Home » Best Online Master’s Programs in Tennessee
Discover the best online master’s programs for 2026 in Tennessee with flexible options. Compare tuition, accreditation, and specializations to find your ideal graduate degree today.
Edited By Jeevan D'Souza
A dynamic mix of public and private institutions marks Tennessee’s higher education landscape. It offers diverse programs and is renowned for its strong research efforts, particularly in fields such as engineering, business, and agriculture. At the heart of the state’s commitment to education is the Tennessee Promise program, providing high school graduates with two years of tuition-free access to community and technical colleges, aiming to broaden educational opportunities.
Tennessee is also actively engaged in initiatives like Drive to 55 to increase the percentage of residents holding post-secondary credentials. Notably, universities like the University of Tennessee and Vanderbilt University are pivotal hubs for research and innovation, driving economic growth and technological advancements across the region.

OnlineMastersColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on-campus students and over 60,000 online students, making us one of the fastest-growing universities in the country. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, over our innovative online platform or at our regional centers in Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth and Salem, NH, and Brunswick, ME.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission oversees two key bodies: the University of Tennessee Board of Trustees and the Board of Regents of the State University and Community College System of Tennessee. Notable institutions in Tennessee include the University of Tennessee, with campuses in Knoxville, Memphis, Martin, and Chattanooga, as well as East Tennessee State University, the University of Memphis, and Tennessee State University. The state also features a range of community colleges and technical institutes. In addition to its public institutions, Tennessee is known for prestigious private colleges such as Vanderbilt University and the University of the South Sewanee, the University of the South. Fisk University is especially renowned as a historically black university.
For those interested in online master’s degrees in Tennessee, you’re in the right spot. Keep reading for specific information. If you’re looking for general master’s degree resources or program details, visit our resource page or explore the particular online master’s program you’re interested in.

Tennessee provides a variety of highly regarded master’s degree programs. Numerous academic subjects are offered by some of the state’s top universities. These are a few of the best ones and their programs, chosen using our unique methodology.
The University of Tennessee, founded in 1794, is known for its strong commitment to research, academic excellence, and contributions to the state’s development and innovation. The Knoxville campus is particularly renowned for its robust research initiatives. With a rich history and a diverse student body, the University of Tennessee plays a significant role in higher education and research in the region. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 25,067 (fall 2021), its setting is urban, and the campus size is 910 acres. It utilizes a semester-based academic calendar.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 71% | $11,468 |
East Tennessee State University is known for its commitment to academic excellence, particularly in healthcare-related disciplines. The university operates the Quillen College of Medicine and the Gatton College of Pharmacy, contributing to healthcare education and research in the region. ETSU is also known for its vibrant campus community and diverse student population, making it a vital institution in East Tennessee. East Tennessee State University’s total enrolment is 327,462 students.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 50% | $8,640 |
Middle Tennessee State University is a public institution founded in 1911. It has a total enrollment of 20,086 (Fall 2022). The University has eight undergraduate colleges, offering more than 40 departments and more than 140 degree programs. Our College of Graduate Studies offers more than 100 degree programs. MTSU is the No. 1 choice for our state’s transfer students, the No. 1 provider of graduates to the Greater Nashville economy (second-largest producer of graduates in the state) and the No. 1 choice of adults (ages 25 and up) seeking a four-year degree.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 54.6% | $3,708 |
Tennessee State University, established in 1912, offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in education, healthcare, business, engineering, and the arts and sciences. It is recognized as one of the nation’s historically black universities and is dedicated to promoting academic excellence, research, and community engagement. With its central location in Nashville, Tennessee State University contributes significantly to the region’s higher education and cultural enrichment. Tennessee State University’s enrolment is 8,077 students.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 26% | $9,276 |

The University of Tennessee, founded in 1794, offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs spanning various disciplines, including engineering, business, health sciences, and liberal arts. University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has an enrollment of 33,805.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 54% | $9,096 |
The University of Memphis, established in 1912, offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across various fields, including business, health sciences, engineering, liberal arts, and the sciences. It is known for its commitment to research, academic excellence, and substantial influence on the Memphis community and the Mid-South region. University of Memphis’ enrolment is 16,702.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 52% | $9,216 |
Tennessee Technological University, founded in 1915, offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in engineering, business, education, health sciences, and the liberal arts. The university’s strong emphasis on engineering and technology programs has earned it recognition in these fields. With a dynamic campus community and reputation for producing well-prepared graduates, Tennessee Technological University plays a pivotal role in the state’s higher education and workforce development. It has an undergraduate enrolment of 8,537.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 57% | $10,280 |
