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Key Takeaways
Nashville's rapid tech growth makes Tennessee a rising CS hub, Amazon, Oracle Health, Asurion, and AllianceBernstein all hire locally
Nashville-area CS salaries average $119,317, on par with many larger metro areas but with significantly lower cost of living
Hakia Research 2026
Vanderbilt University ranks #1 with a 99% graduation rate and a 98.2 overall score, though tuition runs $61,618/yr
For a public alternative, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville scores 80.5 at just $11,332/yr in-state tuition
Tennessee CS graduates earn a $108,470 median salary, 4% above the national average
Knoxville benefits from Oak Ridge National Laboratory, one of the nation's top federally funded R&D facilities
Tennessee Technological University offers a CAE-designated CS program at $8,764/yr with an 88% graduation rate
Middle Tennessee State University is another strong public option at $7,536/yr with a 97% graduation rate
Jackson State Community College provides the cheapest pathway at $4,224/yr with a CAE-2Y cybersecurity designation
Tennessee's 3 associate's programs offer affordable 2+2 transfer routes into the state's 30 bachelor's programs
5 fully online CS programs available, including options from Maryville College and Carson-Newman University
10 master's and 3 doctoral programs also serve students pursuing advanced degrees in the state
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Tennessee Computer Science programs
We rank 45 accredited computer science programs in Tennessee using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Are Computer Science Degree Programs in Tennessee Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Tennessee
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Tennessee by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Science Programs in Tennessee
Program Landscape
Tennessee offers 3 accredited associate's degree programs in computer science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Jackson State Community C..., South College, Carson-Newman, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Tennessee offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $17,858/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $59,659 in Tennessee.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Tennessee's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among computer science schools in Tennessee, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer science degrees in Tennessee.
Carson-Newman University
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Tennessee
Program Landscape
Tennessee ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 29 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 9 public and 19 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Vanderbilt, U of Tennessee-Knoxville, Tennessee Technological, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Tennessee computer science programs earn a median salary of $92,200, 6% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $7,008 to $61,618 annually, with an average of $24,041/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 88%, with the highest reaching 100%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Tennessee's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer science degrees in Tennessee, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
The University of the South
Show all 23 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Tennessee Technological University | Cookeville, TN | Public | $9,990 | 58% | 76.8 |
| #7 | Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro, TN | Public | $8,204 | 54% | 76.4 |
| #8 | Lee University | Cleveland, TN | Private nonprofit | $23,040 | 63% | 74.1 |
| #9 | University of Memphis | Memphis, TN | Public | $8,856 | 51% | 72.8 |
| #10 | Milligan University | Milligan, TN | Private nonprofit | $38,800 | 63% | 72.7 |
| #11 | Southern Adventist University | Collegedale, TN | Private nonprofit | $26,000 | 49% | 71.2 |
| #12 | The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | Chattanooga, TN | Public | $8,458 | 50% | 71.0 |
| #13 | Lincoln Memorial University | Harrogate, TN | Private nonprofit | $26,448 | 50% | 70.4 |
| #14 | Trevecca Nazarene University | Nashville, TN | Private nonprofit | $29,750 | 53% | 69.6 |
| #15 | Christian Brothers University | Memphis, TN | Private nonprofit | $38,420 | 55% | 67.6 |
| #16 | Tennessee State University | Nashville, TN | Public | $7,368 | 34% | 67.5 |
| #17 | The University of Tennessee-Martin | Martin, TN | Public | $8,802 | 53% | 67.2 |
| #18 | South College | Knoxville, TN | Private for-profit | $16,450 | 42% | 65.4 |
| #19 | Carson-Newman University | Jefferson City, TN | Private nonprofit | $34,700 | 53% | 62.7 |
| #20 | Tusculum University | Greeneville, TN | Private nonprofit | $28,250 | 25% | 62.4 |
| #21 | Austin Peay State University | Clarksville, TN | Public | $7,272 | 40% | 61.2 |
| #22 | Lane College | Jackson, TN | Private nonprofit | $9,270 | 18% | 56.1 |
| #23 | Le Moyne-Owen College | Memphis, TN | Private nonprofit | $10,776 | 27% | 53.9 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Tennessee
Program Landscape
Tennessee offers 10 master's degree programs in computer science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Vanderbilt, Middle Tennessee State, U of Tennessee-Knoxville, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Tennessee earn a median salary of $108,470, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $18,308/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Tennessee's computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Show all 8 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Southern Adventist University | Collegedale, TN | Private nonprofit | $26,000 | 49% | 66.0 |
| #7 | The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | Chattanooga, TN | Public | $8,458 | 50% | 65.8 |
| #8 | Tennessee State University | Nashville, TN | Public | $7,368 | 34% | 62.8 |
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Tennessee
Program Landscape
Tennessee is home to 3 doctoral programs in computer science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at Vanderbilt, U of Tennessee-Knoxville, U of Memphis are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Tennessee PhD holders earning a median of $135,588, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Tennessee programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer science degrees in Tennessee, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Tennessee
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $23,380/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $58,450/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,845/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $140,280 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $35,070 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Tennessee
State Aid Programs
Tennessee offers several strong financial aid programs designed to make higher education more affordable for computer science students. The state's flagship initiative, Tennessee Promise, covers tuition and fees for eligible students attending community colleges, making programs like those at Volunteer State Community College and Northeast State Community College accessible with minimal out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship provides up to $4,500 per year for qualifying students at four-year public institutions, significantly reducing the financial burden for undergraduate computer science majors (Tennessee Higher Education Commission).
