Tennessee Nursing Colleges, Degrees & Licenses
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“The decision to go to nursing school is a big decision and one that will require a strong commitment and sacrifices from you and your loved ones. This sacrifice is temporary and the reward is big, but it is not easy.”
Terri A. Clark, EdD, Associate Professor, Austin Peay State University
Nurses are essential to the healthcare system. In Tennessee, despite having over 100,000 registered nurses, there is currently a shortage. According to an October 2022 report prepared by GlobalData for the Tennessee Hospital Association, Tennessee faced a shortfall of 15,700 registered nurses (RNs) in 2021. An extrapolation of current supply numbers and related patterns leads to a predicted shortfall of 8,500 RNs by 2035.
Factors cited as contributing to the shortage include an aging demographic within the nursing profession that ultimately leads to a sustained high retirement rate for years to come, an increase in diseases among those who continue to work that thereby impacts their availability and productivity, and a lack of nursing faculty actively training new nurses. The Covid-19 pandemic also exacted a heavy toll on healthcare professionals both within Tennessee and throughout the nation.
Another major factor ultimately impacting workforce resiliency and patient outcomes is a current regulation that impacts the state’s advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Examples include nurse practitioners, certified registered nurse anesthetists, certified nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists. The current regulation requires APRNs to collaborate with physicians. In doing so, this regulation limits the geographic scope within which APRNs may easily practice and thereby often restricts access to care in the communities that are in most need of care, especially rural communities where physician practices are less likely to base their operations.
If APRNs were untethered from physician practices and given full practice authority, they could more easily meet the needs of people living in the more than two dozen primary care shortage areas in Tennessee. Providing better-quality care more promptly could reduce the frequency of worsening health problems that require hospitalization. A lower hospitalization rate would improve the resiliency and productivity of the state’s workforce, thereby strengthening the state’s economy.
Tennessee features a variety of academic programs for nursing professionals seeking to begin or advance their careers. These programs vary in terms of duration, intensity, and complexity. Like many states, Tennessee struggles to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare in its rural regions. Nursing professionals aspiring to work with rural populations will thus find ample opportunities to apply their skills.
Discover Tennessee’s top undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, along with salary expectations and licensing requirements for a nursing career in this state.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
Meet the Expert: Terri A. Clark, EdD, MSN, RN
Dr. Terri Clark is an associate professor in the College of Education at Austin Peay State University. She brings extensive experience as a nurse educator and registered nurse to her teaching, research, and mentorship.
Dr. Clark’s work focuses on nursing education, leadership, and the integration of technology and holistic approaches in healthcare. She has published on topics including technostress, the ethical use of artificial intelligence, and nursing workforce development, advancing nursing scholarship and practice.
NursingColleges.com: What do you wish the public understood about nursing programs in Tennessee?
Dr. Clark: I have been a nursing educator for approximately 20 years now. I have found that many are not aware of the different levels of nursing education and what they mean.
People can become a nurse with typically an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree (which is usually at least two to four years of school) and sit for the same national exam to become a registered nurse (RN). There are also licensed practical nurse (LPN) programs, which take one to two years, and have a different scope of practice than RNs. Many of the people providing care in doctors’ offices and clinics may be medical assistants or certified nursing assistants, who require much less schooling and sometimes only a certificate.
NursingColleges.com: What advice would you give to aspiring online nursing students in Tennessee?
Dr. Clark: The decision to go to nursing school is a big decision and one that will require a strong commitment and sacrifices from you and your loved ones. This sacrifice is temporary and the reward is big, but it is not easy.
I encourage online nursing students to stay connected with their peers and instructors through regular communication. I encourage a time-blocking plan, where you create a schedule for when you will study, prepare for exams, complete assignments, and participate in clinical hours.
Be cautious in the use of any artificial intelligence (AI). While it is a tool, you want to be sure that you are learning the material so that you can pass the national exam required at the end of your program, and also so that you can be a safe, competent nurse to your patients.
Meet the Expert: Dena Evans, EdD, MPH, MSN, RN, CNE, CNL
Dr. Dena Evans is the dean of the College of Nursing at East Tennessee State University (ETSU), where she provides strategic leadership for one of Tennessee’s largest and most impactful nursing programs. She joined ETSU in January 2025 after serving as vice dean of faculty and academic affairs at the University of South Florida College of Nursing.