Austin Peay State University, established in 1927, has evolved into a comprehensive institution offering various undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across different academic disciplines. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and strong military presence, APSU provides a vibrant campus environment and a rich history of producing successful alumni in politics and sports. Austin Peay State University’s 8,418 undergraduates.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 48% | $8,100 |
Milligan University, established in 1866, has a rich history of providing quality higher education rooted in Christian values. The university offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across multiple disciplines. Milligan University is known for its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and its distinctive Christian perspective in education.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 65% | $8,755 |
| Programs Offered | Links |
|---|---|
| MBA | Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Milligan University |
| Master of Education – Curriculum & Teaching, MEd. | Education: Curriculum and Teaching (M.Ed.) – Milligan University |
| MS in Information Systems, MSIS | Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Milligan University |
King University, established in 1867, has a longstanding history of providing quality education with a Christian foundation. King University offers various undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in multiple fields, including business, healthcare, education, and the arts. The university is known for its commitment to academic excellence, small class sizes, and a supportive community that fosters personal and intellectual growth. King University’s 1,356 undergraduates.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 50% | $19,500 |
Lipscomb University, founded in 1891, has a rich heritage of providing a high-quality education with a Christian perspective. Lipscomb University offers various undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across different academic disciplines, including business, education, healthcare, and the arts. The university is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and faith-based education. With a vibrant campus in the heart of Nashville, Lipscomb provides students with a dynamic learning environment and numerous opportunities for personal and academic growth while instilling Christian values and ethics. Lipscomb University has an enrollment of 4,729 students.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 69% | $18,000 |
| Programs Offered | Links |
|---|---|
| Master of Professional Studies | Professional Studies | Lipscomb Online |
| MA Organizational Leadership | Organizational Leadership | Lipscomb Online |
| Public Administration, MPA | Public Administration | Lipscomb Online |
Johnson University, established in 1893, Johnson University has a strong Christian heritage and offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and seminary programs. The university is known for its commitment to combining a quality education with a Christian worldview. It provides students with opportunities to grow academically and spiritually. Johnson University has 658 students enrolled in undergraduate programs.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 63% | $11,750 |
| Programs Offered | Links |
|---|---|
| MA in Intercultural Studies | Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies Degree – Johnson University |
| MA in New Testament | Master of Arts in New Testament Degree – Johnson University |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree – Johnson University |
| Master of Strategic Ministry (requires on-site ministry residency) | Master of Strategic Ministry Degree – Johnson University |
Union University, established in 1823, is one of the oldest higher education institutions affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. Union University offers various undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in business, education, healthcare, and the liberal arts. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and Christian values, Union University has 1,998 undergraduate students.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 66% | $10,625 |
Bryan College, established in 1930, has a strong Christian foundation and offers a variety of undergraduate programs in fields such as business, education, the humanities, and the sciences. The college’s educational approach emphasizes developing critical thinking skills, ethical leadership, and a strong sense of community. Bryan College’s intake is 1,376 undergraduates.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 47% | $9,630 |
Trevecca Nazarene University is known for its commitment to Christian values, community engagement, and academic excellence. It provides students a supportive environment where faith and learning are integrated, preparing them for meaningful careers and service in their communities and worldwide. Trevecca Nazarene University has enrolled 1,917 students in undergraduate programs.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 56% | $8,982 |
Carson-Newman University, founded in 1851, has a long history of providing quality education with a Christian perspective. It offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in fields such as business, education, healthcare, and the humanities. Carson-Newman University has 2,835 students enrolled.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 52% | $9,387 |
| Programs Offered | Links |
|---|---|
| MBA | Master of Business Administration (MBA) | Carson-Newman (cn.edu) |
| MS in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) | Online MSN-FNP Program | BSN to FNP | Carson-Newman University (cn.edu) |
Cumberland University was established in 1842; it is one of Tennessee’s oldest higher education institutions and has a rich history. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence and providing a well-rounded education that fosters critical thinking and personal growth. It has a strong sense of community and values-driven education. Cumberland University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 2,257 (fall 2021) and prepares students for successful careers and service in their communities and beyond.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 54% | $7,020 |
Lee University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in multiple fields, including business, education, music, the arts, and the sciences. The college is renowned for its commitment to Christian values, academic excellence, and a vibrant community. It strongly emphasizes the integration of faith and learning, encouraging students to grow spiritually and intellectually. Lee University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 3,950 (fall 2021).
