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Tennessee Technological University

Cookeville, TN

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
Public research university and institute of technology
Type
8,495
Total Students
$120M
Endowment
(2025)
$10K
Tuition (In-State)
$20K
Tuition (Out-State)
$14K
Avg Net Price
83%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Graduation Rate
6-year
77%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Philip B. Oldham

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

About Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Tech: Powering progress through engineering, technology, and high-impact research.

Nestled in Cookeville, Tennessee, Tennessee Technological University (Tennessee Tech) stands as a prominent public research institution and institute of technology. Renowned for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education in engineering, technology, and computer science, the university is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity," signifying its significant contributions to groundbreaking research and innovation. Prospective students are drawn to its hands-on approach and dedication to preparing future leaders in critical fields.

The university's rich history began with the chartering of the University of Dixie in 1909. After facing initial challenges, the state took control in 1915, re-chartering it as Tennessee Polytechnic Institute. A pivotal period of growth occurred under President Everett Derryberry, who served from 1940 to 1974, dramatically increasing student enrollment and expanding facilities and academic programs. This transformation culminated in 1965 when the institute was elevated to university status and renamed Tennessee Technological University.

While specializing in STEM, Tennessee Tech also offers robust degree programs in education, liberal arts, agriculture, nursing, and business, ensuring a well-rounded academic experience. Graduate and doctorate programs further extend opportunities across engineering, education, business, and the liberal arts. With a vibrant student body of over 10,700, the university's 235-acre suburban campus offers a dynamic environment, complemented by the spirit of the Golden Eagles, who compete fiercely in NCAA Division I as part of the Ohio Valley Conference, fostering a strong sense of community and pride.

Key Highlights

  • Designated an "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" institution.
  • Specializes in undergraduate education for engineering, technology, and computer science.
  • Serves 10,701 students (Fall 2025) on its 235-acre suburban campus.
  • Athletic teams, the Golden Eagles, compete in NCAA Division I within the Ohio Valley Conference.
  • Boasts an endowment of $120.45 million as of 2025.
  • Officially became Tennessee Technological University in 1965, evolving from Tennessee Polytechnic Institute.

Timeline

1909
The University of Dixie (colloquially Dixie College) was chartered.
1912
University of Dixie began its operations.
1915
The state government assumed control and chartered Tennessee Polytechnic Institute on March 27.
1929
The first class graduated from Tennessee Polytechnic Institute with four-year bachelor's degrees.
1940
Everett Derryberry was elected president, initiating a period of significant growth.
1965
Tennessee Polytechnic Institute was elevated to university status and renamed Tennessee Technological University.
1974
President Derryberry concluded his tenure, having overseen an increase in student enrollment from 700 to 7,000.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Philip B. Oldham
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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