Cheapest Nursing Programs in Tennessee (2026)

50 accredited programs ranked by tuition cost. Starting from $14,560.

$14,560

Lowest tuition

$68,020

Avg RN salary in Tennessee

Select a degree type to see matched program recommendations and filter the tuition-ranked directory below.

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Below are nursing programs currently accepting applications from Tennessee residents. Each program will send tuition details and admission requirements directly — compare them with the tuition-ranked directory below.

Programs Ranked by Tuition (Low to High)

All programs are accredited and approved for NCLEX licensure. Financial aid eligibility varies by program type and accreditation.Showing BSN programs only.

Program	School	Degree	Format	Total Tuition	Duration	Financial Aid
BSN Completion	American Public University System	BSN	Online	$27,000	36 mo	Available	Details
BSN — Pre-Licensure	Aspen University	BSN	Online	$28,800	36 mo	Available	Details
BSN Completion	Excelsior University	BSN	Online	$30,000	36 mo	Available	Details
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Pre-Licensure)	Western Governors University	BSN	Online	$35,700	36 mo	Available	Details
BSN — Pre-Licensure	National University	BSN	Online	$45,000	36 mo	Available	Details
Accelerated BSN	Galen College of Nursing	BSN	On Campus	$46,860	15 mo	Available	Details
BSN Completion	Southern New Hampshire University	BSN	Online	$50,400	48 mo	Available	Details
BSN (Pre-Licensure Online)	Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences	BSN	Online	$52,000	36 mo	Available	Details
Accelerated BSN	Vanderbilt University	BSN	On Campus	$55,000	12 mo	Available	Details
BSN (Traditional)	University of Tennessee at Knoxville	BSN	On Campus	$55,000	48 mo	Available	Details
Accelerated BSN	Arizona College of Nursing	BSN	On Campus	$56,000	28 mo	Available	Details
Accelerated BSN	Duke University	BSN	On Campus	$78,000	16 mo	Available	Details

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Find programs with financial aid, scholarships, and flexible payment options.

💡 ROI Reality Check: At an average salary of $68,020/year in Tennessee, most nursing programs pay for themselves within 4 months of employment.

How to Find Affordable Nursing Programs in Tennessee

Community college ADN programs are typically the most affordable path to RN licensure, costing 60–80% less than private university BSN programs. Once you have your RN license, many hospitals will pay for you to complete an RN-to-BSN program — making the overall cost even lower.

Tennessee residents should investigate state-specific nursing scholarship programs. Many states offer loan forgiveness for nurses who work in rural or underserved areas for 2–4 years after graduation. The National Health Service Corps also offers up to $50,000 in loan repayment for nurses working in qualified shortage areas.

Always compare total program cost — not just per-semester tuition. Include fees, books, uniforms, clinical supplies, and exam fees (NCLEX registration is approximately $200). Some programs advertise low tuition but have high mandatory fees that significantly increase the actual cost.

Financial Aid Options for Tennessee Nursing Students

Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA)

All accredited nursing programs qualify for federal financial aid. Completing the FAFSA opens access to Pell Grants (up to $7,395/yr for qualifying students), subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford Loans, and work-study programs. Submit the FAFSA as early as possible — funds are limited and awarded on a rolling basis.

HRSA Nurse Corps Scholarship Program

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) offers scholarships covering tuition, fees, and a monthly living stipend for nursing students who commit to working in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) after graduation. This can eliminate tuition costs entirely for qualifying students.

Employer Tuition Assistance

Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer tuition reimbursement for RNs pursuing BSN or higher degrees. Working as a CNA or LPN while pursuing a BSN often qualifies you for employer tuition benefits — essentially getting your degree paid for while you work. Check with local Tennessee hospital systems for current benefit offerings.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Nurses employed at nonprofit hospitals, government facilities, or community health centers may qualify for PSLF after 10 years of qualifying payments. This can result in tens of thousands of dollars in loan forgiveness — particularly valuable for MSN and DNP graduates with higher loan balances.

Beyond Tuition: Licensing Costs in Tennessee

Tuition is the biggest upfront cost — but a complete budget includes ongoing licensing fees and continuing education.

License Renewal

2 years

Renewal cycle per Tennessee Board of Nursing

CE Requirement

None

No mandatory CE hours required in Tennessee

NLC Compact State

Yes

Your license is valid in 40+ other compact states — no re-licensing fee if you relocate or travel nurse.

Source: NCSBN 2024 data. Verify current fees at the Tennessee Board of Nursing →

All Programs in Tennessee Online Programs in Tennessee Affordable Programs in Tennessee Nursing Salary in Tennessee Cheapest Online BSN Programs NCLEX Pass Rates

How much does nursing school cost in Tennessee?

Nursing program costs in Tennessee vary significantly by degree level and institution type. LPN certificate programs at community colleges may cost as little as $5,000–$15,000. ADN programs typically range from $8,000–$25,000. BSN programs at public universities average $15,000–$40,000 for in-state students, while private institution BSN programs can reach $60,000–$80,000.

What is the most affordable nursing program in Tennessee?

Among programs we list with tuition data, the lowest total tuition is about $14,560. Community college ADN pathways often combine the lowest sticker price with a strong NCLEX prep track.

What financial aid is available for nursing students in Tennessee?

Nursing students in Tennessee can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid (Pell Grants, Stafford Loans) is available to eligible students at all accredited programs. The HRSA Nursing Workforce Diversity grants and Nurse Corps Scholarship Program offer significant support. Many states offer nursing-specific scholarships and loan forgiveness programs for graduates who work in high-need facilities. Always fill out the FAFSA before enrolling.

What is the ROI on a nursing degree in Tennessee?

At an average RN salary of $68,020 per year in Tennessee (BLS occupational data), nursing school often pays back quickly relative to tuition. A $14,560 program breaks even in about 4 months of estimated take-home income.

Is a cheaper nursing program a lower-quality program?

Not necessarily. Tuition cost and program quality are not the same thing. Community college ADN programs — among the most affordable options — often have strong NCLEX pass rates. Accreditation (ACEN or CCNE) guarantees a minimum quality standard regardless of price. Always check NCLEX first-time pass rates above 85% when evaluating any program.

What are the ongoing licensing costs for nurses in Tennessee?

Beyond tuition, Tennessee RNs renew their license every 2 years with no mandatory CE hours required. Tennessee is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) member state, so your license is valid in all 40+ other compact states — a significant long-term cost advantage if you ever relocate or work travel nursing contracts.

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