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 63% | $14,130 |
| Programs Offered | Links |
|---|---|
| MA in Ministry Studies | Program: Master of Arts, Ministry Studies (Distance) (MINOL.MA) – Lee University – Acalog ACMS™ |
| MBA | Master of Business Administration – Lee University |
| MM in Music Education | Program: Master of Music, Music Education (Distance) (MMEOL.MM) – Lee University – Acalog ACMS™ |
| MS in Marriage and Family Studies | Program: Master of Science, Marriage and Family Studies (Distance) (MFSOL.MS) – Lee University – Acalog ACMS™ |
Lincoln Memorial University, established in 1897, offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in fields such as business, healthcare, education, the humanities, and the sciences. The university is known for its commitment to quality education and strongly emphasizes community engagement and service. LMU prepares students for successful careers and active roles in their communities. Lincoln Memorial University has an undergraduate enrolment of 5418.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 53% | $20,705 |
| Programs Offered | Links |
|---|---|
| MBA | Master of Business Administration (MBA) (lmunet.edu) |
| MS in Nursing (MSN): Family Nurse Practitioner | Family Nurse Practitioner (lmunet.edu) |
| MSN: Nurse Anesthesia | Nurse Anesthesia (lmunet.edu) |
| MSN: Family Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner | Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (lmunet.edu) |
| Professional- counseling | Professional Counseling (MEd) (lmunet.edu) |
| Master of Public Administration (MPA) | Master of Public Administration (MPA) (lmunet.edu) |
| MS in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) | Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) (lmunet.edu) |
Tennessee Wesleyan University, established in 1857, offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, the arts, and the sciences. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence and values-driven education. It emphasizes developing critical thinking skills, ethical leadership, and a sense of social responsibility among its students. The university places a strong emphasis on community engagement and service. Tennessee Wesleyan University has 974 undergraduates.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 48% | $18,490 |
| Programs Offered | Links |
|---|---|
| MBA | MBA (tnwesleyan.edu) |
| MSN | Online Master of Science in Nursing | Tennessee Wesleyan University (tnwesleyan.edu) |
| MA in Teaching (MAT) – Hybrid | MAT (tnwesleyan.edu) |
Tusculum University, established in 1794, is one of the oldest higher education institutions in the state and has a deep historical significance. It offers various undergraduate and graduate programs across different academic disciplines, including business, education, healthcare, and the liberal arts. Known for its rich history and commitment to academic excellence, the University provides students with a strong foundation in critical thinking, communication, and ethical leadership. Tusculum University’s undergraduate enrolment is 1,234.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 36% | $7,200 |
| Programs Offered | Links |
|---|---|
| Business Administration (MBA) | Master of Business Administration ⋆ TUSCULUM UNIVERSITY |
| MA in Education -Curriculum & Instruction | MASTER OF ARTS IN EDUCATION – CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION – COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (tusculum.edu) |
| MA -Organizational Training | MASTER OF ARTS IN ORGANIZATIONAL TRAINING & PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT – COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (tusculum.edu) |
| MA in Education -Special Education | MASTER OF ARTS IN EDUCATION – SPECIAL EDUCATION – COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (tusculum.edu) |
| Entrepreneurial Leadership (MSEL) | MS Entrepreneurial Leadership | Tusculum University |
| Sports Administration, MA | Online Master’s in Sport Management | Tusculum University |
Vanderbilt University is a prestigious private research university in Nashville, Tennessee, USA. Established in 1873, it is known for its world-class academic programs and research initiatives across various fields, including medicine, engineering, business, and the humanities. It is recognized for its commitment to excellence and innovation in education and research. Vanderbilt University’s undergraduate enrolment is 7,151.
| Grad rate | Tuition fees |
|---|---|
| 93% | $50,082 |
| Programs Offered | Links |
|---|---|
| Master of Education in Human Development Counseling with a specialization in School Counseling | Online Education Programs – Peabody | Vanderbilt University Online |
| MS in Computer Science | Vanderbilt Online Engineering | Computer Science |
| Master of Engineering in Engineering Management | Vanderbilt Online Engineering | Engineering Management |
| MS in Nursing | MSN | School of Nursing | Vanderbilt University |
Take our free GRE mock test and get expert
insights into your prep.