Dr. Evans holds a doctoral degree in education from North Carolina State University and master’s degrees in nursing and public health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She completed a fellowship with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s AACN‑Wharton Executive Leadership Program and has earned recognition for her teaching, research, and service. Her scholarship focuses on increasing access and success for underserved and underrepresented nursing students, expanding the nursing workforce, and advancing health equity.
NursingColleges.com: What do you wish the public understood about nursing programs in Tennessee?
Dr. Evans: Professional nursing programs are not only rigorous but vital to addressing the state’s healthcare workforce shortage. They balance high academic standards with the urgent need for more bedside and advanced practice nurses, and many programs are working hard to expand access—especially in rural areas where healthcare gaps are most severe.
Public support and investment are critical to ensuring these programs can continue to produce well-prepared nurses who serve communities across Tennessee.
NursingColleges.com: What advice would you give to aspiring online nursing students in Tennessee?
Dr. Evans: Treat online learning with the same discipline as in-person classes. Build strong time-management habits, stay engaged with faculty and peers, and take advantage of clinical placement opportunities early. Most importantly, remember that nursing is about service—your education is not just a credential, but preparation to meet the real needs of Tennesseans in a challenging healthcare environment.
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in Tennessee
The Austin Peay State University (APSU) School of Nursing offers a bachelor of science degree in nursing. This pre-licensure program offers two concentrations. One of these concentrations is the online RN-to-BSN concentration.
Students develop skills through evidence-based learning and practice. The curriculum follows the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s professional nursing standards and the American Nurses’ Association Code of Ethics. Students complete three semesters of nursing prerequisite courses and five semesters of nursing courses. Upon graduation, students can take the
National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for registered nurse licensure.
Graduates emerge with several skills, including evidence-based practice to support optimal patient outcomes; a capacity to synthesize, analyze, and disseminate knowledge in support of patient care; the effective use of varied methodologies and healthcare technologies to provide quality care; and self-care and professional skills necessary to sustain a lifelong nursing career.
- Location: Clarksville, TN
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The Belmont University Gordon E. Inman College of Nursing offers a 128-credit bachelor of science in nursing degree program. This student-centered program provides an education within a caring Christian community defined by openness, mutual respect, and compassion. This academically challenging program trains diverse student cohorts in the skills necessary to become intelligent, compassionate, and courageous nursing professionals.
Features of this program include direct admission into the nursing program with nursing coursework beginning in the first semester, exceptional faculty who serve as both mentors and advisors, small class and clinical groups, an accredited nursing simulation center with state-of-the-art facilities, and five dedicated nursing labs, and participation in interdisciplinary simulations and service projects with students in social work, pharmacy, OT, PT, public health and graduate nursing programs. In addition, May 2023 program graduates achieved a 98.5 percent pass rate on their first attempt at the NCLEX.
Graduates discover various career possibilities in areas including hospital-based acute care, intensive and emergency care, specialty population care, case management, public health and community-based nursing, and research nursing.
- Location: Nashville, TN
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The Cumberland University Jeanette C. Rudy School of Nursing offers a bachelor of science in nursing degree program. The program was ranked first in Tennessee in 2021 based on its NCLEX pass rate.
The program offers two tracks: a direct path to a BSN and a track for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to earn a BSN. Qualities this program seeks in applicants include scholarship, caring, resilience, integrity, collaboration, service, passion, vision, excellence, professionalism, motivation, and a commitment to excellence.
The BSN track curriculum features a requirement of 1,080 clinical hours and experiential and service learning, such as transcultural learning abroad nursing trips, using state-of-the-art human simulators, and participation in community health fairs designed to promote wellness in middle Tennessee. Graduates may work in many nursing specialty areas, including flight nursing, palliative care, telehealth, informatics, midwifery, and forensics.
The LPN-to-BSN track is designed to supplement the knowledge LPNs already hold, such that they can obtain a BSN and expand their career possibilities. Students of this track begin nursing courses in their first semester. This program features full- and part-time options with hybrid courses available in an asynchronous online format. Students can receive credit for prior training relevant to their LPN studies, enabling them to complete this program in as few as four semesters.
