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The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Knoxville, TN

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Quick Facts

Veritatem cognoscetis, et veritas vos liberabit.("You will know the truth and the truth shall set you free." On seal: "Agriculture, Commerce")

1794
Founded
Public land-grant research university
Type
28,763
Total Students
30,564
Undergrad
8,164
Graduate
$1.9B
Endowment
(2025)
$13K
Tuition (In-State)
$32K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
46%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
6-year
91%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: Randy Boyd

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

About The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

A research powerhouse rooted in history, shaping Tennessee's future since 1794.

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, often known as UTK or Tennessee, stands as the esteemed flagship campus of the University of Tennessee system. Established in 1794, two years before Tennessee even achieved statehood, it boasts a rich legacy as one of the oldest public universities in the United States and the oldest secular institution west of the Eastern Continental Divide. With an impressive R1 classification for "very high research activity," UTK offers unparalleled opportunities for discovery, further enhanced by its strong ties to the nearby Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

UTK's history began as Blount College, evolving through East Tennessee College and East Tennessee University before becoming the institution it is today. This pioneering spirit laid the groundwork for a university committed to knowledge and public service, reflected in its land-grant mission. Its motto, "Veritatem cognoscetis, et veritas vos liberabit" – "You will know the truth and the truth shall set you free" – truly embodies its enduring dedication to academic freedom and inquiry.

Today, UT Knoxville is a vibrant academic hub, home to over 40,000 students from across the globe. Through its 14 colleges, including the notable Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs, students engage in cutting-edge research and comprehensive programs. Prospective students and families will find a diverse and engaging community, where extensive academic resources and real-world research experiences prepare graduates to make significant contributions in their chosen fields and beyond.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1794, it is one of the oldest public universities in the U.S. and the oldest secular institution west of the Eastern Continental Divide.
  • Recognized as an R1: Doctoral University with "Very high research activity."
  • Serves as the flagship campus of the University of Tennessee system, comprising 14 colleges.
  • Enrollment of over 40,784 students from all 50 states and more than 100 foreign countries.
  • Maintains strong research partnerships with Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
  • Endowment of $1.9 billion, supporting extensive academic and research initiatives.
  • Home to the Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs.

Timeline

1794
Established as Blount College, two years before Tennessee became a state.
1807
Rechartered as East Tennessee College.
1820
Reopened after a temporary closure and began experiencing growth.
1828
Relocated to "The Hill," its current prominent campus site.
1840
Elevated to East Tennessee University (ETU).
1879
Renamed The University of Tennessee, marking a significant evolution.
🏛️
232 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

🏛️

Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs

Focuses on Energy & Environment, Global Security, and Leadership & Government.

Leadership

President
John Zomchick
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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