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University of Memphis and Tennessee State University are both public institutions — University of Memphis in Memphis, TN and Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Memphis, TN · Public
Acceptance rate: 72.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 12,701
Tuition: $15,384/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 50.9%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Engineering
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Memphis, TN with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
Nashville, TN · Public
Acceptance rate: 70.1%
Undergrad enrollment: 4,848
Tuition: $22,416/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 34.0%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Nashville, TN with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | University of Memphis | Tennessee State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 72.0% | 70.1% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 915–1180 |
| 880–1050 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 18–24 | 16–21 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 12,701 | 4,848 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $15,384/year | $22,416/year |
| Average net price after aid | $12,397 | $15,796 |
| Graduation rate | 50.9% | 34.0% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $48,458 | $42,730 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Memphis, TN | Nashville, TN |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Health professions, Engineering | Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (72.0% vs 70.1%). University of Memphis has a lower average net price after grant aid ($12,397 vs $15,796). University of Memphis reports the higher graduation rate (50.9% vs 34.0%). University of Memphis is the larger undergraduate campus (12,701 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between University of Memphis and Tennessee State University
University of Memphis has an acceptance rate of 72.0%; Tennessee State University is around 70.1%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
University of Memphis tuition is $15,384/year. Tennessee State University is $22,416/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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