Skip to content
Public, 2-year

Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson

Dickson, Tennessee · www.tcatdickson.edu

中文

Undergraduates

1,628

Student-faculty ratio 19:1

Graduation rate

76.5%

Within 150% of normal time; 200%: 77.6%

About

Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson (TCAT-Dickson) is a prominent institution that focuses on providing high-quality technical education to students in the region. Located in Dickson, Tennessee, the college is part of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology system, which emphasizes hands-on training and practical experience in various fields. One of the key features of TCAT-Dickson is its commitment to workforce development, equipping students with the skills necessary to meet the demands of local industries. The college offers a diverse range of programs, including automotive technology, healthcare, information technology, and industrial maintenance, which are tailored to ensure that graduates are job-ready.

The campus promotes a supportive and engaging environment, fostering a sense of community among students and faculty. The faculty at TCAT-Dickson consists of experienced professionals who not only impart knowledge but also mentor students, guiding them through their educational journey. The college's state-of-the-art facilities provide students with access to modern equipment and technology, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. Additionally, TCAT-Dickson's strong partnerships with local businesses create valuable internship and employment opportunities for graduates, showcasing the institution's dedication to student success and the enhancement of the local economy. Overall, TCAT-Dickson stands out as a vital educational institution committed to preparing students for successful careers in today's competitive job market.

Analysis of Student Enrollment and Graduation Rates

The data from Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson reveals significant trends in student enrollment, gender ratio, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years. One of the most striking observations is the increase in undergraduate student enrollment from 582 in 2013 to 982 in 2023, marking an impressive growth of approximately 68.6%. This upward trend suggests a growing interest in the programs offered by the institution, possibly driven by a rising demand for skilled workforce training in various sectors.

In terms of gender distribution among undergraduates, there has been a noticeable shift towards a higher male representation. For instance, in 2013, the male-to-female ratio was nearly balanced at 51.2% to 48.8%, but by 2023, males constituted about 67.4% of the undergraduate population. This shift raises questions about the factors influencing this demographic change, including societal trends and the appeal of technical programs to male students.

Graduation rates have displayed variability over the years, with the on-time graduation rate reaching a maximum of 71.4% in 2020 but dropping to 55.5% in 2023. This decline in recent years could be indicative of various challenges faced by students, including financial constraints or the difficulties of adapting to educational demands. A closer examination of retention rates reveals a similar pattern. The retention rate significantly fluctuated, peaking at 86.6% in 2014 and dropping to 64.3% in 2020 before recovering to 80.6% in 2023. These fluctuations may reflect changes in student support services, academic rigor, and overall institutional engagement.

Together, these data points highlight the evolving landscape of the college's student body and the potential impacts on educational strategies and resource allocation. Understanding these trends is crucial for the institution to enhance its support systems, improve graduation rates, and ensure long-term student success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, near a city
Nearest major city
Nashville, about 35 mi
Nearest international airport
Nashville International Airport (BNA), about 40 mi
Dickson, Tennessee
Academic calendar
Continuous
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Laura Travis (President)
Phone
6154416220
City
Dickson, Tennessee
Address
740 Hwy 46, Dickson, TN 37055

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Certificate4921 international (0.2%)
Top 10 Certificate majors by graduates
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training
81
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician
67
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician
59
Cosmetology/Cosmetologist, General
52
Welding Technology/Welder
52
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician
46
Computer Support Specialist
38
Building Construction Technology/Technician
26
Diesel Mechanics Technology/Technician
24
Pharmacy Technician/Assistant
17

U.S. studentsInternational

Students

1,628 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 64:36 · Freshman retention 73.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,628)

White
1,017 · 62.5%
Black
181 · 11.1%
Unknown
159 · 9.8%
Hispanic
153 · 9.4%
Two or more races
98 · 6.0%
Asian
9 · 0.6%
International
4 · 0.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
50.7%
18–19
22.0%
20–21
9.0%
22–24
4.5%
25 and over
13.8%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson

The student demographic data for Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson reveals interesting insights into the composition of its student body in 2023. Among the undergraduate newcomers, there are 156 students, with a notable majority of 65.4% being male and 34.6% female. This gender disparity is further reflected in the undergraduate continuing students, where the total number reaches 500, with 62.2% male and 37.8% female.

The overall gender ratio indicates a predominance of male students in both categories, which is consistent with trends seen in technical and applied fields where male enrollment often surpasses female enrollment. However, it is essential to note that this gender imbalance may lead to discussions about encouraging more female participation in such programs, which could enhance diversity and balance in the educational environment.

In terms of ethnic diversity, the data shows that white students form the majority in each category, which is characteristic of many educational institutions in the United States. The details on other ethnic groups are less comprehensive, especially for the undergraduate continuing students, as complete data was not available. The presence of various ethnic groups is crucial for fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the broader society.

Overall, while the data paints a picture of a male-dominated and predominantly white student body, it also underscores the need for continued efforts towards diversity and inclusion in technical education. By actively promoting programs that attract a broader range of students, TCAT-Dickson can work towards creating a more equitable learning environment.

