Top 3 Data Analytics Programs in Tennessee 2025
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
273 data analytics graduates annually, 73% graduation rate
Vanderbilt University
60 data analytics graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
Middle Tennessee State University
19 data analytics graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
- 1.Tennessee offers 12+ accredited data analytics programs across public and private universities
- 2.The University of Tennessee-Knoxville leads with 73% graduation rate
- 3.Tennessee software developers earn median $108,470 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis
- 5.Cost of living index: 93.2% of US average (below average)
Data Analytics Education in Tennessee: Overview
Tennessee offers 12 accredited data analytics programs, producing approximately 556 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis, with major employers including HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein.
With a median software developer salary of $108,470 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 93.2% compared to the US average, Tennessee offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers compared to higher-cost coastal markets. Tennessee has no state income tax on wages, further boosting take-home pay.
The top data analytics programs in the state are led by The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Vanderbilt University, Middle Tennessee State University, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 12 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Data Analytics degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Tennessee-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Tennessee Data Analytics Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | Knoxville, TN | Public | $11,332 | 73% | 82.9 |
| 2 | Vanderbilt University | Nashville, TN | Private | $61,618 | 99% | 78.6 |
| 3 | Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro, TN | Public | $7,536 | 97% | 54.8 |
| 4 | The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | Chattanooga, TN | Public | $8,232 | 91% | 50.9 |
| 5 | Austin Peay State University | Clarksville, TN | Public | $7,008 | — | 50.7 |
| 6 | Belmont University | Nashville, TN | Private | $39,400 | 97% | 49.7 |
| 7 | Cumberland University | Lebanon, TN | Private | $26,640 | 84% | 47.7 |
| 8 | Southern Adventist University | Collegedale, TN | Private | $24,350 | 75% | 46.1 |
| 9 | University of Memphis | Memphis, TN | Public | $8,520 | — | 42.8 |
| 10 | Lee University | Cleveland, TN | Private | $21,960 | — | 40.6 |
| 11 | Meharry Medical College | Nashville, TN | Private | $0 | — | 40.4 |
| 12 | Christian Brothers University | Memphis, TN | Private | $37,300 | — | 32.8 |
Top 5 Data Analytics Programs in Tennessee: Side-by-Side
| School | University of Tennessee-K... | Vanderbilt | Middle Tennessee State | University of Tennessee-C... | Austin Peay State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,332 | $61,618 | $7,536 | $8,232 | $7,008 |
| Graduation Rate | 73% | 99% | 97% | 91% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 273 | 60 | 19 | 17 | 90 |
| Acceptance Rate | 46% | 6% | 68% | 77% | 96% |
| Type | Public | Private | Public | Public | Public |
| Score | 82.9/100 | 78.6/100 | 54.8/100 | 50.9/100 | 50.7/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Data Analytics in Tennessee
Tennessee offers 6 bachelor's-level data analytics programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Middle Tennessee State University, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Belmont University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $75,929 in the Tennessee market.
A bachelor's in data analytics typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Data Analytics Bachelor's Programs in Tennessee
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Middle Tennessee State | $7,536 | 97% | 19 | 54.8 |
| #2 University of Tennessee-K... | $11,332 | 73% | 18 | 58.8 |
| #3 Belmont | $39,400 | 97% | 22 | 49.7 |
Top Data Analytics Schools for Master's Degrees in Tennessee
For graduate study, Tennessee offers 7 master's-level data analytics programs. Leading institutions include The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Vanderbilt University, The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Tennessee reaching $141,011 or more.
Top 3 Data Analytics Master's Programs in Tennessee
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Tennessee-K... | $11,332 | 73% | 273 | 82.9 |
| #2 Vanderbilt | $61,618 | 99% | 60 | 78.6 |
| #3 University of Tennessee-C... | $8,232 | 91% | 17 | 50.9 |
Most Affordable Data Analytics Colleges in Tennessee
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable data analytics programs in Tennessee are at Austin Peay State University ($7,008/year), Middle Tennessee State University ($7,536/year), The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga ($8,232/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Tennessee's competitive tech salaries.
