Best Online MBA Degree Programs in Tennessee for 2025

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What Can You Do With an MBA in Tennessee

Tennessee is a state known as much for its rich culture as it is for its rolling landscapes and ridged horizon. Almost seven million people call Tennessee home, with many residing in major cities like Nashville and Memphis.

The future is bright for students who wish to progress beyond their undergraduate degree through further academmics. Especially for those professionals who want to earn an MBA in Tennessee, whether through the full traditional experience based in a graduate school community or attending their academic courses through technology from anywhere in the state or country. The state touts low education costs and a growing economy, both of which support recent MBA students looking to find a feasible place to live and work.

Tennessee hosts more than one hundred college and university campuses you can search for the perfect professional program, including public schools like the University of Tennessee and Middle Tennessee State, and private schools like Vanderbilt University. Many schools within the state offer distance learning as an option to students, depending on the program.

There are many reasons for prospective MBA students to consider one of Tennessee’s many learning institutions. Tennessee offers its students plenty of education options and job opportunities, as well as a good salary outlook. Not to mention that most of these programs have the same course, with the same content, taught by the same faculty for their online students as they do for their traditional students.

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Top 25 Best MBA Programs in Tennessee

Vanderbilt University

Score: 91.17

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $54,744
- Out-of-State:$54,744
Net Price: $25,606
Acceptance Rate: 7%
Retention Rate: 96%

Graduation Rate: 93%
Total Enrollment: 13,710
Undergrad Students: 7,151
Graduate Students: 6,559
Grads Salary: $89,000
Student-to-faculty: 7:1

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Freed-Hardeman University

Score: 76.81

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,700
- Out-of-State:$11,700
Net Price: $18,556
Acceptance Rate: 91%
Retention Rate: 92%

Graduation Rate: 70%
Total Enrollment: 2,330
Undergrad Students: 1,850
Graduate Students: 480
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Score: 75.31

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,468
- Out-of-State:$29,656
Net Price: $21,880
Acceptance Rate: 68%
Retention Rate: 89%

Graduation Rate: 73%
Total Enrollment: 33,805
Undergrad Students: 27,039
Graduate Students: 6,766
Grads Salary: $73,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

Tennessee Technological University

Score: 74.77

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,480
- Out-of-State:$19,420
Net Price: $15,188
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Retention Rate: 78%

Graduation Rate: 60%
Total Enrollment: 9,902
Undergrad Students: 8,537
Graduate Students: 1,365
Grads Salary: $74,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

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Lincoln Memorial University

Score: 73.96

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $22,451
- Out-of-State:$22,451
Net Price: $19,162
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 51%
Total Enrollment: 5,418
Undergrad Students: 1,560
Graduate Students: 3,858
Grads Salary: $80,000
Student-to-faculty: 8:1

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Christian Brothers University

Score: 73.24

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,178
- Out-of-State:$13,178
Net Price: $18,612
Acceptance Rate: 87%
Retention Rate: 71%

Graduation Rate: 60%
Total Enrollment: 1,934
Undergrad Students: 1,253
Graduate Students: 681
Grads Salary: $75,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Middle Tennessee State University

Score: 72.41

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,648
- Out-of-State:$26,694
Net Price: $13,062
Acceptance Rate: 73%
Retention Rate: 76%

Graduation Rate: 55%
Total Enrollment: 20,086
Undergrad Students: 17,438
Graduate Students: 2,648
Grads Salary: $68,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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Trevecca Nazarene University

Score: 72.08

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,424
- Out-of-State:$11,424
Net Price: $16,080
Acceptance Rate: 71%
Retention Rate: 74%

Graduation Rate: 61%
Total Enrollment: 3,327
Undergrad Students: 1,867
Graduate Students: 1,460
Grads Salary: $70,000
Student-to-faculty: 22:1

Tennessee Wesleyan University

Score: 71.27

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,870
- Out-of-State:$20,870
Net Price: $13,591
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Retention Rate: 75%

Graduation Rate: 50%
Total Enrollment: 1,052
Undergrad Students: 929
Graduate Students: 123
Grads Salary: $66,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

East Tennessee State University

Score: 71.02

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,784
- Out-of-State:$23,904
Net Price: $14,350
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 55%
Total Enrollment: 13,483
Undergrad Students: 10,554
Graduate Students: 2,929
Grads Salary: $69,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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University of Memphis