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state programs, all Tennessee computer science students are eligible for federal financial aid through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Prospective students should complete the FAFSA at StudentAid.gov to access grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Many institutions, including top bachelor's programs like The University of Tennessee-Knoxville and Middle Tennessee State University, also offer institutional scholarships and merit-based aid packages. Tennessee's lack of state income tax further enhances the financial advantage for graduates earning competitive computer science salaries in the state's major tech hubs.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Tennessee
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree in Tennessee. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Tennessee metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Nashville | $119K |
| Knoxville | $114K |
| Memphis | $108K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in Tennessee
Find computer science jobs in Tennessee. These major employers across Tennessee metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Nashville
TNComputer Science Jobs in Knoxville
TNComputer Science Jobs in Memphis
TNTransfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Tennessee
State Transfer System
Tennessee's Transfer Pathways system provides guaranteed transfer routes from community colleges to four-year universities, making computer science education accessible and affordable for all students. The state operates 49 two-year institutions alongside 57 four-year colleges and universities, creating structured pathways that ensure coursework completed at community colleges applies directly toward bachelor's degrees without duplication or credit loss. Computer science students can complete lower-division requirements, including general education, mathematics, and foundational programming courses, at community colleges like Volunteer State Community College, Northeast State Community College, and Pellissippi State Community College at significantly reduced costs before transferring to four-year institutions (Tennessee Transfer Pathways).
How Transfers Work
Community colleges in Tennessee awarded 24 associate's degrees in computer science during 2023, with top programs at Volunteer State, Northeast State, Pellissippi State, Columbia State, and Chattanooga State Community Colleges. These institutions offer tuition rates starting at $4,224 annually, compared to $8,520 for four-year public universities, providing substantial savings during the initial two years of study. Articulation agreements between community colleges and universities guarantee that computer science coursework transfers seamlessly, allowing students to progress without delays or additional requirements. This system is particularly valuable for working students and those seeking affordable pathways to bachelor's and master's degrees in fields like software engineering and cybersecurity.
Transfer Planning Tips
Students leveraging Tennessee's transfer system can combine state financial aid benefits with affordable community college pathways. Tennessee Promise covers community college tuition for eligible students, while HOPE scholarships support transfer students pursuing bachelor's degrees at four-year institutions (Tennessee Promise/HOPE). Transfers to universities like Middle Tennessee State University and East Tennessee State University are streamlined through guaranteed articulation agreements, ensuring junior-level status upon enrollment. To maximize transfer benefits, prospective students should consult their community college advisor and verify transfer agreements with target four-year institutions through THEC's resources.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Tennessee?
Industry & Workforce
Tennessee offers a strong computer science education landscape with 51 institutions offering programs across all degree levels, including 33 bachelor's-granting institutions (IPEDS). The state awarded 871 bachelor's degrees in computer science during the 2023 academic year, demonstrating strong program capacity and graduate employment prospects. Leading institutions like Vanderbilt University, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and Tennessee Technological University consistently produce top-tier graduates who advance careers in technology and innovation sectors.
Salary Outlook
Tennessee's financial advantages make computer science education particularly attractive. The state boasts no income tax, providing graduates with enhanced earning potential and long-term financial benefits. Public four-year in-state tuition averages just $8,520 annually (IPEDS), significantly lower than national averages. Additionally, Tennessee's financial aid programs, including Tennessee Promise covering community college tuition and HOPE scholarships up to $4,500/year at four-year institutions (Tennessee Promise/HOPE), make degrees more accessible to all students.
Regional Tech Hubs
The state's major metropolitan areas offer exceptional career opportunities. Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga host thriving tech ecosystems with employers including Amazon, FedEx, Nissan, and HCA Healthcare. These regional hubs create abundant internship and job placement pathways for graduates. Explore related fields such as software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity to expand career prospects in Tennessee's growing tech sector.
Tennessee Take-Home Pay Advantage
Source: Tennessee Department of Revenue
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Tennessee
Employment Outlook
Tennessee's computer science job market is strong and growing, supported by a diverse employer base across multiple metropolitan regions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state offers competitive opportunities for computer science professionals in cities including Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. The Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin metro area is a significant tech hub, complemented by strong markets in the Knoxville and Memphis regions. With 51 institutions across Tennessee offering computer science programs at various levels, the state produces a steady pipeline of talent to meet regional demand.
Salaries by Metro
The state's economic advantages extend beyond job availability. Tennessee has NO STATE INCOME TAX, providing a significant financial benefit to computer science professionals compared to peers in other states. This tax advantage, combined with a moderate cost of living in most metros, makes Tennessee an attractive destination for tech talent. Recent graduates from top programs like Vanderbilt University and The University of Tennessee-Knoxville find strong career pathways in both startup environments and established corporations. For comprehensive salary and employment data specific to computer science roles, professionals should consult the BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and the College Scorecard for institutional outcomes data.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in Tennessee
Online Programs
5 available in Tennessee
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Computer Science Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 40
- Median Tuition
- $9,700
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
- Total Programs
- 50
- Median Tuition
- $6,800
- Total Programs
- 44
- Median Tuition
- $7,200
- Total Programs
- 54
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $8,500
- Total Programs
- 34
- Median Tuition
- $6,600
- Total Programs
- 50
- Median Tuition
- $13,000
Computer Science Degree Programs in Tennessee: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Tennessee?
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Tennessee?
What salary can computer science degree graduates earn in Tennessee?
Are there online computer science degree programs in Tennessee?
What companies hire computer science degree graduates in Tennessee?
Is a computer science degree program worth it in Tennessee?
How long do computer science degree programs take in Tennessee?
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in Tennessee?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Tennessee salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.