The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
The Vibe Check
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga feels like a dynamic urban campus where the classroom extends into the city's thriving business and outdoor scenes. There's a palpable energy here, fueled by the proximity to downtown and the scenic Tennessee River, creating a blend of focused academics and adventurous spirit. Students often describe it as a place where practical learning meets the lively pulse of a mid-sized city.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
UTC is recognized for its strong ties to the local economy, particularly in business, engineering, and health sciences, offering students relevant, career-focused programs. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and undergraduate research opportunities, especially through its unique partnership with the nearby Erlanger Health System. Teaching quality is bolstered by accessible faculty dedicated to mentoring students in a collaborative environment.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Chattanooga
Chattanooga offers an incredible outdoor playground for students, with easy access to rock climbing at Lookout Mountain, hiking on scenic trails, and kayaking on the Tennessee River. The city's vibrant downtown, just a short walk or shuttle ride from campus, is filled with trendy restaurants, live music venues, and the famous Tennessee Aquarium. Students can also enjoy a growing arts scene, local breweries, and major events like the Riverbend Festival.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($51,151):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus has its own dedicated police force and offers extensive safety programs like the MocsSafe mobile app for emergency alerts. While the urban setting requires standard city awareness, the campus itself is generally considered safe, with well-lit pathways and active community policing.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable tuition, especially for in-state students, leading to lower debt.
- ✓ Prime urban location in a vibrant city known for outdoor recreation and growing tech/healthcare sectors.
- ✓ Strong co-op and internship programs that integrate real-world experience into the curriculum.
- ✓ The campus is located directly on the Tennessee River, offering beautiful views and recreational access.
Cons
- ✗ The retention rate of 74.5% suggests a notable percentage of students do not return for their sophomore year.
- ✗ As a commuter-heavy campus, the traditional 'college town' residential experience may feel less pronounced for some.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UTC is particularly known for its strong College of Business, its engineering and computer science programs, and its unique partnership with the Erlanger Health System for health sciences education. The university also stands out for its cooperative education (co-op) program, which provides students with paid, full-time work experience in their field of study, a significant advantage in the job market.
No, The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 77.02%. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1117, making it an accessible option for many applicants. While admissions are not extremely competitive, a solid academic record is still recommended for consideration.
Campus life at UTC is a blend of academic focus and urban exploration. With a large commuter population, the social scene is vibrant but can be what you make of it; getting involved in student organizations is key. Students take advantage of the city's outdoor amenities and downtown attractions, creating a lifestyle that extends beyond the campus boundaries.
For in-state students, UTC is an excellent financial value, offering a quality education at a very affordable price with a solid post-graduation earning potential of $51,150 median salary. The strong co-op program and career services significantly enhance the return on investment by providing practical, paid experience. For out-of-state students, the value is still competitive, especially when compared to the cost of private universities.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 10,550
- In-State Tuition $10,144
- Out-of-State $18,208
- Zip Code 37403
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $12,817 and significantly lower in-state tuition, UTC offers a high-value education, especially for Tennessee residents. The 10-year median earnings of $51,151 suggest a solid return on investment, positioning graduates well for financial stability. For out-of-state students, the value proposition is still strong compared to many private institutions, particularly when considering the career outcomes in a growing city.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.