10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Chattanooga, TN
Learn about the best colleges and universities in and around Chattanooga, Tennessee. Get answers to common questions about paying for college and choosing the right school in Chattanooga.
If you live in Chattanooga, Tennessee, or the surrounding communities, you may be curious about the educational opportunities near you.
If so, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll discuss some top colleges and universities in and around Chattanooga and answer some related questions you may have.
Featured Colleges in Chattanooga, TN
Let's take a look at some top colleges located in Chattanooga as well as the surrounding towns of Collegedale, Cleveland, Dayton, and Lookout Mountain.
1. University of Tennessee - Chattanooga
The University of Tennessee - Chattanooga is a public school affiliated with the University of Tennessee System. It has around 11,500 students.
The school offers a wealth of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in health, education, arts and sciences, business, and other major fields.
Most students complete their degree on-campus; however, the school offers a fully online MBA program for qualifying students.
2. Southern Adventist University
Southern Adventist University is located in Collegedale, near Chattanooga. The private school enrolls nearly 3,000 students.
Though it started as a junior college, this school now awards both undergraduate and graduate degrees in various disciplines.
The school offers generous scholarship and financial aid opportunities to significantly limit the out-of-pocket expenses for most students.
3. Chattanooga State Community College
Chattanooga State Community College is a large junior college in Chattanooga. It enrolls more than 10,000 students.
This school offers over 150 associate degrees, diplomas, and certificate programs. Some of these are transfer programs meant to be completed at a four-year school; others are short-term career-focused programs that can help you get a job right out of school.
Students complete their programs through campus-based studies and hands-on learning experiences, making them career-ready from day one.
4. Miller-Motte College
Miller-Motte College is a private school with locations throughout the southeastern U.S., including one in Chattanooga.
This school provides technical training in fields such as healthcare, business, technology, and trade. Most programs lead to associate degrees, certificates, or diplomas.
Both online and campus-based programs are available.
5. Chattanooga College
Chattanooga College is a technical school with a focus on healthcare and medical professions.
The school offers short-term certificate and diploma programs in various health-related disciplines. An associate degree in health science and a bachelor's degree in nursing are also available.
Flexible and career-focused programs are a great option for nontraditional students looking to change or advance their careers.
6. Lee University
Lee University is a private Christian school in Cleveland, east of Chattanooga. This school enrolls around 4,000 students.
Students can choose from a wide array of graduate and undergraduate degrees as well as short-term certificate programs.
Various online degrees and certificates are available in addition to more traditional in-person programs.
7. Richmont Graduate University
Richmont Graduate University is a small private school in Chattanooga. It has fewer than 300 students and has been around since 1933.
The unique thing about this school is that it offers only graduate-level degrees and certificates. Some of the degree options include:
- Mental Health Counseling
- Ministry
- Anglican Studies
Some of the degrees are available online. In addition to providing advanced education to students, the school also offers counseling services to the community.
8. Covenant College
Covenant College is a private Christian school located in Lookout Mountain, Georgia, not far from Chattanooga.
This school provides graduate and undergraduate degree programs on campus, as well as the opportunity to study abroad.
Students can take advantage of work-study programs and generous scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help them cut down on the cost of their education.
9. Omega Graduate School
Omega Graduate School is a small private institution in Dayton, north of Chattanooga. This school enrolls around 100 graduate-level students.
The school offers the following degrees:
- Master of Letters
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Doctor of Social Leadership
A graduate certificate in 'gracism studies' is also available.
10. Bryan College
Bryan College is a small Christian school in Dayton. It serves around 1,600 students and provides an education from a Christian perspective.
The school offers more than 50 degree programs across a variety of fields. Most of these programs lead to undergraduate degrees, though graduate degrees are also available.
Some programs are offered in traditional campus settings, while others are offered exclusively online.
What Is the Biggest School Near Chattanooga, TN?
The biggest school in Chattanooga is the University of Tennessee - Chattanooga, which enrolls more than 11,500 students. A close second place goes to Chattanooga State Community College, which has over 10,000 students.
How to Choose the Right College Near Chattanooga, TN
Not sure where to start when it comes to choosing a college? Put some thought into what your college priorities may be.
Are you looking for a particular degree program? Make sure the school you choose has that program.
Are you undecided on a major but need a budget-friendly option? Choose a school with low tuition rates and good financial aid options.
There are a wide variety of factors you could consider. Make a list of the things that matter most to you when choosing a college; knowing your priorities will make it easier to decide.
Paying for Your Degree Near Chattanooga, TN
Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a good first step when figuring out how to pay for college. The FAFSA will show whether you are eligible for federal and state aid.
Scholarships can also help you cover costs, as can your GI Bill benefits if you are a veteran or active-duty military member.
You may also want to check with your employer to find out if the company offers tuition assistance as a benefit.
Alternatively, you can apply for your school's work-study program, which will help you work off your college expenses.
Start Your Degree Near Chattanooga, TN Today
Ready to go back to school? Check out each of the Chattanooga-area colleges discussed in this article to find out which one best fits your budget and lifestyle.