Score: 69.94

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,576
- Out-of-State:$13,590
Net Price: $13,873
Acceptance Rate: 95%
Retention Rate: 75%

Graduation Rate: 48%
Total Enrollment: 21,917
Undergrad Students: 16,708
Graduate Students: 5,209
Grads Salary: $71,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

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Cumberland University

Score: 69.24

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,280
- Out-of-State:$8,280
Net Price: $18,528
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Retention Rate: 59%

Graduation Rate: 49%
Total Enrollment: 2,588
Undergrad Students: 2,311
Graduate Students: 277
Grads Salary: $75,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Lipscomb University

Score: 69.21

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $17,100
- Out-of-State:$17,100
Net Price: $27,937
Acceptance Rate: 71%
Retention Rate: 84%

Graduation Rate: 69%
Total Enrollment: 4,704
Undergrad Students: 2,955
Graduate Students: 1,749
Grads Salary: $70,000
Student-to-faculty: 13:1

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

Score: 69.03

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,876
- Out-of-State:$16,940
Net Price: $14,417
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Retention Rate: 73%

Graduation Rate: 52%
Total Enrollment: 11,283
Undergrad Students: 9,884
Graduate Students: 1,399
Grads Salary: $66,000
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

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The University of Tennessee-Martin

Score: 68.74

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,584
- Out-of-State:$11,628
Net Price: $12,619
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Retention Rate: 71%

Graduation Rate: 53%
Total Enrollment: 6,868
Undergrad Students: 6,165
Graduate Students: 703
Grads Salary: $63,000
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

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Tennessee State University

Score: 68.38

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,844
- Out-of-State:$22,268
Net Price: $11,986
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 62%

Graduation Rate: 32%
Total Enrollment: 9,218
Undergrad Students: 7,678
Graduate Students: 1,540
Grads Salary: $77,000
Student-to-faculty: 14:1

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Union University

Score: 68.18

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,466
- Out-of-State:$11,466
Net Price: $28,585
Acceptance Rate: 53%
Retention Rate: 84%

Graduation Rate: 67%
Total Enrollment: 2,731
Undergrad Students: 1,900
Graduate Students: 831
Grads Salary: $66,000
Student-to-faculty: 8:1

Milligan University

Score: 67.71

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,017
- Out-of-State:$7,017
Net Price: $19,865
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 63%
Total Enrollment: 1,105
Undergrad Students: 755
Graduate Students: 350
Grads Salary: $60,000
Student-to-faculty: 9:1

Carson-Newman University

Score: 67.12

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,968
- Out-of-State:$9,968
Net Price: $20,111
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Retention Rate: 68%

Graduation Rate: 56%
Total Enrollment: 2,586
Undergrad Students: 1,519
Graduate Students: 1,067
Grads Salary: $66,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Lee University

Score: 65.93

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,470
- Out-of-State:$16,470
Net Price: $19,726
Acceptance Rate: 73%
Retention Rate: 79%

Graduation Rate: 63%
Total Enrollment: 3,927
Undergrad Students: 3,446
Graduate Students: 481
Grads Salary: $56,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Bethel University-McKenzie

Score: 65.77

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,392
- Out-of-State:$13,392
Net Price: $13,858
Acceptance Rate: 89%
Retention Rate: 56%

Graduation Rate: 45%
Total Enrollment: 4,686
Undergrad Students: 4,038
Graduate Students: 648
Grads Salary: $67,000
Student-to-faculty: 17:1

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Southern Adventist University

Score: 65.6

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,870
- Out-of-State:$12,870
Net Price: $24,332
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Retention Rate: 85%

Graduation Rate: 52%
Total Enrollment: 2,903
Undergrad Students: 2,571
Graduate Students: 332
Grads Salary: $67,000
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

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King University

Score: 64.2

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,182
- Out-of-State:$14,182
Net Price: $22,626
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Retention Rate: 68%

Graduation Rate: 46%
Total Enrollment: 1,357
Undergrad Students: 1,120
Graduate Students: 237
Grads Salary: $67,000
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

Johnson University

Score: 63.88

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,990
- Out-of-State:$9,990
Net Price: $21,012
Acceptance Rate: 63%
Retention Rate: 77%

Graduation Rate: 66%
Total Enrollment: 939
Undergrad Students: 669
Graduate Students: 270
Grads Salary: $50,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Belmont University

Score: 61.45

Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $26,100
- Out-of-State:$26,100
Net Price: $36,225
Acceptance Rate: 96%
Retention Rate: 84%

Graduation Rate: 72%
Total Enrollment: 8,910
Undergrad Students: 7,384
Graduate Students: 1,526
Grads Salary: $65,000
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

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Why Consider an Online MBA?

