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Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga
Chattanooga, TNPrivate for-profit
—
Tuition/yr
60%
Grad rate
91.3
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best cybersecurity degree programs: Lipscomb, South College, Southern Adventist
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $13,725 to $37,300/year
Strayer University-Tennessee offers the most affordable option at $13,725/yr
Cybersecurity degree programs available: 3 associate's, 2 master's in Tennessee
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
1 online cybersecurity degree programs in Tennessee
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Tennessee community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
3 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein, Lyft
Tech hubs in Nashville and Knoxville
Hakia Research 2026
Cybersecurity degree programs near 63+ cities across Tennessee
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated July 13, 2026
How we ranked Tennessee Cybersecurity programs
We rank 10 accredited cybersecurity 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.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Tennessee Worth It?
Answer
$108,470
Yes. The best cybersecurity degree programs in Tennessee deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $108,470 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $25,446/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Cybersecurity Degree Rankings in Tennessee
Compare the top-ranked Cybersecurity programs in Tennessee by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Cybersecurity Programs in Tennessee
1
Programs ranked
—
Avg tuition/yr
60%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Tennessee offers 3 accredited associate's degree programs in cybersecurity, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Miller-Motte College-Chat..., Strayer University-Tennessee, South College, 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 $15,088/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 cybersecurity schools in Tennessee, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their cybersecurity degrees in Tennessee.
Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Programs in Tennessee
7
Programs ranked
$25,997
Avg tuition/yr
60%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Tennessee ranks among the nation's top destinations for cybersecurity education, with 5 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 0 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Lipscomb, South College, Southern Adventist, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Tennessee cybersecurity 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 $16,450 to $37,300 annually, with an average of $27,790/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 82%, with the highest reaching 90%. 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 cybersecurity degrees in Tennessee, these top-ranked cybersecurity schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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Freed-Hardeman University
Henderson, TNPrivate nonprofit
$25,620
Tuition/yr
71%
Grad rate
78.8
Hakia Score
#5
Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga
Chattanooga, TNPrivate for-profit
—
Tuition/yr
60%
Grad rate
73.8
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | Chattanooga, TN | Public | $8,458 | 50% | 72.2 |
| #7 | The University of Tennessee Southern | Pulaski, TN | Public | $9,640 | 37% | 60.1 |
Best Master's Cybersecurity Programs in Tennessee
2
Programs ranked
$15,088
Avg tuition/yr
42%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Tennessee offers 2 master's degree programs in cybersecurity, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Strayer University-Tennessee, South College, 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 $15,088/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 cybersecurity schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Cybersecurity Degree Costs & Tuition in Tennessee
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $25,446/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $63,615/year |
| Community college tuition | $6,362/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $152,676 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $38,168 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Cybersecurity Students in Tennessee
State Aid Programs
Tennessee offers exceptional financial aid opportunities for students pursuing cybersecurity degrees. The state's flagship programs. Tennessee Promise and Tennessee HOPE, provide substantial tuition support at both community colleges and four-year institutions. Tennessee Promise covers community college tuition entirely, while Tennessee HOPE grants up to $4,500 annually at four-year public universities (Tennessee Promise/HOPE). These programs significantly reduce the financial burden for cybersecurity students, particularly those starting their education at community colleges before transferring to bachelor's programs through the Tennessee Transfer Pathways system (Tennessee Transfer Pathways).
Key Programs & Amounts
In addition to state grants, Tennessee students can access federal financial aid through FAFSA, including Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities (Federal Student Aid). Many Tennessee institutions also offer institutional scholarships and merit-based awards specifically for cybersecurity and computer science majors. A unique financial advantage for all Tennessee residents is the absence of state income tax, which helps graduates retain more of their earnings after graduation. Students should explore aid options at schools like Middle Tennessee State University and East Tennessee State University, both of which offer strong cybersecurity programs with competitive tuition rates. For comprehensive information on aid eligibility and applications, consult the Tennessee Higher Education Commission.
Cybersecurity Degree ROI Calculator, Tennessee
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a cybersecurity 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.
Cybersecurity Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a cybersecurity degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+801%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,482,166
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$123,810
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
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,517,574
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$130,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.5%
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
Cybersecurity Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Tennessee metro areas
Nashville$119K
Knoxville$114K
Memphis$108K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Nashville | $119K |
| Knoxville | $114K |
| Memphis | $108K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Cybersecurity Graduates in Tennessee
Find cybersecurity jobs in Tennessee. These major employers across Tennessee metro areas are actively hiring cybersecurity degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Cybersecurity Jobs in Nashville
TNAmazon
tech
Oracle Health (Cerner)
healthtech
Asurion
tech
AllianceBernstein
finance
HCA Healthcare
healthcare
Cybersecurity Jobs in Knoxville
TNOak Ridge National Laboratory
government
Pilot Flying J
retail
Cybersecurity Jobs in Memphis
TNFedEx
logistics
International Paper
manufacturing
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
healthcare
Transfer Pathways for Cybersecurity Degrees in Tennessee
State Transfer System
Tennessee's transfer system provides seamless pathways from community colleges to four-year universities, making cybersecurity education accessible and affordable. The state operates 4 associate's degree programs in cybersecurity through institutions like Jackson State Community College, Miller-Motte College-Chattanooga, and South College. The Tennessee Transfer Pathways system (TN Transfer Pathway) guarantees course articulation and credit transfer, enabling students to complete their first two years of a bachelor's degree at a community college and transfer with full credit toward a four-year degree. This approach significantly reduces total tuition costs, particularly valuable given Tennessee's average public in-state tuition of $8,520 at four-year institutions. Students following established cybersecurity transfer pathways can save thousands while maintaining academic progress toward their bachelor's degree.
