2026 Best Value General Journalism Schools in Tennessee

1

Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, TN

For return on investment in general journalism, no school beat Middle Tennessee State University this year. Middle Tennessee State University is a very large public school located in the city of Murfreesboro. In-state tuition and fees average $10,266, with out-of-state students paying around $31,574. Students borrow a median of $20,500 to complete the general journalism program here. General Journalism graduates of Middle Tennessee State University earn a median of $30,659 early in their careers. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. Middle Tennessee State University admits about 69% of applicants.

2

University Of Memphis
Memphis, TN

The strong cost-to-outcome balance at University Of Memphis earned it the #2 place for general journalism. University Of Memphis is a very large public school located in the city of Memphis. In-state tuition and fees average $10,728, while out-of-state students pay about $15,384. Typical student debt for general journalism graduates is $26,875. Early-career general journalism graduates make about $32,820. That is a strong return on a $26,875 median debt. Roughly 72% of applicants are accepted.

3

The University Of Tennessee
Knoxville, TN

The University Of Tennessee came in at #3 on our 2026 list of the best value general journalism schools. Set in the city of Knoxville, The University Of Tennessee is a very large public institution. Students from in state pay about $13,812 in tuition and fees, while out-of-state students pay about $33,256. Typical student debt for general journalism graduates is $22,849. Early-career general journalism graduates make about $32,082. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. The acceptance rate is 42%.

4

Austin Peay State University
Clarksville, TN

A rank of #4 makes Austin Peay State University one of the best values for general journalism. Set in the city of Clarksville, Austin Peay State University is a large public institution. In-state tuition and fees average $9,006, with out-of-state students paying around $14,766. Students borrow a median of $24,530 to complete the general journalism program here. Early-career general journalism graduates make about $44,360. That is a strong return on a $24,530 median debt. Roughly 96% of applicants are accepted.

5

Belmont University
Nashville, TN

Belmont University is a great value for students pursuing a degree in general journalism, landing the #5 spot this year. Located in the city of Nashville, Belmont University is a moderately-sized private not-for-profit university. In-state tuition and fees average $42,540. Students borrow a median of $23,447 to complete the general journalism program here. Soon after graduation, general journalism degree recipients from Belmont University generally make around $49,699. That is a strong return on a $23,447 median debt. The acceptance rate is 95%.