One factor in particular is a powerful draw for many college students across the country: Tennessee offers some of the lowest average tuitions in the United States, as well as a cost of living average that is lower than the national average. This makes an online MBA program in Tennessee an especially attractive option for many students, both in-state and nationwide.

Find Your Online MBA Program

Tennessee is home to 11 schools that have been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), several of which offer online learning, accelerated, and part- or full-time programs as enrollment options. Depending on what your calendar looks like, you'll have to choose one that gives you time to study and meet your other obligations. Specific requirements may vary from program to program, so be sure to do ample research ahead of time so you’re not caught unprepared. You’ll likely be expected to submit GMAT scores as part of your admission, though some schools may offer a waiver for eligible students so don't skip checking to see if you meet eligibility requirements.

Percentage of Students Enrolled By Distance Education

Typical MBA Concentrations

Many online universities offer students the opportunity to delve more deeply into a certain topic in their graduate studies by putting credit hours into an MBA concentration. This can help to give you better positioning in the job market upon graduating with your degree, though it might increase the time spent in school from a year and a half up to 3 years if you attend part-time. There are a variety of specializations available in the U.S. including human resource management, finance, international business, strategic planning, organizational development, info systems, project management, business analytics, and more. Below are two that are particularly relevant to the corporate job market in Tennessee.

Healthcare Administration
A degree in healthcare administration will teach students the skills needed to oversee and operate departments within a healthcare facility with a view toward optimal patient care. They will master the ability to apply their knowledge of policy directly to the main healthcare organization, insurance company, hospital, or government agency that employs them.
Marketing
An MBA in marketing will give students the information needed to develop and implement marketing strategies. They’ll learn how to identify emerging trends within their industry, and will know how to use data to create the best marketing plan for their business.

Accreditation in Tennessee

When selecting a school, it’s important to consider programs that have been given a seal of approval by a regional or national accrediting agency. This shows prospective students, along with other members of the general public, that the school meets the education standards held by the agency.

If you’re looking to get your online MBA from a more competitive business school, look for programs with regional accreditation. In Tennessee, regional accreditation is given by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Nationally accredited schools can be academically acceptable as well, but it’s a designation typically reserved for vocational or technical schools, or for-profit programs.

Career and Job Outlook for MBA Graduates

Tennessee joins many states, particularly southern states, in seeing a decline in the manufacturing jobs that have traditionally upheld the state’s economy. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare and social assistance jobs are now the most prevalent in the state. Tennessee is also known for its bustling music scene, with Nashville and Memphis regarded as two of the most important locations in the history of American music. Because of this, hospitality and tourism are also major factors in Tennessee’s economy.

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As of June 2021, the statewide unemployment rate decreased to 4.9%, according to the latest data by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD). The forecast for Tennessee’s economy continues to be optimistic, with job growth anticipated to keep improving.

Top Employers in the State by Number of Employees

Company	Industry	Headquarters City	Number of Employees
HCA Healthcare	Healthcare	Nashville	35,000
Fedex	Shipping	Memphis	30,000
Vanderbilt University	Education	Nashville	22,000

These are just a few of the companies in Tennessee that employ a high number of MBA holders. As evidenced by these three examples, the state offers a wide range of companies and industries that need MBA graduates to keep operations running smoothly.

Careers and Salaries for MBA Graduates in Tennessee

An advanced degree in any field can give students the opportunity to make a higher salary upon graduation than their less educated counterparts. Going on to earn an online MBA can set you up to earn as much as $10,000 more than those who entered the job force directly after getting their bachelor’s degree. The following chart shows the breakdown in salary between an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, and MBA.

