Chattanooga, Tennessee is home to a thriving higher education landscape, offering excellent opportunities in business, healthcare, liberal arts, and technical education through both public and private institutions.
Top Public Colleges & Universities in Chattanooga
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) – One of the leading institutions in the state, UTC offers strong programs in engineering, business administration, nursing, and computer science. As part of the University of Tennessee system, it provides both research opportunities and community engagement experiences.
Chattanooga State Community College – Known for its affordability and diverse academic offerings, Chattanooga State provides programs in health sciences, engineering technology, and liberal arts. It features a dynamic partnership with local industries to prepare students for the workforce.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology - Chattanooga (TCAT) – A leading technical college that focuses on hands-on training in areas like welding, diesel mechanics, information technology, and health sciences. It is part of the statewide network of TCAT institutions.
Southeast Tennessee Area Health Education Center (SE AHEC) – This public educational center supports medical and health professional training. It partners with local colleges to offer health-related education and connect students with rural and underserved areas for clinical experience.
Polk State College (Satellite Programs in Chattanooga) – Though based in Florida, Polk State offers some satellite and partnership academic programs in the Chattanooga area, especially in allied health and workforce development education.
Top Private Colleges & Universities in Chattanooga
Southern Adventist University – Located near Chattanooga in Collegedale, this private Christian university is known for its nursing, business, education, and theology programs. It emphasizes service, faith, and academic excellence.
Richmont Graduate University – A private institution offering graduate programs in counseling, ministry, and psychology. Richmont provides students with a unique integration of academic preparation and spiritual development.
Tennessee Temple University (formerly located in Chattanooga) – Though the university closed in 2015, it played a key role in the city's educational history. It specialized in religious and liberal arts studies, and its legacy lives on through merged programs at Piedmont International University.
Temple University - Chattanooga Area Programs – While primarily based in Philadelphia, Temple University has educational partnerships and occasional programs available for students in the Chattanooga region, offering enrichment opportunities, particularly in healthcare and social work.
Virginia College (formerly in Chattanooga) – This private, for-profit college once offered career-focused programs in business, healthcare, and technical fields. Although the campus is now closed, it served many local students pursuing job-ready education paths.