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Tennessee Nursing At a Glance

MetricDetail
Median Nursing Salary$96,585
National ComparisonTennessee offers competitive entry-level wages, though median salaries are currently 12.3% below the national trend.
Primary Licensing BodyTennessee Board of Nursing
Accreditation RequiredInstitutional + Regional

Earning an online nursing degree in Tennessee offers a flexible path to a high-demand career. Tennessee offers competitive entry-level wages, though median salaries are currently 12.3% below the national trend. Whether you’re looking for an affordable in-state option or a top-ranked national program, Tennessee students have access to a variety of accredited online choices that balance quality and cost.


Top Online Nursing Schools in Tennessee

The following schools offer accredited online nursing programs and are ranked based on affordability, graduation rates, and student outcomes in Tennessee.

How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only -- always confirm details directly with each school.

#1

Southern Adventist University

Collegedale, TN In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 67%
Graduation rate 52%
Tuition
In‑state$25,590
Out‑of‑state$25,590
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 34

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#2

Herzing University-Nashville

Nashville, TN In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 91%
Tuition
In‑state$13,420
Out‑of‑state$13,420
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 6

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard


Career Outlook and Salaries in Tennessee

Nursing professionals in Tennessee experience a dynamic job market with competitive wages. Below are the median annual salaries for key roles in the field, based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for Tennessee.

OccupationMedian Annual Salary (Tennessee)
Registered Nurse$79,030
Licensed Practical Nurse$54,530
Nurse Anesthetist$203,400
Nurse Midwife$97,380
Nurse Practitioner$108,420
Nursing Assistant$36,750

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.


Why Pursue an Online Nursing Degree in Tennessee?

Choosing a program in Tennessee can provide several advantages:

  • In-State Tuition: Many public universities in Tennessee offer lower tuition rates for residents, even for online programs.
  • Local Networking: Attending a school within your state can make it easier to connect with local employers and professional organizations.
  • Licensing Alignment: Local nursing programs are designed to meet Tennessee Board of Nursing requirements, facilitating your path to RN or APRN licensure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are online nursing programs in Tennessee accredited?

Yes, the programs listed above are accredited by recognized regional or national agencies. For Tennessee, this includes accreditation from agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, ensuring your degree meets high academic standards.

How does Nursing pay in Tennessee compare to other states?

Tennessee offers competitive entry-level wages, though median salaries are currently 12.3% below the national trend. This makes Tennessee a strong choice for students looking to maximize their ROI after graduation.

What is the primary licensing board for nursing in Tennessee?

The Tennessee Board of Nursing oversees professional standards and licensure for the field in Tennessee. Most accredited programs are designed to align with their specific requirements.


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