- Location: Lebanon, TN
- Duration: Four years for BSN; as short as four semesters for LPN-BSN track
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
East Tennessee State University
East Tennessee State University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate nursing degree options. This entry profiles only two of the undergraduate programs offered. Prospective applicants should search the website for more information on the school’s programs. ETSU programs can be especially suitable for students interested in a future career focused on rural practice.
The ETSU Accelerated BSN program is a 72-credit bachelor’s degree that allows students to complete a route to licensure in just five semesters. This program emphasizes leadership, evidence-based nursing practice, and culturally relevant care.
Students complete their clinical experience requirement within the largest health systems in the region. The program is offered in Johnson City, Kingsport, and Sevierville. This degree is awarded after completing all nursing coursework qualifying you to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
The traditional BSN program is a four-year program featuring university general education courses (three semesters) and nursing major coursework (five semesters). To become a BSN major, applicants enroll at ETSU as a health professions nursing Interest major, change majors, or transfer to ETSU from another college or university. Successful graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
- Location: Programs are offered in varied cities; see website for details
- Duration: Five to eight semesters (four years) depending on education level and degree requirements upon entry
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The Freed Hardeman University Department of Nursing offers a four-year bachelor of science in nursing degree program. This program, based on a foundation of Christian values, trains students in the nursing knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to provide holistic care to individuals, groups, and entire communities.
The bachelor’s degree curriculum is divided into two sections. One section comprises general education coursework in disciplines such as the natural sciences, behavioral sciences, liberal arts, and humanities. This section also includes 16 credits of Bible study. The second section is 54 credits of nursing major coursework. Topics within nursing include concepts of nursing, skills for healthcare professionals, care of diverse patient populations, and promotion, maintenance, and restoration of health.
- Location: Henderson, TN
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Lipscomb University offers students a learning environment featuring a Christ-centered, professional faculty dedicated to training nursing professionals in the art of healing and nurturing both body and soul.
Lipscomb University offers students three pathways to obtain a bachelor of science in nursing. Students may enter as freshmen through the direct admit pathway. Undeclared Lipscomb undergraduate and transfer students may enter after completing prerequisites via the transfer pathway. The third path, the RN-BSN pathway, is open to registered nurses with an associate’s degree in nursing.
The pre-licensure bachelor of science degree in nursing is designed for students with minimal or no prior experience in nursing. It is the common pathway for recently graduated high school students. This 128-credit program features education in a number of topics including critical care, obstetrics, pediatrics, mental health, and community-based learning. The curriculum also features a nursing capstone course in the student’s final semester. This course prepares the senior nursing student to enter professional practice. It also enhances students’ knowledge and confidence so they can successfully sit for the (NCLEX-RN).
- Location: Nashville, TN
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in Tennessee
Carson-Newman University, ranked as one of the most affordable Christian universities in the nation, offers a 46-credit master of science in nursing degree with a track for those seeking to become family nurse practitioners (MSN-FNP). This program is designed for full-time nurse professionals who already hold a BSN. This program is fully online and provides the flexibility often essential for busy working professionals to pursue their education concurrently.
The curriculum also has a clinical requirement—a critical part of education in many healthcare profession training programs. It typically provides real-life practice under expert supervision and may also serve as a networking experience that introduces students to potential employers. A placement specialist will assist students by providing comprehensive clinical placement services. This assistance includes ensuring a proposed clinical site meets program and state-specific requirements. Students can complete clinical placements in women’s health, pediatrics, or primary care. The total clinical hours required range from 660 to 690.
- Location: Jefferson City, TN
- Duration: 32 months or more
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Cumberland University offers a master of science in nursing (MSN) program with two concentration options. Those options are nurse educator and nurse executive leadership and administration. The MSN program offers an evidence-based curriculum designed to fulfill its mission of training nursing professionals to work effectively in various educational and leadership roles in the ever-changing healthcare industry.
The nurse educator concentration prepares nurses to work in educational roles in academia, healthcare organizations, and healthcare systems. This concentration reviews learning theories, research, and best practices in nursing education. The program prepares students to develop curricula, deliver content, and perform assessments of program outcomes. The executive leadership and administration concentration prepares students to develop and apply the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully manage healthcare quality and patient safety.
- Location: Lebanon, TN
- Duration: Five semesters
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
East Tennessee State University
East Tennessee State University offers a wealth of nursing undergraduate and graduate degree options. This entry profiles only two of the graduate programs offered. Prospective applicants should thoroughly search the university website for more information on the school’s diverse program offerings.