Age Distribution Among Students at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson

The age distribution data from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson reveals a significant concentration of younger students, particularly those under 18 and in the 18-19 age range. These two categories together account for a substantial portion of the student body, with 207 male undergraduates and 67 female undergraduates under 18, and 202 male undergraduates and 74 female undergraduates aged 18-19. This trend highlights the college's role in catering to high school graduates and young adults seeking to further their education immediately after secondary school.

As we analyze the data further, it is notable that the number of students decreases with age. For instance, only 85 males and 41 females are in the 20-21 age group, and the figures continue to decline in subsequent age brackets. This suggests that the college may not be attracting older students or that older individuals are opting for different educational paths or institutions that better meet their needs.

Additionally, the absence of graduate students in the data points to a potential area for growth. As the demand for skilled workers in various trades continues to rise, increasing graduate programs could attract a broader demographic, including older learners or those looking to upskill.

Overall, the data reflects a youthful student population, which can be both a strength in terms of energy and enthusiasm but also presents a challenge in expanding the school’s appeal to a more diverse age group. Addressing these dynamics could enhance educational offerings and better serve the community's needs.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years

Undergraduates0.2%

4 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.4%2018: 0.2%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.3%2021: 0.1%2022: 0.5%2023: 0.3%2024: 0.6%2025: 0.2%
20162025

Data insights

International Student Enrollment Trends at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson

The data from Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson provides intriguing insights into the enrollment of international students over the years. From 2017 to 2023, the total number of undergraduate students increased from 559 to 982, indicating a growing interest in the institution. However, the number of international students has seen fluctuations.

In 2017, the college welcomed 2 international students, which constituted a mere 0.36% of the undergraduate population. This percentage dropped in 2018 to 0.17% with only 1 international student, highlighting potential challenges in attracting foreign students during that period. A modest recovery occurred in 2020 and 2022, where the percentage rose to 0.25% and 0.50% respectively, suggesting that the college might have implemented strategies to improve its appeal to international applicants.

Interestingly, the most recent data for 2023 shows 3 international students, which brings the percentage down to 0.31%. While this represents a nominal increase in the number of international students, the overall proportion remains relatively low compared to the total undergraduate enrollment.

This trend may reflect broader national patterns in international education, where institutions often face competitive challenges in attracting students from abroad. The lack of data on graduate enrollment further complicates the analysis, but it is crucial for the college to enhance its global outreach and support services to foster a more diverse student body. A well-rounded international presence can enrich the academic environment and provide local students with invaluable cross-cultural experiences.

Cost

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$16.1M

Government grants and contracts
$12.0M74.6%
Tuition and fees
$1.7M10.8%
Gifts and private grants
$258K1.6%
Investment return
$221K1.4%
Sales and services of educational activities
$56K0.3%
Other
$1.8M11.2%

Expenses$14.0M

Instruction
$6.2M44.3%
Scholarships
$2.8M20.1%
Institutional support
$1.8M13.1%
Student services
$1.2M8.5%
Academic support
$679K4.9%
Public service
$9K0.1%
Other
$1.3M9.1%

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson:

  1. Vanderbilt University - Ranked 18th in the 2024 US News rankings, Vanderbilt is a prestigious private research university located in Nashville, Tennessee. It is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Lipscomb University - This university is ranked 236th and offers a Christian-based education. Located in Nashville, Lipscomb provides various undergraduate and graduate programs.

  3. Belmont University - Also ranked 236th, Belmont is well-known for its music and arts programs. It is situated in Nashville and emphasizes student engagement and community service.

  4. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Ranked 142nd, UAB is a public research university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in health sciences.

  5. The University of the South - This liberal arts college is ranked 51st and is located in Sewanee, Tennessee. It offers a unique educational experience with a focus on the arts and humanities.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are recognized for their academic excellence in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug arrests
2
Aggravated assault
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson

The crime data from Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson from 2013 to 2023 presents an interesting trend in reported incidents. Over the years, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students shows significant fluctuations, with a peak in 2019 recording an average of 5.61 incidents. This notable spike could raise concerns regarding campus safety, as it represents a dramatic increase compared to previous years, where rates were considerably lower.

From 2013 to 2018, the college experienced a relatively low crime rate, with 2014 being the year with the lowest recorded incidents at just 0.42 per 1,000 students. However, the subsequent years saw a complete absence of reported incidents until the alarming rise in 2019. It is crucial to consider the context of these figures; the spike might correlate with increased awareness and reporting practices or could reflect actual changes in campus safety and student behavior.

Notably, after 2019, there has been a complete absence of reported incidents through 2023, suggesting either enhanced safety measures, effective community engagements, or possibly under-reporting of events. The absence of incidents is a positive indicator for the college's environment, but it also warrants scrutiny to ensure that the data reflects the true state of campus safety rather than an oversight in reporting.

Overall, while the data indicates a concerning rise in incidents in 2019, the subsequent years of zero reports may provide a reassuring outlook on campus safety. Continuous monitoring and transparent reporting will be essential in maintaining a secure environment for students. For further details on calculating crime rates, please refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.