At Austin Peay State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $28,032 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $75,929, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years. See our Most Affordable Data Analytics Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Data Analytics Programs in Tennessee (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Austin Peay State | $7,008 | $28,032 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #2 Middle Tennessee State | $7,536 | $30,144 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #3 University of Tennessee-C... | $8,232 | $32,928 | 0.8 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Data Analytics Schools in Tennessee
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 data analytics programs in Tennessee, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,332 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 73% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 273 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 46%
- • Ranking Score: 82.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 73% graduation rate
- 273 data analytics graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 82.9 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (73%), program size (273 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,470), and selectivity (46% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Data Science program offers hands-on learning through industry partnerships and provides training in advanced techniques like data mining and machine learning. With employment projected to grow by 35% between 2022-2032 and a median salary of $108,020, the program prepares students for high-demand careers across diverse sectors.
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $108,020
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $61,618 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 60 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 6%
- • Ranking Score: 78.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 60 data analytics graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 78.6 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (60 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,470), and selectivity (6% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Quantitative Methods & Data Analytics program offers flexible full-time or part-time study with world-renowned faculty, can be completed in 17-22 months, and provides AI-augmented analytics training with critical thinking foundations. Graduates achieve 94% employment or graduate school placement within four months.
Program Details
- Credits: 33 credits
- Internship Required
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 94% were employed or attending graduate school within four months of graduation
- Top Employers: Cleveland Clinic, Capital One Financial Services, HCA Healthcare, Tennessee Department of Health, Vanderbilt University Medical School, RAND Corporation
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, TN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,536 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 19 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 68%
- • Ranking Score: 54.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 19 data analytics graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 54.8 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (19 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,470), and selectivity (68% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
MTSU's Data Science program is a high-demand interdisciplinary program that combines computer science, statistics, and business intelligence with real-world project experiences. Students gain practical skills through the Data Science Institute, data dives, and Hack-MT events, ensuring they graduate with a portfolio of work for prospective employers.
Available Specializations / Concentrations
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
Chattanooga, TN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,232 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 91% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 17 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 77%
- • Ranking Score: 50.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 91% graduation rate
- 17 data analytics graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 50.9 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (91%), program size (17 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,470), and selectivity (77% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UTC's Master of Science in Data Analytics offers comprehensive hands-on training in programming languages like Python and R, machine learning, and big data management with cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud Platform. The program provides both 100% online and flexible evening options, making it accessible for working professionals seeking advanced data analytics skills.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •One semester of business stats with a C or better or at least 80% in Statistics module or DATA 5835
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.70 minimum GPA for all undergraduate work or 3.00 GPA for the last two years of undergraduate academic coursework
Program Details
- Credits: 21 credit hours total required for core courses
Austin Peay State University
Clarksville, TN • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,008 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Data Analytics Graduates: 90 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 96%
- • Ranking Score: 50.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 90 data analytics graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 50.7 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (90 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,470), and selectivity (96% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
APSU's Computer Science Data Analytics program offers both M.S. and PSM degrees with 100% online options, taught by faculty with decades of real-world experience and terminal degrees in computing. The program focuses on data science for decision making in sciences, businesses, and governments, with small class sizes and modern facilities.
Admissions
- Acceptance Rate: 96.4%
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Internship Required
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Tennessee with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Tennessee with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Tennessee with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Tennessee with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst opportunities in Tennessee with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis
- You're seeking lower cost of living than coastal states (93.2% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like HCA Healthcare or Asurion
- You want no state income tax on wages
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Tennessee's 12)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration (consider SF, Seattle, NYC)
Other Tech Degree Programs in Tennessee
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Explore data science programs in Tennessee
Explore cybersecurity programs in Tennessee
Explore information security programs in Tennessee
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Explore computer science programs in Tennessee
Explore computer engineering programs in Tennessee
Explore information technology programs in Tennessee
Data Analytics Programs in Other States
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Texas
New York
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Pennsylvania
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Data Analytics in Tennessee FAQ
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Tennessee salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.