting in!
almost 4 years agoM. Brown LucyCotten2 ((at)) aol dot com
The University needs to publizied the John Merritt Classic more. It needs to be organize like the one in Atlanta, it is in a NFL stadium. To fill the stadium more on home game - invite every high school team in the area of Nashville and their coaches to the games FREE of charge. You will not lose any money the seats would be empty anyway. This would help the University and its future football program.
almost 4 years agochristiana leonard christiana dot leonard ((at)) yahoo dot com
Hey i'm christiana and i want to attend tennessee State university for buisness administraton and to play softball i'm only a freshman but i still look foward to going to this school i love it
almost 4 years agoPaula Bowens paulaleannbowens ((at)) yahoo dot com
I think TSU would be the best school for me because it has everything i'm looking for and it's close to family
about 4 years agotiffany mccloud tvmccloud ((at)) yahoo dot com
Tennessee state has been my top chose since i can remember. I'm praying that I receive my acceptance letter sometime this month.
about 4 years agoBrianna Southern bribrisouth15 ((at)) yahoo dot com
Tennessee is my top school...I am hoping that someday this month I will be getting an acceptance letter in the mail.
about 4 years agoMorgan Tinsley Ms dot Koonce ((at)) yahoo dot com
Hello everyone! My name is Morgan and I would love to attend Tennessee State University to pursue a degree in education and business management. I believe that Tennessee State would give me all the advantages I need to achieve this goal of mine. I have a strong love for children and I am aware that Tennessee State has its own On-Campus Daycare; that is superb!
I'm only a junior in high school, but I am really looking forward to enjoying my college life at Tennessee State.
about 4 years agoTyree Reeves www dot talentedty ((at)) yahoo dot com
Hello, My name is Tyree I will like to attend TSU to major in engineering and buisness. I already visit your campus as a junior last year, when being part of the Mohawk valley junior frontier of Syracuse, New York. I will also like to play basketball for TSU. Im hoping for a letter from you or application to attend TSU.
about 4 years agoSedricka sexy_rayshun ((at)) hotmail dot com
hey my name is sedricka and i am a junior in high school i am so excited about attending Tsu. i really hope i get in! wish me luck!!!
about 4 years agoBrittany K Jackson missiebrit2002 ((at)) aol dot com
Hi my name is Brittany I am very interested in attending Tenn.state to pursue a degree in Nursing. I hope to receive an acceptance letter. Wish me luck.
over 4 years agoShanaviya Dawson ginaa2008 ((at)) yahoo dot com
Hi my name is Shanaviya Dawson im a senior at Lanett High School. I will like to attend Tennessee State Universtiy for Business Adminstrative/Managment and to play basketball
over 4 years agoAshley White Awfabulous22 ((at)) Yahoo dot com
Hi my name is Ashley White and i am a senior at john marshall high school in rochester ny. I wish to attend Tennesee State univesity to become a criminal lawyer.
over 4 years agoJeanetta Green jgreen ((at)) genesco dot com
I am writing about the TSU Homecoming parade this past week-end.It did not represent TSU. There were to many busineses (such as Hair shops and Nair shops) that were in it to advertise there business. Vendors were walking and selling along the parade route at the same time the parade was going on.The University should represent the community and not the community represent the University.The bands were so far apart it became boring. Bands and floats that represent make a parade,that was not the case this week-end.Bottom line it was ghetto. I have family and friends that alumnus of TSU. They are very upset. Please forward this on to the person in charge of organzing the parade.
over 4 years agoJonathan McCullough mcrusaders08 ((at)) aol dot com
Hello my my name is Jonathan and I would like t attend tenn. state for a medical degree. I hope to acheive this goal at this university.
over 4 years agoNajjiyya Brownbty1123 ((at)) yahoo dot com
Hello all!
I am a current senior in high school and my family and I came for a college tour last summer. I loved the campus and all the academics had to offer but I was a bit disappointed when we were not allowed to see the dorm rooms because they were locked. If I could just be sent some visual pictures of them, especially the pictures of the Honors Program dorm rooms that would be fantastic! Thanks!! :)
over 4 years agoKymia Palmer keiara_5132004 ((at)) yahoo dot com
Hi my name is Kymia Palmer and i would like to attend tennessee state because i like the college and what it had to offer. i have had the advantage of attending the college for a tour. Now I would like to take a step further and to pursue my education at this university.
almost 5 years agodurrell whittaker durrellwhittaker ((at)) yahoo dot com
Hi,my name is durrell, and i have been out of high school for 4 years. I wanted to know if i would have to take some type of act or sat test to be admitted to you're university. please let me know. Thank you. Durrell.
about 5 years agoDerek Stephens DmanWOLF510 ((at)) aol dot com
Hello, my name is Derek, and I am currently a junior at Stonewall Jackson Highschool in Manassas, Virginia. I am very interested in your school, especially the AFROTC program. I am in the process of obtaining an AFROTC scholorship, and was wondering if your university acknowledges this scholorship. Also, i saw that you provide ROTC class in Middle Tennessee State University, and i was wondering the requirements and the situation needed for that. If it could be possible for you to give me any informatio on your ROTC program, GPA acceptability, and architectural programs, I would very much appreciate it. Thank you for your time and cooperation.
Derek Stephens
about 5 years agoMarion Turner sticpk10 ((at)) yahoo dot com
Hi, my name is Marion Turner. I am a high school student at Lanier High School in Jackson, MS. I am interested in gainig more information about this school. I am planning to attend this school when I graduate. I would like to rechieve an information packet about this school. Thanks for taking time out to read this and I look forward from hearing from you soon.
about 5 years agoTina lov_carebear ((at)) yahoo dot com
Hi I am a high school student that is interested in Tennessee State and I want to know information about the required GPA, tuition fee, and cost of living on campus.
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mandlpet ((at)) hotmail dot com
Once I read all these comments, I understood why colleges and universities require testing and placement into remedial courses. School administrators keep up the good work and do not become complacent in requiring these tests!!