Tennessee State University institutional logo

Tennessee State University

Nashville, United States • Founded 1912

Updated Oct 2026 · Source: tnstate.edu

Overview

English Name: Tennessee State University
Acronyms: TSU
Founded: 1912
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Public
Entity Type: Non-profit
Rankings:
SCImago 2026 #2405
Motto: Think, Work, Serve
Colours: Royal blue and white
Tennessee State University institutional facilities
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Established in 1912, the Tennessee State University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large city of Nashville (population range of 500,000-1,000,000 inhabitants), Tennessee.

Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Tennessee State University (TSU) is a medium-sized coeducational US higher education institution. Tennessee State University (TSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

The acceptance rate range is 100% making this US higher education organization a non-selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.

TSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Find Tennessee State University on the map and its contact channels below.

Address: 3500 John A. Merritt Boulevard
Postal Code: 37209-1561
Phone: +1 (615) 963 5000
Fax: +1 (615) 963 7412

Academic Details

Scale, staffing, and recognition figures for Tennessee State University are listed below.

Recognition: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Total Students: 4,848
Academic Staff Range: 400-499
Campus Setting: Urban
Memberships & Networks
Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU) Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Academic Structures

The faculties, schools, and constituent units that make up Tennessee State University are listed below.

Unit 12 items
  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • College of Business
  • College of Education
  • College of Engineering, Technology and Computer Science
  • College of Health Sciences
  • College of Liberal Arts
  • College of Life & Physical Sciences
  • College of Public Service and Urban Affairs
  • Honors College
  • School of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences
  • School of Graduate Studies and Research
  • School of Nursing

Programs Offered

Tennessee State University's programme list, with search and degree-level grouping.

49 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

Master of Business Administration 2 programmes

Master of Business Administration
Business Administration

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree 11 programmes

Master's Degree in Biotechnology
Biotechnology

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Computer and Information Science and Engineering
Computer Sciences

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Education Non-Licensure
Education & Teaching

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Elementary Education
Education & Teaching

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Peace Corps Master's International
Others

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Professional Studies
Others

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Showing 10 of 11.

Doctorate 5 programmes

Doctorate in Agricultural Sciences and Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Computer Sciences

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Public Health
Public Health

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Professional Doctorate 2 programmes

Professional Doctorate in Education PreK-12
Education & Teaching

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Professional Doctorate in Higher Education
Education & Teaching

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Associate's Degree 1 programme

Associate's Degree in Dental Hygiene
Health Sciences

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Certificate 4 programmes

Certificate in Local Government
Others

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Certificate in Nonprofit Management
Others

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Public Health Certificate
Public Health

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Certificate in TESOL
Others

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Postgraduate Certificate 2 programmes

Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education Teaching
Education & Teaching

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

How to apply to Tennessee State University

What applying to Tennessee State University involves, in five steps.

  1. 1
    Browse the programme catalogue

    Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Tennessee State University offers 49 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.

  2. 2
    Check eligibility for your chosen programme

    Each programme at Tennessee State University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.

  3. 3
    Get your documents ready

    Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.

  4. 4
    Apply through the official channel

    Apply directly via Tennessee State University's online portal at www.tnstate.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.

  5. 5
    Reach out and track your application

    After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (615) 963 5000. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tennessee State University

Common questions about Tennessee State University — answers from its published profile.

In what year was Tennessee State University established?

Tennessee State University was founded in 1912 (approximately 114 years ago).

What city is Tennessee State University in?

Tennessee State University operates from Nashville, United States.

Is Tennessee State University a public or private institution?

Tennessee State University operates as a public institution.

How big is Tennessee State University's student body?

Tennessee State University serves approximately 4,848 students.

How is Tennessee State University organised academically?

The institution comprises 12 academic units.

Who recognises Tennessee State University?

Tennessee State University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Where can I learn more about Tennessee State University?

The institution's website is www.tnstate.edu.

Top-Ranked Universities in the United States

Top the United States universities often run international branch campuses. Tennessee State University's international footprint compared to this benchmark signals global engagement scale.

Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), alongside Tennessee State University.

Faculties at nearby universities

Also in Nashville: universities located close to Tennessee State University.

Where Else to Study Others

Below: other the United States universities that offer Others programmes.

Universities Compared with Tennessee State University

Universities of a similar scale and standing to Tennessee State University are listed below.

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