Colleges, Universities, and Trade Schools Offering Resources for Veterans
Nashville is home to many respected universities, community colleges, and trade schools that provide educational opportunities to veterans. These institutions offer dedicated services specifically for veterans, such as academic counseling, financial assistance, and student veteran organizations and spaces. These resources are designed to help transitioning military members and veterans further their education or acquire new skills so they can confidently move into civilian careers.
To help cover tuition costs, many of these schools honor the GI Bill, participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program (which helps close the gap for costs the GI Bill doesn’t cover), and offer military scholarships. Some also recognize and transfer military training and experience into academic credit, giving veterans a head start on their degrees.
Nashville Universities and Colleges
Vanderbilt University
Located in the center of Nashville, Vanderbilt is a top-ranked research university with strong academic programs in law, medicine, engineering, and business. Because Vanderbilt University is highly esteemed, it has a competitive admissions process. The university’s high academic standards attract students worldwide to study one of 70 undergraduate majors or graduate and professional programs.
Vanderbilt is committed to supporting military service members and veterans through specialized programs and partnerships. One initiative is the Bass Military Scholars program, which awards $25,000 per year toward the cost of attendance for eligible veterans pursuing on-campus graduate degrees.
- GI Bill
- Yellow Ribbon Program up to $16,000 per student per year.
- ROTC program
- Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter
Belmont University
Belmont University is a private Christian liberal arts institution located in an urban area of Nashville. Belmont is renowned for its prestigious music and entertainment programs, but also offers highly regarded programs in health sciences, nursing, pharmacy, law, and business, attracting a diverse range of students interested in both the arts and professional fields.
With a 100% retention rate for military-connected students, including both full-time and part-time students receiving military benefits, Belmont prioritizes a supportive environment for military students and veterans pursuing higher education in Nashville.
- GI Bill
- Yellow Ribbon Program, paying remaining tuition after the Post-9/11 GI Bill for all eligible students
- Military transfer credits
- Bruins Vet Center – designated for veterans
Tennessee State University (TSU)
TSU is the only historically Black university in Tennessee, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with 77 majors, both on-campus and online options, with a strong focus on agriculture, engineering, and health sciences. It’s known for its inclusive atmosphere and its emphasis on supporting diversity in education.
- GI Bill
- Yellow Ribbon Program up to $400 per student per year for ten students
Lipscomb University
A private Christian university, Lipscomb combines academics with a focus on spiritual growth, preparing students for both professional success and personal development. It offers degrees in areas like education, business, and healthcare, along with unique programs in areas such as film and sustainability. With a student body of around 4,600, Lipscomb provides an intimate campus setting that fosters close-knit community connections and individualized support.
- GI Bill
- Yellow Ribbon Program, paying remaining tuition after the Post-9/11 GI Bill for all eligible students
- Campus veteran organization
Nashville Community Colleges
Nashville State Community College
With multiple campuses across Nashville and surrounding areas, Nashville State provides associate degrees and certificates in fields such as business, nursing, and information technology. These programs are tailored for both academic transfer and immediate employment in Nashville, ensuring veterans seeking higher education have pathways to success in various careers.
Nashville State offers flexible scheduling and online classes, making it ideal for veterans balancing work, family, and studies. And, as a participant in the Tennessee Reconnect program, the college helps veterans complete their degrees affordably.
- GI Bill
- Transfer credit for military training
Volunteer State Community College (Vol State)
Although based in Gallatin, Vol State also has a satellite campus in Nashville, offering a wide range of associate degree programs and technical certifications. Areas of study include health sciences, business, education, and technology, with many courses designed to transfer seamlessly to Tennessee’s public universities.
- GI Bill
- Transfer credit for military training
- Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)
Located in Murfreesboro, MTSU is commutable from Nashville and offers a broad selection of academic programs, including highly regarded aeronautics and business programs. MTSU’s Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center provides extensive support, including counseling and career guidance.
- GI Bill
- Transfer credit for military training
- ROTC Program
- Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center
Nashville Trade Schools and Technical Colleges
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) – Nashville
TCAT offers short-term, career-focused training in technical and vocational skills, often leading directly to employment upon completion. Students can pursue certifications and diplomas in areas like automotive technology and welding.
TCAT’s programs are often more affordable and shorter in duration than traditional college degrees. TCAT has veteran counselors and career services tailored to veterans’ needs, helping them use their GI Bill benefits efficiently.
- GI Bill
- Transfer credit for military training
Lincoln College of Technology
Lincoln Tech offers career-focused programs with a hands-on approach, particularly for those interested in skilled trades. Students can receive training in areas such as healthcare, IT, automotive technology, and welding, with programs designed to meet industry standards. Lincoln Tech partners with local industries to help students find employment quickly after graduation.
- GI Bill
Veteran Support Programs
Veterans in Nashville have access to several educational resources beyond school-specific programs that can make a big difference in their journey:
- Tennessee Reconnect: For veterans who may have started but not finished their education, providing a pathway to complete a degree tuition-free at a Tennessee community college, including Nashville State.
- Operation Stand Down Tennessee: Offers mentorship services, career counseling, and networking opportunities for veterans.
- Tennessee STRONG Act: Provides National Guard members with funding to pursue a first-time associate or bachelor’s degree at eligible institutions, covering tuition, fees, and books.
- Helping Heroes Grant: Offers financial assistance to veterans who were honorably discharged and to Reserve or National Guard members called into active duty post-9/11. Veterans attending an eligible Tennessee college can receive up to $1,000 per semester and up to $4,000 over four years.
Nashville offers veterans a supportive and resource-rich environment to pursue education and new career paths. Whether transitioning from military service or advancing a new career, veterans have numerous opportunities in Nashville to achieve their educational and professional goals.
