Middle Tennessee State University logo

Middle Tennessee State University

Murfreesboro, TN

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Agriculture and Commerce

1911
Founded
Public research university
Type
16,115
Total Students
18,042
Undergrad
2,446
Graduate
$168M
Endowment
(2025)
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$29K
Tuition (Out-State)
$13K
Avg Net Price
68%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Graduation Rate
6-year
78%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Sidney A. McPhee

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Middle Tennessee State University

MTSU: From normal school to R2 research powerhouse with 300+ programs.

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), nestled in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, stands as a vibrant public research institution classified among "R2: Universities," signifying its high research activity. With a rich history stretching back to its founding in 1911, MTSU has evolved significantly from its origins as a normal school dedicated to teacher training into a comprehensive university offering an impressive breadth of academic opportunities.

Today, MTSU encompasses eight undergraduate colleges and a dedicated college of graduate studies, collectively presenting over 300 degree programs across more than 35 departments. This extensive curriculum ensures that prospective students can explore diverse fields, from traditional liberal arts to specialized doctoral programs in computational sciences, molecular biosciences, and public history. The university's commitment to academic excellence is further exemplified by its groundbreaking Honors College, the first of its kind in Tennessee, which provides specialized courses and unique opportunities for high-achieving students.

MTSU's historical journey reflects a continuous expansion of its mission and academic offerings. What began as a two-year teacher-training institution steadily grew, adding bachelor's and master's programs, and eventually achieving university status in 1965. This progressive development culminated in the establishment of doctoral programs, solidifying its standing as a research-intensive institution. A testament to its academic prowess is alumnus James McGill Buchanan, a 1940 graduate, who received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1986, highlighting the caliber of education and intellectual environment fostered at MTSU.

For students and families seeking an engaging and academically robust environment, MTSU offers a dynamic blend of heritage, innovation, and a strong sense of community. Its accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, combined with its NCAA Division I athletic programs, ensures a well-rounded and impactful university experience.

Key Highlights

  • A public research university classified as "R2: Universities" for high research activity.
  • Offers over 300 degree programs through eight undergraduate colleges and a college of graduate studies.
  • Serves a student body of 20,488 (Fall 2024), fostering a vibrant campus community.
  • Home to the Honors College, the first of its kind established in the state of Tennessee.
  • Nobel laureate alumnus: James McGill Buchanan ('40) received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1986.
  • Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
  • MTSU's athletic programs compete in NCAA Division I as a member of Conference USA.

Timeline

1909
Tennessee General Assembly moves to establish three teacher-training institutions.
1911
Middle Tennessee State Normal School opens on September 11th.
1925
Becomes Middle Tennessee State Teachers College and gains power to grant Bachelor of Science degrees.
1936
The Bachelor of Arts program is added to curricular offerings.
1943
Designated a state college, changing its name to Middle Tennessee State College.
1951
The Graduate School is established, expanding post-baccalaureate opportunities.
1965
Achieves university status, changing its name to Middle Tennessee State University.
1986
Alumnus James McGill Buchanan ('40) is awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences.
1991
The university's six schools (five undergraduate and the graduate school) become colleges.
1998
MTSU's Honors program becomes the Honors College, the first in the state.
2002
Approval granted to redesignate three D.A. programs to Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs.
🏛️
115 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Middle Tennessee State University

🎓

College of Graduate Studies

Offers advanced degree programs, including master's and doctoral degrees, fostering specialized research and scholarship.

🏫

Honors College

The first Honors College in Tennessee, providing specialized courses and unique opportunities for high-achieving students.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Middle Tennessee State University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search