The BSN/MSN-to-PhD program is especially suited to students dedicated to scholarship who wish to make a noteworthy contribution to nursing. This program prepares nurse scientists to apply research and scholarship skills to improve individualized healthcare and healthcare delivery systems. This program features a blended/online curriculum and interprofessional learning experiences and emphasizes using research to improve outcomes for patients, communities, and healthcare delivery systems. Part-time students may complete this program in ten semesters, while full-time students may complete it in as few as seven. This timeline includes all program features, including preparation for and completion of the student’s dissertation.
The fully online RN-MSN program provides nursing professionals with advanced knowledge in a specific focus area at the master’s level. This program offers specialty concentrations in nursing administration, psychiatric-mental health nurse practice, nursing education, and family nurse practitioner. The curriculum features interprofessional and simulation experiences.
Applicants seeking admission to the MSN program must fulfill all requirements for admission to the ETSU College of Graduate Studies. They must hold an RN license and a non-nursing BA/BS degree.
- Location: Programs are offered in varied cities; see website for details
- Duration: Between five and ten semesters, depending on program and pace of study
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) offers a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree program with multiple concentration options. These options include family nurse practitioner (FNP), family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMH), and nursing administration. The time commitment and number of credits required for graduation vary by concentration. Requirements such as clinical placements, directed/research/capstone projects, and certification exams also vary among the concentrations. Full- and part-time study options are typically available for these programs.
Upon completion of their concentration, graduates may fill a range of roles in the nursing profession. Given the wide range of potential roles across these concentrations, students pursuing an MSN at LMU will likely be able to find a concentration that aligns with their specialization.
- Location: Harrogate, TN
- Duration: 17 to 28 months, depending on concentration and pace of study
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Middle Tennessee State University
The Middle Tennessee State University School of Nursing has offered a graduate nursing program since 2005. The master of science degree in nursing (MSN) program is designed to accommodate working professionals who need flexibility as a prerequisite for continuing their education. Except for required clinical rotations, students complete coursework online.
Students may choose from one of two concentrations. They may train to become a family nurse practitioner (FNP) or a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). Both concentrations offer options to complete the programs in four or five semesters. All programs require the completion of 42 credit hours.
- Location: Murfreesboro, TN
- Duration: Four to five semesters
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
The Southern Adventist University School of Nursing offers a variety of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral-level nursing programs. This entry focuses specifically on two master ‘s-level programs.
The accelerated RN-to-MSN program enables RNs to complete the BS and MSN nursing coursework requirements more quickly, ultimately earning a master’s degree. No BS degree is awarded unless a student chooses not to complete the accelerated program but instead completes the regular BS program requirements. This program requires 50 to 62 credits and offers five concentrations. These concentrations are acute care/adult gerontology nurse practitioner, nurse educator, and three focus areas within the role of primary care practitioner: family nurse practitioner, adult/gerontology practitioner, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
The master of science in nursing program is designed for experienced nurses who seek professional advancement without the necessity of obtaining a terminal degree. The MSN program is structured to meet essential MSN competencies through core and emphasis classes. This program features the same concentration options as the accelerated program mentioned above. Students complete anywhere between 44 and 56 credits to graduate.
- Location: Collegedale, TN
- Duration: Two years for strictly master’s degree programs and up to four years for the accelerated RN to MSN program
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Regularly ranked as one of the nation’s top Christian universities, Union University integrates academics with Christian faith throughout all its programs of study. The Union University College of Nursing offers a master of science degree (MSN) in nursing. This program educates students in advanced theory as well as practice in a specialty area of nursing.
Students may choose from one of four available tracks: nurse practitioner, education, administration, and an MSN/MBA dual degree featuring training in both nursing and business. Full-time, part-time, and online learning options make the university’s programs accessible to many students.
Graduates can analyze nursing problems, promote the health and well-being of people, and apply principles of spiritual care and bio-ethics in their ongoing patient care duties. This program prepares students for leadership roles within their chosen specialization and also provides the foundation necessary to pursue a doctoral nursing program.
