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$7,536
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad rate
61.6
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best data analytics degree programs: Middle Tennessee State, U of Tennessee-Knoxville, Belmont
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $7,008 to $61,618/year
Middle Tennessee State offers the most affordable option at $7,536/yr
Data Analytics degree programs available: 7 master's, 1 doctoral in Tennessee
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
2 online data analytics degree programs in Tennessee
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Major employers: HCA Healthcare, Asurion, AllianceBernstein, Lyft
Tech hubs in Nashville and Knoxville
Hakia Research 2026
Data Analytics 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 Data Analytics programs
We rank 14 accredited data analytics 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 Data Analytics Degree Programs in Tennessee Worth It?
Answer
$108,470
Yes. The best data analytics degree programs in Tennessee deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $108,470 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $23,081/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Data Analytics Degree Rankings in Tennessee
Compare the top-ranked Data Analytics programs in Tennessee by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Bachelor's Data Analytics Programs in Tennessee
6
Programs ranked
$21,870
Avg tuition/yr
85%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Tennessee ranks among the nation's top destinations for data analytics education, with 6 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Middle Tennessee State, U of Tennessee-Knoxville, Belmont, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Tennessee data analytics 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 $7,536 to $39,400 annually, with an average of $21,870/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 85%, with the highest reaching 97%. 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 data analytics degrees in Tennessee, these top-ranked data analytics schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TNPublic
Bookstore, Clubs, Community & More: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Campus Tour$11,332
Tuition/yr
73%
Grad rate
75.6
Hakia Score
Show all 6 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Lee University | Cleveland, TN | Private | $21,960 | — | 46.3 |
Best Master's Data Analytics Programs in Tennessee
7
Programs ranked
$22,335
Avg tuition/yr
88%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Tennessee offers 7 master's degree programs in data analytics, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Tennessee-Knoxville, Vanderbilt, Austin Peay State, 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 $22,335/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 data analytics schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TNPublic
Bookstore, Clubs, Community & More: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Campus Tour$11,332
Tuition/yr
73%
Grad rate
85.0
Hakia Score
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$61,618
Tuition/yr
99%
Grad rate
91.4
Hakia Score
#4
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
Chattanooga, TNPublic
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Online Tour$8,232
Tuition/yr
91%
Grad rate
57.3
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Meharry Medical College | Nashville, TN | Private | — | — | 42.6 |
| #7 | Christian Brothers University | Memphis, TN | Private | $37,300 | — | 35.0 |
Best Doctoral Data Analytics Programs in Tennessee
1
Programs ranked
$11,332
Avg tuition/yr
73%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Tennessee is home to 1 doctoral programs in data analytics, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Tennessee-Knoxville 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 data analytics 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.
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The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TNPublic
$11,332
Tuition/yr
73%
Grad rate
58.2
Hakia Score
Data Analytics Degree Costs & Tuition in Tennessee
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $23,081/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $57,703/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,770/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $138,488 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $34,622 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Data Analytics Students in Tennessee
State Aid Programs
Tennessee offers exceptional financial aid opportunities for students pursuing data analytics degrees. The state's flagship aid programs. Tennessee Promise and Tennessee HOPE, provide substantial tuition support. Tennessee Promise covers full community college tuition, making it an ideal entry point for students starting with an associate's degree in data analytics before transferring to a four-year institution. Tennessee HOPE provides up to $4,500 per year at four-year universities, significantly reducing the cost burden for bachelor's and master's degree seekers (Tennessee Promise/HOPE). Additionally, Tennessee has no state income tax, which creates a long-term financial advantage for graduates earning salaries in data analytics roles.
Key Programs & Amounts
Federal financial aid remains a cornerstone resource for Tennessee data analytics students. All eligible students should complete the FAFSA through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid portal (Federal Student Aid), which determines eligibility for Pell Grants, subsidized and unsubsidized loans, and work-study opportunities. Beyond state and federal aid, Tennessee's participating institutions offer institutional scholarships and graduate assistantships. Students should explore awards through the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (Tennessee Higher Education Commission) and individual institutions. For those beginning at community colleges, the Tennessee Transfer Pathways program (Tennessee Transfer Pathways) guarantees smooth credit transfer and maintains financial aid eligibility throughout the transition to a four-year data analytics program.
Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator, Tennessee
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a data analytics 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.
Data Analytics Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a data analytics degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
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
$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
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)$2,712,662
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)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
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
Data Analytics 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 Data Analytics Graduates in Tennessee
Find data analytics jobs in Tennessee. These major employers across Tennessee metro areas are actively hiring data analytics degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Data Analytics Jobs in Nashville
TNAmazon
tech
Oracle Health (Cerner)
healthtech
Asurion
tech
AllianceBernstein
finance
HCA Healthcare
healthcare
Data Analytics Jobs in Knoxville
TNOak Ridge National Laboratory
government
Pilot Flying J
retail
Data Analytics Jobs in Memphis
TNFedEx
logistics
International Paper
manufacturing
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
healthcare
Transfer Pathways for Data Analytics Degrees in Tennessee
State Transfer System
Tennessee provides structured transfer pathways that make progressing from community college to a four-year data analytics degree seamless and affordable. The Tennessee Transfer Pathways program (Tennessee Transfer Pathways) guarantees that credits earned at community colleges seamlessly transfer to participating four-year institutions, eliminating course redundancy and streamlining degree completion. Tennessee's 49 two-year institutions offer associate's degrees in data analytics and related fields, serving as cost-effective entry points for students seeking bachelor's degrees. With 2 institutions offering associate's degrees in data analytics, students can complete the first two years of their education at significantly reduced costs, often under $4,500 annually, before transferring to universities like Vanderbilt University, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, or East Tennessee State University (Tennessee Higher Education Commission).
