Middle Tennessee State University
The Vibe Check
MTSU feels like a creative powerhouse where students are constantly making, doing, and producing. There's a palpable energy around the recording studios, broadcast booths, and aerospace hangars, balanced with the friendly, unpretentious atmosphere of a large public university in a college town.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
MTSU is a national leader in media and entertainment industries, with world-class programs in recording industry, media production, and aerospace. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and applied research, particularly through its research park and partnerships with major companies like Nissan.
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 Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro offers a classic college town experience with a bustling downtown square full of shops, restaurants, and live music venues. Students enjoy the proximity to Nashville for big-city entertainment while having plenty of local outdoor activities at parks like Barfield Crescent Park.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($48,541):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Murfreesboro is consistently ranked as one of Tennessee's safest cities, and MTSU has its own comprehensive police department with 24/7 patrols and a robust emergency alert system. The campus is well-lit and generally feels secure, even at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ World-renowned recording industry and music production programs
- ✓ Unique and highly-regarded aerospace program with flight training
- ✓ Strong industry connections providing real-world experience
- ✓ Affordable cost for in-state students with good ROI
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate of 54.3% is below the national average
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is expensive compared to other public options
- ✗ Large class sizes can be common in introductory courses
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
MTSU is nationally recognized as a leader in the music and entertainment industry, particularly for its Recording Industry program. It also stands out for its Department of Aerospace, which offers one of the best aviation programs in the country, and its strong programs in media and communications.
No, MTSU is not considered highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 68.0%. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1119, so applicants with grades and scores at or above this average have a strong likelihood of admission.
Campus life is vibrant and driven by students' creative and professional passions. With over 300 student organizations, a Division I athletics program, and a campus that buzzes with events, students find a strong sense of community, especially within their academic departments.
For in-state students, the answer is a strong yes. With a net price of $12,599 and median graduate earnings of $48,541, the return on investment is very favorable. For out-of-state students, the value depends heavily on the major, as specialized programs like recording industry or aerospace offer exceptional career prospects that can offset the higher tuition.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 19,866
- In-State Tuition $9,506
- Out-of-State $29,042
- Zip Code 37132
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
For in-state students, the value is exceptional, with a net price of $12,599 that is significantly lower than the 10-year median earnings of $48,541. Out-of-state tuition is steep, but the strong ROI in specific industries like music and aviation can justify the cost for those programs.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.