Average Degree Salary Ranges Potential

Earnings with Associates - $44,194
Earnings with Bachelors - $57,505
Earnings with MBA - $82,000

Careers for Tennessee MBA Grads

Health Services Manager
Since healthcare has risen in prominence as Tennessee’s number one industry, the need for health services managers to keep facilities and organizations running smoothly continues to grow. In this position, MBA graduates use their skills to analyze current operations and identify ways to increase both operational efficiency and patient satisfaction. They may oversee individual departments, or, in smaller organizations, health services managers may supervise the entire facility.
Supply Chain Manager
Supply chain managers oversee their organization’s supply chain and are responsible for maximizing efficiency and productivity within the process. They develop and maintain relations with vendors and customers and identify any factors within company operations that may impact the supply chain on either side.
Operations Manager
The operations manager is responsible for overseeing big picture operations within their organization. It’s their job to ensure that business is operating as cleanly and efficiently as possible and may be in charge of the day to day minutiae involved in the successful rendering of company services.
Marketing Director
Marketing directors develop strategies pertaining to brand development, advertising venues, and company exposure, among other areas. With their marketing team, they work closely with the sales department to coordinate goals and set up the entire organization for effective brand exposure and marketing success.
IT Manager
An IT manager oversees the technological infrastructure of the organization and handles any hiccups that may arise relating to the computer network. They develop the strategy for their company’s network and are in charge of implementing programs within the network and training staff on how to use them.

How to Choose & FAQ's

It’s important to put a great deal of thought and consideration into choosing which online MBA program is the best fit for you. Here are a few of the major factors to think about when you’re whittling down your degree options.

Think About School Location
Though many online MBA programs allow students to complete all of their coursework online, others may require some degree of on campus face time. Find out what each school expects; this may force you to reconsider some options if they’re not locations you can feasibly access. Plus, choosing a school somewhat close by to you may give you more opportunities when it comes time to set up a job as a part of your program or following graduation.

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Make Sure Classes Will Fit Your Schedule
Though online learning is known for its innate flexibility, the degree of freedom offered to students greatly depends on the program. Some online MBA programs permit students to log on and take classes on their own schedule, without needing to attend virtual classes at any specific time. However, other programs may be less flexible, and may require you to be at your computer at a predetermined time for class or even to attend one or two events or visit campus throughout the school year. Find out what will be expected of you from each program, and consider that when making your final decision.
Think About Program Cost
The costs associated with an online MBA degree are often significantly lower than one would expect to pay at a brick and mortar campus environment. Students aren’t handcuffed to expenses like housing near or on campus, meal plans, and major administrative fees. They may, however, expect to field expenses like computer costs, distance learning fees, and the cost of living expenses wherever you are located. Consider these costs ahead of time so you won’t be bombarded with an unexpected bill later on.
Talk To Students and Recent Graduates
Who better to provide an accurate depiction of online student life in a certain program than a recent or current student? Check your potential school’s website for links to groups of students of alumni. If you have trouble finding connections, reach out to the admissions office and ask for a list.
Look For Partnerships With Local Companies
Many MBA programs require students to complete a capstone practicum or internship prior to graduation. Find out what partnerships each school has with local or national businesses and check in particular to see if any of these partnerships are relevant to your industry of choice. If a school doesn’t have a relationship with any businesses near you, that might be a red flag that the program might not be the best fit.

Best Tennessee MBA Schools and Programs

Get Matched With MBA Programs

What Can You Do With an MBA in Tennessee

Compare Popular Online MBA Programs

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Top 25 Best MBA Programs in Tennessee

Freed-Hardeman University

The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Christian Brothers University

Trevecca Nazarene University

Tennessee Wesleyan University

Cumberland University

Lipscomb University

Union University

Milligan University

Carson-Newman University

Lee University

King University

Johnson University

Why Consider an Online MBA?

Find Your Online MBA Program

Percentage of Students Enrolled By Distance Education

Typical MBA Concentrations

Accreditation in Tennessee

Career and Job Outlook for MBA Graduates

Find Online MBA Schools

Top Employers in the State by Number of Employees

Careers and Salaries for MBA Graduates in Tennessee

Average Degree Salary Ranges Potential

Careers for Tennessee MBA Grads

How to Choose & FAQ's

Search Programs Offering MBA Majors

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