- Location: Hendersonville, TN
- Duration: Four semesters (full-time) to seven semesters (part-time)
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Nursing School Accreditation
Nursing school accreditation is a voluntary but important step programs take to demonstrate that nurses who complete their program have received a quality education. When selecting a nursing program, ensure it is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These organizations are responsible for ensuring that nursing programs meet certain standards and provide students with a quality education.
In Tennessee, to be eligible for an RN license, students must complete a Tennessee Board of Nursing-approved program. Nursing programs in Tennessee are typically accredited by ACEN or CCNE. Additional steps to become a licensed RN include passing a criminal background check, completing the TN Board of Nursing licensure application, and passing the NCLEX exam.
After obtaining their licenses, nursing professionals maintain their skills through continuing education. Continuing education is an important way for nurses to maintain the knowledge and skills required to perform their duties and to renew their licenses.
How Much Do Nurses Make in Tennessee?
These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2024—the latest data available as of January 2026.
Licensed Practical Nurse Salaries
| United States | Tennessee | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 632,430 | 19,140 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $64,150 | $53,490 |
| 10th percentile | $47,960 | $38,680 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $62,340 | $54,530 |
| 90th percentile | $80,510 | $65,140 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | Tennessee | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,282,010 | 67,990 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $98,430 | $82,010 |
| 10th percentile | $66,030 | $59,540 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $93,600 | $79,030 |
| 90th percentile | $135,320 | $102,040 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | Tennessee | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 50,350 | 2,360 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $231,700 | $195,790 |
| 10th percentile | $137,230 | $137,240 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $223,210 | $203,400 |
| 90th percentile | >$239,200 per year | $229,510 |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | Tennessee | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 8,280 | 260 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $128,110 | $109,870 |
| 10th percentile | $74,670 | $89,710 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $128,790 | $97,380 |
| 90th percentile | $177,040 | $130,780 |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | Tennessee | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 307,390 | 14,300 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $132,000 | $108,180 |
| 10th percentile | $97,960 | $61,530 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $129,210 | $108,420 |
| 90th percentile | $169,950 | $133,120 |
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Licensure in Tennessee
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Department of Health Board of Nursing | Tennessee LPN license requirements are:
| Tennessee licensed LPNs are required to renew their licenses every two years. In addition to submitting a renewal application and paying the fee, LPNs must complete two out of 15 continuing competency requirements. |
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure in Tennessee
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Department of Health Board of Nursing |
RN license requirements in Tennessee are:
|
Tennessee requires registered nurses to renew their licenses every two years. In addition to submitting a renewal application and paying the fee, nurses must complete two out of 15 continuing competency requirements. |
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licensure in Tennessee
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Board of Nursing | In Tennessee, a CNS is licensed as an APRN and must meet the following requirements to be eligible for a license:
| APRNs must renew their license biennially and national certification is a requirement. APRNs with certificates of fitness are required to complete two hours of continuing education related to prescribing controlled substances. Pay the renewal fee. |
Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) Licensure in Tennessee
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Board of Nursing |
In Tennessee, a CNM is licensed as an APRN and must meet the following requirements to be eligible for a license:
| APRNs in Tennessee must renew their license biennially and national certification is a requirement. APRNs with certificates of fitness are required to complete two hours of continuing education related to prescribing controlled substances. There is a renewal fee. |
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licensure in Tennessee
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Board of Nursing | In Tennessee, an NP is licensed as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and must meet the following requirements to be eligible for a license:
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Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Licensure in Tennessee
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Board of Nursing |
In Tennessee, a CRNA is licensed as an APRN and must meet the following requirements to be eligible for a license:
| APRNs in Tennessee must renew their license biennially, and national certification is a requirement. APRNs with certificates of fitness are required to complete two hours of continuing education related to prescribing controlled substances. There is a renewal fee. |
Bernd Geels
WriterBernd Geels is a Berlin, Germany-based freelance writer and artist. He holds an undergraduate degree in atmospheric science and two graduate degrees. He completed his most recent graduate degree in international environmental studies at the Monterey Institute of International Studies in 2011. He is interested in healthcare, climate change, marine conservation, indigenous science and refugee issues. You can reach him directly at [email protected].
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterThanks to her experience writing in healthcare, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth articles on timely topics for NursingColleges.com since 2022. Her aim is to assist both students and professionals in navigating the intricate process of selecting a nursing program and understanding the ever-evolving realm of nursing education.
Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.