East Tennessee State University
The Vibe Check
East Tennessee State University offers a close-knit, community-focused vibe nestled in the beautiful Appalachian Highlands. Students often describe the atmosphere as supportive and accessible, with a blend of college town spirit and urban amenities. It feels like a place where you can build strong relationships with professors while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
ETSU is a leader in health professions, particularly through its renowned Quillen College of Medicine and College of Pharmacy. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and undergraduate research, especially in biology and biomedical sciences. Class sizes are manageable, fostering direct interaction with faculty who are dedicated to student success.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Johnson City
Johnson City provides a vibrant yet relaxed college experience with a growing downtown area featuring breweries, cafes, and live music venues. Outdoor enthusiasts love the easy access to hiking, biking, and tubing in nearby mountains and state parks. The city also hosts numerous festivals and has a thriving local arts and food scene.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($44,859):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The ETSU campus is generally considered safe with a dedicated University Police Department and well-lit pathways. Johnson City is a safe, growing community with a low violent crime rate compared to national averages, though standard urban precautions are advised.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Highly regarded health sciences programs with strong clinical and research opportunities.
- ✓ Affordable tuition, especially for in-state students, leading to lower debt burdens.
- ✓ Scenic campus location in the Appalachian Highlands with abundant outdoor recreation.
- ✓ Small class sizes and accessible faculty foster a supportive learning environment.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are below the national average, suggesting some student challenges.
- ✗ Being in a more remote part of the state, options for large-scale corporate internships may be more limited.
- ✗ The urban setting of Johnson City is growing but may not offer the extensive amenities of a larger metropolis.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
East Tennessee State University is most renowned for its health professions programs, particularly the Quillen College of Medicine and the College of Pharmacy. It also has strong programs in business, education, and the sciences. The university is known for its commitment to rural and Appalachian healthcare, as well as its unique programs like the 'Blue & You' fitness and wellness initiative.
No, East Tennessee State University has a high acceptance rate of 87.06%, making it broadly accessible. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1114. While admission is not highly selective, competitive programs like nursing and the health sciences have stricter requirements and require separate, more detailed applications.
Campus life at ETSU is active and community-oriented, with over 170 student organizations and a strong sense of school spirit centered around its NCAA Division I athletics. Students enjoy a mix of on-campus events, outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains, and exploring the growing city of Johnson City. The university also offers a variety of on-campus housing options and dining services.
For many students, especially Tennessee residents, ETSU represents a strong financial value. With an average net price under $16,000 and solid median earnings for graduates ($44,859), the return on investment is favorable compared to many private institutions. The availability of financial aid, including for a large percentage of Pell Grant recipients, further enhances its affordability.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 11,917
- In-State Tuition $9,950
- Out-of-State $13,790
- Zip Code 37614
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $15,794 and competitive in-state tuition, ETSU offers strong value, especially for Tennessee residents. The 10-year median earnings of $44,859 indicate a solid return on investment for a public university degree. The significant Pell Grant rate (35.2%) also highlights its accessibility and commitment to supporting students from diverse financial backgrounds.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.