Lipscomb University
Lipscomb University offers a unique blend of academic excellence, faith-based values, and a strong community atmosphere. Known for its outstanding programs in business, health sciences, and the arts, the university offers more than 70 undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on values-driven education. With just under 5,000 students, and a student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1, Lipscomb’s education is especially encouraged through small class sizes. Its College of Business and College of Health Sciences are particularly well-regarded, with strong connections to Nashville's thriving healthcare and business industries. It also provides students with a lively campus experience, with 14 Greek organizations and over 100 other student organizations. The proximity to downtown Nashville also allows students to access cultural, professional, and entertainment opportunities while only being around 30 minutes from Franklin. Lipscomb.edu
Vanderbilt University
Located in the heart of Nashville, Vanderbilt University offers a world-class education with a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and academic excellence. Known for its rigorous programs and SEC campus life, Vanderbilt stands out for its prestigious academic reputation, offering more than 70 majors across its renowned schools of Arts and Science, Engineering, and Business. The university is recognized for its cutting-edge research, especially in areas like medicine, science, and social policy. As the SEC school with the fewest students (under 14,000), the campus balances both exciting student life and a personalized learning environment, with a student-to-teacher ratio of 7:1. Its diverse campus life includes over 450 student organizations, a strong Greek system, and access to Nashville’s thriving music, healthcare, and tech industries and is only 30 minutes from Franklin. Vanderbilt.edu
Austin Peay State University
Clarksville's Austin Peay State University offers strong nursing, education, and business programs. The University has over 50 undergraduate and graduate programs. With just over 10,000 students enrolled, the university emphasizes hands-on learning, community service, and leadership development, offering students real-world experience through internships, service projects, and faculty mentorship. Austin Peay’s campus fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, and the 140+ active student organizations, including Greek life and clubs, create a vibrant community. The university also offers a renowned ROTC program and has easy access to outdoor activities, with nearby parks and the Cumberland River. Located about an hour from Franklin, students can easily commute home while experiencing the close-knit atmosphere of Clarksville. APSU.edu
Tennessee Tech
Tennessee Tech University, located in Cookeville, offers a hands-on, technology-focused education that sets it apart from many other schools. With its strong engineering programs, emphasis on research and innovation, and unique campus culture, Tennessee Tech is renowned for its top-ranked College of Engineering, which offers specialized training in fields like aerospace, civil, and electrical engineering. Tennessee Tech also has a strong emphasis on service learning and community engagement, with about 10,000 students gaining real-world experience through internships and cooperative education programs. Its location in Cookeville, an hour and a half from Franklin, offers a blend of small-town communities with access to Middle Tennessee's vibrant industries. TNTech.edu
Middle Tennessee State University
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) in Murfreesboro offers a diverse range of programs, from aerospace to business. MTSU combines strong academics, vibrant campus life, and proximity to Nashville, providing unique opportunities in industries like music, healthcare, and technology. With over 22,000 students, MTSU offers a vibrant campus life with more than 250 student organizations, including academic, cultural, and recreational clubs. The university’s athletics program competes at NCAA Division I level. MTSU’s campus features state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Aerospace Department's fleet of aircraft and the College of Media and Entertainment. The university also hosts unique events like Raider Relief Day, giving students countless opportunities for involvement, personal growth, and a close-knit community experience. Located just 50 minutes from Franklin, MTSU offers a convenient commute for students to enjoy both campus life and Nashville’s amenities. MTSU.edu
Belmont University
Belmont University offers a lively campus life, diverse academic programs, and unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. From its strong music and arts programs to its campus Greek life, Belmont offers over 80 undergraduate programs ranging from business, healthcare, and music to liberal arts and sciences for its more than 8,000 students. Its renowned School of Music and College of Entertainment and Music Business attract many aspiring artists and industry professionals. With a commitment to academic excellence, faith-based values, and service, Belmont creates a dynamic and collaborative environment. Located just 20 minutes from Franklin, the university is easily accessible, allowing students to enjoy a vibrant college life while staying connected to the Franklin community and the heart of Nashville’s rich cultural scene. Belmont.edu