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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 historic R1 research powerhouse, shaping Tennessee's future since 1794.

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville stands as a venerable and vibrant public land-grant research university, the flagship campus of the University of Tennessee system. Established in 1794, even before Tennessee achieved statehood, UT Knoxville has grown into an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution. It's renowned for its extensive research opportunities, particularly through its close partnership with the nearby Oak Ridge National Laboratory, offering students and faculty unparalleled access to cutting-edge discovery.

UT Knoxville's history is as deep as its roots in the American South. Founded as Blount College, a non-sectarian, all-male institution, it holds the distinction of being one of the oldest secular institutions west of the Eastern Continental Divide. Over the centuries, it evolved through various iterations—East Tennessee College and East Tennessee University—before becoming the expansive research institution it is today. This rich history is a testament to its enduring commitment to education and societal progress.

With 14 colleges, UT Knoxville hosts a diverse and dynamic student body of over 40,000, attracting learners from all 50 states and more than 100 foreign countries. Prospective students and families will find a supportive academic environment focused on innovation and impact. Beyond its research ties, the university also partners directly with the University of Tennessee Medical Center, providing unique hands-on learning experiences and contributing significantly to regional healthcare. Its motto, "Veritatem cognoscetis, et veritas vos liberabit" (You will know the truth and the truth shall set you free), encapsulates its dedication to academic rigor and intellectual exploration.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1794, predating Tennessee's statehood and making it one of the oldest public universities in the U.S.
  • Classified as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution.
  • Serves as the flagship campus of the University of Tennessee system, encompassing 14 colleges.
  • Supports a thriving community of over 40,000 students from all 50 states and over 100 countries.
  • Offers significant research opportunities through its strong partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
  • Manages a robust endowment of $1.9 billion, fueling its academic and research endeavors.
  • Recognized as the oldest secular institution west of the Eastern Continental Divide.

Timeline

1794
Founded as Blount College in Knoxville, Southwest Territory.
1807
Rechartered as East Tennessee College.
1820
College reopens after temporary closure.
1828
Relocated to 'The Hill', its present campus site.
1840
Elevated to East Tennessee University.
1879
Became The University of Tennessee (inferred from former name end date).
🏛️
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 through events and academic programs.

Leadership

President
John Zomchick
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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