How Transfers Work
To maximize transfer benefits, students should consult the Tennessee Transfer Pathways website to identify guaranteed transfer agreements between their community college and target four-year institutions. Many of Tennessee's 49 two-year institutions have formalized articulation agreements with leading universities like The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Middle Tennessee State University, and Tennessee Technological University. The Tennessee Promise program (HOPE/Promise) covers community college tuition for eligible students, eliminating upfront costs for the first two years. Prospective transfers should meet with academic advisors early to plan course sequences aligned with cybersecurity bachelor's degree requirements. For detailed transfer planning and credential recognition, consult the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. Combining affordable community college pathways with state financial aid creates an efficient, cost-effective route to a cybersecurity degree.
Why Pursue a Cybersecurity Degree in Tennessee?
Industry & Workforce
Tennessee offers a strong ecosystem for cybersecurity education with 19 institutions across the state offering cybersecurity programs at multiple degree levels, including 4 associate's, 12 bachelor's, and 3 master's programs (IPEDS). The state's higher education landscape provides diverse pathways for students, from community colleges to prestigious research universities. Top-ranked programs like Vanderbilt University, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and Middle Tennessee State University deliver instruction in network security, threat analysis, and digital forensics. Whether you're pursuing an associate's degree, bachelor's, or master's in cybersecurity, Tennessee's institutions are strategically positioned to meet industry demand.
Salary Outlook
Tennessee's financial advantages make cybersecurity education particularly accessible. With no state income tax, graduates keep more of their earnings compared to peers in other states. Public four-year institutions average $8,520 for in-state tuition (IPEDS), and the state's Tennessee Promise and HOPE financial aid programs further reduce barriers to entry (Tennessee Promise/HOPE). Major tech employers including Amazon, FedEx, HCA Healthcare, and Vanderbilt University maintain significant operations across Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, creating abundant internship and job placement opportunities for graduates. Tennessee's strategic location in the Southeast and growing tech infrastructure position it as an increasingly important cybersecurity hub, making it an ideal destination for aspiring security professionals.
Tennessee Take-Home Pay Advantage
$0 State Income Tax
Tennessee has no state income tax. At the median cybersecurity salary of $108,470, that keeps roughly $5,424 more in your pocket annually compared to states with a 5% income tax rate.
Source: Tennessee Department of Revenue
Cybersecurity Job Market & Salary Data in Tennessee
Employment Outlook
Tennessee's cybersecurity job market is experiencing steady growth, supported by a diverse employer base across multiple metropolitan areas. The state's major tech hubs. Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, all have significant cybersecurity hiring activity. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity roles continue to expand as organizations across healthcare, technology, logistics, and manufacturing sectors prioritize data protection and regulatory compliance. Tennessee's lack of state income tax provides an additional financial advantage for cybersecurity professionals compared to other states, effectively increasing take-home compensation for graduates entering the field.
Salaries by Metro
The state hosts 19 institutions offering cybersecurity programs at various levels, with 12 bachelor's degree programs and 3 master's programs (IPEDS 2024) preparing graduates for entry and advanced roles. Major employers in Tennessee include Vanderbilt University, HCA Healthcare, Amazon, FedEx, and Nissan, organizations requiring strong cybersecurity infrastructure and talent. Graduates can explore national salary and job growth trends through the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook to understand compensation benchmarks. For broader context on how Tennessee's cybersecurity opportunities compare nationally, explore best cybersecurity bachelor's programs and most affordable cybersecurity programs to evaluate regional and national options.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Tennessee$70,506$157,282
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Cybersecurity Programs in Tennessee
Online Programs
1 available in Tennessee
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$22,901/yr$25,446/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Cybersecurity Programs in Other States
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Kentucky
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $10,500
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $15,000
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in North Carolina
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $13,700
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 42
- Median Tuition
- $2,800
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Alabama
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $10,700
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Mississippi
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $3,700
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Arkansas
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $6,000
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri
- Total Programs
- 17
- Median Tuition
- $12,300
Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Tennessee: FAQ
What are the best cybersecurity degree programs in Tennessee?
The best cybersecurity degree programs in Tennessee based on our methodology are: 1) Lipscomb University (90% graduation rate), 2) South College, and 3) Southern Adventist University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Tennessee offers 7 total accredited programs across 0 public and 4 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 5 bachelor's programs.
How much do cybersecurity degree programs cost in Tennessee?
Cybersecurity degree program costs in Tennessee vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $25,446/year, while private institutions average $55,981/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $6,362/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $101,784 at public schools to $223,925 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can cybersecurity degree graduates earn in Tennessee?
Cybersecurity professionals in Tennessee earn a median salary of $108,470, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $70,506, while senior roles exceed $157,282. Salaries vary by metro area: Nashville ($119,317), Knoxville ($113,894) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online cybersecurity degree programs in Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee offers 1 accredited online Cybersecurity programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Christian Brothers University. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire cybersecurity degree graduates in Tennessee?
Major Cybersecurity employers in Tennessee include HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein, Lyft, Amazon. The Nashville and Knoxville metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Tennessee universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Tennessee's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a cybersecurity degree program worth it in Tennessee?
A cybersecurity degree program in Tennessee offers strong ROI with a $108,470 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $25,446/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($122,571), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do cybersecurity degree programs take in Tennessee?
Standard completion times for cybersecurity degree programs in Tennessee are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Tennessee community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Tennessee university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for cybersecurity degree students in Tennessee?
Tennessee cybersecurity degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Tennessee state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Tennessee's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Tennessee salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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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.