How Transfers Work
The transfer pathway system particularly benefits students pursuing associate-to-bachelor's transitions in data analytics. Jackson State Community College's associate's program, for example, aligns with articulation agreements at multiple Tennessee universities, ensuring smooth credit transfer and degree progression. Students completing associate's degrees can leverage Tennessee Promise funding, which covers community college tuition entirely, before using HOPE scholarships (up to $4,500 annually) during their final two years at bachelor's-degree-granting institutions (Tennessee Promise/HOPE). This pathway approach maximizes financial aid accessibility while minimizing debt burden. Transfer pathways are particularly advantageous for working professionals and first-generation students who benefit from flexible scheduling at community colleges before transitioning to four-year programs. By using Tennessee's guaranteed transfer system, students can earn a bachelor's degree in data analytics while maintaining access to affordable, quality education (Information Systems in Tennessee).
Why Pursue a Data Analytics Degree in Tennessee?
Industry & Workforce
Tennessee offers a strong landscape for data analytics education, with 22 institutions across the state providing programs at multiple degree levels (IPEDS). From associate's degrees through doctoral programs, students can choose from 9 bachelor's programs, 10 master's programs, and specialized doctoral options. The state's major cities. Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, serve as thriving tech hubs with significant demand for analytics professionals. Major employers including Amazon, FedEx, Nissan, and HCA Healthcare actively recruit data professionals, creating abundant career pathways for graduates.
Salary Outlook
Tennessee's financial advantages make data analytics education particularly accessible. The state has no income tax, meaning graduates keep more of their earnings compared to other states. Combined with competitive in-state tuition averaging $8,520 at public four-year institutions, Tennessee provides exceptional value (Tennessee Higher Education Commission). Additionally, Tennessee Promise and HOPE programs provide substantial financial aid support, with Tennessee Promise covering community college tuition entirely and HOPE funding up to $4,500 annually at four-year universities (Tennessee Promise/HOPE). Top-ranked schools like The University of Tennessee-Knoxville deliver high-quality education at $11,332 in-state tuition, while employers across the state actively seek skilled analytics professionals earning competitive salaries in this growing field.
Tennessee Take-Home Pay Advantage
$0 State Income Tax
Tennessee has no state income tax. At the median data analytics 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
Data Analytics Job Market & Salary Data in Tennessee
Employment Outlook
Tennessee's data analytics job market is experiencing strong growth, supported by a diverse employer base across multiple metropolitan regions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state's labor market shows strong demand for data professionals in Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. These metro areas are anchored by major employers including Vanderbilt University, HCA Healthcare, Amazon, FedEx, and Nissan, creating sustained demand for analytics talent. Tennessee's competitive advantage includes no state income tax, which provides additional financial benefits for professionals relocating to or starting careers in the state.
Salaries by Metro
The state's educational pipeline is well-developed to meet market demands. Tennessee currently offers data analytics programs at 22 institutions, including 10 master's programs and 9 bachelor's programs (IPEDS). The University of Tennessee-Knoxville alone has produced 299 completions, while Austin Peay State University has generated 90 completions, indicating strong talent production across the state. With programs distributed across East Tennessee, Middle Tennessee, West Tennessee, and Nashville Metro regions, graduates have geographic flexibility to pursue opportunities in their preferred metro areas. For those seeking advanced credentials, Tennessee's 10 master's-granting institutions produced 459 completions in 2023, representing substantial pipeline capacity for mid-career and advanced professionals.
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 Data Analytics Programs in Tennessee
Online Programs
2 available in Tennessee
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$20,773/yr$23,081/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 Data Analytics Programs in Other States
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Kentucky
- Total Programs
- 8
- Median Tuition
- $11,200
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 17
- Median Tuition
- $12,700
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in North Carolina
- Total Programs
- 23
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Georgia
- Total Programs
- 14
- Median Tuition
- $9,800
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Alabama
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $10,700
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Mississippi
- Total Programs
- 3
- Median Tuition
- $9,300
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Arkansas
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $7,200
Best Data Analytics Degree Programs in Missouri
- Total Programs
- 21
- Median Tuition
- $18,600
Data Analytics Degree Programs in Tennessee: FAQ
What are the best data analytics degree programs in Tennessee?
The best data analytics degree programs in Tennessee based on our methodology are: 1) Middle Tennessee State University (97% graduation rate), 2) The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and 3) Belmont University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Tennessee offers 12 total accredited programs across 5 public and 7 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 6 bachelor's programs.
How much do data analytics degree programs cost in Tennessee?
Data Analytics degree program costs in Tennessee vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $23,081/year, while private institutions average $50,778/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,770/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $92,324 at public schools to $203,113 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 data analytics degree graduates earn in Tennessee?
Data Analytics 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 data analytics degree programs in Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee offers 2 accredited online Data Analytics 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 Lee University and Cumberland 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 data analytics degree graduates in Tennessee?
Major Data Analytics 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 data analytics degree program worth it in Tennessee?
A data analytics degree program in Tennessee offers strong ROI with a $108,470 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $23,081/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 data analytics degree programs take in Tennessee?
Standard completion times for data analytics 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 data analytics degree students in Tennessee?
Tennessee data analytics 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.