Tennessee State University logo

Tennessee State University

Nashville, TN

publicHBCUgraduate

Quick Facts

Think. Work. Serve

1912
Founded
Public, historically black land-grant university
Type
6,498
Total Students
6,765
Undergrad
$91M
Endowment
(2021)
$9K
Tuition (In-State)
$22K
Tuition (Out-State)
$10K
Avg Net Price
93%
Acceptance Rate
33%
Graduation Rate
6-year
60%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Dwayne Tucker

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

About Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University: Pioneering research, rich history, and a vibrant future.

Nestled in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee State University (TSU) stands as a proud public, historically black land-grant university, dedicated to its enduring motto: "Think. Work. Serve." As the only state-funded Historically Black University in Tennessee, TSU holds a distinctive position, widely recognized for its high research activity, classified as an R2 institution. It's a place where students are encouraged to engage deeply, innovate boldly, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Prospective students will find a robust academic environment offering a comprehensive array of studies, including 41 bachelor's, 23 master's, and 8 doctoral degrees. TSU is particularly renowned for its health science program, which is not only the largest in Tennessee but also one of the largest in the entire nation, preparing future leaders and innovators in critical fields. Beyond academics, the vibrant campus life and the dynamic city of Nashville provide a rich backdrop for personal and professional growth.

The university's history is a testament to its resilience and growth, founded in 1912 as the Tennessee Agricultural & Industrial State Normal School for Negroes. Over the decades, TSU has continually evolved, expanding its facilities and academic offerings. This enduring legacy recently saw a historic $250 million investment from the state legislature in 2022, marking the largest single investment into a historically black institution at the time. Further cementing its impact, celebrated alumna Oprah Winfrey returned in 2023 to deliver the commencement address, highlighting TSU's profound influence on its graduates and the world.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1912 as a historically black land-grant university.
  • The only state-funded Historically Black University (HBCU) in Tennessee.
  • Classified as an "R2: Doctoral University – High research activity" by the Carnegie Classification.
  • Offers a comprehensive range of 41 bachelor's, 23 master's, and 8 doctoral degrees.
  • Home to Tennessee's largest health science program, one of the largest nationally.
  • Received a historic $250 million state investment in 2022 for facility and program upgrades.
  • Notable alumna Oprah Winfrey delivered the commencement address in 2023.

Timeline

1912
Established as Tennessee Agricultural & Industrial State Normal School for Negroes.
1925
Renamed Tennessee Agricultural & Industrial State Normal College.
1927
Renamed Tennessee Agricultural & Industrial State College.
1944
Awarded first master's degrees; achieved full accreditation by 1946.
1968
Officially renamed Tennessee State University.
1979
The University of Tennessee at Nashville merged into TSU.
2022
Awarded a historic $250 million state investment for facilities and programs.
2023
Alumna Oprah Winfrey served as commencement speaker for the first time.
2024
Governor signed legislation to replace the Board of Trustees.
🏛️
114 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Dwayne Tucker
President
Robbie K. Melton
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Tennessee State University

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

Start Your Free Search